Felician University

What you'll study

The curriculum blends foundational courses in criminal justice and criminology with specialised courses focused on corrections, rehabilitation and community supervision. You will study the causes and control of crime, the structure of the legal system, ethics in criminal justice, and research methods that support evidence-based practice.

• Core criminal justice topics: introduction to criminal justice, criminal law and procedure, constitutional issues, policing and the courts.
• Corrections and rehabilitation: theories of punishment, institutional corrections, community corrections, probation and parole, reentry and offender reintegration.
• Specialist subjects: juvenile justice, substance abuse and treatment, mental health and the criminal justice system, victimology, restorative justice approaches.
• Research and practice: social science research methods, statistics for criminal justice, programme evaluation and policy analysis.
• Applied learning: supervised internships/practicums with correctional agencies, probation departments, community organisations or courts, and a senior capstone or practicum project synthesising theory and practice.

Courses are typically delivered through small, discussion-led classes that emphasise applied learning, case studies and professional skills such as report writing, interviewing and risk assessment. Many students complete field placements with local county and state agencies to gain direct experience working with offender populations.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Felician considers a combination of academic preparation and personal suitability for the profession. Typical application materials include an official transcript, a personal statement explaining interest in criminal justice, and one or more academic or professional references. Felician University commonly operates a test-optional admissions policy for standardised tests; applicants should check current guidance.

• Recommended background: coursework in English, social studies, psychology or sociology helps prepare students for the programme.
• Transfers: college transcripts are required and previous relevant coursework may be eligible for transfer credit.
• Professional requirements: note that some placements or future employers will require background checks, drug screening or immunisation records before field experience in corrections or juvenile settings.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of public- and private-sector roles that work directly with justice-involved people or support the criminal justice system. The programme emphasises the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed by employers and for postgraduate study.

• Corrections officer or correctional treatment specialist in local, state or private institutions
• Probation and parole officer, community supervision specialist or reentry coordinator
• Juvenile justice worker, case manager or youth services coordinator
• Victim advocate, court services staff, or positions in victim services organisations and non-profits
• Support roles in law enforcement, court administration, forensic services or policy and research organisations
• Further study options include graduate programmes in criminal justice, social work, forensic psychology or law (J.D.)

Why study at Felician University

Felician offers a values-based, student-centred education with small classes and accessible faculty who often have professional experience in criminal justice fields. The university’s regional connections help place students in internships with local corrections agencies, courts and community organisations. Emphasis on applied learning, ethical practice and service prepares graduates to work effectively with diverse populations and to pursue careers that balance public safety with rehabilitation and social justice.

Students benefit from personalised academic advising, opportunities for service-learning and internships, and a campus environment that supports professional development and preparation for licensure or further study in the criminal justice and human services sectors.