Criminology
The Criminology Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of crime, criminal behavior, and the criminal justice system. The curriculum integrates sociology, psychology, law, criminological theory, and research methods, enabling students to examine the causes, consequences, and prevention of crime in diverse social contexts. Students engage in empirical research, data analysis, and case studies, developing the skills necessary to analyze patterns of criminal behavior, evaluate policy interventions, and apply evidence-based strategies in justice systems.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, fieldwork, and applied research guided by faculty experts in criminology, law enforcement, and social policy. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and ethical decision-making, allowing graduates to understand complex social problems and propose solutions that enhance public safety and social justice. Students leave the program with research proficiency, analytical insight, ethical awareness, and critical thinking skills, fully prepared for professional roles or advanced study in criminology, law, public policy, or related fields.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Criminology
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Criminology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Criminology
- Introduction to Criminology and Criminal Justice
- Sociology and Social Theory
- Psychology and Human Behavior
- Research Methods and Data Analysis
Year 2 – Intermediate Study in Crime and Justice
- Criminological Theory and Crime Causation
- Criminal Law and Legal Systems
- Quantitative Methods for Criminology
- Policing, Corrections, and Community Justice
Year 3 – Advanced Criminology and Applied Research
- Juvenile Justice and Delinquency
- Comparative and International Criminology
- Applied Criminological Research
- Electives: Forensic Science, Victimology, or Cybercrime
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in Contemporary Criminological Issues
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Fieldwork in Criminal Justice
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Criminology program are prepared for careers in law enforcement, criminal justice administration, policy analysis, research institutions, corrections, and public safety organizations. Alumni may work as crime analysts, policy advisors, probation officers, forensic researchers, or pursue graduate studies in criminology, law, public policy, or social sciences. The program equips graduates to analyze criminal behavior, evaluate policy impacts, and develop interventions that enhance social safety and justice. With strong analytical, research, and ethical reasoning skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments addressing complex issues in crime and justice.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of criminological theory, research methodology, policy analysis, and applied practice within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, fieldwork opportunities, and hands-on projects that connect theoretical knowledge with real-world criminal justice challenges. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and interdisciplinary problem-solving, preparing graduates to analyze complex social issues, design effective interventions, and contribute meaningfully to justice systems. For students passionate about understanding crime, shaping public policy, and applying research to societal challenges, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-focused pathway to professional and academic success.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
