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#Criminologist Career, Job, and Training Information

Criminology is a branch of sociology, a science that specializes in group behavior. Criminologists conduct scientific research to analyze criminal behavior and the factors contributing to it. Likewise, criminologists evaluate the measures societies institute to fight crime and rehabilitate criminals. They also evaluate how evidence is analyzed, hereditary, social, and psychological factors contributing to crime, the effectiveness of investigative methods, and the effectiveness of various types of criminal rehabilitation programs.

Criminologists are sociologists with expertise in criminology who organize and conduct research to evaluate social behaviors. They analyze acceptable and deviant behaviors prevalent in society. Since they research and specialize in numerous subjects, criminalists enjoy various career opportunities.

Where do criminologists work?

Criminologists typically work at colleges and universities organizing and conducting research and teaching classes on corrections, juvenile justice, law enforcement administration, criminal ethnography, drug abuse and addiction, theoretical criminology, and other related courses. When criminologists conduct research, they typically analyze the psychological, sociological, and biological factors contributing to criminal behavior. Certain criminologists consult with elected officials and law enforcement agencies, publish articles in scientific journals, and participate in anti-poverty programs. Some criminologists set-up and manage consulting firms.

Common career paths in criminology

Individuals who pursue an occupation in criminology or earn a degree in criminology often find themselves in one of the following career paths.

• Counseling
• Corrections
• Diversion Programming
• Criminal Investigation
• Forensics
• Financial and Insurance Fraud Investigation
• Intervention Programming
• Judicial / Courts
• Medical Investigation
• Law Enforcement
• Rehabilitation
• University Research
• Psychopathology Specialist
• Private Investigation
• Federal Agencies
• Retail Investigation
• Women's Studies
• Teaching
• Youth Counseling
• Other Sociology Careers

Agencies and institutions that employ criminologists

• Correctional Facilities
• Local, State, and Federal Courts
• Financial Service Firms, Insurance Companies, and Banks
• Counseling Agencies
• Non-Profit Organizations
• Department Stores and other Retailers
• Private Investigation Firms

Federal Government

• Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI)
• Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA)
• The Border Patrol
• Department of Homeland Security

• Correction and Rehabilitation Departments
• State Highway Patrol
• Department of Public Safety
• Youth Services

Local Governments: County, City, Township, Village

• Public Safety Departments
• Local Law Enforcement Agencies
• Local Treasurer Departments

Education and Training

If you're interested in criminology, you should complete undergraduate courses in sociology, criminal law, psychology, government, constitutional law, juvenile delinquency, and criminal theory. You will also benefit by completing courses in business management, behavioral science, statistics, corrections, forensics, and abnormal psychology. Many students also enroll in social work courses related to corrections, the criminal system, and rehabilitation. Additionally, you should take classes in computer science, English, and philosophy/logic.

Most criminologists hold bachelor's and graduate degrees in criminology. Criminologists conducting research and teaching at universities are usually required to hold doctorate degrees in criminology or related fields. To enhance your career opportunities and earning potential, it's recommended to obtain a graduate degree.