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Empowering Leaders. Transforming Communities.

The Center for Public Safety and Justice addresses the most pressing challenges of our time by promoting innovation, education, and leadership development in public safety.

About Our Work

Our Mission

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Education

The Center for Public Safety and Justice provides world-class education to current and future public safety leaders.

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Research

The Center improves public safety by facilitating applied research and scholarship.

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Networking and Innovation

Connect and collaborate with the Center's expansive network of industry and education partners.

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Lead the Way

Advance your career in public safety with our undergraduate and graduate programs, designed to put you at the forefront of the field.

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In The News

  • Officer Donlan, Captain Monahan, and Officer D'Abreu stand next to one another.
    June 27, 2025

    MPD Officers Advance Careers Through UVA's Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies Program

    This article profiles three Metropolitan Police Department officers - Patrick Donlon, Nigel D'Abreu, and Kate Monahan - who are pursuing their Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies degrees through a special partnership between MPD and the University of Virginia. The piece highlights how the program's flexibility enables working law enforcement professionals to balance their careers, education, and personal lives while advancing professionally.
  • UVA Today Teaser image
    June 17, 2025

    From Birkenau to Krakow: A Hoo’s Journey Uncovers Lessons and Legacy

    Deputy Chief of Police Christina Reifstack traveled to Poland as part of a University of Virginia School of Continuing and Professional Studies course, Policing in Nazi Germany: Leadership, Genocide and Contemporary Applications.
  • Civilian leaders in law enforcement gathered in Charlottesville for the first Leading Without a Badge Summit, hosted by UVA’s Center for Public Safety and Justice.
    June 8, 2025

    Empowering Professional Staff Leadership in Public Safety

    In April 2025, public safety professionals gathered in Charlottesville, Virginia, for the inaugural Leading Without a Badge Summit, an event designed to highlight the critical role of civilian leaders in law enforcement.
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Featured Event
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Speaker Series: Does Education Matter in Policing panel

This session will explore the role of education in shaping effective, ethical law enforcement. Topics include the potential benefits of degree requirements, specialized training, and ongoing education as tools for developing well-rounded officers in the field. 
May 21, 2025
12:00 PM–1:30 PM
Online

Events

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