Melissa Stacer

Tell us something that your students might find interesting about you.

I am an avid walker/hiker. I have walked sections of two pilgrimage routes in Europe, the Camino de Santiago and the Via Francigena, and I’ve hiked Hadrian’s Wall in northern England.

What is one book you think everyone should read?

I’m a voracious reader (140-150 books per year), so I can’t recommend just one!

In your own words, what is the value of this degree to a student?

A master's degree in criminal justice opens doors. For professionals already working in the field, it signals readiness for leadership and gives them the knowledge and credibility to back it up. Graduates move into supervisory, administrative and policy roles with a deeper understanding of the systems they're shaping and the confidence to lead them forward.

What advice would you give to those considering this online program?

Why wait? – Apply now! When I gave the commencement address as the Distinguished Professor, the theme was “what you do every day is how you live your life.” If you are thinking about going back to school, take action by applying and getting started. With six start dates, the wait is never long to actually get enrolled and to begin. Beginning is the hardest part! Our program is designed to meet the needs of adult learners who are working and who have families and other obligations. It is designed for YOU!

What would you like students to take away from your classes?

Students come to this program from diverse corners of the criminal justice field and leave with more than advanced knowledge; they leave with the practical tools to use it. Through case-based learning and hands-on analysis, they develop the skills to lead, make difficult decisions and drive meaningful change in their organizations and communities.

What types of projects can your students expect in these courses?

Applied projects, such as writing a research proposal, creating an ethics training module for a group of professionals and proposing their own criminal justice policy based upon research. Discussion and engagement with their peers to exchange ideas and different perspectives.

In which online courses/classes do you teach?

Required courses in CJ Policy and Practice, Research Methods, Quantitative Methods.

Elective courses on Prisons in America, Ethics in CJ, Treatment Programming

In which online program(s) do you teach?

Master of Arts in Criminal Justice