Central Connecticut State University Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice
Statement on the Passing of TFC Aaron PelletierWe are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier, a Central alumnus and 2011 cum laude graduate of the Criminology program. TFC Pelletier served in the Connecticut State Police for almost a decade with honor and integrity. He was tragically killed in the line of duty on Thursday, May 30, 2024.
TFC Pelletier is remembered by the Criminology faculty as a dedicated and exemplary student. By all accounts, he embodied the service ethos and nobility of the law enforcement profession. TFC Pelletier will forever be remembered for his commitment to the well-being of the community and valor in the line of duty.
Our sincere condolences go out to TFC Pelletier’s family, friends, colleagues, the Connecticut State Police, and the law enforcement community. TFC Pelletier’s ultimate sacrifice and unwavering service will never be forgotten, and he will always be part of the Central family.
The Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Central Connecticut State University offers a B.A. in Criminology at the undergraduate level and an M.S. in Criminal Justice at the graduate level. Our 14 full-time faculty members possess terminal degrees and expertise in areas ranging across the discipline. Our programs welcome diversity, encourage creativity, and emphasize critical thinking.
Criminology majors in the undergraduate program complete a total of 39 credits within the department including introductory classes and upper-level electives. All undergraduate majors participate in a Field Studies course, which enables students to get real-world experience in internship positions. Graduates from our undergraduate program often obtain employment in law enforcement, the courts, corrections, and with non-profit organizations within and beyond the state of Connecticut. Many graduates also continue their education to obtain advanced degrees. For non-majors, the department offers a minor (18 credits) in Criminal Justice.
The graduate program consists of 30 credits including a Master’s Thesis, which represents the creation of original research. Graduate students taking a full-time course load may complete the program within two years. The students in our graduate program are diverse. Some graduate students have recently completed their undergraduate education, while others have extensive work experience in the field.
On this website you will find information about our students, faculty, and programs. If you have further questions about the department, please reach out to the appropriate person under Contact Information.