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College of Arts & Sciences

Criminology

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Why pursue a criminology degree at North Central College?

Criminology is the study of crime and criminal behaviors. Students majoring in Criminology will learn theories of criminal behavior related to understanding why people commit crime, potential prevention methods, and where and against whom crimes are most frequently committed.

Students will develop an accurate sense of the historical developments of discipline—exploring the evolution of the justice system and lessons society has learned over time.

The program is designed to provide a comprehensive analysis of the complexities of the criminal justice system. Students will assess the impact of legislation, examine the disconnect between research and practice, and evaluate the inequities that permeate the justice system.

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN

  • Exploring the biological, psychological and social causes of criminal behavior
  • Examining the impact of our justice system
  • Assessing formal and informal responses to crime

then a degree in Criminology might be for you.

Why study criminology at North Central College?

In the Classroom

Coursework topics:

  • Community & City Life
  • Community Psychology
  • Crime, Law and Society
  • Criminal Justice System
  • Drugs and Behavior
  • Gender: Patterns/Privileges/ Possibilities
  • Intersections of Crime
  • Law and Order in Cross-Cultural Perspective
  • Law, Politics, and Society
  • Policing & Corrections
  • Power-Based Personal Violence
  • Race/Ethnicity: Conflict & Change
  • Social Class: Get Ahead/Fall Behind
  • Rights, Liberties, and Justice
  • Youth Justice, Crime, & Law

Campus Virtual Tour

Beyond the Classroom

As a criminology major, you can:

  • Conduct undergraduate research and present your findings at the College’s Rall Symposium for Undergraduate Research
  • Network with industry experts and complete competitive internships
  • Join the North Central Criminal Justice Association student organization
  • Take your education abroad in one of our many study abroad programs
  • Enroll in Chicago Term to experience living in the city while taking courses from North Central professors

More Department information

Criminology, B.A.

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Criminology introduces students to theories of criminal behavior, provides an accurate sense of the historical developments of the discipline, and assures that students acquire a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of the criminal justice system while exposing them to current justice, legal and sociological issues. Students will explore both practical and theoretical concerns regarding crime and justice. The program focuses on the scientific research and evaluation processes that generate evidence to support improved practice in the field, to address the underlying structural components of crime and criminality and to bolster the criminal justice process. Students can enhance their studies with an additional major or minor; a study abroad or Chicago term; and/or an internship. Graduates can pursue professional opportunities and careers in social services, law and courts, corrections, juvenile justice, policing, intelligence and the private sector; and will also be competitive for graduate study.

A minimum of 38 credit hours to include:

Core Courses

Elective Courses

A minimum of 12 credit hours from the following with at least eight credit hours at the 300-level or higher:

Capstone

Four credit hours from one of the following:

Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the B.A. Degree Requirements within the Academic Regulations section of this catalog.

Criminology Minor

Students minoring in criminology take a range of courses that explore the social, political and economic influences that shape crime and punishment. The minor in Criminology provides a foundation for students seeking to supplement their major area of study.

A minimum of 20 credits, including:

Core Courses

Electives

Eight credit hours, with at least four credit hours at the 300-level or above. Four credits may be taken in disciplines outside of SOCI/CRIM/ANTH.

Graduates work in a number of industries, including:

  • Social Services
  • Courts
  • Policing
  • Institutional Corrections
  • Community Corrections
  • Juvenile Justice
  • Intelligence
  • Private Sector
  • Legislative Offices
  • Law Offices
  • Students are also well-prepared for law school and graduate school

Invest in your future

Choosing the right college is a big decision. Don’t make it alone. North Central’s admission and financial aid team is here to help you design a financial aid solution that works best for you and your family.

Merit scholarships, grants, loans, campus employment - these are just some of the resources available to you. Over 95 percent of students and 100 percent of all eligible students receive aid. Let our team partner with you in finding the best value for your education.

Learn more about financial aid and costs for North Central College

Apply to North Central College

The first step to becoming a North Central student is reading the application instructions specific to you. Find out everything you need to know about applying by selecting the group you belong to below.

Criminology Student Profile

Dakota Drew '24

Meet Dakota Drew, a first-generation student at North Central College. Coming from San Antonio, Texas, she's not just pursuing a degree in criminology and sociology but also breaking barriers by participating in ROTC and women's wrestling. Awarded a three-year Army ROTC Scholarship in 2022, covering tuition and fees, Drew thrives in both realms. In her second year on the wrestling team, she took second place in her weight class at the CCIW Championships and earned a spot on the Academic All-CCIW Team. Discover how her military training enhances her leadership and critical thinking skills.

Dakota Drew