University of North Florida

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational criminal justice theory with specialised study of corrections, rehabilitation and community supervision. Core topics typically include criminological theory, criminal law and procedure, research methods and statistics, and ethics and professional issues. Correction-specific modules cover institutional corrections, community-based corrections, probation and parole, juvenile justice, and offender assessment and treatment.

Students also study applied skills such as report writing, assessment tools, case management, and risk/needs assessment, and complete coursework in programme evaluation and re-entry planning. The degree usually includes practicum or internship components that place students with local correctional agencies, probation offices or community organisations, and may culminate in a capstone project or research paper that integrates theory and practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Typical admission considerations include academic transcripts showing satisfactory secondary-school performance and completion of college-preparatory coursework. Many applicants strengthen their application with community or volunteer experience related to criminal justice, social services or youth work.

Transfer students are usually considered on the basis of college transcripts and transferable credit; prior college-level coursework in social sciences, statistics or writing is advantageous. Programmes that involve off-site placements generally require a background check and may require immunisations or clearance checks before placement begins. Specific admission criteria and any testing policy are available from the university admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles in corrections and allied fields. Common entry-level positions include correctional officer, probation and parole officer, juvenile case manager, and community re-entry specialist. The degree also supports careers in victim services, offender rehabilitation programmes, substance-abuse treatment, and community supervision agencies.

With further experience or postgraduate study, graduates can move into supervisory and administrative roles, policy analysis, research, training and programme development, or pursue careers in federal law enforcement, court services and legal professions. The programme also provides a foundation for graduate study in criminology, social work, public administration or law.

Why study at University of North Florida

Studying criminal justice and corrections at the University of North Florida gives students access to a campus located in a large metropolitan area, offering practical internship and field-placement opportunities with local correctional, probation and community agencies. Faculty often have practitioner experience and engage in research and community partnerships that inform teaching and student placements.

The university emphasises a balance of theory and hands-on learning, with smaller class sizes that support direct interaction with instructors and peers. Students benefit from career services, networking opportunities with regional criminal justice employers, and pathways to transfer into graduate programmes or professional training.