The Bachelor of Arts in Criminology, offered by the Department of Sociology and Criminology at St. Bonaventure, prepares students for careers and advanced studies in criminology and related fields.

Criminology studies the anatomy of a crime — its causes, consequences and costs. Criminologists develop marketable analytical skills. They collect data and analyze their findings to provide actionable information and recommendations. As part of their analysis, they consider psychological behavior, socioeconomic and economic indicators, and environmental factors.

It differs from the related field of criminal justice, which primarily prepares students for the duties of police and other security officers. Both can be the degree of choice for those pursuing careers in policing, corrections and related fields, but the study of criminology extends far beyond basic police work.

Criminology is comprehensive in nature, covering theoretical perspectives, causal factors and rehabilitative efforts. At its core, criminology is concerned with the dignity of the person, inclusiveness, and service, elements that are in keeping with this university's Franciscan values. Additionally, St. Bonaventure's well-established peer social sciences — sociology, psychology and political science — strongly complement the criminology program.

As a criminology major, you will come to understand the complex, multidimensional nature of crime:

• Offenders may be influenced by family, peers, social structure, personality traits, or some combination of these.
• Victimization, too, is examined through this prism of intricate social and personal factors
• You will consider the strengths and weaknesses of the criminal justice system, both past and present.

Criminology consistently ranks nationally as one of the most sought-after majors, and there is robust regional and national demand for bachelor's-level criminology professionals. Graduates report having little trouble finding high-paying jobs. About 20 percent go on to graduate studies, finding they qualify for a wide range of graduate programs, depending on their interest and coursework.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects job growth at 15 percent from 2012 through 2022, and that criminology will be a high-demand major through 2026.

There is no better way to study individuals, groups and society than by going out into the world around you. Learn more about experiential learning opportunities on our main Sociology & Criminology webpage.

The Department of Sociology and Criminology offers a B.A. in criminology and a minor in criminology.

Bachelor of Arts in criminology

The major in criminology prepares students for careers and advanced studies in criminology and related fields.

Degree requirements and a four-year plan for the criminology major

Criminology minor

For non-majors, the criminology minor provides a solid grounding in the fundamentals of criminology to aid in the understanding of their major fields.

Requirements for the criminology minor

Interested in sociology?

The Department of Sociology and Criminology also offers a B.A. in sociology, a minor in sociology, and a minor in human services. To learn more, visit the Sociology Program.