Criminology is the scientific study of crime, its causes, and prevention methods. It is a field that combines multiple disciplines to study all things crime, including the biological, psychological, and sociocultural causes of crime. Criminology majors study criminal behavior and its biological, psychological, and social causes. They get a broad education in the law, research methods, sociology, and psychology. Criminology programs may include a culminating capstone research project, in which students research a specific issue, write a research paper on it, and give a presentation.
A bachelors degree in criminology provides an introduction to criminological research methods, criminal behavior theories, and the criminal justice system. Criminology majors develop strong critical thinking and research skills applicable in various criminology jobs. It usually takes full-time students four years to earn a bachelors in criminology, which typically requires around 120 credits.
Common coursework criminology majors can expect includes introductory courses to criminology and criminal justice, as well as courses related to sociopolitical aspects of crime, such as the death penalty, deviance and social control, and public policy analysis. Since criminology is a field that works closely with the law, students might also take classes related to criminal law, including topics such as the history of American law, philosophy of law, and law and criminal justice.
Criminology is a very broad sociology subfield, covering the biological, psychological, and sociocultural causes of crime. As a result, students can expect to use their writing, math, and science skills across their coursework, especially in their introductory courses. Criminology curriculum covers a range of topics, including foundational crime research and analysis, policing conduct, legal systems, and social welfare.
Criminology is a field that works closely with the law, and criminology majors can pursue careers in various fields, including law enforcement, social work, and public policy.
