Doctor of Criminal Justice

Recognizing the unique challenges faced by working adults, our program offers the flexibility of a fully online format, allowing you to continue your professional and family responsibilities while advancing your education.

With specializations in Leadership and Administration, Forensic Psychology, and Teaching Criminal Justice in Higher Education, the Doctor of Criminal Justice program empowers you to focus on areas most relevant to your career goals.

degree completion

Our Doctor of Criminal Justice program is designed with efficiency in mind, making it one of the fastest paths to earning a doctoral degree in criminal justice.

The program includes a practical, hands-on applied research project instead of a traditional dissertation, allowing you to address real-world issues in your current agency, organization, or the criminal justice field in general.

The timeline for the final project may vary from student to student; however, if you take two courses per term, you can potentially complete your coursework in just two years.

Dedicated to your Professional Growth

At Tiffin University, we are deeply committed to your success and professional growth. Our faculty are seasoned scholars and professionals with diverse backgrounds in the criminal justice field who provide personalized guidance throughout your journey. From the moment you enroll, you will be supported by a dedicated faculty advisor who will help you navigate the program and achieve your academic and professional goals.

Additionally, our robust library resources and student services are readily available to assist you with research, coursework, and any other needs you may encounter as you progress through the program. We believe that your success is our success, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Admission requirements

To apply for Tiffin University’s Doctor of Criminal Justice (DCJ) program, you must hold a master’s degree from an accredited institution. Given the applied nature of the DCJ program, no standardized testing is required for admission. Instead, we evaluate a variety of criteria, including your professional experience, academic background, and potential for contributing to the field of criminal justice.

residency requirements

The DCJ program at Tiffin University includes two on-campus residencies and one non-traditional residency as part of the degree requirements. The on-campus, three-day residencies are designed to provide valuable face-to-face interactions with faculty and peers as well as opportunities for hands-on learning and professional development. You will complete the non-traditional residency independently and at your convenience. The goal is to assist you in promoting your research through publication or presentation at a discipline-specific conference. The residencies will enhance your learning experience and help you build a strong network within the criminal justice community.

potential residency activities

• New Student Orientation: Gain insights into program expectations, Moodle navigation, and course scheduling, while addressing any questions or concerns.
• Library Resources & Research Strategies: Learn advanced academic database research techniques and how to access Tiffin University’s extensive library resources directly from a librarian.
• Program Policies & Processes: Understand key program elements, including scheduling, academic progress, and residency expectations.
• Applied Research Project Development: Participate in seminars focused on developing and refining your applied research project, with guidance from experienced faculty.
• Professional Networking: Engage with faculty and peers to build a strong professional network that will support your career advancement.
• Keynote Speakers & Workshops: Attend sessions led by experts in criminal justice, focusing on leadership, innovation, and emerging trends in the field.
• Research Breakout Sessions: Collaborate with faculty and fellow students to explore research interests and refine your applied research project topic.

graduation requirements

• Complete a Minimum of 60 Doctoral Credit Hours: Successfully complete all required coursework, including core courses, specialization tracks, and the applied research project.
• Maintain a Cumulative GPA of 3.25: Achieve a grade of B or higher in all program coursework.
• Fulfill Residency Requirements: Attend and successfully complete three residencies. Two residencies will be on campus and the third residency involves developing and submitting a paper or presentation proposal for an academic conference related to your discipline.
• Completion of the Applied Research Project: Develop and submit a comprehensive applied research project that addresses a real-world issue within your criminal justice organization, demonstrating your ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges. Completion of the applied research project includes approval from your project committee and approval from the Applied Project Committee. The final step is to successfully complete the final oral defense of the project.
• Letter of Cooperation: Submit a letter of cooperation from a partnering Criminal Justice or Social Science Agency committed to allowing you to conduct research within your organization for the Applied Research Project. In most cases, students with professional experience will use their current employer, if employed by an organization within the discipline.
  • For applicants who do not have field experience, please contact a Criminal Justice of Social Science Agency who you could potentially work with for your applied research project. This letter should indicate the agency’s willingness to allow you to either collect data from them, use existing data they possess, or an indication that they would like to assist the applicant in addressing a problem that the agency is experiencing.
  • Examples include:
    • A police department that has calls for service data and would like the student to research outcomes based on officer training.
    • A counseling center that is having problems with successful treatment outcomes and is seeking program reviews.
    • A judge who is interesting in potentially using a cashless bail system and would like research conducted to compare outcomes of this new approach.
    • Any area within and related to the criminal justice system can be used for this letter.

INFORMATION NEEDED FOR APPLICATION:

• Official Master’s Transcript: Submit an official transcript from an accredited institution where you completed your master’s degree.
• Admissions Essay/Statement of Purpose: Provide a detailed essay (1500 words) outlining your professional experience, career goals, and reasons for pursuing the Doctorate in Criminal Justice at Tiffin University.
• Professional Resume or CV: Include a current resume or CV that highlights your professional experience, education, and relevant accomplishments.
• Minimum of 3 Professional Letters of Recommendation: Submit at least three letters of recommendation from professionals who can speak to your qualifications, leadership potential, and readiness for doctoral-level work.

Please contact the DCJ program director if you have any questions about this part of the application.

Application Review Process

Once your admissions essay is received, you will be invited to schedule a Zoom interview. After all required documents are submitted and the interview is completed, your application file will be reviewed by the DCJ admissions committee. The committee will evaluate your qualifications and make a decision regarding your admission. Once all committee members have submitted their decisions, the Assistant Director will finalize the process and release your admission letter.

Apply Now

As the criminal justice field evolves with societal changes and emerging challenges, Tiffin University’s Doctor of Criminal Justice (DCJ) program is designed to address two critical questions:

1. How can we equip criminal justice professionals with the tools and knowledge to lead effectively in a rapidly changing environment?
2. How can we empower criminal justice leaders to solve practical problems within their organizations and communities?

The DCJ program explores the strategies and innovations needed to prepare students for leadership roles in the criminal justice system. Key elements of the curriculum include leadership and administration, ethics in criminal justice, cultural competence, civil liability, technology in criminal justice, and applied research methodologies. This comprehensive approach ensures that graduates are knowledgeable and capable of applying their skills to real-world scenarios.

Students will graduate with advanced competencies in criminal justice leadership, critical thinking, and practical research. The program emphasizes the integration of professional experience with academic theory, enabling students to address complex issues and contribute meaningfully to their organizations.

Each professor in the DCJ program is a seasoned expert in their field, providing mentorship and guidance throughout your studies. Faculty members will help you develop and refine the skills necessary to complete your applied research project, which serves as the program’s culminating experience. This project will allow you to apply your knowledge to a real-world problem, positioning you as a leader and innovator in the criminal justice community.

Format

Online – The Doctor of Criminal Justice program is offered online with three required residencies (two on-campus 3-day residencies as well as one non-traditional residency), allowing students the flexibility to balance their studies with professional and personal responsibilities. Courses are structured in two terms per semester, with start dates in August and January. This format is designed to accommodate the schedules of working professionals, enabling them to advance their education without disrupting their careers.

SAMPLE CONTENT CORE COURSES

Civil Liability for Criminal Justice Leaders (DCJ740) – This course explores the legal challenges that criminal justice leaders face, focusing on the principles and practices that shape civil liability. Students will explore critical topics like the use of force, false arrest, and excessive detention, analyzing key court cases and legal precedents. The course equips leaders with strategies to minimize risk and safeguard their organizations, ensuring they are well-prepared to navigate the complex legal landscape.

Leveraging Technology in Today’s Criminal Justice Organizations (DCJ750) – In an era where technology is integral to criminal justice, this course explores the innovative tools and systems transforming the field. Students learn about the impact of various technologies, such as GPS, AI, and surveillance systems, on policing, crime analysis, and intelligence gathering to enhance organizational efficiency and public safety. The course also addresses the ethical and legal implications of technology use, ensuring leaders can make informed decisions in a rapidly evolving environment.

Sample Content for Specialization 1: Criminal Justice Leadership & Administration

Media Relations for Criminal Justice Executives (DCJ810) – Effective communication is essential for today’s criminal justice leaders. This course teaches students how to engage with the media across various platforms, from traditional press conferences to social media. Through real-world case studies, students will learn strategies for maintaining transparency, managing public perception, and navigating crises, ultimately building trust between their organizations and the communities they serve.

Race, Ethnicity, and Criminal Justice (DCJ828) – This course examines the complex relationship between race, ethnicity, and the criminal justice system. Students will investigate the impact of systemic disparities and evaluate strategies for promoting social justice and equity. By understanding the intersectional nature of discrimination, students will be better equipped to implement policies and practices that address these challenges within their organizations.

Sample Content for Specialization 2: Forensic Psychology

Understanding Violence, Risk & Threat Assessment (DCJ830) – Focused on the psychological underpinnings of violence, this course provides an in-depth analysis of risk factors and threat assessment techniques. Students will explore various forms of violence – including interpersonal, institutional, and collective – and learn how to develop strategies for prevention and intervention. The course emphasizes practical applications, preparing students to assess and manage threats associated with violent behavior.

Public Safety Psychology for CJ Leaders (DCJ825) – This course integrates psychological principles with the unique challenges faced by police and public safety personnel. Topics include leadership development, common and novel stress management, critical incident assessment, and post-shooting interventions, among others. Students will gain insights into the psychological factors that influence the well-being and performance of public safety teams, enabling them to implement policies that enhance both organizational effectiveness and employee health.

Sample Content for Specialization 3: Teaching Criminal Justice in Higher Education

Teaching in Higher Education (DCJ850) – Designed for aspiring educators, this course provides a comprehensive overview of the skills and strategies needed to teach criminal justice at the college level. Students will learn how to design curricula, deliver engaging lectures, and assess student learning effectively. The course also addresses the unique challenges of teaching in a higher education environment, preparing students to inspire the next generation of criminal justice professionals.

Instructional Design (DCJ860) – This course focuses on the principles of instructional design, equipping students with the tools to create effective and engaging learning experiences. Students will explore various instructional models and technologies, learning how to design courses that meet diverse learner needs. The course emphasizes the practical application of design principles, ensuring students can develop educational programs that are both innovative and effective.

Sample Content for Applied Research Project

Applied Research Project (ARP895 & ARP896) – The applied research project is the culminating experience of the DCJ program. Students will identify a real-world problem or policy issue within their criminal justice organization and develop a comprehensive research project to address it. The project integrates both practical experience and academic theory, allowing students to contribute meaningful solutions to their field.

Tiffin University’s Doctor of Criminal Justice (DCJ) program equips graduates with the advanced skills and knowledge necessary to lead and innovate within the criminal justice field. The program is designed to enhance career development, opening up new and rewarding opportunities for professional advancement. As a graduate of the DCJ program, you will be prepared to assume leadership roles across various sectors, including:

• Law Enforcement Agencies: Federal, state, and local law enforcement and investigative agencies.
• Correctional Facilities: Leadership roles within state and federal prisons, probation, and parole offices.
• Government Agencies: Policy-making and advisory positions within federal, state, and local government entities.
• Educational Institutions: Teaching and administrative roles at universities, community colleges, and criminal justice academies.
• Nonprofit Organizations: Leadership and program development roles in organizations focused on criminal justice reform, victim advocacy, and community safety.
• Private Sector: Security management, consulting, and investigative services within private corporations.

Careers

Common positions and job titles for DCJ graduates include:

• Federal Agent
• Research Consultant
• Emergency Management Director
• Senior Investigator
• Policy Advisor
• Criminal Justice Professor
• Training and Development Manager
• Crime Analyst
• Chief of Police, Sheriff
• Social Scientist
• Entrepreneur
• Director of Security

Graduates of the DCJ program will be well-positioned to lead and drive change within the criminal justice system, contributing to the development of policies and practices that improve public safety and justice.

What is a Doctor of Criminal Justice (DCJ)?

A Doctor of Criminal Justice (DCJ) is an advanced degree designed for criminal justice professionals seeking to elevate their careers and lead in their fields. Unlike a traditional Ph.D., which focuses on generating new theoretical knowledge, a DCJ emphasizes the application of existing knowledge to solve practical problems in the criminal justice system. The program combines academic theory with real-world experience, preparing graduates to address complex challenges within their organizations.

How is the Doctor of Criminal Justice program different from a traditional Ph.D. in Criminal Justice?

The Doctor of Criminal Justice program is an applied doctorate, meaning it focuses on practical application rather than purely theoretical research. Students engage in an applied research project that addresses a real-world problem within their criminal justice organization, rather than completing a traditional dissertation. This approach is ideal for professionals who want to make an immediate impact in their field while advancing their careers.

What career opportunities are available with a Doctor of Criminal Justice degree?

Graduates of the Doctor of Criminal Justice program can pursue a variety of leadership roles in the criminal justice system, including positions such as Federal Agent, Research Consultant, Emergency Management Director, Senior Investigator, Policy Advisor, Criminal Justice Professor, Training and Development Manager, Crime Analyst, Chief of Police, Sheriff, Social Scientist, Entrepreneur, and Director of Security, among others. The degree also opens doors to roles in correctional facilities, government agencies, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector.

How long does it take to complete the Doctor of Criminal Justice program?

The Doctor of Criminal Justice program at Tiffin University is designed to be completed in just two years, assuming two courses are taken per term. The program offers both fall and spring start dates and is fully online – except for two required on-campus residencies and one non-traditional residency – making it flexible and convenient for working professionals.

What are the residency requirements for the DCJ program?

The Doctor of Criminal Justice program includes two on-campus residencies, each lasting three days. These residencies are designed to provide valuable face-to-face interactions with faculty and peers as well as opportunities for hands-on learning and professional development. The DCJ program also includes a third, non-traditional residency which you will complete independently and at your convenience. The goal of the third residency is to help you promote your research through publication or presentation at a discipline-specific conference. These traditional and nontraditional residencies are an integral part of the program, helping to build a strong professional network and enhance the learning experience.