Applied Behavioral Science, Criminal Justice and Social Problems, MA

Program Description:

The Applied Behavioral Science Program currently offers Master of Arts degree in Criminal Justice and Social Problems.

The Criminal Justice and Social Problems track emphasizes methodology and theoretical courses and topics-focused workshops aimed at improving the research and intellectual foundations for employment and professional advancement in the criminal justice fields. Students in the program typically work for, or plan to work for, the courts, probation offices, police agencies, prison administrations, or private and public programs for juvenile offenders.

The training received in basic social science skills and knowledge is also a useful foundation for those who wish to proceed to doctoral-level study in a number of fields. An optional practicum provides field experience for those without prior experience in a criminal justice field. The program culminates in an applied research effort that, at the student’s option, takes the form of either a journal article project or a traditional thesis. Courses are offered primarily in the evenings and workshops primarily on the weekends to accommodate employed students.

Admissions Requirements:

In addition to meeting the admission requirements of the Graduate School, students applying for admission into the Criminal Justice and Social Problems M.A. degree program are generally expected to have an undergraduate degree in criminal justice, social work, or a social science (such as sociology, psychology, or political science). Significant experience working in a criminal justice field can substitute for this expectation for students with degrees in other fields. Admission is generally for summer or fall semesters; but students can be admitted year round.

Faculty:

Professors

Jeanne Ballantine (emeritus), applied research methods, sociology of education

Marlese Durr, organization, occupations and work, research methods

Associate Professors

Anna Bellisari, human evolution, growth and development, cultural diversity, women’s issues

Jacqueline Bergdahl, women and crime, methodology

Karen Lahm (Director), penology, criminology/deviance, methodology

David Orenstein, theoretical foundations, qualitative methods

Geoffrey Owens, Tanzania, political economy, suburbanization

LaFleur Small, health care and the elderly, populations

Tracey Steele, crime and social control, gender, sexuality

Assistant Professors

Julianne Weinzimmer, social stratification and inequality, ethnic and conflict identity