Students interested in acquiring a degree in criminology have several options. They can get a bachelor's degree, a master's degree or a doctorate; it just depends on how long they want to stay in school. Some schools offer fast-track programs that enable students to get both a bachelor's and master's degree in five years. With traditional curricula, students can expect to get a bachelor's in criminology in four years, a master's in two years thereafter and a doctorate another two years hence.
Criminology Overview
Criminology centers on the various situations that cause criminal behavior and how the country's justice system applies to the crime. It tackles the various laws related to crime and the social and psychological implications and conditions related to a crime. People with degrees in criminology have various avenues for post-university study and employment, including working in criminal rehabilitation and law enforcement as well as research.
Bachelor's Degrees
Undergraduate criminology programs put students on the path to earning a bachelor's degree in criminology, be it an arts or science diploma. In this track, students acquire an understanding of the criminal-justice system, theoretical and empirical methods used to examine crime and how crime fits with the justice system and society. Along with classes specific to criminology, students are also required to take general education courses (English, math and science). A bachelor's degree in criminology puts students on the path to enter the workforce or continue with graduate school. It is also a good foundation for entering law school.
Master's Degrees
Master's degrees in criminology further enhance the theories and principles learned during the undergraduate study of criminology. The master's program is for those looking to get advance training in criminology and the criminal-justice system. This program trains students conduct research and perform statistical analyses. It also provides guidance in program planning, management, policy analysis and criminology program evaluation. Master's degree programs in criminology expose students to a higher level of theoretical and empirical knowledge.
Doctorate in Criminology
Students interested in a doctorate in criminology will learn about the systemic study of crime as a sociopathic phenomenon. It will also give them a grounding in criminal behavior and how social institutions deal with crime. Further theory and instruction build on what was learned in an undergraduate or graduate program; doctoral students will thus have a deeper understanding of crime theory and criminal behavior, the criminal-justice system, rehabilitation programs, law enforcement and policy.
Careers in Criminology
Many career paths can be followed post-graduation. Criminologists can go into research or teaching, be it at a university or with a law-enforcement agency. These graduates are also qualified to work in corrections facilities and with local, state and federal criminal-justice agencies.
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