Criminology (CRIM) Bachelor of Arts
The bachelor of arts degree provides students with a broadly based liberal education focused on the understanding and analysis of crime and justice systems. Students obtain a foundation of knowledge of the basic components of the criminal justice and legal systems as well as abilities to solve problems, think and read critically, and write effectively within the context of criminal justice and criminological research and theory.
A minimum of 121 credits is required for graduation. All major requirements must be completed with a grade of C or better.
Important Note: The bachelor of arts degree requires that students attain twelfth credit level proficiency, or higher, in one world language in addition to the B.A. Fields and World Culture requirements.
Requirements for the Major:
40 credits
For the complete list of requirements, please visit the University Bulletin.
Planning Resources
Race, Ethnicity, Gender Course List
Note: While CRIM 294, 296, and 494 provide students with terrific opportunities and learning experiences, these credits may NOT be used toward the criminology major requirements. The credits may apply to elective credits.
Note: Internship credits apply to elective credits, unless departmentally approved for use toward the major.
Important Notes for Change of Location Students
- 24 of the credits related to the primary area of study stipulated under “requirements for the major” must be completed at Penn State University Park, as per the requirement, Establishing Residency in a Major, as per University Policy.
- CRIM 249 and CRIM 250W should be completed at University Park campus.
General Education:
45 Credits
(4 credits are included in the REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MAJOR)
Bachelor of Arts Degree Requirements:
9-24 Credit
Electives:
16 or more Credits
First Year Engagement:
(Included in ELECTIVES or GENERAL EDUCATION course selection)
Writing Across the Curriculum:
(Included in REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MAJOR)United States Cultures and International
Cultures Courses
(Included in ELECTIVES or GENERAL EDUCATION course selection)