Criminal Justice Schools in New Hampshire

At Granite State College, students in the criminal justice program are prepared for a career in law enforcement, with classes that provide a foundation of knowledge in correction, law, criminology, probation, parole, and advocacy. Curriculum also covers more general areas of study including research methods and statistics. The majority of program participants are transfer students, and most of the program's courses can be taken online. Non-traditional students who have military, workplace, or volunteer-based training may be able to earn academic credits from their experiences. The school offers counseling to prospective students considering their college choices, as well as career counseling for current students and alumni.

Southern New Hampshire University's criminal justice program is online, making it a convenient option for working students or distance learners. Students can take a general studies track that provides an overview of criminal justice topics, or choose from six concentrations to specialize their studies. Instructors guide students through simulated scenarios where real-world challenges are presented in the classroom, and peers collaborate to develop solutions. The school has a wide alumni network that can be accessed for internship and career opportunities, as well as academic and career advisors who specialize in criminal justice studies. The school welcomes transfer students and has a generous acceptance policy for transfer credits.

Students in Franklin Pierce University's criminal justice program learn to work with diverse populations, with curriculum that addresses the social dynamics affecting issues of gender, race, and religion. Learners will gain an understanding of the career roles available for criminal justice professionals, with an emphasis on positive social change. Many of the program's participants join the university's Student Government Association for political and judicial experience. Others serve on the school's Student Judicial Board, or work as security officers, EMTs, and firefighters on campus. Internship opportunities are available at local, state, and federal correction facilities. Students can also choose to study in Washington, DC for a semester at the Washington Center.

At Saint Anselm College, students in the criminal justice department learn about crime, victims, and treatment of offenders. Curriculum focuses on law enforcement, the courts, prosecution, and correction. Students complete ten required courses, combined with general education classes and electives, to earn their degree. The school strongly encourages criminal justice students to take Spanish language courses as well. Support services are offered through the Academic Resource Center, which houses a peer tutor program, a writing center, and a College Achievement Program that helps first-year students gain study and learning skills. Students can also find support through the campus ministry, which welcomes individuals of all faiths.

Plymouth State University's criminal justice department offers an interdisciplinary education that prepares students with problem solving techniques, computing skills, communication skills, and proficiency in a foreign language. Instructors also impart a respect for the importance of professionalism and ethics. The school accepts transfer students, but does not award credits for any professional, military, or life experience. In addition to required classes, students can choose several electives to suit their areas of interest, from women and crime to the sociology of race and ethnicity. Students can prepare for graduation and beyond with the school's career services center, offering job listings, internships, and career peer advisors.

Founded in 1968 as New Hampshire Community Technical College, today's River Valley Community College offers a choice of thirty-five career-oriented programs and associate degrees that serve as the first two years in a four-year college education. Students can also take coursework at the Keene Academic Center or completely online. The 65-credit associate of science degree in criminal justice can be completed in two years. Students may also enroll concurrently at Granite State College to complete their four-year or master's CJ degree after graduation from RVCC. Applicants to the CJ program must take the ACCUPLACER exam.

Great Bay Community College was founded as the State Trade School of Portsmouth in 1945 to provide vocational and trade training to its first class of 130 students. Today it serves 2,000 students with more than 30 associate degree programs and certificates in business, criminal justice, hospitality, technology, allied health and education. The associate of science degree in criminal justice requires 68 units for graduation and is offered on campus or entirely online. In the final year, students either complete a 120-hour CJ internship or a three-credit independent research project/topic paper.

NHTI - Concord's Community College was founded in 1965 and today has grown to feature 90 academic programs serving 4,568 students. NHTI offers curriculum leading to 41 associate degrees and 47 undergraduate certificates. The 65-credit associate in science degree with a major in criminal justice prepares students to enter the police and law enforcement professions or to transfer to four-year CJ degree programs. Students are required to pass background checks prior to undertaking practicum or internship opportunities with agencies such as the Merrimack County Attorney's Office, NH Department of Corrections, NH Public Defender's Office, or NH State Prison for Women.

Located in Berlin, White Mountains Community College was founded in 1966 as the New Hampshire Vocational Institute. Today's academic programs feature small class sizes and a focus on the use of educational technology. Associate degree programs may include a combination of classroom, laboratory work, and online instruction. Students can complete the 71-credit associate in science degree in criminal justice/homeland security program in two years. The program requires preparation of a senior project and completion of a supervised internship. WMCC's 34-credit criminal justice professional certificate program takes one year or less to complete.