Marcella Anderson, PhD

Dr. Marcella Anderson is an Assistant Professor in the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Arizona Global Campus. She earned a Doctor of Public Policy and Administration from Walden University in Minneapolis, Minnesota; a Master of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice from Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti, Michigan; and a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan.

Dr. Anderson has more than two decades of law enforcement experience, including twenty years with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office—where she retired as a Detective Sergeant—and two years with the Detroit Police Department, serving as Human Resources Director. Her extensive background spans all three pillars of the criminal justice system: law enforcement, courts, and corrections.

In addition, Dr. Anderson brings a wealth of experience in higher education. She began her academic career as an adjunct faculty member teaching Criminal Justice and Sociology courses and has since held multiple leadership roles, including Full-Time Faculty, Assistant Professor, Program Chair, Associate Dean, Dean of Academic Affairs, and Interim President. Her professional experience encompasses both online and traditional brick-and-mortar learning environments.

Eager to share her extensive expertise in the field, Dr. Anderson provides theoretical insight grounded in a deep understanding of real-world criminal justice practices and higher education administration. Her teaching and leadership are informed by evidence-based approaches that bridge academic theory with practical application. Dr. Anderson’s research interests include restorative justice, social justice, and police discretion, reflecting her commitment to promoting fairness, equity, and accountability within the criminal justice system and educational leadership.