Associate Dean for the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Dr. Franzi Walsh, presented on skills-mapped courses in higher education

University of Phoenix is pleased to share that Associate Dean of the Criminal Justice, Public Administration and Security programs in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Dr. Franzi Walsh, joined the proceedings of the 2024 Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences Conference held March 19-23 in Chicago, IL. The theme of the event, “Pursuing Equitable Justice,” invited an examination of equitable justice for communities, families, schools and marginalized populations.

“It is an honor to highlight the work we are doing at University of Phoenix to ensure our students are receiving a quality, career-relevant education,” shares Dr. Walsh. “The field of criminal justice requires dedication, determination, and a profound commitment to equity, and I'm proud of the fact that our teaching philosophy centers on fostering a learning environment that blends course content and theory with real-world practical applications and skills."

Walsh’s presentation, titled, “Curriculum to Careers: Program Design, Mapping and Assessment,” highlighted the ways in which University of Phoenix uses assessment and program review to develop relevant, skills-mapped courses. The session also underscored the University’s commitment to student support and industry relevance through its innovative curriculum design.

The University's innovative skills-mapped curriculum, focused on the working adult learner, has culminated in 100 percent of associate, bachelor and master’s degree programs open for new enrollment now being fully skills-mapped. University of Phoenix, through Credly, has issued over 450,000 badges since September 2021, for skills obtained in undergraduate, graduate, and professional development courses. The University’s adoption of a skills-mapped curriculum helps ensure that students are identifying and acquiring skills in weeks, rather than years, yielding value from their education as they progress through courses rather than just at the point of graduation.

“Dr. Walsh’s participation in the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences Conference underscores the University’s dedication to engaging in meaningful dialogue and shaping the discourse surrounding curriculum development in higher education,” states Dr. Christine Neider, dean of the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. "By actively contributing to academic conferences like this one, we reinforce our commitment to staying abreast of emerging trends and advancing the field of criminal justice education."

Walsh is the Associate Dean of the Criminal Justice, Public Administration and Security programs in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. With 20 years in her current role, she applies her passion for student support throughout their journey through program operations and curriculum development – ensuring programs stay relevant for tomorrow's leaders. Further supporting academic excellence and professional development, Dr. Walsh serves as faculty advisor of Alpha Phi Sigma, Eta Theta Chapter and Order of the Sword and Shield honor societies.

Prior to joining the University, Walsh enjoyed a rewarding career in law enforcement. As a patrol officer with the Honolulu Police Department, she experienced various assignments with the Alternative Call Services Unit, the Bicycle Unit, and the All-Terrain Vehicle Unit (ATV) on Waikiki Beach and surrounding parks. After moving to Arizona, she began working with the Arizona Department of Corrections as a Correctional Officer in a maximum-security institution. Each assignment embraced leadership, community outreach and advocacy, and a passion for making a positive difference in the community.

Walsh earned her Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Western International University, a Master of Arts in Organizational Management (MAOM) and a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) from the University of Phoenix. Having a passion for lifelong learning, she is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Education (EdD) with Northern Arizona University.

Learn more here about the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences at University of Phoenix.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant courses, interactive learning, skills-mapped curriculum for our bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, and a Career Services for Life® commitment help students more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. For more information, visit phoenix.edu.

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