Auburn University at Montgomery

What you'll study

The programme focuses on theoretical foundations, applied methods and management practices specific to corrections and community supervision. Core subject areas include correctional theory and philosophy, offender assessment and classification, rehabilitation and reentry strategies, correctional administration and leadership, ethics in corrections, and research methods in criminal justice.

• Core modules typically cover correctional institutions and community corrections, correctional law and policy, offender treatment and evidence-based practices, and qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• Specialist options allow concentration on topics such as juvenile corrections, reentry and reintegration, community-based sanctions, substance misuse and treatment, and restorative justice approaches.
• Practicum and internship components connect classroom learning with supervised field placements in prisons, probation/parole agencies, rehabilitation programmes or community organisations.
• Capstone or thesis choices are offered so students can complete either a research thesis, an applied capstone project, or a comprehensive examination, depending on career goals and programme track.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Typical application materials include official transcripts, a personal statement or statement of purpose that outlines professional goals in corrections, a current CV or résumé, and references or letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.

Relevant professional experience in criminal justice or human services can strengthen an application. Some applicants may be asked to provide additional documentation or meet department interview requirements. Prospective students should consult the university’s graduate admissions office for specific procedural requirements and any optional testing policies.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of leadership, supervisory and specialist roles across corrections and related sectors. Common career destinations include:

• Prison and correctional facility administration
• Probation and parole services
• Reentry and community-based programme management
• Policy analysis and research for government agencies or non-profit organisations
• Juvenile justice and youth services
• Substance misuse treatment coordination and case management
• Academia and criminal justice education or further doctoral study

The programme is also relevant for those pursuing roles in criminal justice reform, victim services administration and consultancy work where advanced knowledge of correctional systems and evidence-based interventions is required.

Why study at Auburn University at Montgomery

Auburn University at Montgomery offers a programme grounded in practical experience and regional engagement. The department’s faculty combine academic expertise with practitioner backgrounds in corrections and criminal justice, providing students with applied perspectives on contemporary challenges.

Situated in Montgomery, the programme benefits from proximity to state and local criminal justice agencies, facilitating internship placements, partnership projects and networking opportunities. Flexible delivery options, including evening and hybrid classes, accommodate working professionals, while small class sizes support mentorship and applied research supervision.

Students also have access to university resources for research, career services and community engagement, allowing them to build the professional skills and local connections needed for careers in corrections, policy and administration.