The mission of the Department of Criminal Justice is to offer quality undergraduate and graduate educational programming that provides students with valuable insights into the criminal justice system through a diverse and inter-disciplinary curriculum, experiential learning, and faculty-led research opportunities. Students will develop the skills necessary for successful careers in fields related to criminology and criminal justice. The department supports and encourages scholarly, experiential, and applied research endeavors, including those involving collaboration with local, state, and federal agencies dealing with crime, law enforcement, corrections, justice studies, law, juvenile justice, social justice, immigration, punishment and the borderlands.
2025 - CJ Master's Program is recognized for its great online program! 
NMSU earned multiple spots in the top 100 best online programs, including master’s in criminal justice (tied 52), bachelor’s in psychology (tied 25), bachelor’s for veterans (tied 46), bachelor’s in business (tied 68), master’s in information technology (74-97), and bachelor’s programs overall (tied 84).
$250 Discount Per Credit Hour for Active Law Enforcement Officers
We offer active-duty law enforcement officers a tuition discount for our online bachelor's and master's programs.
Eligible officers can now receive a $250 discount per credit hour for our Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Criminal Justice. This significant reduction is part of our commitment to supporting those who serve and protect our communities.
Program Details:
Delivery Format: 100% online with optional synchronous sessions available
Program Credits: 36 credits
Program Length: 1.5 years full-time; 2 years part-time
Cost Per Credit Hour: $444.40*
Active Law Enforcement Cost Per Credit Hour: $250*
How to Apply:
Apply Online: All applicants should apply online for the Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice.
Submit a Memo: Along with the admissions documents, submit a memo on your police department’s letterhead, signed by your leader, stating that you are an active-duty officer.
