Studying Crime and Criminals Scientifically: Criminology
Are you interested in a career in criminal justice, but would like to work in a field where you might be able to prevent crime before it happens? Are you fascinated by criminal behavior and want to examine crimes closer in an effort to reduce their occurrence? These are all traits of someone who would do well in the field of criminology and with an online criminology degree you might also be able to become one. A criminology degree differs from a criminal justice degree in the sense that the former teaches you how you can understand the motives behind criminal behavior while the latter deals more with provide justice to victims of crime through the sentencing of criminals. While both are very important, criminologists actively seek to find ways to reduce the incidence of crime that occurs in society.
Criminology Degree Information
Bachelor of Science in Criminology
The Bachelor of Science in Criminology is a degree program that can be completed online or at a campus based location. It typically requires 45 credit hours in core studies for completion as well as 15 additional credit hours of elective classes. Courses for this degree may include Introduction to Forensic Science, Criminal Deviance, Crime Analysis, Victimology, Professional Ethics in Criminology, Psychology of Crime, Criminal Profiling and more. Electives may range from Homeland Security: Legal and Ethical Issues, and Animal Exploitation to Decision-making and Problem Solving in Crimonlogy, and Vulnerability and Security. Depending on where you complete our criminology degree, it may also be possible to make use of a combined bachelor’s to master’s program to fast track your master’s degree.
Master of Arts in Criminology
The Master of Arts in Criminology is a degree program that is available both online or at a campus. It can be completed in as little as one year’s time of done full-time or two years when done part-time. Required courses may include Criminological Theory, Legal Issues in Criminology, Organizational Dynamics Within The Criminal Justice System, Ethical and Philosophical Issues in Criminology as well as Research Methods. In addition, students may be able to choose from electives, such as Criminal Violence and Victimization, Crime and Delinquency Prevention Strategies, and Cybercrime.
Doctor of Philosophy in Criminology
If you would like to become a teacher or scholar in the field of criminology, you can also complete a Doctor of Philosophy in Criminology degree. After earning this type of degree students typically go on to teach at universities or colleges. With a PhD in criminology you’ll also be take advantage of career opportunities at research institutes and agencies. This degree typically requires 42 credits of coursework and may include topics such as Advanced Theoretical Criminology, Advanced Qualitative Methods, Quantitative Strategies for Analysis in Criminology, Advanced Criminal Justice Policy, and more. Finally, the successful completion of a doctoral dissertation is typically required to earn this type of degree.
Criminology Degree FAQ
Is It Possible To Earn A Criminology Degree Online?
There are a number of online degree options available that enable you to study criminology without having to attend campus based lectures. Through the use of online learning environments, it is possible to complete your studies whenever and wherever it is most convenient for you. This makes online degrees in criminology ideal for people who would like to continue their education, but are unable to travel to a campus based location due to other obligations. It also means that you can earn your degree without any disruption to your current career.
Who Is An Ideal Candidate To Study Criminology?
One of the most important skills that you can have if you aspire to become a criminologist is to be very analytical. It is also the type of career path where your skills in pattern recognition and interpretation can be extremely useful. In addition, you should have great communication skills and be comfortable with working with other people in a team. Your problem solving skills should be excellent and you should also have a passion for research. Since a lot of work in this field requires you to write reports, this is something that you should be good at. You should have an eye for detail, be responsible and have integrity as well if you are serious about working in the field of criminology after your studies. Finally, you should have a clean criminal record to qualify for most jobs in this field and may also be required to pass drug and security testing as well as fitness requirements when applying for a job.
What Type Of Career Options Might I Have With A Criminology Degree?
While there is some overlap between criminology and criminal justice degrees, the focus of the former tend to be much more academic. One of the most common career paths for those with a criminology degree is that of a criminologist. However, to become one you typically need at least a master’s or doctorate degree. This type of career can also lead to a career as a forensic psychologist, security specialist, insurance fraud investigator, corrections officer, forensic science technician, loss prevention specialist and more. In addition, a degree in criminology can also be combined with other degrees or experience if you are interested in becoming a counselor, social worker or attorney. Because so many different industries are impacted by crime, there is always a need for people with criminology experience to assist with fraud protection, investigative services or loss prevention. Finally, positions in academia may also be available to those with the right type of degree in this field.
How Much Can I Potentially Earn When Employed As A Criminologist?
Although the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics lacks any specific data on the earnings of criminologists, they do indicate that sociologists, of which criminology is a branch, earns about $79,750 per year. Of course, there are a number of factors that influence this figure, such as your geographical location, employer, experience and level of education. Generally, the higher your level of education and experience in criminology is, the more you can expect to be paid when employed in this profession.
What Are The Other Benefits of Studying For A Criminology Degree?
Criminology is a great degree choice if you are interested in a justice profession, but would prefer something that is more scientifically oriented. It is also the type of degree that can be useful for a variety of industries and not just justice professions. If you do end up working as a criminologist, your knowledge and experience can be used to deter criminal behavior, which means you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that you are bettering society and keeping others safe. Your degree in criminology can also prepare you for leadership roles as well as research careers in the criminal justice system or related fields.
