Best Schools for Criminology in the US

Are you passionate about delving into the complex world of crime and justice, and eager to shape a career in criminology? If you're facing the challenge of finding the right educational path, you're not alone. Discover how choosing the right criminology school in the U.S. can open doors to unparalleled learning experiences, from prestigious academia to practical, career-enhancing opportunities.

Criminology is a field that attracts individuals with a passion for understanding and addressing issues related to criminal behavior. Pursuing a Criminal Justice and Criminology degree equips students with analytical skills, knowledge of legal frameworks, and insights into the social dynamics shaping crime and justice.

Choosing the best schools for criminology and criminal justice is crucial for obtaining a quality education and setting the foundation for a successful career in law enforcement, criminal justice, or related fields. Below, we explore some of the top-ranked universities offering Criminal Justice and Criminology degrees in the United States.

What Are the Best Schools for Criminology and Criminal Justice in the US?

1. University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania’s Criminal Justice and Criminology program integrates sociology, law, and psychology. Its urban setting provides students with real-world observations and internship opportunities in a diverse metropolitan area.

Notable faculty: Adrian Raine – A criminologist specializing in the biological basis of criminal behavior.

2. University of Maryland - College Park

Location: College Park, Maryland

The Criminology and Criminal Justice program at UMD College Park is renowned for research excellence and strong ties to government agencies in the Washington, D.C. area. Students benefit from internships and networking opportunities with top criminal justice organizations.

Notable faculty: Denise Gottfredson– An expert in school violence prevention and criminological theory.

3. University of California - Irvine

UC Irvine's Department of Criminology, Law and Society offers a multidisciplinary approach to Criminal Justice and Criminology. The undergraduate program integrates liberal arts and social sciences, focusing on law, crime prevention, and social control.

Notable faculty: Elliott Currie– A criminologist known for his work on crime, justice, and inequality.

4. Florida State University

The FSU College of Criminology and Criminal Justice is one of the oldest and most respected Criminal Justice Degree programs. It emphasizes research, policy analysis, and practical experiences in the criminal justice system.

5. John Jay College of Criminal Justice (CUNY)

John Jay College is dedicated to criminal justice education. Its location in New York City provides unparalleled opportunities for internships and exposure to various facets of criminal justice.

Notable faculty: Peter Moskos – A sociologist and former Baltimore City Police Officer specializing in police culture.

6. Northeastern University

Northeastern's School of Criminology and Criminal Justice offers co-op programs, allowing students to gain hands-on experience with criminal justice agencies, law firms, and nonprofits.

Notable faculty: James Alan Fox – A criminologist and expert on mass murders and school shootings.

7. University of Cincinnati

UC's School of Criminal Justice is known for its cutting-edge research and emphasis on evidence-based practices. It collaborates with local criminal justice agencies to provide students with practical experiences.

Notable faculty: Robin Engel – An expert in policing, crime prevention, and criminal justice policy.

8. CUNY Hunter College

Hunter College's Department of Sociology offers a strong focus on criminology, emphasizing sociological perspectives on crime and justice.

Notable faculty: Victoria Bond – A sociologist expert specializing in race, crime, and justice.

9. Texas State University

Texas State's Criminal Justice program emphasizes critical thinking, research, and community engagement. The program benefits from its location near Austin, providing diverse opportunities for internships.

What are some Lesser-Known Schools for Criminology in the US?

While the top-ranked programs receive much attention, several lesser-known universities offer strong Criminal Justice and Criminology programs with practical applications and research opportunities.

1. Eastern Kentucky University

EKU's School of Justice Studies offers various programs, including Criminal Justice and Criminology, with a strong focus on applied learning and real-world experience.

2. Sam Houston State University

SHSU's College of Criminal Justice is one of the oldest and most respected in the country, emphasizing research, policy analysis, and practical experiences in the criminal justice field. Notable faculty: Phillip Lyons – A criminologist known for his work in police practices and policies.

3. University of Louisville

UofL's Department of Criminal Justice offers a range of programs, including a strong emphasis on criminological theory and empirical research.

Notable faculty: Geetha Suresh – An expert in white-collar crime and corporate crime.

4. University of South Florida

USF's Department of Criminology offers a diverse range of courses, and its faculty members are actively engaged in research, contributing to the field's advancements.

Notable faculty: Bryanna Fox – A criminologist specializing in policing and the criminal justice system.

5. California State University, Long Beach

Location: Long Beach, California

CSULB's Department of Criminal Justice offers a well-rounded curriculum with a focus on crime prevention and community engagement.

6. University of Central Florida

UCF's Department of Sociology offers a criminology track with an emphasis on critical thinking, research skills, and understanding the social causes of crime.

Notable faculty: Lorie Fridell – A criminologist specializing in police use of force and racial profiling.

7. Portland State University

PSU's Criminology and Criminal Justice program emphasizes a critical and interdisciplinary approach. The university's location provides unique perspectives on urban crime and justice.

Notable faculty: Kris Henning – A criminologist with expertise in evidence-based policing and program evaluation.

These lesser-known schools may not be as widely recognized, but they offer strong bachelor's and graduate programs in criminology, often with a focus on practical applications and research. Always explore the specific offerings, faculty expertise, and opportunities each school provides to find the best fit for your academic and career goals.

What Courses Can You Expect in a Criminology Major?

As a criminology major, you'll explore the complexities of crime, justice, and legal systems through a diverse set of courses. These classes will equip you with analytical skills, research techniques, and a deep understanding of criminal behavior. From studying the sociological and psychological factors influencing crime to analyzing criminal justice policies and law enforcement practices, your coursework will provide a well-rounded foundation for careers in law enforcement, forensic psychology, criminal justice policy, and beyond.

Here’s a look at some core and specialized courses you can expect in a Criminal Justice and Criminology degree:

• Core Courses:

  • Introduction to Criminology

  • Criminal Justice System

  • Criminal Law

  • Research Methods in Criminology

  • Criminal Justice Ethics

• Crime & Behavior Focus:

  • Psychology of Criminal Behavior

  • Sociological Theories of Crime

  • Juvenile Delinquency

  • White-Collar Crime

  • Victimology

• Law & Justice System:

  • Criminal Procedure

  • Comparative Criminal Justice

  • Corrections and Penology

  • Policing

• Emerging Topics in Criminology:

  • Cybercrime

  • Terrorism and Homeland Security

  • Gender and Crime

  • Race, Crime, and Justice

  • Forensic Psychology

  • Criminal Justice Policy

Career Paths and Alumni Success

What happens after you earn your degree?

Top criminology programs often help students land roles in:

• Federal agencies (FBI, DEA, DHS)

• Law enforcement

• Corrections and rehabilitation

• Policy and legal research

• Nonprofits and advocacy groups

Some programs boast high placement rates within six months of graduation. Alumni networks also play a crucial role in opening doors post-graduation, so don’t overlook schools with active, engaged alumni communities.

How to Choose the Best Criminology School for You

Deciding on the right school involves considering multiple factors to ensure a well-rounded education in Criminal Justice and Criminology.

Program Reputation and Accreditation – Research the rankings and faculty expertise of each program.

Internship and Research Opportunities – Look for schools with strong industry connections in criminal justice agencies.

Course Offerings – Ensure the curriculum aligns with your career goals in law enforcement, criminology, or forensic psychology.

Financial Considerations – Evaluate tuition costs, financial aid options, and scholarships.

Location and Networking – Consider proximity to law enforcement agencies, legal institutions, and government agencies.

Choosing the best schools for criminology and criminal justice is key to building a strong foundation for careers in law enforcement, forensic psychology, and criminal justice policy. Top-ranked programs like those at UPenn, UMD College Park, and FSU offer cutting-edge research, internship opportunities, and expert faculty. Meanwhile, lesser-known schools such as Eastern Kentucky University and Sam Houston State provide specialized programs with hands-on learning. When selecting a university, consider factors like program reputation, faculty expertise, internship opportunities, and financial aid to ensure the best fit for your Criminal Justice and Criminology degree.

To further enhance your criminology education, Polygence Pods offer structured mentorship, allowing students to work on independent research projects with guidance from field experts. Whether you're exploring criminological theories, criminal justice policies, or forensic science, these research opportunities help build a standout college application while developing critical skills.

Apply today to take your passion for criminal justice and criminology to the next level!