Dr. George Ackerman
Dr. George
Ackerman
Advancing Criminal Justice Education Through Teaching, Research and Practice
Dr. George Ackerman, Ph.D., JD, MBA, MS & MS, brings a wealth of experience working in the criminal justice field as an attorney, police officer, firefighter, and being a U.S. Coast Guard, to his role as a member of the University of Management and Technology’s (UMT) Criminal Justice faculty. Through his continued contributions to criminal justice education, scholarship, and professional practice, Dr. Ackerman demonstrates a commitment to advancing knowledge, enriching student learning, and strengthening the connection between academic theory and real-world application.
With an interdisciplinary academic background and a commitment to advancing knowledge in the field, Dr. Ackerman exemplifies the connection between academic scholarship and real-world application. His work reflects the importance of preparing students to understand the complexities of criminal justice systems while developing the knowledge and critical thinking skills needed to contribute meaningfully to their professions and communities.
Dr. Ackerman earned his Ph.D. in Criminal Justice from Capella University and his Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Nova Southeastern University, in addition to graduate degrees in business and related disciplines. This diverse educational foundation informs his approach to teaching, research, and the examination of criminal justice policies and practices.
For Dr. Ackerman, the relationship between experience, research, and meaningful change is central to the profession. “In criminal justice, experience teaches us what happens in the field, research helps us understand why, and our voice allows that knowledge to reach those who can create meaningful change,” Dr. Ackerman shared.
In 2026, Dr. Ackerman expanded his scholarly contributions with the publication of five new books addressing critical areas across the criminal justice landscape.
His latest publications include:
The Pillars of Criminal Justice: Practices, Policies, and Procedures
Foundations of Criminology: Crime, Theory, and Justice
Practice of Criminal Procedure: Rights, Redress, and Obligations
Juvenile Justice Policy: System, Process and Reform
The System of Corrections: Innovation, Penal Practice, and Systemic Reform
Together, these works explore the foundations of criminal justice institutions, criminological theory, legal procedures, juvenile justice policy, and correctional systems. They reflect Dr. Ackerman’s commitment to examining the policies, practices, and evolving challenges that shape the field. His publications also reinforce the importance of connecting academic research with professional practice, providing valuable perspectives for students, educators, practitioners, and others engaged in criminal justice.
Through this continued scholarship, Dr. Ackerman demonstrates how research can extend beyond the classroom to encourage informed discussion, strengthen professional understanding, and contribute to the ongoing development of the field.
At UMT, faculty members bring together academic knowledge and professional experience to create meaningful learning opportunities for students. In criminal justice education, this connection is particularly important, as future professionals must understand the legal principles, institutional practices, policies, and societal challenges that influence the justice system. Dr. Ackerman’s work embodies this approach. His commitment to teaching and research helps students explore criminal justice not simply as a system of rules and procedures, but as a dynamic field shaped by evidence, policy, professional responsibility, and the pursuit of justice.
His continued research also supports a learning environment in which students can engage with current ideas and consider how academic knowledge can inform real-world decisions. For Dr. Ackerman, the value of education lies in its ability to bridge understanding and action. “The goal is to ensure that knowledge does not remain confined to the classroom or the pages of a book, but becomes a resource for professionals and communities seeking meaningful progress.”
As Dr. Ackerman continues to contribute to criminal justice education and scholarship, his work serves as a reminder of the enduring relationship between learning, leadership, and public service. Through his teaching, research, and publications, he reinforces the importance of preparing professionals who can think critically, act responsibly, and contribute to the advancement of the criminal justice field.
“I strive to bridge education, research, and practice to empower students, advance criminal justice, and build safer, stronger communities.”
