ABINGTON, Pa. — After an introductory criminology course hooked Ahjmir Drayton on the field, he chose to frontload his resume by enrolling in Penn State Abington’s 4+1 accelerated master’s degree in criminal justice. The program helps Drayton to save time and money by completing his bachelor’s at Abington while taking up to nine credits of graduate-level courses online at Delaware Valley University (DelVal).
Drayton, one of the first criminal justice majors to take advantage of the option, began his first master’s-level class over the summer. The pathway prepares graduates to thrive in key roles ranging from local to international environments.
“The coursework at Abington significantly prepared me to pursue a master's by enhancing my thinking and writing skills on criminal justice issues. My studies at DelVal, focusing on ethics and philosophy, require advanced critical thinking and the ability to explain and challenge text,” Drayton, a fourth-year student, said.
He's considering correctional counseling as his first role, he said, and his classes and engagement with faculty support his goals.
“The faculty at Abington are phenomenal, especially in criminal justice. They give constructive criticism, allow you to think for yourself and make your own judgments, and they are always willing to discuss any topics that you may not understand or help you find deeper meanings,” Drayton said.
Patricia Collins, an assistant teaching professor in criminal justice, regularly offers her expertise and experience to him, said Drayton.
“I've had a few sit-downs with Professor Collins and discussed her experience working in correctional facilities and correctional institution injustice. She shares opportunities and topics with me so I can dive further into them. These interactions opened my eyes toward issues in the criminal justice system especially in corrections and have impacted my interest in working in corrections,” Drayton said.
Collins serves as one of his on-campus mentors along with Lisa Morris, an associate teaching professor and the criminal justice program chair. Morris, who is also his adviser, praised his winning combination of work ethic and personal qualities.
“Ahjmir excels through exceptional dedication, outstanding academic performance, and participation. When he was enrolled in my introduction to criminal justice course, he quietly but consistently went above and beyond in his studies, participated in classroom discussions, and contributed to community projects. His ability to balance academics with extracurricular activities and his genuine curiosity to delve deeper into subjects make him a true standout,” Morris said.