School of Criminal Justice
Advancing Justice Through Education, Research, and Impact
In the heart of Newark, the School of Criminal Justice at Rutgers University–Newark brings together a diverse set of students, faculty, and staff dedicated to social justice, community engagement, and public policy.
Best Criminology Schools
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Best Criminal Justice Universities
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Master’s and PhD degrees awarded to date
Data-Informed Engagement for Safer Communities
The Newark Public Safety Collaborative (NPSC) seeks to democratize access to data and place-based analysis, empower community organizations as co-producers of public safety, and mobilize local resources and expertise to address Newark’s most pressing crime challenges. The School of Criminal Justice and NPSC bring together community organizations, researchers, local government agencies, businesses, and other key local stakeholders to co-produce strategies that prevent crime and violence across Newark.
Real-World Policy Reform Through Research Collaboration
The CLEAR Institute and the Strategic Hub for International Public Safety are two new research centers at the Rutgers School of Criminal Justice. These centers bring together researchers, practitioners, and students to enhance sentencing policy, foster collaboration with global peer institutions, and advance a more humane and effective system of justice.
Study Justice. Shape the Future.
At the Rutgers School of Criminal Justice, turn your passion for understanding crime, advancing justice, and strengthening communities into a career with purpose. Learn from leading scholars and practitioners, explore today's most pressing criminal justice challenges, and gain the knowledge and skills to drive meaningful change.
“Once I saw everything the School of Criminal Justice offered, I honestly didn’t feel the need to look anywhere else.”
“My professors at the School of Criminal Justice were incredibly understanding and supportive throughout my time there. The smaller class sizes make a huge difference because professors actually know who you are. That level of care meant a lot to me.”
-Kayla Blas, School of Criminal Justice Master's Graduate
Program Spotlight: Executive Master’s in Criminal Justice
Tailored specifically for experienced criminal justice professionals, the Executive Master’s in Criminal Justice program empowers mid-career and senior practitioners to translate their expertise into transformational leadership. Whether you are a police sergeant seeking a promotion, a corrections officer transitioning into administration, or a policy analyst shaping justice reform, this program bridges the gap between field experience and executive decision-making.
Dean's Lecture Series
The Dean’s Lecture Series at the School of Criminal Justice hosts prominent experts from the criminal justice field and related disciplines. Students and faculty engage directly with seasoned professionals, gaining invaluable insights into public safety, criminal justice systems, policy reform, and contemporary social challenges.
Expand Your Opportunities
Discover the School of Criminal Justice
The School of Criminal Justice (SCJ) attracts many of the brightest aspiring criminal justice students from right here in Newark and across the world. The school directly contributes to national and international questions about justice through its teaching, scholarship, and public service.
