Department of Criminal Justice

Mission

The Department of Criminal Justice prepares students to examine crime, justice, and public safety through critical inquiry, ethical leadership, and community engagement. Grounded in the Dominican tradition of the search for truth, the department develops knowledgeable professionals who are prepared to serve diverse communities and contribute to a more just society.

About the Department

The Department of Criminal Justice prepares graduate students to become ethical leaders, critical thinkers, and evidence-based practitioners who advance justice and public safety. Through advanced study of criminal justice systems, policy, leadership, and research, students examine contemporary issues from multiple perspectives while developing the analytical and strategic skills needed to lead organizational change and improve outcomes for individuals and communities.

Guided by faculty who actively contribute to scholarship and professional practice, students engage in applied research, community partnerships, and experiential learning that connect theory to practice. Graduates are prepared to lead criminal justice organizations, shape public policy, and strengthen the justice system through informed decision-making, ethical leadership, and a commitment to the common good.

Graduate Programs

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

Experiential Learning

Experiential learning is integrated throughout the Master of Science in Criminal Justice curriculum. Students apply advanced theory to professional practice through research, case analysis, policy evaluation, internships where appropriate, and a culminating thesis project. These experiences strengthen leadership, analytical reasoning, ethical decision-making, and evidence-based problem solving while preparing graduates to address contemporary challenges facing criminal justice organizations and the communities they serve.

Department Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of a graduate degree in the department, students will:

• Apply critical inquiry and multiple perspectives to evaluate crime, justice, public safety, and contemporary criminal justice issues.
• Engage ethically and professionally with diverse communities and organizations while demonstrating leadership, collaboration, and civic responsibility.
• Integrate current research, theory, and evidence-based practices to analyze criminal justice systems, inform policy, and address complex societal challenges.
• Demonstrate the knowledge, analytical skills, and professional competencies needed for career advancement, graduate study, and lifelong learning in the criminal justice profession.