St. John's University

What you'll study

The programme combines theoretical foundations, applied practice and research methods to address contemporary challenges in corrections and community supervision. Core study areas include criminal justice theory, correctional administration, offender rehabilitation, reentry and community integration, and quantitative and qualitative research methods.

• Criminological Theory and Policy — examination of major theories of crime, punishment and policy implications for corrections.
• Correctional Practice and Administration — organisation and management of jails, prisons, probation and parole systems, including security, classification and programme delivery.
• Rehabilitation, Treatment and Reentry — evidence-based interventions for substance use, mental health, vocational and educational programming and strategies for reducing recidivism.
• Community Corrections — models of supervision, case management, risk assessment and alternatives to incarceration including diversion and restorative justice approaches.
• Research Methods and Applied Statistics — skills in designing studies, data analysis, programme evaluation and using evidence to inform policy and practice.
• Ethics, Law and Human Rights — legal frameworks, professional ethics and rights-based considerations in corrections.
• Practicum or Capstone Project — a supervised placement in a corrections-related agency or a research/policy capstone that integrates academic learning with applied work.

Programme structure typically includes a mix of core modules and electives, a practicum or capstone, and a research component. Options for full-time and part-time study are commonly available, and some courses may be offered in hybrid or evening formats to accommodate working professionals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, sociology, psychology, public administration, or a related discipline. Applications from candidates with substantial professional experience in criminal justice or corrections will also be considered.

• Academic transcripts demonstrating completion of an undergraduate degree.
• Personal statement outlining academic and professional goals and reasons for applying to the programme.
• Curriculum vitae detailing relevant work and volunteer experience; professional experience in justice or human services is advantageous.
• References — usually two academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant’s suitability for graduate study.
• English language proficiency — required for applicants whose first language is not English (accepted tests are commonly used; consult the university for recognised evidence).

Admissions are based on a holistic review of academic record, relevant experience and the applicant’s fit with the programme. Additional requirements such as interviews or writing samples may be requested in some cases.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles across correctional and community justice settings, as well as policy, research and advocacy organisations. Typical career paths include:

• Correctional administrator or manager in prisons, jails and detention facilities
• Probation and parole officer or community supervision specialist
• Reentry or case manager working with formerly incarcerated people
• Policy analyst, researcher or evaluator in government agencies or think tanks
• Program director for rehabilitation, substance misuse or mental health services within correctional contexts
• Roles in victim services, restorative justice initiatives and non-profit organisations focused on criminal justice reform
• Foundational preparation for doctoral study or professional degrees in law and public administration

The programme’s practicum and applied research components support employability by building practical skills, professional networks and experience working with justice-sector organisations.

Why study at St. John's University

St. John’s University offers this programme from an urban campus with proximity to a complex criminal justice environment, providing students with access to a wide range of placement and professional development opportunities. Faculty combine scholarly expertise with practitioner experience in corrections, policy and community-based services, enabling a curriculum that balances evidence-based theory with applied practice.

• Practical learning opportunities — supervised internships, practicum placements and community partnerships that connect classroom learning with real-world settings.
• Experienced faculty — instructors and researchers with backgrounds in corrections, criminal justice policy and programme evaluation.
• Professional networks — connections to local agencies, courts and non-governmental organisations that support placements and career development.
• Flexible delivery — part-time, evening or hybrid course options to suit working professionals seeking to advance their careers while studying.

Overall, the programme is designed to equip students with the analytical, managerial and practical skills needed to lead reform and improvement in correctional systems and community supervision settings.