Maybe you’re considering going to school for a degree in criminology. That’s not a bad idea! The study of criminology is fascinating, and it can help you to learn more about what makes people tick. What kinds of backgrounds and condition lead to the commission of crimes? Today we’re taking an in-depth look at education in criminology.
Generally speaking, a criminology degree is a four-year degree. There are both bachelor’s degrees and masters degrees available in criminology. It’s worth noting that, while related, a degree in criminal justice is distinct from criminology in some important ways.
Namely, criminology is a more “academic” study of the conditions that give rise to crime. Criminology typically overlaps in many ways with psychology and similar humanities. Criminal justice, on the other hand, focuses more on the system by which crime is detected and punished. That said, they are related fields of study.
There are a number of jobs available for people with degrees in criminology. The most obvious of them, of course, would be a job as a criminologist for a university, legislative body or think tank. Typically, criminologists need a master’s degree in order to find this type of academic job.
Another common career path in criminology is as a police officer or corrections officer. Many people mistakenly believe that you need a degree in criminal justice to pursue these fields. However, a bachelor’s in criminology is a fine degree for this career path.
Forensic science technicians often find work with a bachelor’s in criminology, as well. This can be a great entry position for someone interested in forensic science. Similarly, loss prevention specialists who work with retailers often have a bachelor’s degree in criminology, as they have to think about criminal psychology.
