Criminology Concentration in Criminal Justice
A criminology concentration focuses on a defined area within criminal justice. It typically builds on the program core and adds courses that deepen subject knowledge and applied skills.
Quick Answers
What is a criminology concentration in criminal justice?
A criminology concentration is a focused set of courses within a criminal justice program that emphasizes this subject area.
What do you typically study in this concentration?
Coursework varies by school, but most programs cover core concepts, applied methods, and domain-specific tools related to criminology.
Is this concentration available online?
Many schools offer this concentration online, but availability depends on degree level and start-term scheduling.
Back to Criminal Justice Concentrations
At a Glance
- Focus area: Theories of criminal behavior, social causes of crime, and policy analysis
- Key career: Detectives and Criminal Investigators – $93,580 median salary (BLS, May 2024)
- Related career: Probation Officers – $64,520 median salary (BLS, May 2024)
- Research focus: Crime patterns, prevention strategies, and justice policy evaluation
- Degree levels: Available as bachelor’s concentration or graduate specialization
For an overview of all degree paths, see the Criminal Justice Program Guide.
What you typically study
| Course Topic | What You Learn |
|---|---|
| Criminological Theory | Classical, biological, sociological, and critical theories of crime |
| Crime Analysis | Data collection, pattern analysis, and crime mapping techniques |
| Social Justice and Inequality | Systemic disparities in the criminal justice system |
| Research Methods in Criminology | Quantitative and qualitative research design for crime studies |
| Crime Prevention Strategies | Evidence-based prevention, deterrence, and intervention programs |
| Victimology | Study of victimization patterns, impacts, and support systems |
Questions to ask before choosing this concentration
- How many courses are required versus elective options?
- Are there prerequisite courses for this track?
- Does the concentration include a capstone or applied project?
- Is the concentration available online and in your desired term?
How criminal justice concentrations compare
| Concentration | Key Career | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections | Correctional Officers | $57,970 | -7.8% |
| Courts | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $61,010 | +0.2% |
| Criminology | Detectives and Criminal Investigators | $93,580 | -0.7% |
| Forensic Science | Forensic Science Technicians | $67,440 | +12.8% |
| Homeland Security | Information Security Analysts | $124,910 | +28.5% |
| Law Enforcement | Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers | $76,290 | +3.1% |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024.