USC’s 2022 Criminal Justice Graduates Commemorate the Next Chapter in Their Professional Journeys

Over 70 Master of Science in Criminal Justice graduates commemorated commencement with their peers, families, and friends on May 13, 2022, on USC’s University Park Campus. Graduates traveled from all around the country to put a stamp on receiving their master’s degree and embark on the next chapter of their professional journeys.

“In an exciting new era of social justice, you are ready to drive systemic change and implement the latest in evidence-based solutions,” Dean Anthony Bailey expressed to the MSCJ graduates. 

This year’s commencement speaker was Isaiah Jewett, a Master of Science in Project Management alumnus who competed in the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. He shared his journey of becoming an Olympian and touched on the importance of having the spirit of a champion. “You are all champions with unlimited potential to be successful in any job, any major life decision, or any path you may choose. Embark on your individual paths toward your ultimate dream of embracing that championship spirit and continue to ‘Fight On!’” he encouraged graduates.

Many of the graduates started the MSCJ program at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic and during the rise of social injustice. Ana Govea Torres, banner bearer for USC Bovard College, describes this as a memorable moment of her Bovard College experience. “In 2020, the social and political climate was facing many controversies. It was very interesting to take part in a master’s program during this time because we were able to share our thoughts and learn different perspectives from one another. It was also very enlightening to learn how to take those perspectives and strategically put them into practice,” Torres explains.

Many of the 2022 graduates work as criminal justice professionals, however, USC’s MS in Criminal Justice also provides a valuable foundation for people looking to change careers and venture into the field. “A career in criminal justice can be very competitive and I knew I had to build a strong foundation of knowledge before entering the field,” notes Torres.

In addition to foundational theories of criminology and criminal justice, students explore policy design and implementation as well as emerging trends in the field. Courses also prepare students to lead in the criminal justice realm and become ethical and skilled decision-makers.

Designed to fit students’ schedules and needs, the curriculum is provided in both a one-year track and two-year track. At 24 units, the program can be completed in just 12 months for students in the one-year track. No GRE is required, and students have their choice of three enrollment dates each year.