How to Get a Criminology Degree

"Criminology" is a term that refers to the study of crime and its corresponding traits, criminals, criminal behavior or effect on society. This course of study is not synonymous with forensic science, as is often depicted on television. People often misconstrue the reality of the actual field of study due to overexposure in the media. Obtaining a criminology degree requires some time, energy, and great effort.

Things You'll Need

• High school diploma Bachelor's degree

Instructions

1. Graduate from high school. Many experts regard criminology as a discipline, which requires a high level of math and science ability and time spent in related classes. It is unusual for someone with only a general equivalency diploma (GED) to then get a full-fledged criminology degree.

2. Attend community college or a seminar. If you lack basic science and math skills, attend a community college that specializes in remedial coursework. Give yourself time to catch up if you really want to get a criminology degree. To get a more realistic idea of what a criminology degree may require, visit a college counselor or attend a seminar. Colleges that offer criminology degrees will have plenty to say about future benefits and potential job opportunities for students in this field.

3. Study your sciences and develop a vigorous physical regime. High schools often try to facilitate job training early on. Representatives from colleges that offer criminology degrees want students who are well-versed in basic science and math classes and are physically adept, too. Courses in biology, psychology, statistics and physical education are just a few mainstays in getting a criminology degree.

4. Get a bachelor's degree and consider additional education. Most universities across the country have different types of criminology programs. Each of these programs may focus on different facets of the subject matter. Some colleges centralize study on victimology, for example. Others may focus on law enforcement or forensic aspects. It may be a good idea to further your education. Consider attending a graduate program or law school after college graduation.

5. Obtain applicable job experience if you can. Many people who want to get criminology degrees have relevant job training, such as a military background. Contact the U.S. Army Garrison in Fort McClellan, Ala., for information about police or military criminology training.

Tips & Warnings

• FAFSA is an acronym for Free Application for Student Aid. College is expensive, so apply for federal college aid if you can.

• Criminology is not glamorous. Try not to get desensitized to violence as well. It is too easy to simply regard those who have been victimized as "case studies."

References

• American Society of Criminology
• Federal Bureau of Investigation
• U.S. Department of Justice

Resources

• Criminology and Criminal Justice Research