Radford University

What you'll study

The programme combines theory, empirical research and applied skills related to corrections and the broader criminal justice system. Core topics typically include criminological theory, advanced research methods and statistics, correctional administration, offender assessment and classification, community corrections, and ethics in corrections.

• Research methods and statistics – quantitative and qualitative methods used to evaluate programmes and inform policy.
• Criminological theory – contemporary explanations for offending and implications for correctional practice.
• Corrections administration – organisational leadership, facility management and budgeting in correctional settings.
• Offender rehabilitation and reentry – evidence-based treatment, risk/needs assessment and community reentry strategies.
• Community corrections and alternatives – probation, parole, diversion and specialty courts.
• Program evaluation and policy analysis – designing and assessing correctional interventions and policies.
• Professional practicum or capstone – supervised field placement or applied research project working with local agencies.

Students may choose electives that reflect their interests, such as juvenile justice, victimology, substance use treatment, restorative justice, or advanced forensic topics. The programme often offers a choice between a thesis and a non-thesis capstone, allowing students to focus on research or professional practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with satisfactory academic standing. Typical application materials include an academic transcript, a statement of purpose outlining professional and academic goals, and letters of recommendation.

• Relevant professional experience in criminal justice, corrections or related human services is advantageous but not always required.
• Some programmes may request a resume or curriculum vitae documenting work history and responsibilities.
• Admission may consider prior coursework in social sciences, statistics or criminal justice; applicants without such background might be required to take preparatory undergraduate courses.
• Standardised test requirements, such as the GRE, may be optional or waived depending on the applicant’s academic record and professional experience—check the programme admissions guidance for current practice.

Career prospects

Graduates gain credentials and skills applicable to supervisory and specialist roles within correctional systems, community corrections, and related organisations. Career paths commonly pursued include:

• Correctional facility administrator or supervisor
• Probation and parole officer or case manager
• Reentry coordinator or community-based program director
• Policy analyst or researcher for government agencies and think tanks
• Offender treatment and rehabilitation specialist, including substance use and mental health programmes
• Positions in juvenile justice, victim services, or restorative justice initiatives
• Further academic study at the doctoral level for careers in research and higher education

The programme’s applied components and practicum placements help build professional networks with state and local agencies, non-profits and treatment providers across the region.

Why study at Radford University

Radford University offers a focus on student-centred instruction, blending applied training with research-informed teaching. The university’s programmes in criminal justice and related social sciences are designed to engage with regional criminal justice agencies, providing opportunities for internships and practicum placements.

• Faculty members bring experience in corrections, law enforcement, research and policy, supporting both applied and academic career paths.
• Smaller class sizes foster close faculty mentoring and opportunities for collaborative research or practicum supervision.
• Students benefit from practical connections across Virginia’s criminal justice system and community service organisations, facilitating hands-on learning and employment pathways.
• The programme typically offers flexible delivery options to accommodate working professionals, including evening, hybrid or online course offerings where available.

Prospective students should consult Radford University’s graduate admissions pages for current details on application procedures, programme delivery and any specialisations or concentrations offered within the criminal justice and corrections degree.