Frostburg State University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational criminal justice theory with specialised coursework in corrections and offender rehabilitation. You will study how legal, social and organisational factors shape correctional practice and policy, alongside research methods and ethical decision-making.

• Core subjects: Introduction to Criminal Justice, Criminology, Criminal Law and Procedures, Ethics in Criminal Justice.
• Corrections-specific modules: Corrections and Penology, Community Corrections, Probation and Parole, Institutional Management, Prisoner Reentry and Reintegration, Juvenile Corrections.
• Practice and skills: Assessment and Treatment of Offenders, Case Management, Substance Abuse and Correctional Interventions, Restorative Justice, Victimology.
• Research and professional development: Research Methods in Criminal Justice, Statistics for Social Science, Policy Analysis, a capstone seminar or senior project focused on an applied corrections problem.
• Field experience: A supervised practicum or internship with a correctional facility, probation office, juvenile centre or community offender service agency is a key element, giving hands-on exposure to daily operations and client work.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent with evidence of satisfactory academic preparation. Admissions decisions consider secondary-school grades and the strength of the overall application.

• Standard applicants: completion of secondary education with a college-preparatory curriculum. Demonstrated competence in writing and social sciences is beneficial.
• Transfer applicants: credit from accredited post-secondary institutions is accepted; course-by-course evaluation determines how prior coursework maps to degree requirements.
• International students: proof of secondary completion equivalent to U.S. requirements plus acceptable English language proficiency (for example via TOEFL or IELTS) where required.
• Additional considerations: relevant volunteer or work experience in criminal justice, personal statements and recommendations can strengthen an application. Some placements or internships may require background checks or vaccinations as a condition of participation.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles within the corrections and broader criminal justice field. The programme emphasises practical skills and professional readiness.

• Correctional officer and institutional staff roles in local, state or federal facilities.
• Community supervision positions such as probation and parole officer, case manager or reentry coordinator.
• Juvenile justice positions in assessment centres, residential programmes and youth services.
• Support and advocacy roles including victim services, substance-abuse programme coordinator, and community-based rehabilitation organisations.
• Pathways into federal agencies, law enforcement, court services, and related public safety careers, as well as opportunities for graduate study in criminal justice, public administration, social work or law.

Why study at Frostburg State University

Frostburg State offers a student-centred environment with small classes and accessible faculty who combine academic expertise with practical experience. The campus places emphasis on experiential learning through internships, practicum placements and community partnerships that connect students to local and regional criminal justice agencies.

• Hands-on learning: the programme integrates supervised field placements so students gain real-world corrections experience before graduation.
• Faculty and mentorship: instructors often bring practitioner backgrounds and provide close advising to support professional development and graduate school preparation.
• Community and regional connections: established relationships with correctional institutions, probation offices and social service agencies help students obtain internships and employment throughout the region.
• Support services: career services, academic advising and student organisations focused on criminal justice give additional opportunities for networking, leadership and skills development.