Learn how to approach the criminal justice system using restorative justice. Find ways to bring together offenders, victims and community members to repair harm and develop right relationships.
Because our program focuses on criminal justice systems through a restorative justice lens, you’ll be on the cutting edge of new theories and systems, implementing restorative practices in schools, the workplace and at a societal level. You’ll have the opportunity to work inside our local jail directly with offenders through the Inside-Out Exchange Program, putting a human face on the current criminal justice system.
As a graduate, you’ll have an understanding of criminal justice history and practices, with a focus on social theories of crime, criminalization and society. Restorative and transformative approaches to justice are an integral part of the program, as well as a focus on marginalized groups and the effect of criminal justice systems that neglect or downplay societal factors.
Dr. Regina Shands Stotlzfus, professor of Peace, Justice and Conflict studies, has been presented the 2021 Everence National Journey Award for her personal and professional dedication to anti-oppression and social justice.
Matt Troyer-Miller '05 is pastor of Wood River Mennonite Church, and an EMT and chaplain for the Wood River Volunteer Fire Department, and Elizabeth Troyer-Miller '06 works part time for Heartland Disaster Recovery Group and offers mediation services.
Dr. Regina Shands Stoltzfus is a professor and director of Peace, Justice & Conflict Studies at Goshen College. She is the co-author of "Been in the Struggle" (Herald Press, Nov. 2, 2021).
ratio of Goshen College students to incarcerated students in the “Inside-Out” program at the Elkhart County Jail
of our peace, justice and conflict studies alumni volunteer at least once a year
of PJCS alumni are satisfied or very satisfied with their undergraduate education
of history alumni agree that their undergraduate education prepared them for graduate or professional school
of GC history and political science faculty have Ph.D.s
Learn more about Goshen College's exceptional academic outcomes and national rankings.
Rob Vander Giessen-Reitsma ’05 is using his peace, justice and conflict studies major to solve injustices with a Christ-centered approach.
Rob's storyRobert Brenneman, professor of criminal justice and sociology, encourages students to prepare for a calling, not just a job.
Robert's storyLydette Assefa ’09 is an attorney and clinical fellow with the Children & Family Justice Center at the Bluhm Legal Clinic at Northwestern Pritzker School of Law.
Lydette's storyAllen Bohnert ('98) is an Assistant Federal Public Defender for the Southern District of Ohio. His work is featured in the recent documentary The Penalty, available on Amazon Video. He looks forward to being left unemployed.
Allen's storyClarissa Gaff is the executive director at Land of Lincoln Legal Aid, which provides free civil legal assistance to low income individuals in St. Louis, Missouri.
Clarissa's storyPrashansa graduated in 2016 with a degree in psychology. Originally from Allahbad, India, she was given a full scholarship to Maastricht University in the Netherlands to pursue a master's degree in forensic psychology.
Prashansa's storyRegina Shands Stoltzfus
Professor of Peace Justice & Conflict Studies
Director of PJCS
