Doctorate in criminology program guide

Introduction to criminology

A doctorate in criminology is the highest level of education you can obtain in this field. These programs typically attract those who want to pursue research into an aspect of crime. The field can be approached from many different angles. These include victimology, the role of corrections and rehabilitation, criminal behavior, ethics, community relations, and prejudice in the system.

As this is a terminal degree, it’s common for students to already have some experience in a related field. That could be through a master’s degree, internships, a job in law enforcement or the justice system. Holders of this degree are equipped to enter the workforce. They typically seek senior roles where their expertise and leadership skills can be utilized.

The nature of this work prepares students to continue careers in academia as researchers, professors, and lecturers, as well as in positions in policy-making organizations.

The majority of criminology Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) programs involve considerable research. You also need to complete a dissertation. The nature of this work prepares students to continue careers in academia as researchers, professors, and lecturers, as well as in positions in policy-making organizations.

Some graduate programs admit students without a master’s degree in the subject. In this case, they will complete additional coursework and submit a thesis to earn their master of arts (M.A.) in criminology while en-route to their Ph.D. It’s a multidisciplinary subject, so the titles and content of the programs often expand beyond criminology. You’ll usually find degrees that include law, criminal justice, society, and psychology.

Admission requirements

Typically, you’ll need to supply the official transcripts of your previous degrees. In most cases, that will mean your undergraduate and graduate certificates. Some programs allow you to complete an integrated master’s, which means you’ll only need your transcripts for your bachelor’s degree. Generally, they’ll need to demonstrate at least a 3.0 GPA.

Alongside your transcripts, you’ll need to submit your graduate record examinations (GRE) scores. As part of your online application, you’ll be required to submit supporting documents. These could include an academic writing sample, such as a chapter of your master’s thesis and a statement of professional and academic goals.

Other requirements include 3 letters of recommendation, ideally from academic sources, and a resume. If English isn’t your first language, you’ll need to provide proof of proficiency. That could be a Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an International English Language Testing Systems (IELTS) certificate.

Studying criminology online vs. on campus

Most criminology Ph.D. programs are taught in person at the university campus. Typically, programs only admit students on a full-time basis, although there are exceptions that accommodate part-time study. The primary reason for this is that many doctorate students take on graduate assistantships. They usually require around 20 hours of teaching or research commitment each week.

Doctorate degrees in criminology usually require considerable amounts of research, which require students to work with faculty members, attend research centers, and access materials from the campus library. For this reason, it’s common for courses to be taught in person. There are some online Ph.D. programs in criminology; most often, they’re offered by schools that specialize in online education.

Due to graduate assistantships, it’s not usual for students to balance their studies around other full-time work. However, upon graduation, students will generally have gained research and teaching experience, as well as the skills and knowledge necessary to enter the workforce at a more senior level.

Financial support

Begin your search for financial aid to support your doctorate program at the financial office of your chosen school and on the Federal Student Aid website.

Ph.D. level studies have many extensive scholarships available. To find out what specific Ph.D. scholarships a particular institution has, contact the finance office of that institution. Some doctoral positions may feature teaching positions or research positions after or even during the doctorate degree. These are often program-specific. In each of these cases, it is best to apply early. Grants are also a great way to cover degree costs in part, and it may be possible to receive multiple grants. It is a good idea to search for grants on both a state and federal level.

Possible criminology specializations

Race and justice studies

This specialization often involves a mentorship with faculty, including workshops, discussions, and presentations that focus on inclusive excellence. Students complete coursework with cross-department perspectives on critical studies of race, law, and crime before completing their own research and paper.

Juvenile justice issues

An emphasis in this area explores delinquency and criminal behavior. Students will also explore historical, legal, social, and philosophical points when it comes to legal rights and the system’s approach to juveniles.

Law and social science

As a specialization, this area covers social aspects from anthropology and education, including human behavior. You might also explore community perceptions of crime and law enforcement, as well as social contract theory and ethics.

Accreditation

Choosing an accredited Ph.D. program is essential for a number of reasons. The accreditation process of a course or program usually involves peer review and evaluation of a program, including teaching methods, support resources, student experience, and the financial stability of a school. When you choose a university with accreditation, it means you can expect it to meet certain quality standards.

When you choose a university with accreditation, it means you can expect it to meet certain quality standards.

Another reason that we recommend checking for accreditation is that your degree and credits are more likely to be recognized and valued by other institutions and employers. Although your Ph.D. is a terminal degree, it’s likely that you’ll pursue positions in academia. In that case, a degree from an accredited institution is more likely to make you a strong candidate.

Since there isn’t an accrediting agency for criminology degrees, we suggest you look for general or regional accreditation commissions. One example is the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), which provides general evaluation for schools and their programs.

Career options with a doctorate in criminology

A Ph.D. in criminology can open up many opportunities for you. You might wish to continue in your career in corrections, law enforcement, or elsewhere in the justice system but obtain a more senior role.

Universities need professors at undergraduate and graduate levels to pass on knowledge and experience to criminology students.

Typically, the most common path is teaching. Universities need professors at undergraduate and graduate levels to pass on knowledge and experience to criminology students. Those who have completed a teaching assistantship will already have gained some experience in this field.

Others choose to remain in academia or work for private institutes with a focus on research. In this case, statistical analysis, consideration of criminological theories, and specialization in a particular area will all help the candidate to progress. This path is suited to those who want to contribute to our wider understanding of criminology.

Roles with government organizations and independent agencies require you to develop and implement policies regarding law, communication, and justice.

Another area where graduates can have a significant impact and use their expertise is in policymaking. Roles with government organizations and independent agencies require you to develop and implement policies regarding law, communication, and justice.