LEXINGTON, Ky. — A leading voice in critical criminology, Dr. Victoria Collins has been named Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and the inaugural director of the University of Kentucky College of Social Work’s (CoSW) Criminal Justice (CJ) programs. She brings with her a bold, interdisciplinary perspective shaped by a prolific publication record and nearly a decade of administrative leadership.
Collins is known for pushing the boundaries of justice studies—both literally and conceptually. Her most recent book, Space Expansionism and Criminology, examines crime, environmental harm, and violence within the context of state and corporate ambitions in outer space. Through a critical lens, she explores topics like space weaponization, realpolitik, orbital debris, and the ethics of space tourism—issues that expand traditional understandings of justice.
That same expansive approach now guides her work at the CoSW, where she will lead three of the College’s recently launched CJ programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
“Dr. Collins brings a wealth of expertise and a forward-thinking approach to our growing Criminal Justice programs,” said Dean Jay Miller. “Her leadership will be central to our efforts to cultivate a justice workforce grounded in research, innovation, and a deep commitment to societal impact.”
Collins joins the CoSW from Eastern Kentucky University, where she served as Chair of the School of Justice Studies. She is widely recognized for her interdisciplinary approach, blending sociology, law, and critical criminology to examine the systems that shape justice on Earth—and beyond.
As director, she will oversee the growth and evolution of the CoSW’s CJ programs, which were established in 2023 to prepare students for careers that require critical thinking, systems-level understanding, and ethical engagement with complex justice issues.
“Justice doesn’t operate in isolation,” Collins said. “It’s shaped by people, systems, and histories. At UK, we have an opportunity—and a responsibility—to prepare students to examine and engage with the forces behind justice both thoughtfully and responsibly.”
Collins holds a Ph.D. in Criminology and Criminal Justice, an M.A. in Applied Sociology, and a B.S. in Criminal Justice from Old Dominion University, and an LLB in Law from the Open University in England.
To learn more about criminal justice programs at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work, visit:
Undergraduate (B.A. and B.S. in Criminal Justice):
socialwork.cornettims.com/academics/undergrad-cj-program.
Graduate (M.S. in Criminal Justice):
socialwork.cornettims.com/academics/mscj-program.