Important Information about Criminology Degree Programs

A criminology degree is multi-disciplinary educational coursework that focuses on criminal law and the social justice system in general. It encompasses other disciplinary bodies that intertwine together in law, psychology, and medicine. As such, there are different academic pathways to a criminology career. We have listed below the usual academic ladder of a criminology degree.

Associate Degree In Criminology

An associate’s degree in criminology is a short course that prepares students to an entry-level job in the field of law enforcement. The program encompasses the most fundamental areas of criminology, namely communications, the US constitution, basic social statistics, natural sciences, and others.

The associate’s program takes about 18 months to finish in a full-time basis with a very condensed coursework. One may take at least 16 credits per semester for such a short coursework. However, the usual length of time for completion for an associate’s degree is about 2 to 2 ½ years. For an online program, it can be completed in a span of 1 to 2 years. Read more

Bachelor Degree In Criminology

A bachelor’s degree is the traditional educational pathway for most criminologists. This program takes up an in-depth coverage on the generalized body of criminology. Many good students aim for a bachelor’s degree since most employers have a keen eye on such individuals.

Traditionally, it takes 4 years of full-time study to finish a bachelor’s degree. Part-time studies entails additional 6 months to 1 ½ months on top of the usual 4 years. For a maxed-out class load (more than 16 credit units per semester), it can be finished within 3 years. Read more

Master Degree In Criminology

Continuing education in a criminology career may be necessary especially if one wishes to concentrate in a certain field in the profession. A master’s degree in criminology is also one’s gateway to advanced studies on special areas in the field, such as forensics, social work, psychology, and other higher disciplinary courses. A master’s degree is also a stepping stone to a doctorate degree in criminology.

This degree program usually takes 2 to 3 years of full-time study, although a condensed coursework may shorten the time by 1 year. Part-time classes and online programs are also made available, which entails an additional 1 year of study. Read more

Doctorate Degree In Criminology

For individuals seeking higher educational attainment and better credentials, a doctorate degree is warranted for. Such programs entail 3 to 4 years of full-time study, and may be thesis- or nonthesis-based.

A completion of a doctorate degree in criminology opens doors to higher-ranking job opportunities, increased salary, and better self-esteem. The most common areas for a PhD degree in criminology are research and policy making. Read more

In essence, criminology degree programs evolve in these core areas in criminology: law, psychology, social justice systems, and sociology. Completion of this type of degree can help you land various jobs, whether taking an associate, bachelors, masters, or doctorate program.