Criminologist
How to Become a Criminologist
A criminologist uses psychology, statistics, and social patterns to analyze criminal activity and predict and prevent occurrences of crime. Criminologists are skilled in criminal profiling and evaluating the ways in which various law enforcement methods affect crime rates. Criminologists may conduct research in jails, prisons, courts, neighborhoods, and at crime scenes. They often share their findings with others by publishing books and reports, or by teaching in universities.
Criminologist Education Requirements
A career in criminology requires earning a bachelor’s degree in a subject such as criminology, psychology, sociology or criminal justice. Electives focusing on statistics, computer science, writing, and logic would also be useful. Practical criminology experience can be acquired by working in a related area of criminal justice as an intern or on a part-time basis.
It is common for criminologists to go on to study this behavioral science at the graduate level. If you plan to teach college students criminology, a doctorate in criminology, sociology or psychology is required.
Some states require criminologists to take a written test as a licensing requirement. New hires can also expect a complete background check.
Job Outlook for Criminologists
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, new criminologist hires can expect a starting salary of about $30,000 per year. Entry level positions are usually focused around office work. Both salary and work responsibility will increase with education and experience. Criminologists who have earned their master’s degree can expect a starting salary of $50,000 and are eligible to be hired at the federal, state, and local level. Doctorate degree holders have been known to earn salaries that are well into six figures.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-2009 Edition
