Graduate Programs

The graduate program in criminology, law and society is a multidisplinary program balancing theory, empirical research, and policy applications. The masters programs aim to train individuals seeking to enhance analytical and policy evaluation skills to further career development or prepare for competitive, sought-after positions. The doctoral program is designed to produce top academic scholars and leaders in policy and applied settings. Now more than ever, the U.S. justice system and justice systems around the world need academic experts, policy makers, and analysts who have three strengths: a theoretical understanding of justice, law, and crime; strong empirical research skills; and a solid grasp of the real world of justice processes and practices. Students develop a strong foundation in several competencies:

• A solid, conceptual grasp of different theories and systems of justice
• An understanding of what influences the practices of justice organizations and those who work within them
• Knowledge of the causes of crime and consequences of crime control and domestic security policy
• The capability to conduct independent and innovative scientific research on questions of justice policy

Our graduate education begins in the classroom, but students receive hands-on experience working closely with faculty on projects that make a difference in justice, law, and crime policy. These projects produce research in leading academic journals. The faculty advise policy makers and practitioners at all levels of government in the United States and abroad-ranging from police officers to prime ministers, corrections officers to Congress.