University of Maine

What you'll study

This programme covers the major areas of criminal justice with a particular emphasis on corrections and community supervision. Core topics include the causes and control of criminal behaviour, the structure and functions of correctional institutions, probation and parole, restorative justice, and criminal law. Students also study research methods, statistics for social science, ethics, and constitutional issues that affect practice.

• Crime and Criminological Theory – theories explaining offending, victimisation and social responses.
• Corrections and Rehabilitation – history and contemporary practice in jails, prisons, reentry and community corrections.
• Law and Procedure – substantive criminal law, evidence, and courtroom process.
• Policing and Public Safety – roles of police agencies, community policing and use of force issues.
• Research Methods and Data Analysis – designing studies, qualitative and quantitative methods, and interpreting crime data.
• Ethics, Diversity and Policy – professional ethics, cultural competence and policy analysis in the criminal justice system.
• Applied and Capstone Experiences – practicum, internships or a senior capstone project integrating classroom learning with field placements.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised high school diploma or equivalent with a solid academic record. Typical preparation includes courses in social studies, English and mathematics. The university considers a holistic profile — grades, personal statement, and any relevant volunteer or work experience — and standardized test submission may be optional or situational; check the University of Maine admissions information for current policy.

Some field placements or internships required by the programme may involve background checks, immunisation or drug screening; students should be prepared to meet those professional requirements. Transfer applicants are assessed on college transcripts and transfer credit policies.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles across corrections, community supervision, law enforcement and supportive services. Career pathways commonly include:

• Correctional officer or facility staff
• Probation and parole officer
• Correctional counsellor or case manager
• Community re‑entry specialist and rehabilitation services
• Criminal justice researcher, policy analyst or victim support roles
• With additional training, roles in law enforcement or legal and forensic professions

Why study at University of Maine

The University of Maine offers close faculty contact and opportunities to combine applied training with academic research. Students benefit from regionally focused practicum and internship links with state and local agencies, which support hands‑on experience in correctional settings, courts and community programmes. The campus provides access to faculty whose research spans corrections policy, community supervision and public safety, and the university’s location makes it well suited for students interested in practice and policy in rural and small‑city contexts.

Small class sizes, opportunities for undergraduate research and a curriculum designed to meet workforce expectations make the programme appropriate for students seeking direct entry into the criminal justice field or a foundation for graduate study.