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Criminology, B.A.

Study Lawmaking, Lawbreaking and the Social Responses to Crime

Graduates have careers such as:

Crime analysis involves systematic analysis of patterns and trends in crime and disorder. This information aids police agencies in effective deployment of resources, and the identification and apprehension of suspects.

Victim assistance specialists are responsible for supporting victims through the prosecution of a criminal case and facilitating their participation in the criminal justice process.

Occupational health and safety specialists inspect workplaces for adherence to regulations on safety, health and the environment. they collect data and analyze work environment and work procedures.

The role of the lawyers is to guide their clients through the judicial system. They may help them reach a settlement in a case, in full respect of the laws in effect.

Learn To

Use basic theoretical ideas to better understand a sociological or criminological issue

Demonstrate knowledge of basic methodological approaches used by social scientists

Present a clear and well-written analysis of criminological or sociological issues

Demonstrate critical thinking skills

“ It is funny how much knowledge from UNCW that I actually use every day. ”
Tyler McCarty, B.A. '14, M.A. '16 U.S. Department of Justice
Criminology, B.A. Program Overview

Fascinating Subject Matter

While the criminal justice system includes the police, courts and corrections, our research and teaching explore the broader social context within which the criminal justice system exists.

The justice system has developed into a major social institution in modern American society. It consists of over 60,000 local, state and federal agencies with nearly 2 million employees at an annual cost of more than $145 billion.

Choose Your Degree Program

This program offers two pathways to degree completion.

  1. One is designed for main-campus students who are pursuing a bachelor's degree in criminology.
  2. The other is offered in an online, traditional format for students wishing to complete their degree outside the traditional classroom.

Online and main campus programs share the same faculty, with online classes including a mix of online and main campus students, leading to an engaging and challenging learning environment. Although not required, students in the online program have typically earned an associate’s degree, or similar number of credits, prior to enrolling.

Choose Your Concentration

Students can select from three concentrations:

  • Criminology
  • Criminal justice
  • Public criminology

Depending on the concentration you select, your core courses will include Introduction to Criminal Justice, Introduction to Sociology, Criminology, Methods of Social Research, Data Analysis, Criminological Theory and a senior seminar.

In addition, you can choose from among a host of electives such as Victimology, White Collar Crime, Collective Violence, Restorative Justice, Racialization and the Criminal Justice System, Police in Society, Criminal Courts and Corrections.

Abundant Career Opportunities

The criminology program at UNCW will provide you with a strong social science foundation.

You will be prepared to directly enter the profession in fields such as corrections, probation and parole, police services or continue onto graduate school and law school.

The rigorous curriculum will empower you with a deep understanding of crime, justice and American society.

Practicum

You will be encouraged to complete a practicum (internship) in a criminal justice agency.

Field placements may include the local police and sheriff's departments, the district attorney's office, probation and parole, juvenile services, the State Bureau of Investigation and the Center for Missing Persons.

Junior- and senior-level students may enroll in the practicum program.

Student using ipad

Sample Courses

Table lists sample courses for this program
CRM 110 Crime and Justice Issues
CRM 250 Crime in the Cape Fear
CRM 310 White Collar Crime
CRM 315 Victimology
CRM 377 Restorative Justice
CRM 420 Collective Violence
CRM 460 Crime and Public Policy
See The Full Curriculum

How Do I Major in Criminology?

For more information about our undergraduate programs, please contact Dr. Shannon Santana.

 

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