Florida International University

What you'll study

The programme combines theory, research methods and applied coursework focused on corrections and community supervision. Core topics typically include criminological theory, research design and statistics for criminal justice, ethics and law in corrections, offender assessment and classification, sentencing and punishment, community and institutional corrections, re‑entry and rehabilitation, and special populations (juveniles, women, veterans, and persons with mental illness).

Students often choose between a thesis or non‑thesis track. The thesis option emphasises original research under faculty supervision, while the non‑thesis route centres on advanced coursework and a capstone project or practicum. Many cohorts include a supervised internship or fieldwork placement with correctional agencies, probation and parole offices, juvenile services, or community re‑entry providers to develop practical skills.

• Criminological theory and correctional philosophies
• Research methods and applied statistics for criminal justice
• Correctional administration and management
• Assessment, classification and risk/needs principles
• Community corrections, probation and parole practice
• Re‑entry strategies and evidence‑based programming
• Legal and ethical issues in corrections
• Capstone, practicum or thesis depending on track

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. A competitive undergraduate GPA strengthens an application. Typical application materials include official transcripts, a personal statement outlining academic and professional goals, a current résumé or CV, and two or three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.

Standardised tests are not always required; consult the programme for current policy. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through an approved test unless exempt. Relevant professional experience in criminal justice, social services or related fields can be advantageous but is not always mandatory.

Career prospects

Graduates develop the knowledge and practical skills to work in a range of corrections and criminal justice settings. Common career paths include roles such as probation and parole officer, corrections officer or administrator, re‑entry coordinator, case manager, juvenile justice specialist, offender treatment and rehabilitation practitioner, and policy or research analyst. Graduates also move into leadership positions in state and county corrections departments, federal agencies, non‑profit organisations focusing on justice reform, and advocacy groups. The degree also provides preparation for doctoral study or transition to related fields such as social work, public policy or law.

Why study at Florida International University

Florida International University is located in a major metropolitan area with diverse communities and a large criminal justice ecosystem, giving students access to a wide range of practicum and internship placements in state and local correctional agencies. Faculty in FIU’s criminal justice programmes are active in empirical research on corrections, re‑entry, community supervision and policy evaluation, offering opportunities for students to engage in applied research projects.

FIU offers flexible delivery formats and cross‑disciplinary collaborations with departments and centres that focus on public policy, social work and forensic studies, which can enrich coursework and professional networks. The programme’s emphasis on evidence‑based practice and field experience helps graduates move quickly into practitioner and analytical roles within the criminal justice sector.