Southeastern Louisiana University

What you'll study

The programme combines core criminal justice theory with specialised coursework focused on corrections. You will study the organisation and functions of correctional institutions, community corrections, offender rehabilitation, and reentry strategies, alongside broader subjects such as criminal law, criminology, juvenile justice, research methods, and ethics.

• Core modules: Introduction to Criminal Justice, Criminological Theory, Criminal Law, Research Methods in Criminal Justice.
• Corrections-focused modules: Corrections and Penology, Community Corrections and Probation, Institutional Corrections, Reentry and Offender Rehabilitation, Substance Abuse and Treatment in Corrections.
• Applied and skills modules: Report Writing and Case Management, Assessment and Classification of Offenders, Victimology, Crisis Intervention, and practicum/internship placements.
• Capstone/senior experience: Many students complete a senior seminar, research project, or supervised internship that integrates classroom learning with field experience.

Coursework emphasises both policy and practice: you will analyse correctional systems and policies, learn assessment and supervision techniques, and develop communication and documentation skills needed for careers in corrections and allied fields. Practical placements with local agencies and courts provide hands-on experience.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a high-school diploma or equivalent with successful completion of college-preparatory subjects. Admissions consider academic records, standardised test scores where submitted, and personal statements; transfer applicants should submit college transcripts showing satisfactory progress. Some programmes or placement opportunities may require background checks and immunisations due to fieldwork with criminal justice agencies.

Recommended preparation includes courses in social sciences, writing, and mathematics. Relevant volunteer or work experience with community organisations, youth services, or law enforcement can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of public- and private-sector roles. Typical job titles include:

• Corrections Officer and Correctional Treatment Specialist
• Probation and Parole Officer
• Juvenile Justice Specialist and Youth Services Worker
• Case Manager and Reentry Coordinator
• Victim Advocate and Community Outreach Specialist
• Law enforcement roles at municipal, state or federal levels (often with additional training)
• Positions in private corrections, behavioural health agencies, and reentry programmes

Graduates also pursue further study in criminal justice, public administration, social work, or law, which can open pathways into policy, research, management, or legal careers.

Why study at Southeastern Louisiana University

Southeastern Louisiana University offers a programme grounded in regional criminal justice practice with faculty who combine academic expertise and professional experience. The department maintains relationships with local and state correctional agencies, courts, and community organisations, supporting internship placements and applied learning.

Students benefit from small-class instruction, opportunities for supervised field experience, and student organisations that connect peers with practitioners. The campus’s location provides access to a variety of public agencies and courts for practicum placements, enhancing employability by building local professional networks and practical skills.