Florida International University

What you'll study

The curriculum blends foundational criminal justice subjects with specialised coursework in corrections and rehabilitation. You will study theories of crime and justice, research methods, and law and constitutional issues alongside correctional practice and offender supervision.

• Core criminology and criminal justice: criminological theory, criminal law, policing and the justice process.
• Corrections-focused modules: penology, institutional corrections, community corrections, probation and parole, offender assessment and classification, case management.
• Rehabilitation and specialised topics: substance abuse treatment, mental health and offending, re-entry and reintegration, restorative justice, juvenile justice.
• Research and practice skills: quantitative and qualitative research methods, statistics for criminal justice, programme evaluation.
• Experiential learning: a supervised practicum or internship in a correctional or community agency and a capstone project or applied research paper.

Students typically follow a programme of general education requirements, major core courses and electives that allow for concentration in areas such as juvenile justice, offender rehabilitation or administration of corrections. Field placements and internships are a key component and prepare students for direct-entry roles in the criminal justice system.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent. Admission is competitive and relies on a review of academic records and any required supporting documentation.

• Academic credentials: completion of high-school level education with a recommended emphasis on English and mathematics; specific grade expectations vary by entry pathway.
• Standardised tests: standardised admission tests may be considered where applicable; check the university for current policy on test submission.
• Supporting materials: personal statement or essays, and in some cases letters of recommendation, may strengthen an application.
• Placement and practicum requirements: successful candidates must be able to meet background check and health/safety clearance requirements for internships and placements; a criminal record may affect placement eligibility.
• International applicants: must demonstrate English proficiency through an approved test or qualifying evidence of prior education in English.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles across correctional and criminal justice settings as well as for graduate study. Typical career paths include:

• Correctional officer or institutional supervisor in state or federal facilities
• Community corrections roles such as probation and parole officer
• Case manager or re-entry specialist working with individuals transitioning from custody to the community
• Juvenile justice practitioner in courts, residential programmes or community agencies
• Victim advocate, offender treatment coordinator or substance-abuse programme worker
• Administrative and policy roles in corrections agencies, non-profit organisations and local government
• Research assistant or analyst positions in university research centres, criminal justice agencies or private consultancies; pathway to postgraduate study (MA, MS, or PhD) in criminology, criminal justice, public policy or social work

Why study at Florida International University

Florida International University offers a programme grounded in an urban, diverse environment that provides rich opportunities for applied learning. The programme is housed within FIU's criminology and criminal justice unit and benefits from faculty who are active in research and community partnerships across South Florida.

• Location and partnerships: proximity to major county and state correctional facilities, juvenile services and community agencies supports internships and practicum placements.
• Applied learning: emphasis on internships, practicum experience and community-engaged research gives students direct exposure to corrections practice and policy implementation.
• Faculty and research: access to faculty involved in research on corrections, re-entry, juvenile justice and related policy issues, providing opportunities to participate in research projects.
• Career support: university and departmental career services help with placement, employer connections and preparation for certification or graduate study.