Auburn University at Montgomery

What you'll study

The programme combines general education requirements with a focused sequence of criminal justice and corrections courses, emphasising both theoretical foundations and applied skills. Typical areas of study include the history and philosophy of corrections, criminological theory, criminal law, institutional and community-based corrections, juvenile justice, and ethics in the criminal justice system.

• Core subjects: Introduction to Criminal Justice, Criminology, Criminal Law, Research Methods in Criminal Justice.
• Corrections-focused modules: Corrections and Penology, Prison Administration, Community Corrections, Probation and Parole, Reentry and Offender Rehabilitation.
• Specialist and applied topics: Juvenile Justice, Victimology, Crisis Intervention, Substance Abuse and Offender Treatment, Forensic Evidence and Criminal Investigations.
• Capstone and experiential learning: Internship or practicum with local correctional facilities or community agencies and a senior seminar or capstone project that synthesises theory and practice.

Students will also develop skills in report writing, ethical decision-making, assessment and classification of offenders, programme evaluation and basic research methods used in policy and practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a high school diploma or recognised secondary school qualification. Admission considers academic records, relevant coursework and any prior experience in criminal justice or related fields. Transfer applicants may receive credit for relevant college-level courses, and mature students with significant work or life experience are encouraged to apply.

Specific course prerequisites may include introductory social science or English composition. Standard admissions processes apply for domestic and international students; applicants should consult the university for details on credential evaluation, English language proficiency and placement policies.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles in the corrections and wider criminal justice sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Correctional officer or prison administrator
• Probation or parole officer and community supervision specialist
• Juvenile justice specialist and youth services caseworker
• Reentry coordinator, offender rehabilitation and treatment provider
• Victim advocate, case manager or social services roles linked to justice-involved populations
• Positions in federal, state and local agencies, including opportunities with law enforcement and regulatory bodies

Many graduates also go on to postgraduate study in criminal justice, public administration, social work or law, which can broaden career options in policy, research and leadership.

Why study at Auburn University at Montgomery

Auburn University at Montgomery offers a focused, practice-oriented environment with small class sizes and faculty who bring academic and practitioner experience to teaching. The programme benefits from local partnerships with correctional agencies, probation services and community organisations, facilitating internship placements and applied learning opportunities.

The university provides flexible scheduling options and student support services, including academic advising, career services and assistance arranging internships. For students seeking a balance of rigorous academic preparation and real-world experience in corrections and criminal justice, the programme provides a clear pathway into professional roles or further study.