Criminal Justice graduates earn a median $34,420 Across 963 US programmes, two years after finishing
See the degree grade →The Bachelor in Criminal Justice and Corrections at St. John's University is a professionally oriented undergraduate degree that combines theory, research methods and practical skills for work in corrections, community supervision and related justice agencies. It suits students aiming for front‑line roles in correctional systems, probation and parole, rehabilitation services, or those preparing for graduate study or careers in law enforcement and public policy.
This programme provides a balanced curriculum of criminological theory, legal context, empirical research and applied correctional practice. Core subjects typically include introductory criminology, criminal law and procedure, constitutional law, ethics in criminal justice, and research methods. Courses specific to corrections emphasise the theory and practice of confinement and community supervision, including offender classification, case management, rehabilitation and reentry, restorative justice, and substance misuse interventions.
Students also study subjects that prepare them for work across the justice system, such as juvenile justice, mental health and the law, sentencing and corrections policy, victimology, and organisational behaviour in criminal justice agencies. Quantitative and qualitative methods are taught to support evidence‑based practice; many programmes require a statistics or research project module.
Teaching blends lectures, seminars and skills workshops. Practical components commonly include role‑play, simulation exercises, court observation, and a supervised field placement or internship with a correctional facility, probation service or community agency. A capstone or senior practicum allows students to integrate coursework with applied experience and produce a substantive research or practice portfolio.
Applicants are normally expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong overall academic record. Typical successful applicants demonstrate competency in English and social sciences; completion of coursework in psychology, sociology, or civics is advantageous. Admissions may consider standardised test scores where relevant, though many US institutions operate test‑optional policies.
St. John's looks for evidence of professional interest and suitability for work in the justice sector — for example, volunteer experience, community service, or employment in related settings. Applicants with prior relevant experience, or mature applicants returning to study, are considered on the basis of their full profile. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications.
Graduates enter a range of roles across corrections and the wider criminal justice system. Common first‑destination jobs include correctional officer, probation and parole officer, community supervision case manager, juvenile justice worker, reentry coordinator, and roles in victim services or substance use support programmes. The degree also provides a foundation for law enforcement careers, court administration, and roles in policy, research or non‑profit organisations focusing on criminal justice reform.
Many graduates progress to postgraduate study in criminal justice, social work, public administration or law. The programme's emphasis on research methods and practical experience supports career pathways into criminal justice research, policy analysis and consultancy. St. John's alumni working in the New York metropolitan area benefit from local agency contacts and internship networks.
St. John's University offers access to a large, diverse urban environment with extensive placement and internship opportunities across New York's criminal justice agencies, courts and community organisations. The programme is taught by faculty who combine academic expertise with practitioner experience, providing insight into contemporary policy debates and day‑to‑day practice in corrections.
Students benefit from experiential learning through supervised field placements, practicum options and simulated skills training. The university's career services and alumni network support job search and professional development in the region. In addition, opportunities for interdisciplinary study and elective modules allow students to tailor their degree to interests such as forensic psychology, public policy or restorative justice.
Overall, the programme is designed to prepare graduates to work ethically and effectively in corrections and related fields, with a strong emphasis on evidence‑based practice, community engagement and professional readiness.
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