University of Southern Indiana

What you'll study

This programme provides a foundation in criminal justice theory, law, and the organisation of correctional systems while emphasising hands‑on skills used in custody, community supervision and offender rehabilitation. Core topics typically include criminological theory, criminal law and procedure, corrections administration, sentencing and punishment, offender assessment and classification, ethics in criminal justice, and research methods.

• Introduction to Criminal Justice and Corrections
• Criminological Theories
• Criminal Law and Procedure
• Correctional Practices and Programs (incarceration and community corrections)
• Assessment, Classification and Case Management
• Juvenile Justice and Youth Corrections
• Substance Abuse, Offender Treatment and Reentry Planning
• Policing and Courts (context for correctional practice)
• Research Methods, Statistics and Policy Analysis in Criminal Justice
• Capstone Project or Internship / Practicum in a correctional or community setting

Students progress from introductory surveys to more applied and specialised modules, with opportunities to take electives in areas such as forensic psychology, victim services, restorative justice and programme evaluation. A supervised practicum or internship with local correctional facilities, probation/parole offices or rehabilitative agencies is commonly included to translate classroom learning into workplace skills.

Entry requirements

Typical entry routes include a completed secondary school qualification equivalent to a local high school diploma, with evidence of satisfactory performance in English. Mature applicants with relevant life or work experience are considered. Applicants who have completed relevant post‑secondary study or community college coursework may be eligible for advanced standing.

Suggested preparation: studies in English, social sciences and mathematics are useful. International applicants are expected to demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or prior study in English. Criminal background checks may be required for placement components and for some career paths; disclosure requirements will follow professional and legal standards.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles within the justice and social service sectors. Common career destinations include correctional officer positions in custodial facilities, community corrections roles such as probation and parole officer, case manager or reentry coordinator, and positions in juvenile justice settings. Other options include roles in victim services, rehabilitation and treatment programmes, policy and programme evaluation, and positions with non‑profit organisations focused on justice and community safety.

Graduates who wish to specialise further can pursue postgraduate study in criminology, forensic psychology, social work or law, or seek professional certifications relevant to probation, parole and correctional practice. The programme’s internship and local agency links support employability and transition into entry‑level professional posts.

Why study at University of Southern Indiana

The University of Southern Indiana offers a regionally engaged learning environment with small class sizes and faculty who combine academic expertise with practitioner experience. Its location in the Evansville area provides ready access to courts, law enforcement agencies, probation and parole offices, and correctional facilities for internships and applied learning projects.

Students benefit from practical placements, community partnerships and opportunities to participate in research, practicum supervision and local initiatives that address public safety and offender rehabilitation. The programme’s applied focus prepares graduates for immediate employment in corrections and community supervision, while also forming a solid base for further professional study.