Degrees & CertificatesFacultyNews & Events

Criminal justice and law enforcement challenges are more complex than ever, reaching every corner of our society. One of the few institutions across the country to offer graduate programs grounded in the social sciences, BU’s Metropolitan College (MET) has offered criminal justice education since 1973. Equipped with years of hands-on experience in policing, cybercrime, the judicial system, and corrections, at both graduate and undergraduate levels, BU MET’s criminal justice faculty are here to provide you with the sociological, legal, theoretical, and practical skills and knowledge you’ll need to confront complicated issues with confidence.

BU MET’s online Master of Science in Criminal Justice has been highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report since 2015. Criminal Justice master’s degree concentrations and graduate certificate options ensure that you can also specialize your education with advanced training in strategic management, crime analysis, and cybercriminology, providing you with the tools required to lead criminal justice organizations in the twenty-first century.

Certificate-to-Degree Pathway

Criminal justice certificate to degree pathway chart

Each certificate shares specific courses with the MSCJ program and its concentrations, giving you the option to obtain one or two certificates on your path to a master’s degree. Students currently enrolled in a graduate certificate who are interested in transitioning into a master’s degree should contact their academic advisor to declare their interest in this pathway. A new master’s degree application is not required. Connect with a graduate admissions advisor at apssadmissions@bu.edu to learn more about this option.

Degrees


Certificates


Rankings & Accreditations

U.S. News & World Report Best Online Programs - Criminal Justice 2026

#5 in 2026, and top 6 since 2015 MET’s online master’s degree in criminal justice is ranked #5 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

U.S. News & World Report Best Online Programs - Veterans - Criminal Justice 2026

#8, Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice Programs for Veterans MET’s online master’s degree in criminal justice is ranked #8 in the nation for veterans and active-duty service members by U.S. News & World Report.

Explore Further

Learn more about advancing your opportunities with a BU MET education.

Request Information

Browse Our Courses

View a list of all the courses we offer, including course descriptions and schedules.

View Courses

Criminal Justice Faculty




News & Events

Events

Graduate Programs Preview: Meet MET, Explore & Get Admitted

Day: April 11th, 2026 Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm 1010 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA, Room 122
Details
Events

Admitted Student Webinar: On-Campus Students Meet Your BU Classmates!

Day: April 15th, 2026 Time: 9:00am - 9:30am Online
Details
Events

Admitted Student Webinar: On-Campus Students Meet Your BU Classmates!

Day: April 15th, 2026 Time: 1:00pm - 1:45pm Online
Details