Because of the interdisciplinary nature of the field, the department's faculty have earned PhDs in various disciplines: history, justice studies, law, law and society, psychology, political science, sociology, social psychology, and social work. Their varied backgrounds add diversity and strength to the department and provide students with different insights and perspectives. Quite naturally, the research interests of the faculty have been shaped by their specific academic training and work experiences.

In addition to their academic training, the criminal justice and criminology faculty has extensive administrative and research experience within the justice system. The faculty are involved currently in a number of research activities supported through federal, state, and local grants. These grants provide research opportunities and financial support to graduate students in the department. In addition, many of the faculty serve in advisory capacities to various criminal justice, social service and community-based organizations, which facilitate students’ access to internship opportunities.