What’s the Role of a Criminologist? Earn Your Criminal Justice Degree Online
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The field of crime analysis and intervention is going through some changes that are driven by extensive research and the advancement of technological innovation. These advancements are transforming how we understand, predict and prevent criminal activity. For those interested in the prospect of contributing to safer communities, a degree in criminology can be an excellent way to start. Anna Maria College offers both an online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Criminal Justice and online Master of Science (M.S.) in Criminal Justice which provide students with the solid foundation to work in the justice system.
The B.S. in Criminal Justice online program’s Criminology course helps students study different theories explaining crime and criminal behavior. Students analyze patterns of criminal offenses and categorize crimes, exploring the practical implications for crime prevention and intervention at local, national and international levels. The M.S. in Criminal Justice online program’s Criminological Thought course helps students explore theories of crime and critically evaluate them based on common sense, logic, evidence, their potential for informing policy and their compatibility with other theories.
The Multifaceted World of a Criminologist
Criminologists are the detectives of the social science world, according to Indeed. They investigate the “why” behind criminal activity, analyzing crime patterns, causes and consequences. Their work includes a wide range of activities including research, teaching and training, policy development and consultation.
There are a few important attributes that define successful criminologists. These include skills in the following areas:
- Analytics: The ability to analyze complex data sets, identify patterns and draw meaningful conclusions is important for criminologists.
- Research: Conducting thorough research, using appropriate methodologies and effectively communicating findings are other parts of the job.
- Critical thinking: The ability to critically evaluate different criminological theories and develop sound arguments is the foundation of criminology.
- Communication: Criminologists need to effectively communicate their research findings to a wide range of audiences, from policymakers to the general public.
- Problem-solving: Identifying the root cause of crime and developing solutions to complex social problems are central to the work of a criminologist.
Understanding the Roots of Crime
The field of criminology is built on a collection of sociological theories that attempt to explain the causes of crime. Some of the most prominent theories include:
- Strain Theory: This theory states that crime is a response to the strain caused by the gap between an individual’s aspirations and their ability to achieve them. When individuals feel blocked from achieving their goals through legitimate means, such as education or employment, they may resort to criminal activity as an alternative.
- Social Disorganization Theory: This theory suggests that crime is more prevalent in communities characterized by a lack of social control, cohesion and economic opportunity. These conditions can leave people more susceptible to criminal influences.
- Cultural Transmission Theory: Emerging in the early 20th century, this theory proposed that criminal behavior can be passed down within families and communities, much like a tradition. This theory suggested that certain neighborhoods develop shared beliefs and values that normalize and even encourage criminal activity, leading to a cycle of crime across generations.
- Labeling Theory: Developed in the 1960s, this theory suggests that how society labels individuals can significantly influence their behavior. For instance, constantly referring to someone as a “criminal” can lead to negative treatment and ultimately reinforce that label. This theory has been linked to concerns about racial profiling in law enforcement, where certain groups may be disproportionately targeted and labeled as criminals.
A Day in the Life of a Criminologist
Indeed notes that the daily routine of a criminologist can vary dramatically depending on their specific role, employer and research focus. A possible day in the life of a criminologist working in academia can include reading, research, departmental meetings, meeting with students, meeting with colleagues and data analysis for a project. Criminologists’ specific duties and work environments might depend on the degree they hold, the organization they work for and the location they’re in. Still, those with an advanced degree in criminal justice are prepared for success in this space.
For criminologists who work outside of academia, their day can also include research and analysis, as well as accompanying detectives to crime scenes. Criminologists working in law enforcement agencies, government organizations or private consulting firms may have very different daily schedules. The field of criminology offers a rewarding career to those interested in understanding and addressing the complexities of crime, and graduates of both the B.S. and M.S. in Criminal Justice online programs from Anna Maria College are equipped with work-relevant, foundational knowledge to start or boost a career in this space.
Learn more about Anna Maria College’s B.S. in Criminal Justice and M.S. in Criminal Justice online programs.