Father Dave Pivonka, TOR '89 President | Franciscan University website

Franciscan University of Steubenville has announced the launch of an online Master of Science in Criminal Justice Program starting in fall 2024. The program has received approval from the Ohio Department of Higher Education and the Higher Learning Commission, allowing it to build upon the university's existing undergraduate Criminal Justice Program.

Dr. Charles P. Nemeth, professor of criminal justice and director of the Center for Criminal Justice, Law, and Ethics at Franciscan University, emphasized the importance of blending occupational skills with moral and ethical principles in the field of criminal justice. He stated, "Franciscan University fully appreciates the necessary synthesis for a true criminal justice profession that blends occupational skill and best practices with a constant, unapologetic moral and ethical critique of criminal justice operations."

The Master of Science in Criminal Justice Program will offer a comprehensive curriculum that includes courses in emerging specialties such as cybersecurity, forensic science, and investigative protocols. The program aims to provide students with a strong foundation in natural law jurisprudence and the Judeo-Christian moral tradition, preparing them to navigate the complexities of the justice system.

Dr. Stephen Hildebrand, vice president for Academic Affairs at Franciscan University, highlighted the unique approach of the program, stating, "We’ll use the wisdom of the Catholic intellectual tradition and the best of modern research and practice to help our graduates make a profound difference in our justice system."

With a focus on integrating moral and spiritual considerations into professional roles, the program aims to educate future justice practitioners who can uphold integrity, protect human dignity, and promote true justice in a rapidly changing societal landscape.

The online format of the program offers flexibility for students to pursue their graduate degree while balancing professional and personal commitments. Dr. Nemeth noted, "Whether you work as a police officer or police chief, legal assistant or law clerk, deputy prison warden, child advocate or victim assistance counselor, every occupation in Franciscan’s Master of Science in Criminal Justice Program will consider the moral and spiritual dynamic inherent in these functions."

Prospective students interested in learning more about Franciscan University's online Master of Science in Criminal Justice Program can visit franciscan.edu/mscrjonline or contact the Admissions Office at 800-783-6220 or admissions@franciscan.edu.