معرفی
Dr. Eric J. Kocian is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Criminology, Law, and Society Department at Saint Vincent College. He holds a Ph.D. in Criminology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (2010) and teaches courses on criminological theories, addiction and crime, juvenile justice, and homeland security. His research focuses on the opioid epidemic's pathways to addiction and recovery, informing policy through the Westmoreland County Drug Overdose Task Force. He has authored textbook chapters on policing, deterrence theory, and victimization studies. Dr. Kocian maintains strong student mentorship relationships and integrates faith-based perspectives into his teaching and professional life.
Education
- B.S. Psychology/Administration of Justice, University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg (2000)
- M.S. Criminology, Indiana University of Pennsylvania (2002)
- Ph.D. Criminology, Indiana University of Pennsylvania (2010)
- Drug Enforcement Administration Citizens Academy (2016)
- FBI Citizens Academy (2018)
Research Interests
- Opioid addiction pathways and recovery mechanisms
- Criminological theories applied to pop culture
- Police-community relations
His publications emphasize bridging academic research with real-world policy, particularly in substance abuse and criminal justice.
