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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Criminologists.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Criminologists.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 11%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Design and create special programs for tasks such as statistical analysis and data entry and cleaning.
Prepare tables, graphs, fact sheets, and written reports summarizing research results.
Provide assistance with the preparation of project-related reports, manuscripts, and presentations.
Pursuing a career in criminology can be both fascinating and rewarding. As a criminologist, you'll study the causes, consequences, and control of criminal behavior. If you have a keen interest in understanding crime and the criminal justice system, here's how you can become a criminologist.
Becoming a criminologist requires dedication, education, and a passion for understanding the social aspects of crime. By following these steps, you can prepare yourself for a successful career in this challenging and insightful field.
To pursue a career in criminology, you typically need at least a bachelor's degree in criminology, criminal justice, sociology, psychology, or a related field. Many criminologists opt to further their education by obtaining master's or doctoral degrees, which can be essential for advanced positions in research or academia.
Publishing findings in academic journals or presenting them at conferences.
Yes, some criminologists work directly in the field. This could involve:
The demand for criminologists can vary depending on geographical location, government policies, and current social issues. However, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) groups criminologists under sociologists and projects employment to grow about as fast as average. For the most current job outlook information, visit BLS.
Criminologists can advance their careers by:
While certifications are not always required, they can enhance a criminologist’s qualifications. Specializations can include:
Professional organizations such as the American Society of Criminology offer resources and networking opportunities for those looking to specialize.
Criminologists are employed by a variety of organizations, including:
To start your career as a criminologist:
Yes, there are opportunities to work internationally in various capacities such as:
Keep in mind that working internationally may require additional language skills or cultural competencies.