Slippery Rock University

What you'll study

The programme combines core criminal justice theory with specialised study in corrections and rehabilitation. You will study how institutions manage offenders, theories of punishment and rehabilitation, and evidence-based practices for reducing recidivism. Teaching emphasises applied skills, legal context and ethical decision-making.

• Core modules: Introduction to Criminal Justice, Criminological Theory, Criminal Law and Procedure, Research Methods and Statistics for the Social Sciences.
• Corrections-focused modules: Corrections and Penology, Community Corrections, Probation and Parole, Institutional Corrections and Management, Case Management and Rehabilitation Strategies.
• Specialist modules: Juvenile Justice, Substance Abuse and Treatment, Victimology, Restorative Justice, Forensic Psychology, Ethics in Criminal Justice.
• Skills and practice: Interviewing and assessment techniques, report writing, risk assessment, crisis intervention and re-entry planning.
• Capstone and placement: A supervised practicum or internship in a correctional or community agency and a senior capstone project or seminar that integrates research and practice.

Structure

The degree is structured around general education requirements, major core courses, corrections specialism courses and elective options. Students complete a supervised field placement and a research or capstone requirement, allowing direct experience with local county, state or community agencies.

Entry requirements

Admissions typically require a high-school diploma or recognised secondary qualification. Applicants are expected to demonstrate competency in English and, in some cases, mathematics. Typical offers consider grades from A-levels, IB, high-school GPA or equivalent qualifications; mature applicants with relevant work experience are also considered.

• Suggested academic background: secondary studies that include social sciences, English and mathematics.
• Other requirements: personal statement, references and sometimes an interview to assess motivation for working in corrections and vulnerable settings.
• Additional checks: because of the placement component, applicants must be able to pass background checks and meet agency clearance requirements; some convictions or legal restrictions may affect eligibility for certain placements or licensure.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of practitioner and policy roles across corrections and the wider criminal justice sector. The programme prepares students for operational roles and for further study.

• Operational roles: correctional officer, probation and parole officer, community case manager, juvenile justice worker, re-entry coordinator, residential treatment staff.
• Support and specialist roles: victim services, substance misuse counsellor (with further qualification), risk assessor, behaviour intervention specialist.
• Agency and policy roles: programme development, policy analyst, research assistant in criminal justice agencies or non-profit organisations.
• Further study and professional development: eligibility for postgraduate study in criminal justice, social work, counselling or law; routes into supervisory and management positions with experience and additional qualifications.

Why study at Slippery Rock University

Slippery Rock University offers a practical, student-focused programme with strong links to regional criminal justice and corrections agencies. The curriculum is taught by faculty with applied and research experience in corrections, and small class sizes support active discussion and personalised feedback.

• Applied learning: mandatory internships and practicum placements give hands-on experience in correctional institutions and community programmes.
• Local partnerships: collaborations with county and state correctional facilities, probation services and rehabilitation providers help secure placement opportunities and guest practitioner input.
• Supportive environment: opportunities for undergraduate research, student organisations related to criminal justice, and academic advising aimed at career planning and graduate study preparation.