A criminology degree is an academic degree earned by completing undergraduate or graduate-level coursework in criminology. Criminology is the scientific study of the nature, extent, causes, and control of criminal behavior.
Criminology degrees typically entail coursework in criminal justice, sociology, psychology, and research methods. Students in a criminology program learn about the causes of crime, the criminal justice system, and how to research criminal behavior.
This post will discuss the various careers you can pursue as a degree holder in criminology. They include:
- Detective
A detective is a law enforcement officer who investigates crimes and collects evidence. Detectives usually work for police departments, but some may work for private companies or organizations. They use various methods to solve crimes, including interviews, surveillance, and forensics.
Many people find the work of a detective to be fulfilling. It can be exciting and challenging and make a difference in the community.
- Community development worker
Community development workers help people in local communities to work together to improve their lives. They are often associated with projects such as setting up community gardens, organizing events, or running programs to help people develop new skills.
A degree in criminology can help a community development worker understand the root causes of crime and develop strategies to prevent it. They may also be able to work with ex-offenders and help them to reintegrate into the community.
- Crime scene investigator
A crime scene investigator is responsible for investigating crimes and collecting evidence. They are also responsible for interviewing witnesses and suspects and conducting experiments to recreate the crime.
The work of a crime scene investigator can be very fulfilling, as it allows you to help solve crimes and deliver justice to victims and their families. There are many different work areas that you can specialize in as a crime scene investigator, such as fingerprints, ballistics, or bloodstain pattern analysis.
- Civil Service Administrator
A civil service administrator is responsible for the daily operations of a government agency. They are in charge of developing policies and procedures, overseeing budgets and personnel, and representing the agency to the public.
A degree in criminology helps civil service administrators by providing them with a better understanding of the criminal justice system. This knowledge can be useful in developing policies and procedures that are more effective in preventing and responding to crime.
- Paralegal
The work of a paralegal is to assist lawyers in research, document preparation, and case management. A degree in criminology can help a paralegal by giving them a better comprehension of the justice system. This knowledge can help win cases in court.
- Police officer
The primary work of a police officer is to protect citizens and maintain order. Also, part of their job description is responding to emergency calls, investigating crimes, making arrests, patrolling their beat, and most importantly, writing reports and testifying in court. A degree in criminology will help the officer better understand a criminal’s mindset and thus help prevent crime before it occurs.
Wrapping up
Careers in this profession are diverse and can be found in government, private, for-profit, and non-profit sectors. A degree in criminology will amplify your understanding of the law and the entire justice system, thus allowing graduates to make an impact in the greater community.
Finally, if you are a police officer, consider this degree to elevate your career and help mitigate social problems in your community.
