Doctorate in Criminal Justice Online Juvenile Justice Specialization
Program Overview Why earn your Doctorate in Juvenile Justice at WUV?
WUV's Doctorate in Criminal Justice with a Juvenile Justice specialization equips senior practitioners and scholars to lead systemic reform of youth justice systems, develop evidence-based diversion and rehabilitation programs, and contribute original research on child welfare and adolescent justice policy. This doctoral program prepares graduates for executive and academic leadership at the intersection of youth advocacy, policy, and administration.
Research and leadership areas:
- Juvenile justice policy reform and systemic advocacy
- Youth rehabilitation program design and evaluation
- Restorative justice research and community applications
- Diversion program leadership and effectiveness research
- Child welfare policy and interagency coordination
- Trauma-informed justice systems and practice
Courses & Curriculum Doctoral courses that prepare you for leadership and research
This 54-credit doctoral curriculum is designed for professionals holding a Master's degree. You will complete thesis preparation, supervised research, and a final dissertation demonstrating original scholarly contribution.
Ready to transform juvenile justice systems at the doctoral level?
Take the next step toward your Doctorate in Criminal Justice – Juvenile Justice Specialization at WUV.
Apply Now Request InformationAdmission Requirements How to apply to WUV's Doctorate in Juvenile Justice program
A Master's degree in a related discipline is required for admission to this Doctorate program. Follow the steps below to begin your application.
Career Outlook What can you do with a Doctorate in Juvenile Justice?
Graduates of the Doctorate in Juvenile Justice specialization are prepared for executive leadership and scholarly roles in youth justice agencies, government, nonprofits, and academic institutions.
Juvenile Justice Agency Director
Leads a state or county juvenile justice department, setting policy and overseeing all youth programs.
Median Salary: $110,000/yr
Youth Policy Director
Develops and advocates for youth justice legislation and reform initiatives at the government level.
Median Salary: $104,000/yr
Rehabilitation Program Director
Oversees large-scale youth rehabilitation and re-entry programs within juvenile justice facilities.
Median Salary: $97,000/yr
University Professor – Juvenile Justice
Teaches graduate-level juvenile justice courses and publishes research on youth policy and reform.
Median Salary: $90,000/yr
Child Welfare Policy Analyst
Evaluates and recommends youth welfare policies for government agencies and advocacy organizations.
Median Salary: $88,000/yr
State Juvenile Justice Administrator
Administers statewide juvenile justice programs, coordinates interagency services, and monitors compliance.
Median Salary: $106,000/yr