A criminologist is a person who studies aspects of crime that are not related to the law, such as the causes of crime, crime prevention, criminal behavior, and society’s reaction to crime. Because of the similarity in spelling, the words may be confused with criminalist, but a criminalist is an expert in evidence collection and examination. Criminology is a branch of sociology that shares a lot of similarities with psychology. Criminologists work in a variety of settings, including universities and other educational institutions, as well as government agencies at all levels, from local to federal.
There is no set path to becoming a criminologist like there is in some other fields. To begin with, many schools do not offer a criminology undergraduate degree. Criminology is widely regarded as a multidisciplinary field, and as a result, graduate programs in the field attract students from a variety of backgrounds. In these cases, you can get a bachelor’s degree in biology, computer science, criminal justice, economics, psychology, or sociology and then go on to graduate school to become a criminologist.
An undergraduate minor in criminology may be available at schools that offer an undergraduate major in criminology. Although an undergraduate degree may provide access to jobs in various areas of criminal justice, a graduate degree is required to become a criminologist in all areas of practice.
Master’s degrees may be offered as a master of science or a master of arts program in graduate schools, and the school or department of the university offering the degree may or may not include the word criminology in its title. Criminal justice, sociology, crime, law and society, and law and justice are some other terms to look for. Some universities only offer Ph.D. programs. Graduate school usually entails set courses, some electives, research, and the completion of a written report. A comprehensive examination, independent research, and a dissertation are required for the doctorate.
Aside from the degree program, you should check your state’s regulations to see if you need to take a written license exam to work as a criminologist. If you’re thinking about working for the police, keep in mind that you’ll have to pass a background check.