Academics

Global Human Trafficking Certificate

Certificate

Blue, life-size cutouts of people are displayed in a university hallway. Each cutout symbolizes an individual who is a victim of human trafficking to raise awareness to the issue

Open to all undergraduate students, the Global Human Trafficking Certificate delivers a deep multidisciplinary understanding of the causes, consequences and solutions to human trafficking around the world. Join a passionate community working to create real change.

What You’ll Study
Gain expert insight into the complex dimensions of global human trafficking, including:

  • The extent, causes, and impact of trafficking worldwide
  • Profiles of perpetrators, victims, and understanding of survivor needs
  • Sexual and labor exploitation, examined through legal, psychological, and social lenses
  • Legal frameworks at international, national, and state levels
  • Holistic approaches to survivor aftercare and restoration

Transformative Hands-on Experience
Every student completes a related internship or independent study, allowing you to:

  • Apply classroom learning in a professional setting
  • Build skills that prepare you for humanitarian, legal, social service and policy roles
  • Connect with anti-trafficking professionals and organizations

Program Snapshot

  • Four courses plus one required internship or independent study (15 credit hours)
  • Complete in just one year
  • Open to students from any major or background

Justice Studies majors may be able to take JUST 497 in lieu of JUST 498. Please contact Dr. Peterka-Benton for details.

Your Impact
Graduate ready to make a meaningful difference — prepared to advocate, educate, and lead in the global fight against human trafficking. See the curriculum.

group of panelists on stage

Career Opportunities

A certificate or degree in Human Trafficking studies can be highly useful for individuals pursuing careers in law enforcement, social work, legal advocacy, public policy, or international development. Our program provides specialized knowledge on the causes, patterns, and consequences of human trafficking, equipping professionals with the tools needed to identify victims, understand trafficking networks, and support prevention and intervention efforts. Having formal education in this area can enhance credibility, open up advanced job opportunities, and foster collaboration across agencies and organizations working to combat human trafficking both locally and globally.

Global Center on Human Trafficking

The Global Center on Human Trafficking at Montclair State University addresses human trafficking in New Jersey and beyond by uniting scholars, practitioners, and survivor leaders. The Center drives innovative, research-based solutions, delivers specialized training, and promotes awareness to empower those on the frontlines. Through a focus on prevention, survivor support, and policy change, the Center fosters meaningful partnerships across sectors — all aimed at advancing a world free from human trafficking.

Montclair State University President Jonathan Koppell stands on stage in front of a large screen displaying a world map and the words "Global Center on Human Trafficking" and "Montclair State University."

Related Programs

The Department of Justice Studies offers a variety of undergraduate majors, concentrations and minors designed to prepare students for evolving justice and legal careers. The interdisciplinary Justice Studies major allows students to specialize through concentrations such as International Justice and Criminal Justice. Students can also pursue minors in fields including Criminal Justice, Environmental Justice, Justice & Families, and Social Justice.

Featured Faculty


Questions? We’re Here to Help.

Office of Graduate Admissions

The office of Graduate Admissions will guide you every step of the way on your journey from learning about the University and its offerings, to applying for a program through to acceptance and enrollment.

Justice Studies

The Department of Justice Studies seeks to advance research and offer a rigorous course of study examining the intersection of justice, law, policy and social change. We analyze the conception and practice of justice through sociological, philosophical, criminological, legal and political lenses. We also seek to bridge the gap between the various social science and legal disciplines in order to gain new insights on issues concerning social justice.

Next Steps

Wherever you learn—on campus or online—Montclair State University offers the programs, community and support to help you reach your goals. Take the next step today.

Apply NowRequest Information

Learn on Campus

Immersive classes, vibrant campus life and hands-on experiences that put you at the center of it all.

Explore Majors & Minors The Campus Experience

Learn Online

Montclair Online offers the same nationally recognized faculty, engaging coursework and supportive community as our on-campus classes - designed to fit your life. With multiple start dates each year, you can begin when the time is right for you.

Explore Majors & MinorsThe Online Experience