What Can You do with a Degree in Criminology?
A bachelor’s degree in criminology prepares students for a wide variety of careers related to crime and justice. Below is a sampling of the areas of employment open to graduates of the criminology program.
The correctional system includes programs and institutions for both juveniles and adults. Probation, parole, and halfway houses are among the community programs, while prisons, jails, and detention centers are typical institutional programs. Employees in the correctional system often directly supervise offenders, while others provide specialized services (such as employment training and education).
Students interested in the courts and legal system might gain employment as court administrators, victim and witness assistance workers, judges and attorneys. Law school is necessary for becoming a practicing attorney, and it is one of the most popular courses of post-graduate study for criminology majors.
Private sector opportunities include corporate security, computer fraud, and private investigation. Public sector law enforcement positions can also be found at the local, state, and federal levels.
Because the problem of crime is so great and the criminal justice system is so complex, demand exists for people who can use data to answer questions about crime and to guide the operation of the justice system. Demand also exists for people who can provide training about crime and justice issues. These positions can be found in universities, government planning agencies, and private research institutes. Graduate training in criminal justice and criminology or in other social sciences is typically required for these careers.
Many community agencies seek to prevent or reduce crime and delinquency or to provide services to victims of crime. Among these agencies are rape crisis centers, delinquency prevention and diversion programs, child abuse prevention programs, and drug and alcohol-abuse programs.