Roger Williams University

What you'll study

The programme provides a balance of core criminal justice theory, applied corrections practice and research skills. You will study foundational subjects such as criminological theory, criminal law, constitutional issues in policing and corrections, and statistics for social science. Core corrections-focused modules typically cover correctional institutions, community corrections, probation and parole, offender rehabilitation, substance abuse and mental health in correctional settings, and juvenile justice.

Research methods and senior capstone projects are integral, giving students training in quantitative and qualitative techniques, programme evaluation and policy analysis. Practical learning includes a practicum or internship placement with a local jail, probation office, community re-entry programme, juvenile facility or related agency, plus classes on ethics, restorative justice, and cultural competence.

• Introduction to Criminal Justice and Corrections
• Criminological Theory
• Criminal Law and Procedure
• Correctional Institutions and Administration
• Community Corrections, Probation and Parole
• Juvenile Justice and Delinquency
• Research Methods and Statistics for Criminal Justice
• Offender Rehabilitation, Substance Use and Re-entry
• Ethics, Diversity and Restorative Practices
• Internship/Practicum and Capstone Project

Entry requirements

Typical entry to the bachelor’s programme requires a secondary school qualification comparable to a high school diploma or A-levels/IB, with satisfactory grades in a range of academic subjects. Admissions may consider the overall school record, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement that demonstrates interest in criminal justice and relevant experience or volunteer work.

Prospective students who have completed community college coursework, hold an associate degree, or have relevant work experience in criminal justice or human services are encouraged to enquire about transfer credit and advanced standing. Mature applicants with work or military experience in related fields are also considered; some components such as background checks may be required for placement in practicum settings.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles across corrections and community supervision, including positions as correctional officers, probation and parole officers, case managers, re-entry coordinators and juvenile justice workers. The applied focus also supports careers in victim services, substance abuse programmes, community-based rehabilitation, and private-sector roles in security and compliance.

Many alumni go on to graduate study in criminal justice, public policy, social work or law, or pursue certification and specialised training for leadership roles within correctional agencies and community organisations. The programme’s practicum and local partnerships help build employer networks and practical experience valued by public and non-profit employers.

Why study at Roger Williams University

Roger Williams University offers a small-class environment that emphasises close faculty mentoring and hands-on learning. Faculty in the criminal justice area bring a mixture of academic research and practitioner experience, and the programme leverages partnerships with state and local justice agencies across Rhode Island for internships and practicum placements.

Students benefit from applied learning facilities, opportunities for service-learning and community engagement, and a curriculum designed to integrate policy analysis, ethics and evidence-based practices. The programme’s location provides access to a range of public agencies, courts and non-profit organisations for supervised field experience, helping graduates transition into the workforce or further study.