The Bachelor's in Criminal Justice and Corrections at Universidad Ana G. Méndez prepares students for careers in corrections, community supervision and the broader criminal justice system through applied coursework and supervised practical experience. It suits students interested in rehabilitation, offender management, public safety and policy who want bilingual, community-focused training with local practicum opportunities.
What you'll study
This degree combines theoretical foundations in criminology and criminal law with practical training in offender management, rehabilitation and community-based corrections. The programme is typically completed through full‑time study over four years, comprising core modules, electives, and a supervised practicum or internship placement with correctional or social service agencies.
Core topics
- Introduction to Criminology and Criminal Justice: theories of crime, crime measurement and the structure of the justice system
- Constitutional and Criminal Law: rights, due process and statutory frameworks affecting corrections
- Corrections and Penology: history and philosophy of punishment, institutional management and alternative sanctions
- Community Corrections and Probation: case supervision, risk assessment and re‑entry planning
- Rehabilitation and Treatment: evidence‑based interventions, substance abuse treatment and cognitive‑behavioural programmes
- Juvenile Justice: developmental perspectives, diversion and specialised services for young offenders
- Victimology and Restorative Justice: victim support, restorative approaches and community repair
- Research Methods and Statistics for Criminal Justice: research design, data analysis and programme evaluation
- Ethics and Professional Practice: ethical issues, cultural competence and professional responsibilities in corrections
Practical experience and electives
- Supervised practicum or internship in prisons, community supervision offices, probation services, or non‑profit rehabilitation agencies
- Electives may include forensic psychology, juvenile intervention strategies, leadership in correctional settings, substance misuse interventions and policy analysis
- Capstone project or applied research project linking theory to practice
Entry requirements
Admissions are normally based on evidence of secondary school completion or equivalent. Applicants should demonstrate a solid academic record and the potential for university study. Specific requirements may vary by campus and mode of study (on‑campus or online).
- Secondary school diploma or recognised equivalent
- Official transcripts from prior study
- Proof of language proficiency where required; programmes may be offered bilingually in Spanish and English so applicants should check the language of instruction
- Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview or provide a personal statement outlining their interest in corrections and criminal justice
- Transfer students will be considered and previous college credits may be assessed for equivalency
Mature applicants with relevant work or voluntary experience in criminal justice, social services or community organisations are encouraged to apply and may be assessed on the basis of that experience.
Career prospects
Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles across the criminal justice and social service sectors, and the degree also provides a foundation for postgraduate study.
- Correctional officer or prison services staff
- Probation and parole officer or community supervision specialist
- Case manager and rehabilitation worker in re‑entry programmes
- Juvenile justice practitioner, youth programme coordinator or diversion officer
- Victim advocate or community outreach worker
- Positions in policy, research or programme evaluation within government agencies and non‑profits
- Pathways to further study such as master's degrees in criminal justice, social work, counselling, public administration or law
Certain roles may require additional professional certification, licensing or agency‑specific training; the programme emphasises preparation for these next steps through practicum placements and career support.
Why study at Universidad Ana G. Méndez
Universidad Ana G. Méndez offers a bilingual, community‑focused approach to criminal justice education with campuses and partnerships across Puerto Rico. The programme emphasises applied learning through practicum placements with local correctional institutions, probation services and community agencies, giving students direct exposure to the island's justice system.
- Faculty with professional experience in corrections, policing, social services and research provide practice‑informed teaching.
- Small classes and personalised academic advising support student development and professional readiness.
- Flexible study options, including on‑campus and online modalities, help students balance study with work commitments.
- Connections with regional agencies and community organisations facilitate internships and employment pathways.
The programme is suited to students who want practical, locally relevant training in offender management and rehabilitation, combined with opportunities for bilingual practice and continued professional development.
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