CRIMINOLOGY
Sub-disciplines
Criminology is a field of social sciences that studies crime and criminal behavior from a social perspective. It examines the reasons and social effects of crime. Criminology is a multi-disciplinary field that combines elements from disciplines like sociology, psychology, and law. The subject not only studies criminal behavior but also examines the systems in place to handle criminal offenders.
Pursuing a degree in Criminology gives students an insight into crimes and criminals and society as a whole. They also develop skills such as critical observation, attention to detail, as well as strong analytical and investigative thinking. The study modules included in a Criminology degree include criminal justice, human rights, psychology, criminal behavior, social violence, and crime analysis.
Students of Criminology gain theoretical knowledge, practical experience, and the ability to apply what they have learned to real-world situations. They are also given the opportunity to assist in the investigation of crimes and search for evidence, examine crime scenes, question witnesses and attend autopsies in order to test their skills. A number of career opportunities are available to students once they have completed a course in Criminology.
Study level:
A variety of Criminology courses are available at various levels in several colleges and universities. These study levels are:
Bachelor of Arts in Criminology
Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Sociology
Bachelor of Science in Criminology
Bachelor Degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science
Master of Science in Criminology
Master of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Master Degree in Global Criminology
Master of Science in Criminological Research
Master of Science in International Crimes, Conflict and Criminology
Master Degree in Neurocriminology of Aggressive Behaviour
Master of Science in Criminology, Risk, and Safeguarding
Master in Criminalistics and Forensic Sciences
Master of Legislative Law in Criminal Law and Criminology
Master of Legislative Law in Crimes and Torts
Diploma in Criminal Law
Diploma in Criminology and Penology
Postgraduate Diploma in Forensic Science and Criminology
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Criminology
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Policing, Security and Criminal Justice
Specialisation
Many Universities and Colleges offer Criminology courses with a variety of specializations from which students can choose, based on their interests. These are:
Criminal Law
Global Criminology
Penology
Forensic Criminology
Forensic Psychology
Students can choose to specialize in areas like:
Police Science
Criminal Law and Jurisprudence
Criminal Investigation
Forensic Analysis
Crime and Human Development
Biopsychosocial Criminology
Neighbourhood Dynamics of Crime
Criminological Theories
Juvenile Law
Criminal Procedures
Employability
Criminology is a growing field with numerous career opportunities all over the world. After graduating with a degree in Criminology, students can work in a variety of fields such as the Forensic Department, Police, Research Centres, Hospitals, Crime Laboratories, Colleges and Institutes, and MNCs to name a few.
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- Among the possible job titles include:
Private Detective
Crime Investigator
Crime Scene Analyst
Probation Officer
Crime Laboratory Analyst
Prison Governor
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- F.B.I. Agent
Forensic Surgeon
Crime Intelligence Analyst
Police Officer
Community Corrections Coordinator
Community Development Worker
Law Reformer
Regional Crime Prevention Coordinator
Drug Policy Advisor
Criminology Teacher
Consumer Advocate
Psychiatrist
Lawyer
Forensic Engineer