Criminology

Also known as: Criminal Justice Studies, Forensic Criminology

A program that focuses on the systematic study of crime as a sociopathological phenomenon, the behavior of criminals, and the social institutions evolved to respond to crime. Includes instruction in the theory of crime, psychological and social bases of criminal behavior, social value systems and t

CriminologyCriminal JusticeLaw EnforcementCorrectionsCrime AnalysisSocial SciencesPublic PolicySociologyResearch

A Week as a Student

Your "Criminal Justice System" lecture starts the week, covering the roles of law enforcement. You're reading a chapter from "The New Jim Crow" for discussion. Afterward, you grab coffee with a friend, discussing the professor's point about discretion in policing. You forgot your laptop charger, so you scribble notes furiously by hand. Later, you hit the campus gym, trying to clear your head from the intense morning material. You briefly ask Professor Davis about a historical case example mentioned in class.

High School Preparation

Required Subjects

English/Language ArtsHistory/Social StudiesMathematicsPsychology or Sociology

Recommended GPA

3.0-3.5

Advanced Courses (AP/IB/Honors)

AP Psychology
AP Government and Politics
IB Psychology

Core Subjects

Click on "i" to learn more about each subject

Career Prospects

Growing Study Prospects

Graduates can find roles as police officers, probation/parole officers, corrections officers, crime analysts, and social policy researchers. Opportunities also exist in victim support services, government agencies, and non-profit organizations focused on crime prevention and rehabilitation.

Impact of AI on this Study

AI significantly impacts criminology through predictive policing, analyzing large datasets for crime patterns and risks, and aiding forensic analysis. It also enhances digital investigations and improves the efficiency of justice administration.