Bachelor of Arts in Criminology

While the criminal justice system includes the police, courts and corrections, our research and teaching explore the broader social context within which the criminal justice system exists.

The justice system has developed into a major social institution in modern American society. It consists of over 60,000 local, state and federal agencies with nearly 2 million employees at an annual cost of more than $145 billion.

Choose Your Degree Program

This program offers two pathways to degree completion. One is designed for main-campus students who are pursuing a bachelor's degree in criminology. The other is offered in an online, traditional format for students wishing to complete their degree online. Online and main campus programs share the same faculty, with online classes including a mix of online and main campus students, leading to an engaging and challenging learning environment. Although not required, students in the online program have typically earned an Associate rsquo;s degree, or similar number of credits, prior to enrolling.

Choose Your Concentration

Depending on the concentration selected, Criminology, Criminal Justice, or Public Criminology, core courses include Introduction to Criminal Justice, Introduction to Sociology, Criminology, Methods of Social Research, Data Analysis, Criminological Theory, and a Senior Seminar.

In addition, students choose from among a host of electives such as Victimology, White Collar Crime, Collective Violence, Restorative Justice, Racialization and the Criminal Justice System, Police in Society, Criminal Courts, and Corrections.

ABUNDANT CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

The criminology program at UNCW will provide you with a strong social science foundation.

Graduates are prepared to directly enter the profession in fields such as corrections, probation and parole, police services or to continue to graduate school and law school.

The rigorous curriculum empowers students with a deep understanding of crime and justice as well as an appreciation of American society and its diversity.

Practicum

Students are encouraged to complete a practicum (internship) in a criminal justice agency.

Field placements may include the local police and sheriff's departments, the District Attorney's office, Probation and Parole, Juvenile Services, the State Bureau of Investigation, and the Center for Missing Persons.

Junior and senior-level students may enroll in the practicum program.