Bachelor of Criminology

Degree Overview

A Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminology provides an education for jobs in the criminal justice field. Coursework includes sociology, psychology, crime patterns in modern society, criminality, crime control, and delinquency. It is a four-year degree program, which is often paired with Criminal Justice studies. Criminology focuses more on theory and empirical studies in relation to how society responds to criminal behavior than does criminal justice. Criminology professionals work in law enforcement, parole, corrections, legal advocacy and security work. They also may be crime scene investigators (CSI) or detectives and work in technology related areas.

Benefits

Having a Bachelor of Science in Criminology is a liberal arts degree, which will give you a solid background in writing and other skills of communication used on the job. Other benefits include having

• Social work and forensic skills for police and detective work
• First step to the legal professions and advanced criminology degrees
• Chances to receive promotions and work in many branches of law enforcement

Areas of Study

Schools vary in their approaches to criminology studies, but in general students in the field can expect to be taking classes in the following areas:

• Theory and Patterns of Crime
• Criminal Psychology
• Criminal Justice
• Penal System
• Forensics
• Sociology
• Administrative Justice
• Media Studies
• Law Enforcement
• Counter-terrorism (in some cases)

Career Opportunities

With your Bachelor of Science degree in criminology, you’ll gain access to employment that would otherwise be unavailable to you. Some career opportunities are stepping stones, such as becoming a police officer, judge or a criminal justice attorney. For others jobs, having your degree can land you a job in the field.

• Crime Scene Investigator
• Parole Officer
• Police Officer
• Detective
• Airport Security
• Law Enforcement Administration
• Policy Maker
• College Instructor
• Insurance Fraud Investigator

What You Need to Know

Colleges offering Bachelor of Science degrees in Criminology range from the campus-based, full-time programs to online study. Most schools offer part time and full time options, making it possible to keep your day job while you increase your chances of getting a raise or a better job. Employment opportunities are based on training, background, and previous work experience. Criminologists often combine their occupations, such as teaching and research, or consulting and detective work. Prepare for a background check when you enter this profession.

Requirements

Colleges offering degrees in criminology will require an application and transcripts from previously attended institutions. Some will require a letter ot recommendation and a minimum GPA for admission. Each program and college has its own set of regulations, so check with your school of choice for specific their requirements.

Accreditation

Attending an accredited college will make a difference on your job application and your employment.

If the college you’ve selected doesn’t have certification in forensic sciences or criminology, make sure it is an accredited college or university. Check the US Department of Education for more information.

The United State Department of Education (UsoED)
www.ed.gov

Professional Organizations

Contact these organizations as part of your decision making process. They can provide you with key information about your career choices and training.

American Board of Criminalistics
www.criminalistics.com

American Society of Criminology
www.asc41.org

American Academy of Forensic Science
www.aafs.org

American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors
www.ascld.org