Pace University

What you'll study

This four-year bachelor’s programme combines core criminal justice theory with focused study of corrections and community supervision. You will take foundational courses such as Introduction to Criminal Justice, Criminological Theory, Research Methods and Criminal Law, together with correction-specific modules like Corrections and Penology, Sentencing and Alternatives to Incarceration, Probation and Parole, and Reentry and Community Reintegration.

Typical taught topics and modules include:

• Criminology and the causes of criminal behaviour
• Structure and operation of local, state and federal correctional systems
• Practical supervision: probation, parole and community corrections practices
• Juvenile justice and youth intervention programmes
• Victimology, restorative justice and offender rehabilitation
• Research design, statistics and programme evaluation for criminal justice
• Ethics, constitutional issues and human rights in corrections
• Electives such as forensic psychology, substance abuse treatment, crime analysis and policy advocacy

Students also complete a capstone or senior seminar and are required to undertake an internship or practicum with a criminal justice agency, non-profit provider or court, benefiting from Pace’s location and partnerships in the New York metropolitan area.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or equivalent with a record of strong academic performance and evidence of readiness for undergraduate study. Typical application components include official transcripts, a personal statement outlining interest in criminal justice and corrections, and at least one academic or professional reference.

Pace considers applicants holistically; standardised tests may be optional depending on application policies. Mature or transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and a description of relevant work or volunteer experience. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or approved alternatives.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for operational and professional roles across the corrections and broader criminal justice sector. Common entry-level careers include corrections officer, probation and parole officer, community supervision specialist, case manager for reentry programmes, and juvenile justice practitioner.

With experience or additional graduate study, alumni move into supervisory and administrative positions, policy and programme development, victim advocacy, research and evaluation roles, crime prevention agencies, or further professional training such as law school or graduate degrees in public administration, social work or criminology. The programme’s internship focus and ties to New York-area agencies help students gain practical experience and employer contacts.

Why study at Pace University

Pace offers the advantage of an urban location with direct access to New York City justice institutions, correctional facilities and a wide range of community organisations, providing rich opportunities for internships and applied learning. Faculty include scholars and practitioners with experience in corrections, courts and policy-making, and class sizes encourage personalised mentoring.

Students can benefit from cross-disciplinary links across law, psychology and social services, including access to the university’s law community and experiential legal programmes. Career services, dedicated internship offices and an active alumni network support job placement and professional development in corrections and related fields.