Marywood University

What you'll study

This programme combines theoretical foundations, research methods and applied practice to examine the structure and function of correctional systems, offender treatment, and community supervision. Core topics typically include advanced criminological theory, correctional administration, offender assessment and treatment, juvenile justice and delinquency, ethics in criminal justice, and victimology. Students also study quantitative and qualitative research methods and programme evaluation to prepare for evidence-based practice.

Most students complete a mix of classroom modules and applied experiences. Typical modules and components include:

• Advanced Criminological Theory – contemporary explanations of crime and implications for corrections policy.
• Correctional Administration and Policy – leadership, budgeting, and organisation of prison and community-based programmes.
• Offender Assessment and Treatment – risk/needs assessment, cognitive-behavioural interventions, substance abuse treatment and re-entry planning.
• Juvenile Justice and Delinquency – legal frameworks and rehabilitative approaches for youth offenders.
• Research Methods and Programme Evaluation – design, statistics, and evaluation techniques for assessing interventions and services.
• Ethics, Law and Human Rights – ethical dilemmas, constitutional issues, and standards of care in corrections.
• Field Practicum or Internship – supervised placement in a correctional, probation/parole, or community service setting, or a capstone research project focused on a corrections topic.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. While a degree in criminal justice, sociology, psychology, or a related field is advantageous, applicants with relevant professional experience in corrections or criminal justice agencies are also considered. Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining academic and professional goals, a current résumé or CV, and one or more letters of recommendation.

Marywood may expect evidence of academic readiness for graduate-level study; some applicants are invited to an interview. International applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements. Specific GPA thresholds, exam requirements or additional credentials are provided by the admissions office and may vary by applicant background.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles across public, private and non-profit sectors. Common career paths include correctional administrator, probation and parole officer, case manager, re-entry coordinator, programme evaluator, victim services coordinator and policy analyst in criminal justice agencies. The programme also prepares graduates for positions in community-based treatment organisations, juvenile justice services, and advocacy groups, and provides a foundation for doctoral study or specialised professional certificates.

Practical elements such as internships and partnerships with regional correctional facilities help students build professional networks and gain applied experience valued by employers.

Why study at Marywood University

Marywood offers small class sizes and faculty who combine academic research with practical experience in criminal justice and corrections. The University’s regional connections support practicum placements and community partnerships, enabling students to undertake supervised fieldwork in correctional institutions, probation services and community agencies.

The programme is designed to be flexible for working professionals, with scheduling options that may include evening courses and part-time study. Students benefit from a liberal arts-informed approach that emphasises ethical practice, critical thinking and evidence-based decision making — skills that are directly transferable to leadership and applied roles in corrections.