Criminology, Bachelor of Science

Criminology examines the making of laws, the nature and extent of crime and criminality, and efforts to control crime. The criminology program provides students with a strong foundation in sociological theory and research to foster a comprehensive and contextual understanding of crime and justice in society and the capacity to think critically and creatively about what does and doesn’t work in current crime control efforts. The organizations and institutions developed to respond to crime, including all the sub-components of the criminal justice system, will be examined along with the related concepts of law and justice. Courses focus on the social construction or definitions of crime, the causes of crime and delinquency, and on the origin, nature, and consequences of societal reactions to criminal offending, including practices in both public and private justice agencies. Students pursuing careers in traditional criminal justice fields, such as policing, probation & parole, corrections and reintegration, will develop a strong foundation to work and effect social change in these fields. Criminology majors interested in careers in victim assistance, legal advocacy, community activism and social research will develop the skills and knowledge enabling them to become transformational leaders in their profession.

The criminology curriculum emphasizes the importance of research-based knowledge, theoretically informed practice, critical analysis and ethical decision-making. Students are strongly encouraged to engage in experiential learning through courses, including our field experience class with placements in criminal justice, juvenile justice, victim services, and community-based agencies. 

The criminology major prepares students for careers in the adult and juvenile justice systems – including law enforcement and criminal investigation, the courts, probation and parole, corrections, non-profit community based agencies, and victim services – or for graduate and professional programs in criminology, criminal justice, sociology, law, or legal and justice studies.

A criminology major leads to either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree.