September 30, 2025 — Marist University and Dutchess Community College (DCC) have signed a new agreement that simplifies the transfer process for students pursuing careers in crime and justice studies and seeking a 4-year degree. Under the agreement, students who complete an Associate in Science (A.S.) degree in Criminal Justice at DCC who meet the grade point average course requirement will be able to transfer all earned credits to Marist University and complete a Bachelor’s degree in Crime & Justice Studies in just two years as full-time students.

This partnership reflects both institutions’ commitment to supporting student success and expanding access to higher education. The agreement removes uncertainty for students and allows them to plan their academic journey with confidence that allows them to seamlessly pursue four-year degrees. A Crime and Justice Studies major prepares students for careers across various sectors of the justice system, including federal, state, and local law enforcement, courts, and corrections. Additional career paths may include the law, social work, social justice advocacy, public policy, and government.

“We are delighted to offer another opportunity for DCC students to transfer seamlessly into a major in our School,” said Dr. Deborah Gatins, Dean of Marist’s School of Social and Behavioral Sciences. “Creating pathways for bachelor’s degrees at lower costs supports our mission to engage with our local community and provide meaningful programs that may lead to personal fulfillment and career success.”

Dr. Raymond M. Houston, Vice President for Instruction and Learning at Dutchess Community College, added: “We are thrilled to partner with Marist University to create a seamless pathway in Crime and Justice Studies for our students, ensuring they can continue their education and build successful careers.”

This agreement enables Dutchess Community College students to track their progress toward a Marist degree while completing their studies at DCC. By participating, students can plan their academic pathways more confidently and transfer up to 70 credits directly toward their Marist degree.

This new pathway agreement builds upon existing transfer agreements between Marist and DCC in Business, Social Work, and the Visual Arts, which open up pathways to degrees that lead to careers in fields such as accounting, marketing, counseling, community outreach, graphic design, animation, and digital art.

About Marist’s Crime and Justice Program

As part of the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Marist’s Crime and Justice Studies majors learn and apply critical thinking and criminological theory to address the many issues relevant to the creation of a just society.

A Welcoming University for Transfers

Marist welcomes traditional undergraduate transfer students (ages 18-22) from two-year and four-year colleges in the United States and abroad, and adult students (age 22 and older).

[All potential transfer students can apply now ahead of the December 1 deadline in time for the spring 2026 semester. APPLY NOW!]