Major: Criminology

Why are some people more likely to commit crimes or acts of delinquency? Why are crime rates lower in one neighborhood than in another? What impacts criminal laws in different societies? How can crime be best curbed? These are some questions criminologists work to answer. 

Majoring in criminology requires the study of diverse disciplines: anthropology, biology, statistics, sociology, psychology, and economics. Criminology majors are equipped to understand crime, determine crime patterns, and provide solutions to reduce and prevent crimes.

What does a student majoring in Criminology study? 

• Introduction to Criminal Justice
• Law and Society
• Research Methods
• Anthropology
• American Government
• Sociology
• Statistics

What can I do with a Criminology degree?

You’ll have many career options in Criminology. Some career choices, such as law, will require additional graduate studies. Jobs for which a criminology major gives you a solid foundation include, among others:

• Detectives and Criminal Investigators
• Digital Forensics Analysts
• Forensic Science Technicians
• Intelligence Analysts
• Police Identification and Records Officers

Specializations for a Criminology major are:

• Corrections and Case Management
• Forensic Science
• Homeland Security and Crisis Management
• Law Enforcement
• Sociology

What are the requirements for a Criminology degree? 

Review your institution’s academic requirements for a criminology degree. Completing internships will give you real-world experience and help you zero in on a career and decide what path to take to achieve that career.