PhD Degrees in Criminal Justice

The Criminal Justice specialization addresses current issues related to public safety, juvenile delinquency, the courts and prisons, as well as solutions to the control and elimination of criminal behavior. Students study demographic shifts, economic disparity among racial and ethnic groups, urban decay, interpersonal violence, and the increasing role of substance abuse and poverty in criminal behavior. Graduates are prepared to lead the complex process of changing the community’s social, educational, and economic infrastructures to reduce violence.

This doctoral specialization is designed for professionals who aspire to a high-level position in a research or consulting agency, a public policy group, higher education, or other criminal justice-related organizations. Prepare yourself through intensive course work and research to address the complex issues surrounding criminal behavior, prevention and intervention, the penal system, and the development of public policy strategies. The specialization is well-suited for professionals in human resources, psychology, or a related social science.