Marywood University

What you'll study

The programme provides a broad grounding in criminal justice theory, policy and practice with specific emphasis on corrections and offender rehabilitation. Core topics typically include criminology, criminal law, the history and philosophy of corrections, sentencing and punishment, probation and parole, rehabilitation and reentry, ethics in criminal justice, and research methods.

Students can expect a mix of classroom study and applied learning. Typical modules and learning experiences include:

• Introduction to Criminal Justice — structure and functions of justice system agencies.
• Criminological Theory — major explanations for crime and delinquency.
• Corrections and Institutional Practice — operation of jails, prisons and correctional programmes.
• Community Corrections — probation, parole, diversion and reentry strategies.
• Assessment and Case Management — risk/needs assessment, treatment planning and client supervision.
• Criminal Law and Procedure — substantive offences and procedural safeguards.
• Research Methods and Statistics — social science methods relevant to criminal justice evaluation.
• Ethics and Professional Issues — ethical dilemmas and professional standards in corrections.
• Electives and Interdisciplinary Options — topics such as juvenile justice, substance misuse, restorative justice and victimology.

Practical elements often include internships or fieldwork with local correctional facilities, probation offices, community organisations or courts, plus a senior seminar or capstone project that integrates theory, policy and practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a record of satisfactory academic achievement. Marywood values a liberal arts background, so successful applicants typically present courses in social studies, English and mathematics. Admissions staff also consider letters of recommendation, a personal statement and extracurricular experience relevant to work with people or communities.

Typical admissions considerations include:

• High school completion or equivalent; consideration of transfer applicants with college credits.
• Evidence of readiness for undergraduate study, demonstrated through transcripts and references.
• Recommended preparation: coursework in writing, social sciences and statistics where available.
• Non-academic factors such as volunteer or work experience in human services, law enforcement or community organisations can strengthen an application.

Marywood provides advising for students who require additional preparation and welcomes mature applicants and transfers; specific requirements may vary, so applicants should consult the university’s admissions office for personalised guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of careers in corrections and the wider criminal justice and human services sectors. Common entry-level and mid-career roles include:

• Correctional officer or institutional staff in jails and prisons.
• Probation and parole officer or community supervision specialist.
• Case manager, treatment coordinator or reentry support worker in community agencies.
• Juvenile justice practitioner and youth services worker.
• Victim advocate or practitioner in victim support organisations.
• Positions in law enforcement agencies and federal or state corrections departments.
• Policy or research assistant roles in non-profits, think tanks or governmental bodies.

The degree also provides a foundation for graduate study in criminal justice, social work, public administration, counselling or law, which can expand career options into management, therapy, probation supervision, policy analysis or legal practice.

Why study at Marywood University

Marywood is a regional liberal arts university located in the Scranton area, offering small class sizes and close faculty mentoring that support practical skill development and applied learning. The university’s community orientation and relationships with local courts, correctional agencies and service providers create opportunities for internships, practicum placements and service-learning projects that complement classroom instruction.

Students benefit from an interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates ethical, social and psychological perspectives with technical knowledge of corrections. Academic advising, career services and alumni networks help students plan internships and post-graduation pathways, while a campus culture that emphasises community engagement and professional formation supports preparation for work with justice-involved populations.