University of Massachusetts Boston

What you'll study

The programme blends foundational courses in criminology and criminal justice with specialised study in corrections and community supervision. Core topics typically include criminological theory, criminal law and procedure, research methods and statistics for social science, ethics in criminal justice, and constitutional rights. Correction-focused modules examine institutional corrections, community corrections and reentry, assessment and classification, offender rehabilitation and treatment, and restorative justice approaches.

Students normally complete a combination of major requirements, general education classes and elective options. Many degree pathways include a practicum or internship placement in a correctional facility, probation/parole office, reentry programme or related agency, and a senior capstone or research project that applies theory to practice.

• Introduction to Criminology and Criminal Justice
• Criminal Law and Procedure
• Corrections and Institutional Practice
• Community Corrections and Reentry
• Research Methods and Quantitative Analysis
• Juvenile Justice and Youth Offending
• Race, Gender and Inequality in the Criminal Justice System
• Ethics, Policy Analysis and Program Evaluation

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent. Admissions typically consider overall academic achievement, the strength of relevant coursework (such as social sciences, English and mathematics), and any related work, volunteer experience or community involvement. Transfer applicants are expected to provide college transcripts showing satisfactory progress toward a degree.

International applicants must meet the University’s English language proficiency standards. Mature or non-traditional students with relevant professional experience in criminal justice or human services are also encouraged to apply; additional supporting information such as a personal statement or references may strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates move into frontline and specialist roles across the justice sector and related fields. Typical entry-level positions include corrections officer, probation or parole officer, case manager, reentry coordinator, victim advocate and community supervision specialist. The degree also supports careers in law enforcement, juvenile services, programme administration, policy analysis, research and non-profit organisations focused on criminal justice reform.

Many alumni pursue postgraduate study in criminal justice, public policy, social work, counselling or law to advance into supervisory, leadership or specialist roles such as correctional treatment director, policy analyst, forensic caseworker or attorney. Practical experience gained through internships and community partnerships at UMass Boston helps students build professional networks with municipal, state and non-profit agencies in the Boston region and beyond.

Why study at University of Massachusetts Boston

UMass Boston’s urban campus provides strong connections to a wide range of criminal justice, public safety and social service organisations across the Boston metropolitan area, offering well-placed internship and practicum opportunities. The programme emphasises applied learning and research-informed teaching, with faculty who are active in policy work, community-based research and criminal justice reform efforts.

Students benefit from a diverse student body, flexible scheduling options for working students, and academic support services, including career advising and field-placement coordination. The university’s location and partnerships enable direct exposure to contemporary issues in corrections, reentry and community supervision, preparing graduates to work effectively in complex urban settings or to continue into graduate study.