Unlike those departments, however, our program adds the strong theoretical and methodological foundation provided by an outstanding sociology department. Because we are part of Penn State's Department of Sociology, our students can receive training that qualifies them to pursue careers as sociologists. Moreover, because we are also an interdisciplinary program, we offer students many other options as well. Thus, students have the opportunity to obtain the highest-quality education at a major research university while being able to tailor a program that meets their individual interests. The Crime, Law, and Justice program is limited to full-time students who intend to pursue the Ph.D. and who are interested in graduate training that emphasizes research, scholarship, and teaching.
Admission is highly selective.
Six to eight new students enter the program each year, so as to ensure that all students have close interaction with the faculty. All students receive financial aid. The M.A. program is intended for students who plan to go on to pursue a Ph.D. Thirty-seven credits of course work and a master's thesis are required for the master's degree. Finally, the Graduate School requires that M.A. candidates complete 6 thesis credits. A candidacy exam is required of all students seeking the Ph.D. degree.