How to Find a Job As a Criminologist

A degree is the first step to finding a criminologist job.

A criminologist analyzes crimes to find patterns. It is a career field that requires years of education and training, and the ability to discern similarities between crimes and criminals. To find work as a criminologist, you need to have a quick mind, strong analytical ability and the willingness to look deep inside the minds of some of the most horrific criminals in the world.

Instructions

1. Complete your education. Most criminologists have at least a Master's degree, in criminology or a dual degree in psychology and criminal justice. Courses that you can expect to take include victimology, criminology, behavioral psychology, statistics and research methods.

2. Find an internship. To find a job as a criminologist, you first need some experience; an internship is the best way to get it. Many colleges offer internship programs with local law enforcement or community agencies that hire criminologists. Most criminologists work with local, state or federal law enforcement agencies, and this is most likely to be where you are offered an internship. Take full advantage of the opportunity to build connections in the field and to learn as much as possible.

3. Build a resume. A strong resume will make you a more attractive hire, and can help you to get interviews with potential employers. Include any relative coursework and experience you have, including the internship. Any outside experience or interests, such as community work or computer proficiency, should also be included.

4. Research job opportunities. Some law enforcement agencies will only hire criminologists from their current base of employees, while others will hire criminologists at the entry level. You may also find work corrections, security, juvenile or community programs, social work and consulting. You might be able to find work locally, or you might have to relocate to find the job you are hoping for.

5. Send in applications, cover letters and your resume to the companies or agencies you wish to work for. Make sure anything you send in is of the highest quality possible; first impressions are important. If you have not heard anything within a week or two of when you sent your resume in, call. Showing interest in the job, and talking to the person in charge of hiring, may make you stand out from other applicants. Set up interviews, if possible.

6. Arrive at interviews several minutes early. This will give you a chance to observe the agency, and the people working there, as well as giving you a chance to get a feel for the work environment. Try to relax and make a favorable impression during the interview. Ask any questions you may have, and remember to thank your interviewer before you leave. If you are knowledgeable about criminology and it's applications, if you have some relevant prior experience and if you can perform strongly during the interview, you have a very good chance of finding a job as a criminologist.

References

• UniXL: Criminology Jobs
• Princeton Review: Criminologist
• North Carolina State University: What Can I Do with a Major in Criminology