School of Criminal Justice Turns Fifty

In 1974, at a crucial time of growing public concern about crime and justice, the New Jersey legislature established the School of Criminal Justice (SCJ) at Rutgers University-Newark, to help improve the quality and effectiveness of the justice system in New Jersey and nationally. In the 50 years since our founding, no university-based program has done more to improve justice and promote safety than the faculty and students of Rutgers SCJ.

Today, Rutgers School of Criminal Justice is recognized as among the leading programs in the field. Over the years, our faculty have made significant contributions to criminal justice policy and criminological theory, and our graduates have taken their places among the most productive and well-respected scholars in the field. Studies show that we continue to rank among the top criminal justice programs nationwide, with special regard for our graduate programs.