Monday, January 26, 2015

{Major Mondays: Criminology}

What is Criminology? Criminology is the study of criminal behavior and how society defines and responds to crime. Criminologists attempt to identify the causes of crimes as they occur in society and in individuals. They also study the political and social aspects of defining crime: what is a crime and who is a criminal. Criminologists also examine societal responses to crime by studying such topics as how the criminal justice system functions, the effectiveness of public policies and programs aimed at controlling crime, the portrayal of crime in the popular culture and related subjects. 

What do you do with a major in Criminology? The classes that you take as a Criminology major prepare you for a variety of opportunities. Many recent graduates are pursuing careers in corrections, juvenile justice, law enforcement and private security. You could also consider research and planning with a state or federal agency. Some students also go to Graduate school for Law, Sociology, Criminology, Criminal Justice, or Public Policy in order to work in public policy, research, teaching and law. 

What classes would you take? Your first class would be Introduction to Sociology. Some other required courses are Criminal Justice System, Research Methods and Criminology. You also get to choose most of your Criminology courses. Some of your options are White Collar Crime, Juvenile Delinquency, Homicide, Youth Gangs, Crime Analysis, Law and Society, Terrorism and Insurgency, Drugs and Individual Behavior and many, MANY more! 

Are there any recommended additional majors or minors? Some of the common majors and minors pursued in conjunction with Criminology are Sociology, Psychology, Political Science, Spanish, and Social Work. 

If you are interested in Criminology, take Introduction to Sociology (SOC 1000). It is actually a prerequisite for most Criminology courses and provides a good foundation for future courses. Also, be sure to check out their website here!

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