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The MCJ is a cohesive degree with taught courses, a research dissertation, and real-world project or internship opportunities for first-hand practical experience in criminal justice.
It has a strong focus on developing the skills sought by the justice sector, including bicultural knowledge and competence, critical analysis of current and future policy, and professional understanding and theories behind crime and rehabilitation.
The Master of Criminal Justice provides a professional understanding of Aotearoa New Zealand policy within government and public sector, and of the criminal justice system. Skills in research, statistical analysis, writing and presentation, and bicultural engagement within real-world contexts are solid foundations for a career in criminal justice.
Graduates will be particularly well suited for roles in Ngā Pirihimana O Aotearoa | New Zealand Police, Tāhū o te Ture | Ministry of Justice, and Ara Poutama Aotearoa | Department of Corrections. They will also find work in Crown agencies, prisons, policy development and consultation, customs, private investigation and security, forensics, social services, and criminal justice research.
The MCJ is a cohesive degree with taught courses, a research dissertation, and real-world project or internship opportunities for first-hand practical experience in criminal justice.
It has a strong focus on developing the skills sought by the justice sector, including bicultural knowledge and competence, critical analysis of current and future policy, and professional understanding and theories behind crime and rehabilitation.
The Master of Criminal Justice provides a professional understanding of Aotearoa New Zealand policy within government and public sector, and of the criminal justice system. Skills in research, statistical analysis, writing and presentation, and bicultural engagement within real-world contexts are solid foundations for a career in criminal justice.
Graduates will be particularly well suited for roles in Ngā Pirihimana O Aotearoa | New Zealand Police, Tāhū o te Ture | Ministry of Justice, and Ara Poutama Aotearoa | Department of Corrections. They will also find work in Crown agencies, prisons, policy development and consultation, customs, private investigation and security, forensics, social services, and criminal justice research.
Admission Requirements
64+
7+
5+
100+
Entry to the Master of Criminal Justice requires a Bachelor of Criminal Justice with a B Grade Point Average or better in 60 points of 300-level courses, or an approved equivalent degree.
01 Dec 2025
1 Year
Feb
Domestic
12,718 NZD
International
55,200 NZD
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
Master of Criminal Justice
University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
# 151-200QS Subject Rankings
12 monthsProgramme duration
55,200 NZDTuition Fee/year
01 Dec, 2025Application Deadline
Programme overview
Main Subject
Law and Legal Studies
Degree
Other
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
UC’s Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ) offers you an advanced working knowledge of the criminal justice system.
The MCJ is a cohesive degree with taught courses, a research dissertation, and real-world project or internship opportunities for first-hand practical experience in criminal justice.
It has a strong focus on developing the skills sought by the justice sector, including bicultural knowledge and competence, critical analysis of current and future policy, and professional understanding and theories behind crime and rehabilitation.
The Master of Criminal Justice provides a professional understanding of Aotearoa New Zealand policy within government and public sector, and of the criminal justice system. Skills in research, statistical analysis, writing and presentation, and bicultural engagement within real-world contexts are solid foundations for a career in criminal justice.
Graduates will be particularly well suited for roles in Ngā Pirihimana O Aotearoa | New Zealand Police, Tāhū o te Ture | Ministry of Justice, and Ara Poutama Aotearoa | Department of Corrections. They will also find work in Crown agencies, prisons, policy development and consultation, customs, private investigation and security, forensics, social services, and criminal justice research.
Programme overview
Main Subject
Law and Legal Studies
Degree
Other
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
UC’s Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ) offers you an advanced working knowledge of the criminal justice system.
The MCJ is a cohesive degree with taught courses, a research dissertation, and real-world project or internship opportunities for first-hand practical experience in criminal justice.
It has a strong focus on developing the skills sought by the justice sector, including bicultural knowledge and competence, critical analysis of current and future policy, and professional understanding and theories behind crime and rehabilitation.
The Master of Criminal Justice provides a professional understanding of Aotearoa New Zealand policy within government and public sector, and of the criminal justice system. Skills in research, statistical analysis, writing and presentation, and bicultural engagement within real-world contexts are solid foundations for a career in criminal justice.
Graduates will be particularly well suited for roles in Ngā Pirihimana O Aotearoa | New Zealand Police, Tāhū o te Ture | Ministry of Justice, and Ara Poutama Aotearoa | Department of Corrections. They will also find work in Crown agencies, prisons, policy development and consultation, customs, private investigation and security, forensics, social services, and criminal justice research.
Admission Requirements
Domestic
International
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
How to get a full scholarship
Looking for a fully-funded scholarship to see you into university? Find out how to boost your chances of getting one.
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