Scott Chenault

Dr. Scott Chenault is a Professor of Criminal Justice & Criminology at the University of Central Missouri (UCM), affiliated with the Harmon College of Business and Professional Studies. He serves as the Criminal Justice & Criminology Graduate Coordinator and Director of the Consortium for Transatlantic Studies and Scholarship, overseeing a study abroad program in Alcala de Henares, Spain. A Certified Corrections Officer through the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, his research focuses on correctional officer experiences, correctional programming, and qualitative methodologies.

Chenault holds a Ph.D. in Criminology & Criminal Justice from the University of Nebraska at Omaha (2010), an MS in Criminal Justice from Central Missouri State University (2004), and a BS in Criminal Justice from the same institution (2002). His teaching includes Corrections, Institutional Operations, and Criminal Justice & the Media.

His research explores topics such as solitary confinement policies, correctional officer psychology, and victim-offender dynamics. He has pioneered programs integrating international criminal justice education and prison reform initiatives. Chenault’s work bridges academic theory with practical applications in correctional systems and policy development.

As a faculty leader, he emphasizes experiential learning through study abroad and innovative classroom practices. His involvement in victim impact programs and prison rehabilitation studies highlights his commitment to holistic criminal justice reform.