The online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Criminology program from Northwest Missouri State University enables students to pursue a range of fascinating and worthwhile career options. Graduates can work in various fields and settings, from law enforcement agencies and prisons to universities and advocacy organizations. Plus, criminology careers usually provide job security along with great benefits.
Make the World a Better Place
Beyond enjoying the practical benefits, criminology professionals have the opportunity to improve their communities. Some choose to pursue a degree in criminology because of the level of job satisfaction. Although it can be time-consuming and sometimes even dangerous, a career in this field can be quite rewarding as invested criminology professionals can make a difference in the communities they care about.
Getting a Degree in Criminology
A criminology degree is ideal for anyone interested in law enforcement, the study of criminal behavior, effective evidence-based policy, advocacy and social justice. Students will gain the insight needed to interact with and understand individuals exhibiting deviant behavior, create policies and procedures to prevent crime, and work compassionately with survivors of crime.
Not to be confused with criminal justice, criminology focuses more on the academic study of criminal behavior, victimology and the criminal justice system. Criminology examines crime to understand how best to address and eliminate criminal behavior, while criminal justice focuses on how to work within the criminal justice system as law enforcement.
Types of Jobs Available
While some entry-level jobs may not require a degree, having one sets professionals apart from the other candidates, enabling them to move up in the field. For those interested in earning a criminology degree, here are a few of the many potential jobs that graduates can pursue, according to Indeed:
- Loss prevention officer: Loss prevention officers specialize in theft prevention. Retail businesses hire them to deter and detain shoplifters by patrolling stores and implementing preventative measures.
- Private investigator: People hire private investigators to research a specific crime, working independently from police. These jobs typically call for additional licensing.
- Correctional officer: Correctional officers enforce rules and regulations within a prison. They engage with the incarcerated individuals, supervise activities, resolve conflicts and support rehabilitation efforts.
- Jury consultant: Jury consultants aid in juror selection for court cases, conducting interviews and background research to ensure potential jurors can be unbiased in their decisions and verdicts.
- Probation officer: Probation officers support formerly incarcerated individuals in the process of reentering society. This includes devising recommended rehabilitation plans, checking individual progress, monitoring for parole violations and contacting the court if necessary.
- Forensic scientist: Forensic scientists examine crime scenes for evidence to support criminal investigations. Criminology majors may be able to study forensic science while in undergrad. Becoming a forensic scientist may also require an additional degree.
- Criminology professor: Professors of criminology teach college students about criminal psychology, sociology and law. Teaching in higher education typically calls for a graduate degree.
- Criminal profiler: Criminal profilers use criminal psychology to predict the activities of perpetrators of crime. They also analyze the behavior of specific criminals, aiding in their capture. Jobs in this field may require a graduate degree in psychology.
Education Can Lead to Reform
Another advantage to obtaining a criminology degree is the ability to become an agent of positive change for law enforcement. For example, research suggests that police officers with an undergraduate education are less likely to be involved in police shootings and other serious misconduct. With such a clear benefit, more agencies may require an undergraduate degree that includes courses in psychology and sociology in order to develop the tools necessary to build strong relationships with a community.
With crime impacting almost every aspect of our society, law enforcement will always be essential. Improving criminal justice practices is critical to building trust and respect between law enforcement and the community, resulting in constructive outcomes. Therefore, getting a degree in criminology can lay the foundation for a successful and meaningful career.
Learn more about Northwest’s online B.S. in Criminology program.
