Why Restorative Justice?

Because justice requires a new way to think about and respond to harm, conflict, and crime. Wrongdoings are not just transgressions against government or institutions; harm involves a breaching of relationships. Responding to harm requires more than punishment — more than retribution — the response requires an opportunity for acceptance of responsibility, amends to the aggrieved parties, and the creation of an environment that promotes healing.

How?

By bringing together students committed to developing new ways of thinking about harm with national and international restorative justice leaders, Vermont Law School will educate the next generation of justice reformers; leaders who understand the workings of the existing legal system but who are also educated and equipped to infuse systems and communities with principles of inclusion, tolerance, equity, compassion, and positive change.

What?

Through a 30-credit Master of Arts in Restorative Justice (MARJ) degree or a 9-credit Professional Certificate in Restorative Justice. Both the MARJ degree and Professional Certificate may be completed online, on campus, or a hybrid of both. Vermont Law School offers an array of courses, conferences, and presentations that will change how you think about harm and social inequality and how you lead your organizations, community, state, and country to a more just place.