Ferris State University

What you'll study

This bachelor’s programme covers the full life-cycle of the corrections process, blending social science perspectives with operational skills. Core topics typically include criminology, criminal law, constitutional issues, correctional theory, and ethics in criminal justice. You will study specific corrections modules such as institutional corrections, community corrections, case management and offender rehabilitation, as well as specialised areas like juvenile justice, restorative justice and substance-abuse treatment approaches.

• Research and methods: research methods, statistics for social sciences and programme evaluation to prepare you for evidence-based practice.
• Practice and procedures: offender assessment and classification, security and custody procedures, crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques.
• Policy and administration: correctional administration, budgeting and policy analysis, legal issues and prisoners' rights.
• Applied learning: practicum or internship placements with state and local correctional agencies, community supervision offices and treatment providers; field exercises and simulation activities.

The programme emphasises applied learning, so expect a combination of lectures, small seminars, laboratory-style skills sessions and supervised field placements. Elective courses allow you to pursue interests such as forensic behavioural analysis, victimology, restorative practices or substance misuse counselling.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a high school diploma or recognised secondary-school qualification. Typical admissions standards expect academic preparation in social studies and English; coursework in psychology, sociology or law is helpful. Ferris State accepts transfer students from community colleges; applicants with prior college credit should submit official transcripts for transfer evaluation.

• Academic standing: successful applicants typically demonstrate steady academic performance at secondary school or college level. A competitive record often includes a cumulative GPA in the mid-range, though exact thresholds vary and admission decisions consider the whole application.
• Other requirements: a personal statement describing interest in corrections, and for some applicants, references or evidence of relevant volunteer/work experience may strengthen an application. International applicants must meet English proficiency requirements.
• Additional screening: because of field placements with criminal justice agencies, students should be aware that some host agencies require background checks and fitness-for-duty assessments before practicum placement.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles in the corrections and broader criminal justice sectors. Common entry-level positions include corrections officer, community supervision officer (probation/parole), case manager, re-entry coordinator and juvenile justice worker. With experience or additional qualifications, graduates often move into supervisory or administrative roles, policy analysis, victim services, programme coordination or specialised treatment and rehabilitation roles.

Alumni also find employment with state and federal corrections agencies, local probation and parole offices, non-profit service providers, behavioural-health organisations and private correctional service firms. Many graduates continue their studies at master’s level in criminal justice, social work or law to expand career options in research, management or advocacy.

Why study at Ferris State University

Ferris State is known for its applied, career-oriented approach and strong links with regional criminal justice agencies. The criminal justice and corrections programme draws on faculty with practitioner backgrounds, offering students mentoring from instructors who have worked in corrections, probation, law enforcement and rehabilitation services.

• Hands-on training: structured internships, practicum placements and simulation labs give practical experience and improve job readiness.
• Local partnerships: established relationships with state and county correctional institutions and community agencies provide placement opportunities and professional networking.
• Student support: dedicated career services, advising for certification and licensure pathways, and opportunities for student organisations and leadership in criminal justice topics.

Overall, the programme is suited to students seeking a direct pathway into correctional practice or a foundation for further study in criminal justice, social services or law, with the practical skills employers expect in the field.