Edmund F. McGarrell, Ph.D.

“The Nation’s Oldest Continuous Degree Granting Program in Criminal Justice.” These proud words tell half the story about the School of Criminal Justice at Michigan State University. Since 1935 MSU has been a leader in criminal justice scholarship. This has included pioneering research, undergraduate and graduate education, and collaboration with criminal justice agencies, private firms, and communities through research and an extensive outreach program. One consequence of this long tradition is that the School enjoys an unparalleled alumni network throughout Michigan, the United States, and the world.

The other half of the MSU School of Criminal Justice story, however, focuses on the future. In brief, this is a School and a University on the go as we move into the 21st Century. Think about the crime, security, and justice issues facing society and the School is actively engaged. Identity theft and computer security, DNA technology, international crime and security, school safety, domestic violence, and the challenges faced in an increasingly diverse society – these are all the subject of research, teaching, and outreach at MSU. Not only are these issues being addressed but also the School is at the forefront of innovative delivery of instruction through masters degree and certificate programs offered over the internet. Similarly, the School has revised its Ph.D. program to better address doctoral scholarship in this new century. At the same time, the School remains thoroughly engaged in the crucial issues facing state and local communities through community policing, strategic problem solving, crime analysis, evaluation research, and basic research on a wide variety of criminal justice issues.

Michigan State University prides itself on combining knowledge production with knowledge application. The School of Criminal Justice is at the forefront of this approach. This is a School generating new ways of understanding the world while at the same time working collaboratively to see that this knowledge is used to solve problems and assist communities locally and globally to enhance the quality of life and ensure justice.

We encourage you to spend time on this web site to learn more about the School of Criminal Justice. We are convinced that the more you know about us the more you will agree that the School of Criminal Justice at Michigan State University is:

A center of Academic Excellence, at both graduate and undergraduate levels, nationally and internationally; preparing tomorrow’s scholars and leaders

An Engaged Community and a Vital Resource working to address critical problems and to enhance the quality of life in Michigan, the nation, and the world

A Student-Friendly environment eager to work with a diverse and talented group of students

An Innovative School with a Proud Heritage that builds on a tradition of excellence as its moves into the future