Founded in 2005 by Dr. Jill Fort, Newman University's Criminal Justice Program is a research and practice program. Our efforts are geared toward generating research for the public & private sector and providing growth opportunities for students with academic and/or career interest in the local, state or federal criminal justice system. The Newman University Criminal Justice Program is led by an Associate Professor, Licensed Attorney & Former Prosecutor, Kristi Barton Edwards.
Newman University's Criminal Justice Program
- Program Talking Points:

The opportunity to Build and Sharpen Critical-Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills. 
The opportunity to Apply Education to Real Life. 
The opportunity for Strong Job Security & Potential for Career Progression.
About Our Faculty
Criminal Justice Department
Our faculty and staff have the knowledge and experience to help you prepare for a career in Criminal Justice. If you need clarification on a class assignment or advice on how to approach your future, you can feel confident that our faculty is available and ready to help.
Career Pathways
In Criminal JusticeNewman University’s Criminal Justice program provides you with the knowledge and relevant skills to set you on the path to a fulfilling career.
Some of our alumni in this program have found careers in:
- Local, State and Federal Law Enforcement
- Local, State and Federal Courts
- Local, State and Federal Corrections
- Private Businesses
- Government Agencies
Some who have completed this program have chosen to continue studies in:
- MA/Phd Programs in Criminal Justice, Criminology, Forensic Linguistics, Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Business Administration and .
- Law School
- Vocational Studies
- Biomedical Science
"Coach Billy Murphy (Newman University Bowling) recruited me from a very young age to bowl for him, and this is what made me attend. On top of Newman being an extremely reputable school as well, it was a no-brainer to attend."
School of Business & Technology, Criminal Justice, Alumni, Jake Provenzano
"One of the things I loved about Newman was the size and the closeness of the community on campus. It was small enough that everyone knew everyone, and it was difficult to 'hide' and not be seen by staff or other students. This prepared me to serve Wichita in a sense that it is a big enough city but small enough to make an impact. Being in a city of this size, a small impact made in the community can cause huge ripples to make the community a better place."
School of Business & Technology, Criminal Justice, Alumni, Gupilan Kristopher
Earn a Criminal Justice Degree
Develop initiatives to make communities around the nation safer.
The study of criminal justice at Newman University prepares students to transform society. Providing a variety of quality content, experiences and career guidance, Newman University’s Criminal Justice Program stands apart.
Our program embraces the multi-disciplinary approach to problem-solving and, therefore, it enables graduates to achieve success in a wide array of professional settings. Field trips, guest speakers and active learning activities are an integral part of the Program. Students are challenged to explore every part of the local, state and national criminal justice systems.