Criminal Justice and Restorative Justice

Major

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Why Study Criminal Justice and Restorative Justice at Goshen College?

inside out class

At Goshen College, you’ll learn to address crime, harm, and injustice in ways that go beyond punishment—focusing instead on healing, accountability, and systemic change. Rooted in a peacebuilding approach, this program prepares you to “seek the peace of the city” by developing an understanding of the elements that create truly safe communities.

With small classes and faculty mentors who bring experience in law, sociology, crime fighting, and restorative practices, you’ll receive a well-rounded education tailored to real-world impact. Hands-on learning starts early, with internships in law enforcement, probation, nonprofits, and reentry programs, giving you the skills and experience to launch a meaningful career.

Here, justice isn’t just about what’s legal—it’s about what’s right.

  • 91%
    of classes have fewer than 30 students
  • 93%
    of graduates employed or in service/grad school within one year 
  • 50%
    of students study abroad

    Curriculum & Credits

    This program is available as a major. You’ll gain a strong foundation in criminology, restorative justice, social systems, and ethics.

    Credits: 44-46

    Also available as a minor, this program provides a solid introduction to the fields of criminal justice and restorative justice, with courses that emphasize community safety, accountability, and systemic reform. The minor is an excellent complement to majors such as psychology, social work, sociology, conflict transformation, and political science.

    Credits: 18

    See the full list of courses and requirements in the Course Catalog

    Course catalog

    Hands-On Learning Opportunities

    Intern with police departments, law firms, legal aid clinics, youth centers, reentry programs, or community justice initiatives
    Take part in ride-alongs and training simulations with local police departments
    Engage in class-based restorative circles and simulations
    Study abroad through Goshen’s Study-Service Term

    Career Paths

    Graduates of this program pursue roles such as:

    • Restorative Justice Coordinator
    • Law Enforcement Officer
    • Probation Officer
    • Victim Advocate
    • Paralegal
    • Nonprofit Program Director
    • Correctional Officer
    • Youth Program Counselor

    Many also continue to law school or pursue graduate studies in criminal justice, social work, or conflict transformation.

    Scholarships

    Students in this program are eligible for a variety of Goshen College scholarships.

    Explore more of our scholarships

    Facilities and Resources

    • Take part in programming with the Center for Community Engagement
    • Collaborate with students in social work, sociology, and conflict transformation for interdisciplinary learning
    • Participate in on-campus events related to peace, justice, and reform

    Faculty

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      Related majors & minors

      All Majors & Minors

      • Interdisciplinary Studies

        As an Interdisciplinary Studies major at Goshen College, you’ll have the freedom to chart your own academic path by combining courses from multiple fields to match your unique interests and career goals.

      • Conflict Transformation

        As a conflict transformation studies major at Goshen College — a place known for its peace witness and global engagement — you’ll learn how to respond to conflict with insight, compassion and practical tools.

      • Peace and Justice Studies

        As a Peace and Justice Studies minor at Goshen College, you’ll explore how people and communities work to resolve conflict, promote justice and build more peaceful societies.

      • Undecided

        Choosing to be undecided means being intentional about finding a path that’s right for you.

      • Peace, Justice & Conflict Studies

        As a Peace, Justice and Conflict Studies major at Goshen College, you'll delve into the complexities of conflict and the pathways to peace.

        All Majors & Minors