University of North Dakota

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework, original research and practical engagement with corrections systems. Core study areas typically include advanced criminological theory, correctional policy and administration, offender rehabilitation and reentry, juvenile justice, ethics and law in corrections, and contemporary issues in prisons and community supervision.

• Research methods and statistics: rigorous quantitative and qualitative methods, multivariate statistics, program evaluation and research design tailored to correctional settings.
• Theory and policy: advanced criminological and penological theories, comparative correctional systems, sentencing and diversion policies, and risk/needs assessment approaches.
• Corrections practice and administration: prison management, community corrections, reentry programmes, offender treatment models and correctional leadership.
• Electives and seminars: topics such as restorative justice, substance use and criminal behaviour, juvenile delinquency, forensic mental health, and data-driven policy analysis.
• Doctoral research: comprehensive examinations, proposal development, and a supervised dissertation that contributes original knowledge to criminal justice and corrections.

The degree is typically structured around an initial phase of coursework, followed by qualifying exams and a sustained period of dissertation research. Students often gain hands-on experience through partnerships with local, state or federal correctional agencies and may serve as teaching or research assistants.

Entry requirements

Successful applicants usually hold a master's degree in criminal justice, criminology, sociology, psychology, public policy or a closely related field from an accredited institution. Typical requirements include:

• A strong academic record at graduate level; applicants are expected to demonstrate readiness for doctoral study.
• A research statement or statement of purpose outlining academic interests, proposed areas of research and long-term goals.
• Curriculum vitae and academic transcripts.
• Letters of recommendation, normally two or three, that speak to research potential and academic preparation.
• GRE scores may be requested in some cases or for applicants who lack extensive research preparation; relevant professional experience in corrections or criminal justice can strengthen an application.
• Evidence of quantitative training or a willingness to complete preparatory coursework in research methods and statistics if required.

Applicants whose first language is not English must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements. Prospective students are encouraged to contact potential supervisors before applying to discuss fit with faculty research interests.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Criminal Justice and Corrections pursue careers in academia, research and advanced practice. Common pathways include:

• University faculty positions teaching criminal justice, corrections or related social science courses and conducting research.
• Research roles in government agencies, think tanks and non-profit organisations focusing on corrections policy, programme evaluation and public safety.
• Senior leadership and policy analyst positions within correctional systems, probation and parole services, and juvenile justice agencies.
• Consultancy roles advising on evidence-based interventions, reentry programmes, risk assessment implementation and correctional administration.
• Positions with federal agencies or criminal justice research units that require advanced methodological skills for large-scale evaluation and policy development.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a focused doctoral environment with faculty experienced in corrections research and applied policy work. The department emphasises rigorous methodological training and opportunities for collaborative research with state and regional criminal justice partners, which supports work that translates into practice.

Doctoral students benefit from mentoring by faculty engaged in empirical and policy-relevant research, access to opportunities for funded assistantships and teaching experience, and the ability to develop field-based research through relationships with correctional agencies. The programme’s size allows for close supervision of dissertation projects and personalised professional development aimed at careers in research, policy and higher education.