Two Bold Paths.

One Clear Cost.

Purpose-Driven. On Purpose.

Our Master of Public Administration and Master of Science in Criminal Justice share a common foundation: preparing you for meaningful careers that drive measurable change across communities, institutions, and public service networks.

Both degrees are offered at a single, transparent tuition of $1,000 per credit—so you know the full investment from the start.

Leveraging Our Location

Suffolk’s downtown Boston location puts you at the heart of government, policy, and justice institutions. With direct access to federal courthouses, law enforcement agencies, and nonprofit organizations, Suffolk provides unmatched opportunities for professional growth in the public service field.

Choose Your Track to Public Leadership

Master of Public Adminstration

Program Overview

For over 50 years, Suffolk University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) has provided an exceptional foundation in public management. Accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) and ranked among the nation’s best public affairs programs in 2025 by U.S. News & World Report, our MPA prepares you for strategically impactful roles shaping policy, leading public programs, and advancing visible outcomes across government, nonprofits, and mission-driven organizations.

Program Highlights

Concentrations

Program Options

Career Outcomes

Our MPA graduates often work as public administrators, nonprofit directors, policy analysts, budget analysts, and program managers.

$12k–$18k

annual salary increase for MPA graduates, compared to those with only a bachelor’s degree

+11%

projected ten-year growth in public administration roles

$97.5k

median annual salary

Source: degree.org

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

Program Overview

Learn community-oriented strategies for crime prevention in Suffolk’s Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ). Our dynamic, pragmatic program—located steps away from the Massachusetts State House, Boston City Hall, Massachusetts State Police barracks, and municipal and federal courts—prepares you to tackle real-world challenges and devise tangible strategies to enhance public safety and well-being.

Program Highlights

Learn from extraordinary faculty who bring their extensive criminal justice experiences into the classroom
Develop crucial writing skills to effectively communicate with diverse audiences
Acquire essential tools for evaluating, designing, and implementing empirical research in criminal justice
Employ an intersectional framework to examine how overlapping social identities and systemic inequities influence crime, victimization, and justice system responses

Concentrations

Program Options

Career Outcomes

Our MSCJ graduates often work as program coordinators, case managers, policy analysts, public officers, and clinical supervisors.

+30%

annual salary increase for MSCJ graduates, compared to those with only a bachelor’s degree

+6%

average projected job growth in related fields through 2033

$79.2k

median annual salary

Source: Lightcast, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Simple, transparent pricing

Master of Public Administration

$42k

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

$30k

MPA/MSCJ Dual Degree

$54k

A Future of Limitless Possibility

“Enrolling in Suffolk’s MPA program was a pivotal step in my career. I was drawn to the program’s commitment to integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications and its emphasis on addressing local issues within a global framework.”

Tony Richards, MPA ’21

Vice President of Strategic Community Investments, MassHousing

“Suffolk made it effortless for me to immerse myself in a career in state government, politics, campaigns, and public administration. After getting my BS in government from Suffolk, I realized I could continue on the same path by getting my MPA from the school as well. It was the natural, obvious choice.”

Georgia Demetra Polemenakos, MPA ’25

Director of Administration, The Middlesex Corporation

“Suffolk’s faculty and staff have helped me develop confidence that extends into both my personal and professional life. Professor Carlos Monteiro has been a true mentor: His passion for corrections and reentry has inspired my focus within the criminal justice field. The genuine support I’ve felt here has made me feel seen and valued.”

Grace Caccaviello, BS ’25, MPA/MSCJS, Class of 2027

Lead Intern, Berkshire County District Attorney’s Office, Department of Juvenile Diversion and Community Engagement

“Suffolk made me stronger. Amazing faculty like Dr. Felicia Wiltz encouraged me to reach for the stars. I want to make meaningful change for those stuck in the margins, so that the people I represent are heard and supported.”

Nayellie Estrella, BS ’24, MSCJS ’26

Paralegal, the Law Office of Attorney Donnalee Leonardo

Note: Graduate students who began the program before fall 2026 will graduate with a Master of Science in Crime & Justice Studies, while students enrolling fall 2026 or later will pursue a Master of Science in Criminal Justice.