criminological theories thesis topics

428 Criminology Research Topics & Questions for Students

As you might already know, criminology is the study of crime. To be more precise, criminology studies crime as a social trend, including its origin, various manifestations, and its impact on society.

Criminology research influences how the police work, how society treats criminals, and how the community maintains law and order. In this article, you’ll find top criminology research topics for your inspiration. We’ll also look into the main criminology theories and research methods and explain the difference between criminology and criminal justice.

🔝 Top-10 Criminology Research Topics

🔤 what is criminology.

• 🔎 Criminology Research Methods
• 📝 Research Topics for Assignments

🦹‍♂️ Crime Research Topics

• 🚔 Topics in Law Enforcement
• 🕵️ Criminal Investigation Topics

⚖️ Criminal Law Research Topics

• 🔒 Topics to Research in Crime Prevention

🧑‍⚖️ Criminal Justice Research Topics

• 🆚 Criminology Vs Criminal Justice

❓ Criminology Topics: FAQ

🔗 references.

• Criminology as a science: criminology theories.
• The importance of eyewitness evidence.
• The issue of racial bias in the investigation.
• Crime propaganda on social media.
• The leading causes of college violence.
• The benefits of private prisons.
• The debate around gun control.
• The analysis of power abuse among police officers.
• Drunk driving and how to prevent it.
• The importance of forensic psychology in the investigation.

Criminology is the study of crime and criminal behavior, supported by the principles of sociology and other sciences, including economics, statistics, and psychology.

Criminologists study a variety of related areas, including:

• Characteristics of people who commit crimes.
• Reasons behind committing different crimes.
• Impact of crime on individuals and communities.
• Measures for preventing crimes.

Criminology Theories

Criminology theories have appeared as an attempt to answer the question, “What is criminal behavior, and what causes it?” The answer to this question affects how society responds to and prevents crime. Proposing new theories and testing existing ones is essential for criminologists to continue working toward understanding the causes of criminal behavior.

Let’s consider the most relevant criminology theories.

🔎 Research Methods Used in Criminology

There are many research methods used within criminology. Usually, they are divided into two groups: primary and secondary research methods.

Primary Research Methods in Criminology

Primary research in criminology is any type of research that you collect yourself rather than based on secondary sources, such as articles or books. Examples of primary research methods in criminology include the following:

• Surveys and questionnaires. Survey research collects information from individuals through their responses to questions. It is considered one of the most widely used research tools in criminology.
• Experiments. For experiments , researchers take large samples of people who might become or have already been involved in crimes as victims or offenders. Then, they divide these samples into two groups, each receiving a different treatment.
• Interviews. An interview requires participants to answer a set of open-ended questions, often on sensitive topics, such as victimization or criminal behaviors. This method allows criminologists to gain more valuable insights into the research topic.
• Focus groups. A focus group is a small number of demographically similar people gathered to discuss a particular crime-related topic. This method allows criminologists to analyze people’s views, attitudes, and perceptions concerning crime.
• Observations. Observations involve a researcher studying groups or individuals in their natural setting without interfering. It is a common research method within the social learning theory.

Secondary Criminology Research Methods

Secondary research methods use information that was collected by someone else so that you can analyze it and identify the trends. Here are the two leading types of secondary research in criminology:

• Secondary analysis of data. A secondary analysis occurs when a researcher uses data collected by other researchers. You can obtain secondary data from surveys, official crime statistics, or official records.
• Literature review. A literature review involves reading, analyzing, evaluating, and summarizing literature about a specific criminology topic. It helps scholars identify research gaps and problems that need to be addressed.

📝 Criminology Research Topics for Assignments

To write an outstanding research paper on criminology, choose a topic that will spark your interest. Below you’ll find excellent criminology topic ideas for college students.

Criminology Research Paper Topics

• Criminology theory and its main elements.
• Criminology discipline and theories .
• American crime trends and criminological theories.
• The significance of criminological studies in the US.
• Criminology: legal rights afforded to the accused .
• The impact of violence and crime on the tourism industry.
• How did US crime rates change over the last 20 years?
• Classical and positivist schools of criminology .
• Should abortion be treated as a crime?
• Official and unofficial instruments within the criminal investigation.
• Criminology: femininity and the upsurge of ladettes .
• Criminal rehabilitation programs and their significance.
• Shoplifting and how to prevent it.
• Emerging technologies in criminology .
• The effects of illegal immigrants on crime rates.
• Drug trafficking by organized crime groups.
• Criminology and victimology: victim stereotypes in criminal justice .
• Can genetics lead to crime?
• The procedures of crime scene investigation.
• Labeling theory and critical criminology: sociological research .
• Hate crimes in modern society.
• The phenomenon of white-collar crime and its causes.
• How to prevent crimes in the workplace?
• Criminology: the social control theory .
• Stereotypes that surround serial killers and their crimes.
• The comparison of organized crime in New York and Chicago.
• Prevention strategies for small business crimes.
• Criminology: four types of evidence .
• Relations between crime, justice, and the media.

Criminology Research Proposal Topics

• How to prevent intellectual property crimes in cyberspace?
• Identity theft and cybercrime in modern society.
• Contemporary theories in criminology .
• The problem of racial profiling in the US.
• How has criminology contributed to the study of terrorism ?
• Possible solutions to the issue of street harassment .
• Postmodern criminology: the violence of the language .
• Gender bias in the investigation: pink-collar criminals.
• The phenomenon of digital terrorism and how to prevent it.
• How do immigration services help fight against terrorism?
• Green criminology: environmental harm in the Niger Delta .
• How has marijuana legalization influenced crime rates?
• Tools for collecting and analyzing crime evidence.
• How does international law manage war crimes ?
• The due process: criminology .
• What are victimless crimes ?
• The relation between crime rates and poverty.
• National system for missing and unidentified persons.
• Three case briefs in criminology .
• The impact of mental illness on criminal behavior.
• The effectiveness of rehabilitation programs in reducing crime rates.
• The use of AI technology in crime prevention and investigation.
• Sexual assault: criminology .
• The role of media coverage in public perception of crime.
• The impact of community policing on reducing crime rates.
• The impact of mass shootings on gun control laws.
• The impact of automation technology on criminology .

Criminology Thesis Topics

• The role of juvenile justice in preventing future criminal behavior.
• Feminism and criminology in the modern justice system .
• The effectiveness of mandatory minimum sentencing in the US.
• Drug laws : fighting crime or fueling it?
• Police brutality : a systemic problem in criminal justice.
• Criminology: USA Patriot Act overview .
• The impact of hate crimes on marginalized communities.
• How does organized crime affect the global economy?
• The significance of DNA evidence for criminal investigations.
• Use of statistics in criminal justice and criminology .
• The ethics of plea bargaining in criminal cases.
• Mental illness and criminal behavior: breaking the stigma.
• The impact of social media on cyberbullying and harassment.
• Robert Merton’s strain theory in criminology .
• Causes and consequences of police corruption .
• The role of restorative justice in repairing harm caused by crime.
• The effectiveness of treatment programs in reducing drug-related crimes.
• Hernando Washington case: criminology .
• The negative effects of human trafficking on global communities.
• The role of forensic science in crimes investigation.
• The effectiveness of community-based alternatives to imprisonment.
• Integrity as a key value: criminology and war .
• The relationship between poverty, education, and crime rates.
• Cybercrime : the dark side of the digital age.
• Hate crimes: motivations and impact on modern society.
• Feminist perspectives’ contribution to criminology .
• The impact of incarceration on families and communities.

Criminology Research Questions for Dissertation

• Can criminal profiling accurately predict offender behavior?
• How do hate crimes affect individuals and communities?
• How were the US Constitution and the Bill of Rights influenced by the classical school of criminology ?
• What are the psychological effects of cyberbullying on victims?
• What factors contribute to domestic violence , and how can it be prevented?
• How have organized crime groups evolved over time?
• How is statistics used in criminology and criminal justice ?
• Is the death penalty an effective crime deterrent?
• What motivates individuals to engage in white-collar crime?
• What are the consequences of police corruption for society?
• What is variance analysis in criminal justice and criminology ?
• How does drug addiction contribute to criminal behavior?
• How does gender influence criminal behavior and justice outcomes?
• What drives individuals to commit mass shootings?
• What is the broken window theory in criminology ?
• What are the biggest challenges facing criminal justice reform efforts?
• How do urban gangs perpetuate violence and criminal activity?
• How do criminal law and procedures protect individual rights and liberties?
• What is the impact of corporate fraud ?
• What challenges do individuals with mental health issues face in the criminal justice system?
• How can society combat human trafficking and exploitation?
• What measures can be taken to enhance cybersecurity and protect against cybercrime?
• What is the aboriginal crisis from a criminology perspective ?
• How can victimology help us better understand the experience of crime victims?
• What are effective crime prevention strategies for different types of crime?
• What is legal insanity in criminology ?
• How does environmental crime impact communities and the environment?
• How is the peace-making model applied in criminology ?

A significant part of criminology research is dedicated to various types of crimes and their reasons. Consider our crime topic ideas that will spark instant interest in your readers:

• The psychological impact of kidnapping on victims and their families.
• The racialization of crime and cultural panic .
• The ethical considerations surrounding ransom payments in kidnapping cases.
• The effect of burglary on small businesses and their ability to recover.
• The impact of race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status on homicide rates and patterns.
• Shoplifting: a crime of convenience .
• The effectiveness of different types of anti-theft devices in preventing motor vehicle theft.
• The role of forensic science in investigating arson cases, including the use of accelerant detection dogs.
• The concept of natural legal crime .
• The psychological profiles of white-collar criminals and their motivations.
• The psychological effects of burglary on victims and their sense of security.
• The concept of juvenile crime .
• The role of social media in facilitating and preventing kidnappings.
• The use of forensic evidence in homicide investigations and the challenges of prosecuting homicide cases.
• Sex crime recidivism rates.
• Illegal immigrantion and its effects on crime .
• The effectiveness of international efforts to combat money laundering .
• The efficacy of community watch programs in reducing burglary rates.
• The role of corporate culture in facilitating or preventing white-collar crime.
• Crimes in America: the 9/11/01 terrorist attacks .
• Technology in motor vehicle theft: GPS tracking and remote disabling systems.
• Human trafficking and the exploitation of vulnerable populations.
• Crime and criminals: general characteristics .
• The ethical and moral implications of capital punishment as a response to homicide.
• The effectiveness of fire prevention and education programs in reducing instances of arson.
• US gun control measures and crime rates reduction .
• The use of cryptocurrency in money laundering and illegal activities.
• White-collar crime and the abuse of power in corporate and financial settings.
• Cargo crimes and threats: government accountability office .
• The rise of cyberstalking and its impact on victims’ mental health.
• The effects of pollution on communities and the legal response to environmental crimes.
• Cyber-bullying and cyber-stalking as crimes .
• The effects of society’s reaction to crime.
• The use of technology in financial fraud schemes .
• Crimes against property and their characteristics .
• The intersection of racism and hate crimes against Asian Americans.
• The impact of deforestation on indigenous communities and wildlife.
• Crime types and their harm to society .
• The prevalence of domestic violence and the legal response to it.
• The exploitation of child labor in the fashion industry .
• Race and crime among minorities in the US .
• The ethical implications of using artificial intelligence in law enforcement.
• The psychological effects of hate crimes on victims and their communities.
• How does local television news viewing relate to fear of crime ?
• The evolution of cybercrime and its most common types.
• Parental responsibility for children’s crimes.
• The sex crime: influence of childhood experiences .
• Prostitution : a victimless crime.
• Sociology and media representation of crime.
• The profile of a crime victim .
• A theory of gendered criminology: women’s crime.

🚔 Research Topics in Law Enforcement

Another exciting area within criminology to investigate is law enforcement and police jobs. Have a look at the list of burning and controversial topics we came up with:

• The impact of community policing on crime rates and public trust.
• Law enforcement: online crimes and social media .
• Do body-worn cameras reduce police misconduct?
• The effects of implicit bias on the police use of force.
• Law enforcement cameras as an invasion of privacy .
• The impact of police militarization on community relations.
• Why is mental health training essential for police officers in crisis situations?
• Law enforcement officers’ attitudes regarding body-worn cameras .
• The role of police in addressing hate crimes and bias incidents.
• The effectiveness of community-based alternatives to traditional policing.
• Organizational changes in law enforcement agencies .
• The efficacy of police-community partnership in addressing gang violence.
• The impact of police officer diversity on community relations and trust.
• Local, state, and federal law enforcement in the US .
• The role of police in addressing cybercrime and online harassment.
• The effects of police body language and nonverbal cues on public perceptions.
• Cumulative career traumatic stress in law enforcement .
• Social media and its role in shaping public perceptions of police behavior.
• The role of police discretion in enforcing drug laws and addressing addiction.
• Mindfulness practice in law enforcement .
• The effectiveness of hot spot policing in reducing crime rates.
• Organizational culture in the police department.
• Stress in law enforcement officers and available programs .
• The role of police leadership in promoting ethical behavior and accountability.
• The effectiveness of community-based justice programs for juvenile offenders.
• Law enforcement in colonial America .
• Police-community partnerships for addressing domestic violence.
• The role of police in addressing human trafficking and exploitation.
• Misrepresentation of law enforcement by media .
• School safety and the police.
• How does stress affect the performance of law enforcement officers?
• The law enforcement: verbal communication as the best form of interaction .
• The significance of federal and state law enforcement mechanisms.
• The adverse effects of toxic leadership in quality law enforcement.
• Balance between effective law enforcement and personal liberty .
• The importance of discipline in public services.
• The connection between police salary and rates of police brutality.
• Role of police agencies in law enforcement .
• Police investigative questioning and techniques.
• The issue of corruption in law enforcement.
• Significance of computer forensics to law enforcement .
• Case study: police response to the Ningbo protest.
• Police actions to stop school bullying .
• Law enforcement position in society .
• New technological advances within the police department.
• Do law enforcement cameras violate privacy right?
• Different types of evaluation designs in law enforcement .
• Recognition of women’s right to work as police officers.
• The effectiveness of foot and bike patrols of the streets.
• Firearms types and usage in law enforcement .
• The competencies of international law enforcement authorities.
• Comparison of police brutality statistics for different genders.
• Ethical theories in law enforcement practice .

🕵️ Criminal Investigation Research Topics

The criminal investigation process is another criminology area worth discussing in your research paper. Below you’ll find the most intriguing criminal investigation topics:

• The history and evolution of criminal investigation techniques.
• Crime scene investigation in media and real life .
• The role of forensic science in criminal investigations.
• How does technology impact modern criminal investigations?
• The importance of preserving crime scenes and evidence.
• Crime scene investigation effect in the justice system .
• The ethics of interrogation techniques used in criminal investigations.
• Eyewitness testimony in criminal investigations.
• The role of criminal profiling in solving crimes.
• Organized business crime prosecution and investigation .
• How does media coverage affect criminal investigations?
• The use of informants in criminal investigations.
• The main challenges of investigating white-collar crimes.
• Undercover police investigations in drug-related crimes .
• The role of private investigators in criminal investigations.
• The impact of false confessions on criminal investigations.
• How is DNA evidence collected in criminal investigations?
• Importance of toxicology in crime investigation .
• The role of the FBI in national criminal investigations.
• The use of undercover operations in criminal investigations.
• The main challenges of investigating organized crime.
• Crime level investigation in the United States .
• Witness protection programs in criminal investigations.
• The impact of plea bargaining on criminal investigations.
• Surveillance techniques in criminal investigations.
• Investigating crime with age and mental illnesses factors .
• How are cybercrimes investigated?
• The role of international cooperation in criminal investigations.
• How do racial biases influence criminal investigations?
• Drug trafficking: investigation on Frank Lucas .
• Polygraph tests in criminal investigations.
• The main challenges of investigating terrorism-related crimes.
• Homicide investigations and forensic evidence .
• The role of victim advocacy in criminal investigations.
• Lie detector tests in criminal investigations.
• The role of forensic psychology in the investigation .
• The effects of community involvement on criminal investigations.
• The problem of false accusations in criminal investigations.
• Approaches in criminal investigation .
• The use of forensic accounting in financial crime investigations.
• How does the media shape public perception of criminal investigations?
• Key rulings on the conduct of investigators at the scene of a fire .
• The impact of political pressure on criminal investigations.
• The main challenges of investigating human trafficking.
• The Breonna Taylor case and criminal investigation .
• The role of victim compensation in criminal investigations.
• Behavioral analysis in criminal investigations.
• Procedures within crime scene investigation .
• Crime scene reconstruction in criminal investigations.

Criminology goes hand-in-hand with legal studies. If you’re interested in both areas, you should definitely write a research paper on one of the criminal law research topics:

• The evolution of criminal law in the US .
• Criminal law: stolen valor .
• The difference between criminal and civil law.
• Human trafficking and criminal law.
• Types of criminal offenses and the elements of crime.
• International criminal law and measures .
• The role of the burden of proof in criminal cases.
• Criminal defenses and their validity.
• The insanity defense in criminal law.
• Actus reus in English criminal law .
• The controversies around the death penalty.
• Juvenile delinquency and criminal law.
• Cybercrime and its legal implications.
• Criminal law – is graffiti a crime or not ?
• Domestic violence and criminal law.
• Hate crimes and their legal consequences.
• Restitution for victims in criminal law.
• Civil vs. criminal law and differences between them .
• Forensic evidence and its admissibility in court.
• Sexual assault and criminal law.
• The rights of the accused in criminal cases.
• Regulatory criminal laws in the criminal justice system .
• Receiving immunity for testimony in a criminal law case.
• The legal classification of criminal offenses.
• Self-defense in criminal law cases.
• How Canadian criminal law regulates deviant conduct .
• Sentencing guidelines and their impact on society.
• The use of DNA evidence in criminal cases.
• Eyewitness testimony and its reliability in court.
• Fundamental aspects of Canadian criminal law .
• The role of the media in criminal trials.
• The impact of social inequality on criminal justice outcomes.
• The future of criminal law and its impact on society.
• Criminal law in India and access to justice .
• International criminal law and its enforcement.
• Extradition and its legal implications.
• The impact of globalization on criminal law.
• Juvenile vs. adult criminal law .
• The importance of victim rights in criminal cases.
• Restorative justice and its benefits for society.
• Alternatives to incarceration for non-violent offenders.
• Automatism as a defence in criminal law .
• The role of defense attorneys in criminal trials.
• The role of prosecutors in criminal trials.
• The right to a public trial in a criminal law case.
• Civil and criminal law penalties and differences .
• Car searches in criminal investigations by law enforcement.

🔒 Criminology Topics for Research in Crime Prevention

Researching crime prevention allows you to learn more about the strategies for reducing criminal behavior. Have a look at our outstanding crime prevention topic ideas:

• Understanding and explaining crime prevention.
• Theories that explain criminal activities and criminology .
• The effectiveness of community policing in preventing crime.
• The benefits and drawbacks of crime prevention in the US.
• How can education reduce crime rates?
• Crime prevention programs and criminal rehabilitation .
• Technological innovations and their impact on crime prevention.
• The importance of early childhood interventions in preventing criminal behavior.
• The relationship between poverty and crime prevention strategies.
• Youth crime prevention and needs assessment .
• The use of restorative justice in reducing recidivism.
• The effectiveness of gun control laws in preventing gun-related crimes.
• The impact of social media on crime prevention and awareness.
• Crime prevention program in Australia .
• The use of CCTV cameras in preventing crime.
• Evidence for crime prevention programs in developing countries.
• The role of mental health services in preventing criminal behavior.
• Crime prevention practices: overview .
• The effectiveness of community-based programs in reducing juvenile delinquency.
• The use of environmental design in preventing crime by shaping space and behavior.
• Victim support programs for lowering crime rates.
• Situational and social crime prevention approaches .
• The effectiveness of after-school programs in preventing juvenile offenses.
• Techniques for preventing situational and social crime.
• The impact of citizen participation in crime prevention.
• Computer crime prevention measures .
• The efficacy of community watch programs in preventing neighborhood crimes.
• The use of community centers for preventing gang-related crimes.
• The impact of sentencing policies on crime prevention.
• Biometrics recognition and crime prevention .
• The relationship between video game violence and youth crime .
• Social media and cybercrime prevention.
• The role of social workers in crime prevention.
• Three-strikes law for preventing violent crimes .
• Decreasing crime rates through education and medicine.
• The use of animal-assisted therapy for reducing criminal behavior.
• The effectiveness of aftercare programs in reducing recidivism.
• Capital punishment as ineffective crime deterrence .
• The main strategies for proactive crime prevention.
• The impact of domestic violence prevention programs on crime rates.
• The use of probation and parole in preventing criminal behavior.
• Juvenile weapon crimes and strategies to address .
• The role of faith-based organizations in crime prevention.
• The use of diversion programs in juvenile crime prevention.
• The distinctions between crime prevention and community safety.
• Preventing crime victimization in international students .
• The impact of agriculture and rural development on crime prevention.

Criminal justice might be a challenging research topic, but it is worth the time and effort. Consider our unique topic ideas for your successful research:

• The effectiveness of community policing.
• The use of statistics in criminal justice and criminology .
• Rehabilitation programs offered in prisons and their efficacy.
• The importance of defense attorneys in the criminal justice system.
• The code of ethics in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice .
• The significance of restorative justice programs.
• The impact of mandatory minimum sentencing laws.
• Criminal justice process: felony criminal charge .
• The role of judges in the criminal justice system.
• Probation and parole in the criminal justice system.
• Veterans in the criminal justice system .
• The comparison of prison privatization in the US and UK.
• The main issues women experience in the prison system.
• US terrorism and criminal justice decision-making model .
• The prison system in a democratic society.
• The role of psychologists in the criminal justice system.
• Transgender offenders in the criminal justice system .
• The impact of private prisons on crime rates.
• The effectiveness of victim compensation programs.
• The successes and failures to reform punishment in the criminal justice system .
• Community involvement in the criminal justice system.
• The main challenges of long-term prisoner rehabilitation.
• Technology application in criminal justice .
• The role of victim-offender mediation in the criminal justice system.
• Gender disparity in the criminal justice system.
• Recidivism in criminal justice: the American prison system .
• How does solitary confinement impact people in prisons?
• Legal and ethical issues in international intervention.
• Racial and ethnic disparities in the criminal justice system .
• Do mandatory minimum sentences help or hurt?
• The effects of prison on children of incarcerated individuals.
• Psychopathy in the criminal justice system .
• The importance of mental health professionals in the criminal justice system.
• Techniques for influencing criminal justice system change.
• Non-inclusiveness of the criminal justice system .
• The impact of racial profiling on the criminal justice system.
• The effectiveness of diversion programs for veterans.
• False confessions in the US criminal justice system .
• Racism in the criminal justice system of the US.
• People with disabilities and criminal justice.
• Ethical dilemmas in the criminal justice system .
• Forensic psychology guidelines for criminal justice.
• The impact of technology on jury selection .
• Effective writing and criminal justice .
• The effectiveness of mandatory drug testing for probationers and parolees.
• The effect of wrongful executions on the criminal justice system.
• Discontinuity of care in the criminal justice system .
• The influence of media on criminal justice and community.
• The impact of cybercrime on the global criminal justice system.
• Criminal justice: coerced confessions .
• The role of private prisons in the criminal justice system.
• The effectiveness of diversion programs for people without housing.
• Criminal justice system and the problem of racism .
• What can be learned from the history of criminal courts?
• Comparison between American and British legislative frameworks.
• Criminal justice case: types of sentences, probation, and final decision .
• The overview of the modern justice system.
• The ethical issue of unwarranted arrests.
• Civil liability in criminal justice .
• The risk groups of juvenile recidivism .

🆚 Difference between Criminology and Criminal Justice

Students often confuse criminology with criminal justice because both areas study crime and criminal behavior. Understanding their main differences is essential before conducting research in any of these areas.

Is Criminology a Science?

Criminology can be considered as a science because it uses the scientific method. The scientific method involves five steps: stating the problem, forming the hypothesis, collecting the data, interpreting these data, and drawing conclusions. Within criminology, scientists use standard research methods, such as surveys, experiments, interviews, etc.

What Does Criminology Study?

Criminology studies crime, including its causes, methods of prevention, and responses from law enforcement. It relies on other non-legal studies, such as sociology, psychology, and statistics, to examine the characteristics of people who commit crimes and the effects of criminality on individuals and society.

What Are the Principal Areas of Criminology Research?

Four significant criminology areas include:

• The history of criminology . This area focuses on criminology founders and theories of crime and punishment development.
• Theory of crime causation . This aspect explores if a criminal’s behavior is determined by their social environment.
• Typologies of crime . This field describes different types of crimes and the reasons for committing them.
• Crime prevention efforts . This area studies crime measures that can curb crimes before they occur.

What Are the Principal Types of Research Methods in Criminology?

Criminology uses quantitative (analyzing measurements and statistics) and qualitative (analyzing non-numerical data) research methods to gain valuable insights. The most common scientific methods in criminology are surveys, experiments, secondary data analysis, interviews, historical/comparative research, and ethnography.

• Criminology and Criminal Justice: Pick a Topic | Marquette University
• Criminology Questions & Topics | David H. Kessel
• Topics | Ghent University
• Emergent Issues in Crime & Justice | University of Maryland
• Qualitative Research in Criminal Justice | University of North Texas
• Criminology, Law & Society | UCI Libraries
• What the Data Says (and Doesn’t Say) about Crime in the United States | Pew Research Center
• Types of Criminal Offenses | Justia
• Criminal Justice and Criminology Theses | East Tennessee State University
• Research Overview | The University of Alabama
• Criminology Research | University of Portsmouth
• Research | Arizona State University
• Research Themes | University of Surrey, Centre for Criminology
• Advanced Criminology & Criminal Justice Research Guide | Mardigian Library
• Criminology – Research Guide: Getting Started | PennLibraries
• Law and Criminology | University of Plymouth
• Topics for a Criminology Research Paper | Classroom
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167 Top Criminology Dissertation Ideas

Are you taking criminology in college, and it is time to work on your dissertation, but it appears challenging? Many university students get stuck even before starting, but there is no need to worry because we are here to hold your hand. The first, and we must emphasize, most crucial step, is picking the title of your dissertation. So, how do you select the right criminology dissertation topic?

The best title should be unique, interesting, and have ample resources to help you craft a paper that will impress your professor and the assessment committee. To make selecting the best easier, we have picked the hottest 167 criminology dissertation ideas for you. Keep reading to identify the preferred option and use it as it is or tweak a little to fit your preference.

Criminology Dissertation Ideas on Terrorism

• Religious ideologies: Can they be a source of terrorism?
• Analyzing the relationship between media and terrorism.
• Political tensions: Are they to blame for the ever-growing number of militias on the globe?
• Comparing the trends of terror in the 19 th and 20 th centuries: A literature review.
• What are the leading causes and motivations of terrorism?
• Analyzing literature on identity theft and social media.
• What motivates women to join ISIS?
• Comparing male and female serial killers: What are the main differences?
• How does the US respond to terror threats?
• The US efforts to combat terror after the 9/11 attack: Are they effective?
• Was the US justified in killing Osama Bin Laden instead of taking him to court?
• Comparing two known terror networks of your choice in different countries.
• Terrorism from the viewpoint of international law.
• Islamic charities: Are they the main sources of finance for terrorists?
• Are recent attacks by Hamas and Israel acts of terrorism?

Criminology Dissertation Ideas about Drugs

• Analyzing the relationship between people of various backgrounds and police.
• What are the most effective methods of preventing drug trafficking internationally?
• Analyzing the effectiveness of drug courts.
• Reversible and irreversible impacts of drug abuse.
• People incarcerated for drug abuse: What are the impacts on their children?
• Club culture: How does it enhance drug abuse in the society?
• Preventing drug abuse in society: Which is more effective between voluntary learning and mandatory examination?
• Reviewing the harm done to society by drugs.
• Comparing the impacts of cannabis and alcohol on a person’s behavior.
• The most abused drugs and their effects on societal behavior.
• Cannabis and deviant behavior among youths: What is the relationship?
• Cannabis legalization: Is it a good idea? What should we expect in the coming years?
• Drug use and youth arrests: A case study of Paris, France.
• Comparing drug court operations in the UK and USA.
• War on drugs in the US: Can it solve the problem of drug abuse and crime?
• Drug testing in school.
• The influence of drugs on sexual assaults.
• Prostitution: A study of the main risk groups in the UK.
• Drug traffic tracking strategies used in the UK.
• Drug abuse in prison cells: What are the causes and effects?

Criminal Law EPQ Questions

• Harassment in school and workplace: What are the main strategies adopted to address the problem in the UK?
• Homicides: A review of motivations that make people kill.
• Are the strategies adopted by your state enough to counter juvenile delinquency?
• What is the relationship between crime in Texas and people living with mental disorders?
• Domestic violence: What are the rights of victims?
• How can the marginalized get access to justice? A case study of the Netherlands.
• A study of the main types of robberies reported in the US in the 20 th century.
• Arson investigations: How do investigators determine whether the fire was deliberate or accidental?
• What is the relationship between substance abuse and poor schooling?
• What causes addiction among cannabis users?
• What is the effectiveness of witness programs in criminal justice? A closer look at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
• Robbery: What are the main risk groups, methods of prevention, and prosecution?
• What is the effectiveness of the International Criminal Court in achieving its mandate?
• Should employers check an all applicants’ criminal history during recruitment?
• The extradition law in the United States: Is it fair?
• Maximum-security prisons: Are they justified or simply cruel?
• A study of incarcerated parent’s responsibilities. How do they cope?

Masters Dissertation Ideas for Criminology

• Death penalty in the justice system: Is it effective in crime prevention.
• The rising rates of mass shootings in the US: What are the main causes?
• Studying the impact of genocidal acts on the cohesiveness of society.
• Police shootings: Comparing top three cases in the US and the UK.
• Sex offenses: Which are the main risk groups, prevalence, and prevention efforts?
• How corruption affects the social, political and economy of a country.
• Why are most crimes in the US and UK mainly committed by the youths?
• US vs. China’s criminal justice system: What are the main differences?
• Are the current US laws on criminology effective?
• A review of the British criminology curriculum: What needs to be improved?
• Analyzing the relationship between education levels and crime levels in a country of your choice.
• What is the relationship between ownership of guns and law violations?
• Law enforcement and criminology: What are the differences?
• Does racial abuse of international students and immigrants motivate them to join criminal gangs?
• Using culture to mold responsible citizens: A case study of communities in Georgia, Europe.

Forensic Psychology Dissertation Ideas

• A comprehensive analysis of competence to stand trial concept and its application in the UK.
• The age of criminal culpability: A review of the effectiveness of this idea in criminal justice.
• The ethics of death penalty: A review of the literature.
• Studying the mind of a criminal on death row: What goes in the mind of a person on a death row hours before execution?
• Should the death penalty be used on juveniles?
• What are the chances that a person on death row can change into a law-abiding citizen?
• How does memory impact eyewitness testimony?
• Analyzing the strategies used by the justice system to evaluate the reports of eyewitnesses.
• Methods used in the UK to protect eyewitnesses.

Criminology Dissertation Ideas Mental Health

• What role do guardians play in crime prevention in society?
• A review of criminological theory in the US justice system.
• A comprehensive analysis of how persons exposed to alcohol perform in different areas of their lives.
• Sexual violence use as a weapon of armed conflict: A literature review.
• Drug abuse and media: Should media that promote the use of hard drugs be controlled?
• How effective are the methods used in rehab to counter drug addiction?
• A review of delinquent cases among immigrant teenagers in the UK.
• Why do college students engage in cases of arson?
• Evaluating how prejudice motivates violence.
• Is it possible to remain neutral in mental criminal case trials?
• Is it possible to eliminate the problem of drug abuse and related crime?
• Solitary confinement for drug traffickers: What are the implications?

Criminology Dissertation Ideas UK

• How does the UK government respond to terror threats?
• Rehabilitation centers in the UK: What roles do they play in addressing crime?
• Racial stereotyping and crime in the UK: What is the relationship?
• A discourse evaluation: How has coronavirus shaped crime in the UK?
• Do urban settings in the UK act as breeding grounds for criminals?
• A critical review of the police force and crime in the UK.
• Interrogation by police officers: How does it work?
• A study of the main categories of crime in the UK.
• A review of the latest innovations in experimental criminology.
• Identify theft in the UK: What are the main consequences for perpetrators?
• Online child predators: How effective are the UK laws in protecting children?
• Is it possible to have a crime-free society?
• Which crime has a greater impact on society in the UK? Comparing street crimes and white-collar crimes.
• A review of the main principles applied in crime prevention in the UK justice system.

Controversial Criminology Dissertation Topics

• The less explored world of male rape in the society.
• Abortion: Should it be categorized as a crime?
• Parental separation: How does it result in future violence?
• Information sharing technology: How does it help fight the problem of terrorism?
• Back lives matter campaigns: Were they marred with violence instead of search for justice?
• Coronavirus has accelerated crime in the society more than any other time in the past.
• Do prisons help to correct bad behavior for the incarcerated?
• Facebook helps to encourage more negative behavior than promoting socialization.
• Domestic violence: Who suffers more between men and women?
• Human trafficking has one main role of sexual exploitation.
• On domestic violence, the law is subjective on males.
• The government should increase the age limit for citizens to acquire national IDs.
• Social media is the main source of moral panic in society.
• Music is a major contributor to crime in society.

Criminology Dissertation Ideas on Domestic Violence

• Theoretical perspectives on domestic violence.
• Applying the control balance theory in domestic violence.
• Popular culture and domestic violence: Are they related?
• The effects of homelessness on domestic violence: A case study of Texas.
• A review of cross-cultural perspectives on domestic violence.
• Comparing the rates of domestic violence in the US and India.
• Trends of domestic violence in Spain.
• Analyzing the main legal issues for women who are victims of domestic violence.
• A review of domestic violence within the military families.
• Analyzing police decision-making factors when dealing with domestic cases.
• Male victims of domestic violence: Why do most of them opt to keep quiet and stick with abusive partners?
• Mothers who kill: What are the motivating factors?
• Postpartum depression and domestic violence: How are they related?

Interesting Criminology Dissertation Titles

• Comparing the impacts of crime to those of natural disasters: A literature review.
• Is the education system in the globe failing in shaping good morals?
• A review of sexual aggression by women in ASIA.
• Acquainting rape perpetrators on bail terms: Is it acceptable? What does the law say?
• Regulating prostitution in the society: Is it enough to reduce crime?
• Corruption comes from limitations.
• A study of the connections between law violation and family status.
• Prostitution regulation: Can it stop crime?
• Use of expert testimony in domestic violence cases.
• Should we ban police from carrying guns in public?
• How does systemic bias impact criminal justice?
• Genetics: A comprehensive review of illegal researches and associated dangers.
• Assessing the effectiveness of street lighting in reducing crime.
• What role do psychometric assessments play in criminal justice?
• Is crime rate related to neighborhoods? A literature review.
• How has counterfeiting changed with the development of new technologies?

Criminology Dissertation Ideas about Prisons

• Forced labor among prisoners: Is it a good method of correction?
• Why is drug violence a problem in many US jails?
• A review of prison gangs in a prison of your choice.
• Training correctional officers in the UK: How effective is the training in enhancing the efficiency of correctional facilities?
• A review of the efforts used to address child molesters in prison.
• A review of study programs offered in prisons.
• Healthcare system in the UK prisons: Is it effective?
• A review of police corruption in prisons: Comparing the prisons in the 19 th and 20 th centuries.
• What are the main causes of high recidivism in the US?
• How do women end up in prisons? A review of common causes.
• Prisons through the UK history.
• How well are inmates prepared for re-entry into the society after serving jail terms?
• Racial profiling in the US prisons.
• Aggressive behavior: How is it related to criminal tendencies?
• Comparing human trafficking in the modern and classic worlds: What are the main differences?
• Comparing women’s recidivism rates in the US to those of Australia.

Knife Crime Dissertation Titles

• Knife crime in the US: Applying the criminology theory.
• Comparing knife crimes in Europe and Asia
• What are the motivating factors for knife criminals?
• Knife laws in the US: Analyzing the effectiveness of the pocket knife rules & laws.
• Comparing the knife rules of the United States to those of the UK.
• A review of knife crimes trends in the 21 st century.

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Digital Commons @ USF > College of Behavioral and Community Sciences > Criminology > Theses and Dissertations

Criminology Theses and Dissertations

Theses/dissertations from 2023 2023.

Efficacy of Online Social Movements for Sparking Change: The Case of the Missing Murdered and Indigenous Women Movement (#MMIW) , Kacy A. Bleeker

An Examination of Racial Disparities in Arrest Across Florida Counties, 1998-2018: A Test of the Racial Threat and Political Representation Hypotheses , Xavier D. Burch

The Invisible Victims of Commercial Sexual Exploitation: Boys and Their Barriers to Access to Services , Amanda L. Connella

Damned & Damned: Examining Vexatious Litigation and the Vexatious Litigant Statute in Florida Courts , Sarah L. Harper

The Contributions of Mental Health Issues, Traumatic Brain Injury, and Adverse Childhood Experiences to Recidivism Among Rural Jail Incarcerees , Lauren N. Miley

Assessing the Relationship Between True Crime Documentary and Podcast Consumption, Fear of Crime, and Protective Behaviors , Lauren A. Tremblay

Police Officers’ Perceptions of Gunshot Detection Technology , Courtney L. Weber

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

A Macro Social Examination of the Relationship Between Disabilities and Crime Using Neighborhood and County Level Data , Natasha A. Baloch

Racial Differences in Perceptions of Sanction Severity , Sarah L. Franklin

Juvenile Homicide Offenders: A Life-Course Perspective , Norair Khachatryan

Exploring the Effectiveness of a Life-Skills Program in a Florida Prison Through a Social Bond and General Strain Theory Perspective , Danielle M. Thomas

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

Clean Water for All: Examining Safe Drinking Water Act Violations of Water Systems and Community Characteristics , Junghwan Bae

Morality and Offender Decision-Making: Testing the Empirical Relationship and Examining Methodological Implications , Jacquelyn Burckley

The Ring of Gyges 2.0: How Anonymity Providing Behaviors Affect Willingness to Participate in Online Deviance , Cassandra E. Dodge

A Macro Analysis of Illegal Hunting and Fishing Across Texas Counties: Using an Economic Structural Approach , Leo J. Genco Jr.

Self-Protection in Cyberspace: Assessing the Processual Relationship Between Thoughtfully Reflective Decision Making, Protection Motivation Theory, Cyber Hygiene, and Victimization , C. Jordan Howell

Racial Threat Theory: A Test of the Economic Threat Hypothesis , Carl L. Reeds

Online Perceptions of Panamanian Prisons and Incarcerated persons: An analysis of YouTube user comments , Mahaleth J. Sotelo

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

Toxic Colonialism and Green Victimization of Native Americans: An Examination of the Genocidal Impacts of Uranium Mining , Averi R. Fegadel

Cross-National Incarceration Rates as Behavior of Law , Christopher J. Marier

The Effects of Perceived Motivations and Mental Distress on the Likelihood of Reporting and Engaging in Self-Protective Measures Among Victims of Stalking , Daniela Oramas Mora

Mental Health and In-Prison Experiences: Examining Socioeconomic and Sex Differences in the Effect of Mental Illness on Institutional Misconduct and Disciplinary Segregation , Rachel E. Severson

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Dating Application Facilitated Victimization: An Examination of Lifestyle-Routine Activities, Self-Control, and Self-Efficacy , Vanessa Centelles

Social Constructionism and Cultivation Theory in Development of the Juvenile “Super-Predator” , Elizabeth R. Jackson-Cruz

Bystander Intervention, Victimization, and Routine Activities Theory: An Examination of Feminist Routine Activities Theory in Cyber Space , Jennifer A. Leili

Sexual Assault and Robbery Disclosure: An Examination of Black’s Theory of the Behavior of Law , Caitlyn N. Muniz

Mass Shootings and Gun Sales: A Study on the Influence of Red and Blue Power , Maria Jose Rozo Osuna

A Multi-dimensional Macrolevel Study of Drug Enforcement Strategies, Heroin Prices, and Heroin Consumption Rates , Alexander G. Toth

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

The Impact of a Religious/Spiritual Turning Point on Desistance: A Lifecourse Assessment of Racial/Ethnic Differences , Rhissa Briones Robinson

Political Decisions on Police Expenditures: Examining the Potential Relationship Between Political Structure, Police Expenditures and the Volume of Crime Across US States , Xavier D. Burch

Identifying the Personal and Perceived Organizational Characteristics Associated with Job Satisfaction Among Juvenile Probation Staff , Julie M. Krupa

The Role of Organizational Justice in Predicting Attitudes Toward Body-Worn Cameras in Police Officers , Nathaniel L. Lawshe

Yet Another Ferguson Effect: An Exploratory Content Analysis of News Stories on Police Brutality and Deadly Force Before and After the Killing of Michael Brown , Carl Root

The Role of Race/Ethnicity and Risk Assessment on Juvenile Case Outcomes , Tayler N. Shreve

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

Intimate Partner Violence and the Capacity and Desire for Self-Control , Krista Taralynne Brewer

School Shootings in the United States from 1997 to 2012: A Content Analysis of Media Coverage , Victoria N. Iannuzzi

Chronic Runaway Youth: A Gender-Based Analysis , Michelle N. Jeanis

A Test of Wikström’s Situational Action Theory Using Self-Report Data on Intimate Partner Violence , Lauren Nicole Miley

An Exploratory Study of Macro-Social Correlates of Online Property Crime , Hyojong Song

Female Incarceration and Prison Social Order: An Examination of Gender Differences in Prison Misconduct and In-Prison Punishments , Elisa L. Toman

Adverse Childhood Experiences and Their Role as Mitigators for Youthful and Non-Youthful Offenders in Capital Sentencing Cases , Jessica R. Trapassi

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

Disinhibition, Violence Exposure, and Delinquency: A Test of How Self-Control Affects the Impact of Exposure to Violence , Wyatt Brown

The Guilty But Mentally Ill Verdict: Assessing the Impact of Informing Jurors of Verdict Consequences , Erin Elizabeth Cotrone

The Relationship between Psychopathic Personality Traits and Lying , Jason A. Dobrow

Delving into the Heart of Victimization Risk: Examining the Interactive Relationship between Demographic Factors and Context , Amy Sheena Eggers

A Power Conflict Approach to Animal Cruelty: Examining How Economic Power Influences the Creation of Animal Cruelty Laws , Leonard J. Genco

The Role of Gender in Self-Control and Intimate Partner Violence , Laura Marie Gulledge

The Restrictive Deterrent Effect of Warning Banners in a Compromised Computer System , Christian Jordan-Michael Howell

Tactics of Sexual Control and Negative Health Outcomes , Anna Elizabeth Kleppe

The Applicability of Criminology to Terrorism Studies: An Exploratory Study of ISIS Supporters in the United States , Amanda Marie Sharp Parker

The Path to Violent Behavior: The Harmful Aftermath of Childhood Trauma , Nicholas Michael Perez

The Effects of Racial Bias on Perceptions of Intimate Partner Violence Scenarios , Batya Yisraela Rubenstein

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

Reel or Reality? The Portrayal of Prostitution in Major Motion Pictures , Raleigh Blasdell

Psychopathy and Perception of Vulnerability , Barbara Joyce Dinkins

Effect of Empathy on Death Penalty Support in Relation to the Racial Divide and Gender Gap , Brian Godcharles

Exploring the Interactive Effects of Social Learning Theory and Psychopathy on Serious Juvenile Delinquency , Brandy Barenna Henderson

Tampa Electric Company's Big Bend Utility Plant in Hillsborough County, Florida: A Case Study , Lynne M. Hodalski-Champagne

Thirty Year Follow-Up of Juvenile Homicide Offenders , Norair Khachatryan

Organized Crime in Insurance Fraud: An Empirical Analysis of Staged Automobile Accident Rings , Chris Longino

The Role of Social Support in the Disclosure and Recovery Process of Rape Victims , Jessica Nicole Mitchell

Evaluating the Social Control of Banking Crimes: An Examination of Anti-Money Laundering Deficiencies and Industry Success , Erin M. Mulligan

Elite Deviance, Organized Crime, and Homicide: A Cross-National Quantitative Analysis , Carol L.s. Trent

An Evaluation of the Utah First District Mental Health Court: Gauging the Efficacy of Diverting Offenders Suffering With Serious Mental Illness , Stephen Guy VanGeem

Rape, Race, and Capital Punishment in North Carolina: A Qualitative Approach to Examining an Enduring Cultural Legacy , Douglas Wholl

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

The Tattoo: A Mark of Subversion, Deviance, or Mainstream Self-Expression? , Jocelyn Camacho

Juvenile and Adult Involvement in Double Parricide and Familicide in the U.S.: An Empirical Analysis of 20 Years of Data , Averi Rebekah Fegadel

Predicting Successful Drug Court Graduation: Exploring Demographic and Psychosocial Factors among Medication-Assisted Drug Court Treatment Clients , Autumn Michelle Frei

Experimentally Evaluating Statistical Patterns of Offending Typology For Burglary: A Replication Study , Lance Edwin Gilmore

Developmental Trajectories of Physical Aggression and Nonaggressive Rule-Breaking among At-risk Males and Females during Late Childhood and Early Adolescence , Eugena Givens

Predicting Fear of Crime using a Multilevel and Multi-Model Approach: A Study in Hillsborough County , Jonathan Maskaly

Public Knowledge and Sentiments about Elite Deviance , Cedric Michel

The Influence of Community Context on Social Control: A Multi-Level Examination of the Relationship between Race/Ethnicity, Drug Offending, and Juvenile Court Outcomes , Jennifer Peck

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

Assessing the Relationship Between Hotspots of Lead and Hotspots of Crime , Kimberly L. Barrett

A Life-Course Approach to Sexual Offending: Examining the Continuity of Juvenile Sexual Offending into Adulthood and Subsequent Patterns of Recidivism , Maude Beaudry-Cyr

Examining the link between self-control and misconduct in a multi-agency sample of police supervisors: A test of two theories , Christopher Matthew Donner

The Impact of Hyperfemininity on Explicit and Implicit Blame Assignment and Police Reporting of Alcohol Facilitated Rape in a Sample of College Women , Sarah Ehlke

Rurality and Intimate Partner Homicide: Exploring the Relationship between Place, Social Structure, and Femicide in North Carolina , Amelia Kirkland

Self-Control, Attitudinal Beliefs, and White-Collar Crime Intentions , Melissa Anne Lugo

Zero Tolerance for Marginal Populations: Examining Neoliberal Social Controls in American Schools , Brian Gregory Sellers

State-Corporate Crime in the Democratic Republic of Congo , Veronica Jane Winters

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

The Walls Are Closing In: Comparing Property Crime Victimization Risk In Gated And Non-Gated Communities , Nicholas Branic

What Propels Sexual Homicide Offenders? Testing an Integrated Theory of Social Learning and Routine Activities Theories , Heng Choon Chan

A Deadly Way of Doing Business: A Case Study of Corporate Crime in the Coal Mining Industry , Charles Nickolas Stickeler

Deconstructing the "Power and Control Motive": Developing and Assessing the Measurability of Internal Power , Shelly Marie Wagers

Theses/Dissertations from 2011 2011

Assessing racial differences in offending trajectories: A life-course view of the race-crime relationship , Michael S. Caudy

Mental Health Courts Effectiveness in Reducing Recidivism and Improving Clinical Outcomes: A Meta-Analysis , Brittany Cross

General Strain Theory and Juvenile Delinquency: A Cross-Cultural Study , Wen-Hsu Lin

General Strain Theory, Race, and Delinquency , Jennifer Peck

Developmental Trajectories of Self-Control: Assessing the Stability Hypothesis , James Vance Ray

Explaining the "Female Victim Effect" in Capital Sentencing Decisions: A Case for Sex-Specific Models of Capital Sentencing Research , Tara N. Richards

A Multilevel Model of Police Corruption: Anomie, Decoupling, and Moral Disengagement , Ruth Zschoche

Theses/Dissertations from 2010 2010

The Emotional Guardianship of Foreign-Born and Native-Born Hispanic Youth and Its Effect on Violent Victimization , Amy Sheena Eggers

The Influence of Narcissism and Self-Control on Reactive Aggression , Melissa L. Harrison

Is There an "Innocent Female Victim" Effect in Capital Punishment Sentencing? , Amelia Lane Kirkland

An Analysis of the Influence of Sampling Methods on Estimation of Drug Use Prevalence and Patterns Among Arrestees in the United States: Implications for Research and Policy , Janine Kremling

A Pathway to Child Sex Trafficking in Prostitution: The Impact of Strain and Risk-Inflating Responses , Joan A. Reid

Victimization Among Individuals With Low Self-Control: Effects on Fear Versus Perceived Risk of Crime , Casey Williams

Theses/Dissertations from 2009 2009

Domestic Violence Within Law Enforcement Families: The Link Between Traditional Police Subculture and Domestic Violence Among Police , Lindsey Blumenstein

Rape Attitudes and Beliefs: A Replication Study , Rhissa Emily Briones

Reel Images: Representations of Adult Male Prisons by the Film Industry , Melissa E. Fenwick

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Home > USC Columbia > Arts and Sciences > Criminology and Criminal Justice > Criminology and Criminal Justice Theses and Dissertations

Criminology and Criminal Justice Theses and Dissertations

Theses/dissertations from 2023 2023.

The Risk of Protection: Examining the Contextual Effects of Child Protective Services on Child Maltreatment Fatalities in the U.S. , Cosette Morgan McCullough

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

Too Feminine for Execution?: Gender Stereotypes and the Media’s Portrayal of Women Sentenced to Death , Kelsey M. Collins

Juveniles, Transferred Juveniles, and the Impact of a Criminal Record on Employment Prospects in Adulthood: An Experimental Study , Joanna Daou

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

Why So Long? Examining the Nexus Between Case Complexity and Delay in Florida’s Death Penalty System , Corey Daniel Burton

The Criminalization of HIV and HIV Stigma , Deanna Cann

Views of Substance Use During Pregnancy: Social Responses to the Issue , Taylor Ruddy

The Spatial Variability of Crime: A Review of Methodological Choice, Proposed Models, and Methods for Illustrating the Phenomenon , Matthew D. Spencer

Community Corrections Officer Decision-Making: An Intersectional Analysis , Amber Leigh Williams Wilson

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

The Utility of Using Virtue Locales to Explain Criminogenic Environments , Hunter Max Boehme

Fostering Resilience in Correctional Officers , Jon Thomas Arthur Gist

The Impact of Race/Ethnicity on Sentencing: A Matching Approach , Travis Jones

Unraveling the Temporal Aspects of Victimization: The Reciprocal, Additive, and Cumulative Effects of Direct/Vicarious Victimization on Crime , Yeoju Park

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Media Influence on College Students' Perceptions of the Police , Matilda Foster

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Ohio's Certificate of Relief , Peter Leasure

Trends in the Prevalence of Arrest for Intimate Partner Violence Using the National Crime Victimization Survey , Tara E. Martin

Reading Between the Lines: An Intersectional Media Analysis of Female Sex Offenders in Florida Newspapers , Toniqua C. Mikell

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

The Short-Term Self-Control Stability of College Students , Nicholas James Blasco

Developmental Patterns of Religiosity in Relation to Criminal Trajectories among Serious Offenders across Adolescence and Young Adulthood , Siying Guo

Local Incarceration As Social Control: A National Analysis Of Social, Economic, And Political Determinants Of Jail Use In The United States , Heather M. Ouellette

Association Between Perception Of Police Prejudice Against Minorities And Juvenile Delinquency , Kwang Hyun Ra

A Quasi-Experimental Analysis Of School-Based Situational Crime Prevention Measures , Gary Zhang

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

Sex Offender Policies that Spin the Revolving Door: An Exploration of the Relationships Between Residence Restrictions, Homelessness, and Recidivism , Deanna Cann

Untangling the Interconnected Relationships between Alcohol Use, Employment, and Offending , Margaret M. Chrusciel

Inmate Time Utilization And Well-Being , Mateja Vuk

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

The Socio-Legal Construction Of Adolescent Criminality: Examining Race, Community, And Contextual Factors Through The Lens Of Focal Concerns , Patrick Glen Lowery

The Impact Of Deinstitutionalization On Murders Of Law Enforcement Officers , Xueyi Xing

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

Relationships Between Law Enforcement Officer-Involved Vehicle Collisions And Other Police Behaviors , John Andrew Hansen

In the Eye of the Beholder: Exploring the Dialogic Approach to Police Legitimacy , Justin Nix

Criminology on Crimes Against Humanity: A North Korean Case Study , Megan Alyssa Novak

General Strain Theory and Bullying Victimization: Do Parental Support and Control Alleviate the Negative Effects of Bullying , Jonathon Thompson

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

Adultification in Juvenile Corrections: A Comparison of Juvenile and Adult Officers , Riane Miller Bolin

Perception of Police in Public Housing Communities , Taylor Brickley

Neighborhood Disorganization and Police Decision-Making in the New York City Police Department , Allison Carter

The Impact of Race on Strickland Claims in Federal Courts in the South , Wyatt Gibson

Lead Exposure and Crime , Tara Elaine Martin

GETTING AWAY WITH MURDER: HAZING, HEGEMONIC MASCULINITY, AND VICTIMIZATION , TONIQUA CHAREE MIKELL

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

Policing Alcohol and Related Crimes On Campus , Andrea Nicole Allen

Gender and Programming: A Comparison of Program Availability and Participation in U.S. Prisons for Men and Women , Courtney A. Crittenden

Assessing the Impact of the Court Response to Domestic Violence in Two Neighboring Counties , Gillian Mira Pinchevsky

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

Criminal Sentencing In the Court Communities of South Carolina: An Examination of offender, Judge, and County Characteristics , Rhys Hester

Examining the Effects of Religiosity and Religious Environments On Inmate Misconduct , Benjamin Dane Meade

Theses/Dissertations from 2011 2011

Criminologists' Opinions On Correctional Rehabilitation , Heather M. Ouellette

Theses/Dissertations from 2010 2010

A Qualitative Analysis of the Etiology, Manifestation, and Institutional Responses to Self-Injurious Behaviors in Prison , Steven Doty

Theses/Dissertations from 2002 2002

The Effects of Administrative Factors on Police Officer Job Performance , Irick Anthony Geary Jr.

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• Northeastern University
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• School of Criminology and Criminal Justice
• Criminology and Criminal Justice Theses and Dissertations
• Criminology and Criminal Justice Dissertations

Criminology and Criminal Justice Dissertations Collection

http://hdl.handle.net/2047/D20233343

Affording a meaningful opportunity of release: legal representation of juvenile lifers.

Assessing deterrence in the FBI's Safe Streets gang initiative: a social network approach.

Autistic and at-risk: the public and personal safety of children with autism spectrum disorders.

Background justice: the political context of adolescent legal socialization.

Bureaucracy and law: a study of Chinese criminal courts and social media.

Clearances, cameras, and community violence: police outcomes in an organizational and community context.

College students and the illicit use of prescription drugs: a test of general strain theory.

A comparison of the individual-, county-, and state-level correlates of homicide and mass murder

Contextualizing the political economy of juvenile court decision-making

Crime, place, and networks in the age of the internet: the case of online-promoted illicit massage businesses.

Diverse Criminology Essay Topics: Criminal Justice and Beyond

Table of contents

• 1 What Branches Does Criminology Include?
• 2 How to Choose a Good Topic on Criminology?
• 3 Effectiveness of Capital Punishment in Deterring Crime
• 4 Criminal Justice Research Topics on Racism & Discrimination
• 5 Criminal Law Research Topics
• 6 International Criminal Law Research Topics
• 7 Criminal Justice Research Topics on Society & Justice
• 8 Criminal Justice Research Topics in Types of Crime
• 9 Criminal Justice Research Topics About Court Cases

In our increasingly complex society, the study of criminology, the scientific approach to understanding crime and criminals, has never been more relevant. As we seek to dissect the many factors that contribute to criminal behavior, from socioeconomic circumstances to psychological predispositions, we open the door to a wealth of research possibilities. This article aims to delve into these possibilities, presenting a diverse array of criminology essay topics.

What Branches Does Criminology Include?

Criminology is an interdisciplinary field that draws from several different disciplines, including sociology, psychology, law, and criminal justice. As such, it encompasses a wide range of branches, including but not limited to, criminal behavior, penology, victimology, forensic psychology, and criminal justice administration. Criminal behavior examines why people commit crimes and how to prevent them, while penology focuses on punishment and rehabilitation of offenders. Victimology examines the experiences of crime victims and how to help them, while forensic psychology applies psychological principles to legal issues. Criminal justice administration focuses on the management and operation of the criminal justice system.

How to Choose a Good Topic on Criminology?

Choosing a good topic on criminology can be an exciting but challenging task. Here are five steps to help you select a compelling topic:

• Step 1: Understand the Field of Criminology

Begin by gaining a broad understanding of the field of criminology. Explore various sub-disciplines, theories, and contemporary issues in criminology. This will help you identify areas of interest and potential research gaps.

• Step 2: Identify Your Interests

Reflect on your personal interests within criminology. Consider the aspects of crime, criminal justice, or social justice that captivate your attention. Are you interested in studying the causes of crime, criminal behavior, or the effectiveness of criminal justice policies? Identifying your interests will guide you toward topics that you are passionate about.

• Step 3: Conduct Preliminary Research

Conduct preliminary research to explore potential topics further. Read scholarly articles, books, and other reputable sources to identify current trends, debates, and gaps in knowledge. This will help you understand what has already been studied and identify areas where further research is needed.

• Step 4: Brainstorm and Narrow Down Your Topic

Brainstorm a list of potential topics based on your interests and the research you have conducted. Consider the feasibility and scope of each topic. Are there enough resources available to support your research? Is the topic too broad or too narrow? Narrow down your list to a few specific and manageable topics that align with your interests.

• Step 5: Evaluate the Significance and Originality

Evaluate the significance and originality of each potential topic. Consider whether the topic addresses a research gap or offers a fresh perspective on an existing issue. Think about the potential contributions your research could make to the field of criminology. Choose a topic that has relevance and offers room for exploration and innovation.

By following these steps, you will be able to choose a good topic on criminology that aligns with your interests, has research potential, and contributes to the existing body of knowledge in the field. Remember to consult with your advisor or instructor for guidance and feedback during the topic selection process.

Effectiveness of Capital Punishment in Deterring Crime

• Racial Disparities in the Criminal Justice System and Their Impact on Minority Communities
• Solitary Confinement and Its Effects on Prisoners’ Mental Health
• Role of Mandatory Minimum Sentences in Addressing Drug Offenses
• Ethical Implications of Using Informants in Criminal Investigations
• Predictive Policing Algorithms and Their Potential for Bias and Discrimination
• Juvenile Justice and the Debate Over Trying Minors as Adults
• Impact of Private Prisons on the Criminal Justice System
• Effectiveness of Rehabilitation Programs in Reducing Recidivism Rates
• Use of Technology and Surveillance in Law Enforcement, Including Facial Recognition and Data Collection
• Criminalization of Drug Possession and the Debate Over Decriminalization or Legalization
• Impact of Three-Strikes Laws on Repeat Offenders
• Use of Tasers and Other Non-lethal Weapons by Law Enforcement and the Potential for Abuse
• Role of Mental Health in the Criminal Justice System and the Treatment of Mentally Ill Offenders
• Consequences of Mandatory Drug Testing for Welfare Recipients
• Impact of Bail Reform on Pretrial Detention and the Fairness of the System
• Relationship Between Poverty and Crime and the Effectiveness of Poverty Reduction Programs
• Debate Over Mandatory Sentencing for Non-violent Offenses
• Use of Alternative Dispute Resolution Methods, Such as Restorative Justice, in Criminal Cases
• Criminalization of Sex Work and the Debate Over Decriminalization or Regulation

Criminal Justice Research Topics on Racism & Discrimination

• Racial Profiling Impact and Justice Outcomes for Minorities
• Sentencing Disparities: Uncovering Racial Bias
• Poverty, Legal Representation, and Effects on Cases
• Racial Stereotypes: Police Force and Arrest Dynamics
• Community Policing: Building Trust, Reducing Tensions
• Implicit Bias in Court: Influencing Jury Decisions
• Pretrial Detention, Bail, and Racial Disparities
• Plea Bargaining: Racial Bias and Sentencing Gaps
• Socioeconomic Status, Race, and Wrongful Convictions
• Law Enforcement Training: Addressing Racial Bias
• Policing Technology: Exacerbating Disparities
• Minority Experiences as Justice System Victims and Witnesses
• Juvenile Justice: Racial Disparities and Consequences
• Stop-And-Frisk Policies: Unveiling Race and Discrimination
• Death Penalty: Racial Disparities and Justice Implications
• Drug Law Enforcement: Racial Bias and Mass Incarceration
• Restorative Justice: Tackling Racial Disparities
• Minority Experiences in Probation and Parole Systems
• Solitary Confinement’s Racial Disparities and Mental Health Impacts
• Systemic Racism: Perpetuating Justice Disparities

Criminal Law Research Topics

• Efficacy of Mandatory Minimum Sentences in Reducing Crime Rates
• Influence of Technology on Criminal Investigations and Privacy Rights
• Correlation Between Mental Health and Criminal Behavior
• Significance of Forensic Science in Criminal Investigations and Its Reliability
• Impact of Race and Ethnicity on the Criminal Justice System
• Utilization of Plea Bargains and Their Implications for the Justice System
• Legitimacy and Ethical Considerations of Surveillance in Public Spaces
• Role of Restorative Justice in Diminishing Recidivism Rates
• Consequences of Drug Decriminalization or Legalization on Crime Rates
• Effectiveness of Rehabilitation Programs in Curbing Reoffending
• Application of Predictive Policing Algorithms and Their Potential Biases
• Influence of Media and Public Perception on Criminal Trials
• Examination of Legal and Ethical Issues Surrounding the Death Penalty
• Ramifications of Sentencing Disparities Based on Socioeconomic Status
• Assessment of Community Policing Effectiveness in Crime Prevention and Resolution
• Contribution of Forensic Psychology in Criminal Profiling
• Safeguarding the Rights of Victims in the Criminal Justice System
• Evaluation of Hate Crime Legislation in Preventing and Prosecuting Hate Crimes
• Exploration of the Link Between Poverty and Crime Rates
• Implications of Emerging Technologies (Such as Artificial Intelligence and Facial Recognition) On Criminal Law and Privacy

International Criminal Law Research Topics

• Icc: Combating Crimes Against Humanity
• Universal Jurisdiction: Prosecuting International Crimes
• State Sovereignty vs International Criminal Law
• Effectiveness of War Crime Tribunals
• Gender-Based Crimes in Armed Conflicts
• Transitional Justice Mechanisms Post-conflict
• Ethical Implications of Drone Warfare
• Prosecution of Piracy as a Global Crime
• Intersection of Humanitarian and Criminal Law
• Ngos in International Criminal Justice
• Corporate Liability for International Crimes
• Truth Commissions and Reconciliation
• Evolving Understanding of Genocide
• Protecting Cultural Heritage in Conflicts
• Investigating Non-state Actor Crimes
• International Law’s Impact on Counterterrorism
• Extradition for International Crimes
• Environmental Crimes and Legal Frameworks
• Victim and Witness Rights in Trials
• Regional Courts and International Justice

Criminal Justice Research Topics on Society & Justice

• Community Policing and Crime Rates
• Restorative Justice and Recidivism
• Juvenile Diversion Programs
• Poverty and Crime in Communities
• Impact of Mass Incarceration on Families
• Technology in Criminal Investigations
• Drug Courts and Reducing Criminal Behavior
• Mental Health and Criminal Conduct
• Rehabilitation vs Punishment
• Alternative Sentencing and Prison Overcrowding
• Challenges of Reintegration After Incarceration
• Racial Disparities in the Justice System
• Community-Based Crime Prevention
• Social Media and Criminal Facilitation
• Body-Worn Cameras and Public Trust
• Wrongful Convictions and Implications
• Effectiveness of Hate Crime Legislation
• Forensic Evidence and Conviction Rates
• Media Influence on Crime Attitudes
• Rehabilitation Programs for Substance Abuse

Criminal Justice Research Topics in Types of Crime

• Cybercrime Laws and Deterrence
• Impact of Drug Trafficking on Communities
• Characteristics of White-Collar Criminals
• International Cooperation Against Human Trafficking
• Dynamics of Organized Crime Groups
• Patterns and Trends in Homicide Rates
• Factors Contributing to Domestic Violence
• Root Causes of Juvenile Delinquency
• Impact of Hate Crimes on Marginalized Communities
• Reporting and Conviction Rates of Sexual Assault Cases
• Factors Influencing Robbery Rates
• Methods and Consequences of Identity Theft
• Role of Money Laundering in Organized Crime
• Detection and Prevention of Fraud
• Impact of Public Corruption on Institutions
• Causes and Motivations Behind Acts of Terrorism
• Patterns and Motivations of Arsonists
• Prevalence of Child Abuse and Neglect
• Crimes Against the Environment and Enforcement Strategies
• Psychological Impact of Stalking on Victims

Criminal Justice Research Topics About Court Cases

• Supreme Court Decisions and Criminal Justice Policies
• Plea Bargaining’s Impact on Court Outcomes
• Racial Disparities in Sentencing: A Case Study
• Public Opinion and High-Profile Court Cases
• Forensic Evidence in Court Proceedings
• Technology and Court Case Management
• Wrongful Convictions and the Court System
• Specialized Courts and Reducing Recidivism
• Factors Influencing Judges’ Decisions in Criminal Cases
• Media Coverage and Jury Decision-Making
• Diversion Programs as Alternatives to Courts
• Eyewitness Testimony in Court Proceedings
• Expert Witnesses in Criminal Trials
• Pretrial Detention and the Justice System
• Technology and Courtroom Security
• Alternative Dispute Resolution in Criminal Cases
• Prosecutorial Discretion and Court Outcomes
• Court-Ordered Rehabilitation Programs
• Judicial Misconduct and Case Outcomes
• Mandatory Minimum Sentencing and Court Cases

Crafting a criminology essay can be daunting due to the intricate nature of the subject. It demands a profound comprehension of diverse theories, rigorous research abilities, and the capacity to express thoughts in a lucid and persuasive manner. The vast scope of the discipline, which includes sociology, psychology, and law among others, often exacerbates this challenge. Nevertheless, these obstacles can be effortlessly surmounted with the assistance of PapersOwl.com. Their proficient team possesses experience in tackling complex criminology subjects and can offer top-notch, tailored essay writing services.

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256 Research Topics on Criminal Justice & Criminology

Are you a law school student studying criminal behavior or forensic science? Or maybe just looking for good criminal justice topics, questions, and hypotheses? Look no further! Custom-writing.org experts offer a load of criminology research topics and titles for every occasion. Criminological theories, types of crime, the role of media in criminology, and more. Our topics will help you prepare for a college-level assignment, debate, or essay writing.

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• ⚖️ Criminology vs. Criminal Justice
• 🔬 120 Criminology Research Topics
• 💂 116 Criminal Justice Research Topics

🔥 Hot Criminology Research Topics

• The role of media in criminology.
• Cultural explanation of crime.
• Benefits of convict criminology.
• Main issues of postmodern criminology.
• Is criminal behavior affected by the politics?
• How does DAWN collect data?
• The limitations of crime mapping.
• Personality traits that trigger criminal behavior.
• Community deterioration and crime rates.
• Does experimental criminology affect social policy?

🔬 120 Criminology Research Topics & Ideas

Here are 100 criminology research topics ideas organized by themes.

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General Criminology Research Paper Topics

• Criminology as a social science.
• Criminology and its public policies.
• History of criminology.
• Crime commission: legal and social perspectives .

Criminal Psychology Research Topics

• What is the nature of criminal behavior?
• How does the lack of education affect the incarceration rates?
• Childhood aggression and the impact of divorce
• The effect of the upbringing on antisocial adult behavior
• How do gender and cultural background affect one’s attitude towards drug abuse ?
• Forensic psychology and its impact on the legal system
• What is the role of criminal psychologists?
• Different types of forensic psychological evaluations
• What’s the difference between therapeutic and forensic evaluation?
• Does socioeconomic status impact one’s criminal behavior?

Criminology Research Topics: Theories

• What crimes are typical for what ages?
• How does the type of crime correspond with the level of exerted aggression ?
• What is the connection between citizenship (or lack thereof) and law violation?
• How does education (or lack thereof) correspond with crime level?
• Does employment (or lack thereof) correspond with law violation?
• What is the connection between family status and law violation?
• Does gender affect on the type of law violation?
• How does ownership of firearms correspond with law violation?
• Does immigrant status correlate with law violation?

• Is there a connection between mental health and law violation?
• What are the causes of violence in the society?
• Does the crime rate depend on the neighborhood?
• How does race correspond with the type of crime?
• Do religious beliefs correspond with law violation?
• How does social class correlate with crime rate?
• What are the reasons for the homeless’ improsonment?
• How does weather correspond with law violation?

Criminology Topics on Victimization

• Biological theories of crime: how do biological factors correspond with law violation?
• Classical criminology: the contemporary take on crime, economics, deterrence, and the rational choice perspective.
• Convict criminology: what do ex-convicts have to say on the subject?
• Criminal justice theories: punishment as a deterrent to crime.
• Critical criminology : debunking false ideas about crime and criminal justice.
• Cultural criminology: criminality as the product of culture.
• Cultural transmission theory: how criminal norms are transmitted in social interaction.
• Deterrence theory: how people don’t commit crimes out of fear of punishment.
• Rational choice theory : how crime doing is aligned with personal objectives of the perpetrator.
• Feminist Criminology: how the dominant crime theories exclude women.
• Labeling and symbolic interaction theories: how minorities and those deviating from social norms tend to be negatively labeled.
• Life course criminology : how life events affect the actions that humans perform.
• Psychological theories of crime: criminal behavior through the lense of an individual’s personality.
• Routine activities theory : how normal everyday activities affect the tendency to commit a crime.
• The concept of natural legal crime.
• Self-control theory: how the lack of individual self-control results in criminal behavior.
• Social construction of crime: crime doing as social response.
• Social control theory : how positive socialization corresponds with reduction of criminal violation.
• Social disorganization theory : how neighborhood ecological characteristics correspond with crime rates.
• Social learning theory : how (non)criminal behavior can be acquired by observing and imitating others.
• Strain theories : how social structures within society pressure citizens to commit crime.
• Theoretical integration: how two theories are better than one.

Criminology Research and Measurement Topics

• Citation content analysis (CCA): a framework for gaining knowledge from a variety of media.
• Crime classification systems: classification of crime according to the severity of punishment.
• Crime mapping as a way to map, visualize, and analyze crime incident patterns.
• Reports and statistics of crime: the estimated rate of crime over time. Public surveys.
• Drug abuse warning network (DAWN): predicting trends in drug misuse.
• Arrestee drug abuse monitoring (ADAM): drug use among arrestees.
• Edge ethnography: collecting data undercover in typically closed research settings and groups through rapport development or covert undercover strategy.
• Experimental criminology: experimental and quasi-experimental research in the advancement of criminological theory.
• Fieldwork in criminology: street ethnographers and their dilemmas in the field concerning process and outcomes.
• Program evaluation: collecting and analyzing information to assess the efficiency of projects, policies and programs.
• Quantitative criminology: how exploratory research questions, inductive reasoning, and an orientation to social context help recognize human subjectivity.

Criminology Topics on Types of Crime

• Campus crime: the most common crimes on college campuses and ways of preventing them.
• Child abuse : types, prevalence, risk groups, ways of detection and prevention.
• Cybercrime : cyber fraud, defamation, hacking, bullying, phishing.
• Domestic violence: gender, ways of detection and prevention, activism.
• Domestic violence with disabilities .
• Elder abuse: types, prevalence, risk groups, ways of detection and prevention.
• Environmental crime. Natural resource theft: illegal trade in wildlife and timber, poaching, illegal fishing.
• Environmental crime. Illegal trade in ozone-depleting substances, hazardous waste; pollution of air, water, and soil.
• Environmental crime: local, regional, national, and transnational level.
• Environmental crime: climate change crime and corruption.
• Environmental crime: wildlife harming and exploitation.
• Hate crime: how prejudice motivates violence.

• Homicide : what motivates one person to kill another.
• Human trafficking : methods of deception, risk groups, ways of detection and prevention.
• Identity theft : methods, risk groups, ways of detection and prevention.
• Gambling in America .
• Juvenile delinquency : risk groups, prevention policies, prosecution and punishment.
• Juvenile Delinquency: Causes and Effects
• Organizational crime: transnational, national, and local levels. Ways of disrupting the activity of a group.
• Prostitution: risk groups, different takes on prevention policies, activism.
• Robbery: risk groups, ways of prevention, prosecution and punishment.
• Sex offenses: risk groups, types, prevalence, ways of detection and prevention.
• Terrorism: definition, history, countermeasures.
• Terrorism : individual and group activity, ways of detection and prevention.
• Theft and shoplifting : risk groups, ways of detection, prevention policies, prosecution and punishment.
• Counter-terrorism: constitutional and legislative issues.
• White-collar crime : types, ways of detection, prevention policies, prosecution and punishment.

Criminology Topics on Racism and Discrimination

• How systemic bias affects criminal justice?
• How discriminatory portrayal of minority groups in the media affects criminal justice?
• Racial profiling : targeting minority groups on the basis of race and ethnicity.
• Racism and discrimination towards African-Americans .
• Racial profiling : what are the cons? Are there any pros?
• How discriminatory is the UK Court System?
• How discriminatory is the US Court System?

Other Criminology Research Topics

• Corporate crime : the ruling class criminals.
• Genetics: illegal research and its dangers.
• Hate crime : the implications in criminal justice.
• Serial killers : risk groups, ways of detection and prevention.
• Serial killers: portrayal in media.
• Organized crime : how does it affect criminal justice?
• Crime prevention programs.
• Street lighting: does it reduce crime?
• Terrorism prevention technology.
• Identity theft: risk groups, ways of deception, prevention policies.
• Due process model: procedural and substantive aspects.
• Crime control in criminal justice administration.
• Types of drugs: how do they affect the users?
• Smart handheld devices: their function for security personnel.
• Social media: its impact on crime rate.
• Public health: how does criminal justice affect it?
• Psychometric examinations: what is their role in criminal justice?
• National defense in the US.
• National defense in the UK.
• Sexual harassment: the role of activism, ways of responding, prevention and prosecution.
• Substance abuse: military.
• Criminology and criminal justice jobs: a full list.

🌶️ Hot Criminal Justice Topics

• The history of modern police.
• Different types of prison systems.
• Is situational crime prevention effective?
• How to prevent wrongful convictions.
• Challenges faced by crime victims.
• The advantages of community corrections.
• How do ethics influence criminal justice?
• Disadvantages of felony disenfranchisement.
• Does correctional system in the USA really work?
• Possible problems of prisoner reentry process.

💂 116 Criminal Justice Research Topics & Questions

Here are some of the most typical and interesting criminal justice issues to dazzle your professor.

• Prison system : the main problems and the hidden pitfalls.
• The question of gender: why are there more men who receive capital punishment than women?
• Kidnapping and ransom: common features, motifs, behavior patterns.
• Crime prevention : key principles.
• Firing a gun: what helps professionals understand whether it was deliberate or happened by accident?
• Cybercrime : the legal perspective.
• Internet vigilantism: revenge leaks.
• Hate crime on the Internet: revenge leaks, trolling, defamation.
• Crime and justice in mass media .
• Parental abduction laws.
• Sex offender registry: pros and cons.
• The deterrence theory and the theory of rational choice : are they relevant in the modern world?
• Sexual assault in schools and workplaces.
• Jury selection: how is it performed?
• Experimental criminology: the latest innovations.

• Wildlife crime: areas of prevalence, ways of prevention.
• Felony disenfranchisement laws: when do they apply?
• The relation between organized crime and corruption .
• Victim services: what help can a victim of a crime get?
• Prison rape and violence: the psychological aspect, ways of prevention.
• Juvenile recidivism : what are the risk groups?
• Forensic science: role and functions in modern criminal justice.
• Shoplifting: how to prevent theft?
• Witness Protection Program: who is eligible and how to protect them.
• Date rape : what are the ways for the victims to seek legal assistance?
• Substance abuse and crime: correlation or causation?
• Identity theft: dangers and consequences in the modern world.
• Online predators: what laws can be introduced to protect kids? Real-life examples.
• Civil and criminal cases: how to differentiate?
• Domestic abuse victims: what laws protect them?
• Elder abuse: what can be done to prevent it?
• The strain theory : the unachievable American dream.
• Concepts of law enforcement: pursuing criminal justice .
• Ethics and criminal justice: the unethical sides of law enforcement.
• The top problems to be solved by law enforcement today.
• Information sharing technology: how has it helped in the fight against terrorism?
• Terrorism in perspective: characteristics, causes, control.
• Serial killers : types.
• Drug use and youth arrests.
• Aggressive behavior: how does it correlate with criminal tendencies?
• Community corrections : are they effective?
• Sentencing: how does it take place?
• Punishment types and the established terms.
• Unwarranted arrest: when is it acceptable?
• Human trafficking in the modern world.
• Human trafficking: current state and counteracts .
• The role of technology in modern forensics .
• Similarities and differences between homicide , murder, and manslaughter.
• Types of offenders: classification.
• Effects of gun control measures in the United States .
• The role of crime mapping in modern criminal justice.
• Male crimes vs female crimes: are they different?
• Prisons: the problems of bad living conditions.
• Victimization : causes and ways of prevention.
• Victimology and traditional justice system alternatives .
• Rape victims: what are their rights?
• Problem-solving courts: what underlying problems do they address?
• Mandatory sentencing and the three-strike rule.
• Have “three-strikes” laws been effective and should they be continued?
• Criminal courts: what can be learned from their history?
• Hate crimes: what motivates people to commit them?
• Youth gangs: what is their danger?
• Fieldwork: how is it done in criminology?
• Distributive justice: its place in criminal justice.
• Capital punishment : what can be learned from history?
• Humanities and justice in Britain during 18th century.
• Abolition of capital punishment .
• Criminals and prisoners’ rights.
• Crime prevention programs and criminal rehabilitation .
• Campus crime: what laws and precautions are there against it?
• Criminal trial process: how does it go?
• Crimes committed on a religious basis: how are they punished?
• The code of ethics in the Texas department of criminal justice .
• Comparison between Florida and Maryland’s legislative frameworks .
• Fraud in the scientific field: how can copyright protect the discoveries of researchers?
• Prosecution laws: how are they applied in practice?
• The classification of crime systems.
• Cyberbullying and cyberstalking: what can parents do to protect their children?
• Forgery cases in educational institutions, offices, and governmental organizations.
• Drug courts : how do they work?

Controversial Topics in Criminal Justice

Want your work to be unconventional? Consider choosing one of the controversial topics. You will need to present a number of opposite points of view. Of course, it’s acceptable to choose and promote an opinion that you think stands the best. Just make sure to provide a thorough analysis of all of the viewpoints.

You can also stay impartial and let the reader make up their own mind on the subject. If you decide to support one of the viewpoints, your decision should be objective. Back it up with plenty of evidence, too. Here are some examples of controversial topics that you can explore.

• Reform vs. punishment: which one offers more benefits?
• Restorative justice model : is it the best criminal justice tool?
• The war on drugs : does it really solve the drug problem?
• Criminal insanity: is it a reason enough for exemption from liability?
• Juvenile justice system: should it be eliminated?
• Drug testing on the school ground.
• Police brutality in the United States .
• How to better gun control ? 
• Why Gun Control Laws Should be Scrapped.
• Pornography: is it a type of sexual violence?
• Whether death penalty can be applied fairly?
• Jack the Ripper: who was he?
• The modern justice system: is it racist?
• A false accusation: how can one protect themselves from it?
• Concealed weapons: what are the criminal codes of various states?
• Race and crime: is there a correlation?
• Registering sex offenders: should this information be in public records?
• Juvenile delinquency and bad parenting: is there a relation?
• Assessing juveniles for psychopathy or conduct disorder.
• Should all new employees be checked for a criminal background ?
• Are delinquency cases higher among immigrant children?
• Restrictive housing: can it help decongest prisons?
• Homegrown crimes: is there an effective program against them?
• Prostitution: the controversy around legalization .
• Eyewitness testimony: is it really helpful in an investigation?
• Youthful offenders in boot camps: is this strategy effective?
• Predictive policing : is it effective?
• Selective incapacitation: is it an effective policy for reducing crime?
• Social class and crime: is there a relation?
• Death penalty: is it effective in crime deterrence?
• Extradition law: is it fair?
• Devious interrogations: is deceit acceptable during investigations?
• Supermax prisons: are they effective or just cruel?
• Zero tolerance: is it the best policy for crime reduction?
• Marijuana decriminalization: pros and cons.
• Marijuana legalization in the US .

Now that you have looked through the full list of topics, choose wisely. Remember that sometimes it’s best to avoid sensitive topics. Other times, a clever choice of a topic will win you extra points. It doesn’t depend on just the tastes of your professor, of course. You should also take into account how much relevant information there is on the subject. Anyway, the choice of the topic of your research is up to you. Try to find the latest materials and conduct an in-depth analysis of them. Don’t forget to draw a satisfactory conclusion. Writing may take a lot of your time and energy, so plan ahead. Remember to stay hydrated and good luck!

Now, after we looked through the topic collections on criminology and criminal justice, it is time to turn to the specifics in each of the fields. First, let’s talk more extensively about criminology. If you are training to be a criminologist, you will study some things more deeply. They include the behavior patterns of criminals, their backgrounds, and the latest sociological trends in crime.

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In the field of criminology, the specialties are numerous. That’s why it’s difficult to pinpoint one career that represents a typical member of the profession. It all depends on the background of a criminologist, their education, and experience.

A criminologist may have a number of responsibilities at their position. For example, they might be called forth to investigate a crime scene. Participation in autopsies is unpleasant yet necessary. Interrogation of suspects and subsequent criminal profiling is another essential duty.

Some professionals work solely in research. Others consult government agencies or private security companies. Courts and law firms also cooperate with criminologists. Their job is to provide expert opinion in criminal proceedings. Some of them work in the prison systems in order to oversee the rehabilitation of the convicted.

Regardless of the career specialty , most criminologists are working on profiling and data collection. A criminologist is another word for an analyst. They collect, study, and analyze data on crimes. After conducting the analysis, they provide recommendations and actionable information.

A criminologist seeks to find out the identity of the person who committed the crime. The time point of a crime is also important, as well as the reason for it. There are several areas covered by the analysis of a criminologist. The psychological behavior of the criminal or criminals is closely studied. The socio-economic indicators are taken into account. There are also, of course, the environmental factors that may have facilitated the crime.

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Some high-profile cases require a criminologist to correspond with media and PR managers extensively. Sometimes criminologists write articles and even books about their findings. However, it should be noted that the daily routine of a professional in the field is not so glamorous. Most criminologists do their work alone, without the attention of the public.

The research a criminologist accumulates during their work is extensive. It doesn’t just sit there in a folder on their desk, of course. The collected statistics are used for developing active criminal profiles that are shared with law enforcement agencies. It helps to understand criminal behavior better and to predict it. That’s why a criminologist’s work must be precise and accurate for it to be practical and useful. Also, criminology professionals must have a good grasp of math and statistics.

Thinking of a career in criminology? You will need to, at the very least, graduate from college. There, you’ll master mathematics, statistics, and, of course, criminology. An associate’s degree may get you an entry-level position. But the minimum entry-level requirement is usually the bachelor’s degree. The best positions, though, are left for the professionals with a master’s degree or a PhD.

Just having a degree is not enough. To succeed as a criminologist, you will require all your intelligence, commitment, and the skill of analyzing intricate situations. An aspiration to better the society will go a long way. You will need to exercise your creative, written, and verbal communication skills, too. An analytical mind will land you at an advantage.

Criminology: Research Areas

Times change and the world of crime never ceases to adapt. The nature of criminal transgression is evolving, and so do the ways of prosecution. Criminal detection, investigation, and prevention are constantly advancing. Criminology studies aim to improve the practices implemented in the field.

There are six unified, coordinated, and interrelated areas of expertise. Within each, the professionals are busy turning their mastery into knowledge and action.

The first research area is the newest worry of criminology – cybercrime. The impact of this type of crime is escalating with every passing day. That’s why it’s crucial for the law enforcement professionals to keep up to date with the evolving technology. Cybercrime research is exploring the growing threat of its subject at all levels of society. Cybercrime may impact people on both personal and governmental levels. Cybercrime research investigates the motivation and methodology behind the offenses and finds new ways to react.

The second research area is counter fraud. Crimes that fall under this category include fraud and corruption. The questions that counter fraud research deals with are many. How widely a crime is spread, what method is best to fight it, and the optimal courses of action to protect people and organizations.

The third research area is that of forensics. The contemporary face of justice has been changed by forensic science beyond recognition. Nowadays, it’s much harder for criminals to conceal their activity due to evolved technologies. The research in forensics is utilizing science in the identification of the crime and in its reconstruction. It employs such techniques as DNA recovery, fingerprinting, and forensic interviewing.

What is forensic interviewing? It helps find new ways to gather quality information from witnesses and crime scenes. It also works on developing protocols that ensure the protection of this human data and its correct interpretation by police.

The fourth research area is policing. Police service is facing a lot of pressing issues nowadays due to budget cuts. At the same time, police officers still need to learn, and there are also individual factors that may influence their work.

The fifth research area is penology. It’s tasked with exploring the role of punishment in the criminal justice system. Does punishment aid the rehabilitation of perpetrators, and to what extent? The answer will help link theory to practice and thus shape how criminal justice practitioners work.

The sixth research area is that of missing persons. Before a person goes missing, they may display a certain pattern of behavior. The study of missing persons helps to identify it. The results will determine the handling of such cases.

Now that we know what criminology is, it’s time to talk about criminal justice.

While criminology focuses on the analysis of crime, criminal justice concentrates on societal systems. Its primary concern is with the criminal behavior of the perpetrators. For example, in the USA, there are three branches of the criminal justice system. They are police (aka law enforcement), courts, and corrections. These branches all work together to punish and prevent unlawful behavior. If you take up a career in criminal justice, expect to work in one of these fields.

The most well-known branch of criminal justice is law enforcement. The police force is at the forefront of defense against crime and misdemeanor. They stand against the criminal element in many ways. For instance, they patrol the streets, investigate crimes, and detain suspects. It’s not just the police officers who take these responsibilities upon themselves. There are also US Marshals, ICE, FBI Agents, DEA, and border patrol. Only after the arrest has been made, the perpetrator enters the court system.

The court system is less visible to the public, but still crucial to the criminal justice system. Its main purpose is to determine the suspect’s innocence or guilt. You can work as an attorney, lawyer, bailiff, judge, or another professional of the field. In the court, if you are a suspect, you are innocent until proven guilty. You are also entitled to a fair trial. However, if they do find you guilty, you will receive a sentence. Your punishment will be the job of the corrections system.

The courts determine the nature of the punishment, and the corrections system enforces it. There are three elements of the corrections system: incarceration, probation, and parole. They either punish or rehabilitate the convicts. Want to uptake a career in corrections? You may work as, including, but not limited to: a parole officer, a prison warden, a probation officer, and a guard.

📈 Criminal Justice: Research Areas

The research areas in criminal justice are similar, if not identical, to those of criminology. After all, those are two very closely related fields. The one difference is that criminal justice research has more practical than theoretical applications. But it’s fair to say that theory is the building blocks that practice bases itself on. One is impossible without the other unless the result you want is complete chaos.

So, the question is – what topic to choose for the research paper? Remember that the world of criminal justice is constantly changing. Choosing a subject for research in criminal justice, consider a relevant topic. There are many pressing issues in the field. Exploring them will undoubtedly win you points from your professor. Just make sure to choose a direction that will give you the opportunity to show off both your knowledge and your analytical skills.

Not sure that your original research direction will be appreciated? Then choose one of the standard topics. Something that is widely discussed in the media. And, of course, make sure that you are truly interested in the subject. Otherwise, your disinterest will translate into your writing, which may negatively affect the overall impression. Also, it’s just more enjoyable to work on something that resonates with you.

What can you do with your research paper? Literally anything. Explore the background of the issue. Make predictions. Compare the different takes on the matter. Maybe there are some fresh new discoveries that have been made recently. What does science say about that?

Also, remember to backup all your arguments with quotes and examples from real life. The Internet is the best library and research ground a student could hope for. The main idea of the paper, aka the thesis, must be proven by enough factual material. Otherwise, it’s best to change your research direction.

And, of course, don’t put it all off till the last minute. Make a plan and stick to it. Consistency and clever distribution of effort will take you a long way. Good luck!

🤔 Criminal Justice Research FAQs

Criminological and criminal justice research are the scientific studies of the causes and consequences, extent and control, nature, management, and prevention of criminal behavior, both on the social and individual levels.

Criminal justice and criminology are sciences that analyze the occurrence and explore the ways of prevention of illegal acts. Any conducted personal research and investigation should be supported by the implemented analytical methods from academic works that describe the given subject.

There are six interrelated areas of criminology research:

• Cybercrime research makes law enforcement professionals keep up to date with the evolving technology.
• Counter fraud research investigates cases of fraud and corruption.
• Forensics research utilizes science: DNA recovery, fingerprinting, and forensic interviewing.
• Research in policing investigates individual factors that may influence the work of police officers.
• Penology explores the role of punishment in the criminal justice system.
• The study of missing persons helps to identify patterns of victims’ behavior.

There are seven research methods in criminology:

• Quantitative research methods measure criminological and criminal justice reality by assigning numerical values to concepts to find patterns of correlation, cause and effect.
• Survey research collects information from a number of persons via their responses to questions.
• Experimental research assesses cause and effect in two comparison groups.
• Cross-sectional research studies one group at one point in time.
• Longitudinal research studies the same group over a period of time.
• Time-series designs study the same group at successive points in time.
• Meta-analysis employs quantitative analysis of findings from multiple studies.

The basis of criminological theory is criminological research. It influences the development of social policies and defines criminal justice practice.

Criminological research doesn’t just enable law students to develop analytical and presentational skills. The works of criminal justice professionals, scholars, and government policymakers dictate the way law enforcement operates. The newest ideas born out of research identify corrections and crime prevention, too.

Here is a step-by-step instruction on how to write a criminal justice research paper:

• Choose a topic
• Read the materials and take notes
• Come up with a thesis
• Create an outline for your work
• Draft the body
• Start with a cover page, an abstract, and an intro
• List the methods you used, and the results you got
• Include a discussion
• Sum it up with a conclusion
• Don’t forget a literature review and appendices
• Revise, proofread, and edit

The most common types of methodologies in criminal justice research include:

• Observation of participants.
• Surveys and interviews.
• Observation of focus groups.
• Conducting experiments.
• Analysis of secondary data and archival study.
• Mixed (a combination of the above methods).

Learn more on this topic:

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• The Differences Between Criminal Justice and Criminology: Which Degree Is Right for You? (Concordia St. Paul)
• Corporate Crime: Britannica
• The Development of Delinquency: NAP
• Databases for Research & Education: Gale
• A CS Research Topic Generator: Purdue University
• A Introduction To The Federal Court System: US Department of Justice
• Criminal Justice Research Topics: Broward College
• Research Topics in Criminology: Cambridge Institute of Criminology
• CRIMINOLOGY: University of Portsmouth
• Research: Department of Criminology & Criminal Justice, University of Maryland
• Criminal Justice: RAND
• Research Methods in Criminal Justice: Penn State University Libraries
• Research: School of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Arizona State University
• Criminology – Research Guide: Getting started (Penn Libraries)
• Criminology Research Papers: Academia
• The History & Development of the U.S. Criminal Justice System: Study.com
• CRIMINAL JUSTICE & CRIMINOLOGY: Marshall University
• Criminal Justice: Temple University
• Criminal Justice: University of North Georgia
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Criminal Justice

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Criminology theories.

This article provides an overview of various criminology theories that attempt to explain the causes of crime. The article covers biological, classical, critical, cultural, cultural transmission, deterrence, feminist, labeling, life course, psychological, self-control, social construction, social control, social disorganization, social learning, strain, integrated, criminal justice, and convict criminology theories. Each theory is defined, and its key concepts and assumptions are explained, along with its strengths and limitations. The article also discusses the importance of understanding these theories for developing effective crime prevention and reduction strategies. Finally, the article suggests future directions for criminology research in order to continue to refine and improve our understanding of crime and its causes.

I. Introduction

• Explanation of criminology and its importance in understanding crime • Overview of the different criminology theories to be discussed in the article

II. Biological Theory of Crime

• Explanation of the theory and its key concepts • History and development of the theory • Criticisms and limitations of the theory

III. Classical Criminology

Iv. critical criminology, v. cultural criminology, vi. cultural transmission theory of crime, vii. deterrence and rational choice theories of crime.

• Explanation of the theories and their key concepts • History and development of the theories • Criticisms and limitations of the theories

VIII. Feminist Criminology

Ix. labeling and symbolic interaction theories of crime, x. life course criminology, xi. psychological theories of crime, xii. routine activities theory.

• Explanation of the theory and its key concepts
• History and development of the theory
• Criticisms and limitations of the theory

XIII. Self-Control Theory of Crime

Xiv. social construction of crime, xv. social control theory of crime, xvi. social disorganization theory of crime, xvii. social learning theory of crime, xviii. strain theories of crime, xix. integrated theories of crime, xx. criminal justice theories, xxi. convict criminology, xxii. conclusion.

• Summary of the different criminology theories • Criticisms of criminology theories • The need for interdisciplinary approaches in criminology • Implications for criminal justice policy and practice • Future directions for criminology theories

XXIII. References

The biological theory of crime posits that criminal behavior is the result of biological factors, such as genetics, brain abnormalities, and hormonal imbalances. According to this theory, individuals may be predisposed to criminal behavior due to their biological makeup, which can influence their personality traits, cognitive abilities, and social interactions.

The key concept of biological theory is the idea that biology is a significant determinant of criminal behavior, and that criminal tendencies are rooted in the individual’s physiology rather than their environment. Researchers who support this theory argue that factors such as genetics, brain structure and function, and hormonal imbalances can affect an individual’s propensity towards aggression, impulsivity, and risk-taking behavior, all of which are common traits among criminals.

The biological theory of crime has its roots in the work of Cesare Lombroso, an Italian criminologist who believed that criminals were “born” rather than made. Lombroso argued that criminals had physical features that set them apart from non-criminals, and that criminal behavior was the result of atavism, or a return to primitive instincts. This early version of the biological theory has been widely discredited, but the basic premise that biological factors contribute to criminal behavior continues to be studied and debated.

Critics of the biological theory of crime argue that it is reductionist and deterministic, ignoring the complex social and environmental factors that also contribute to criminal behavior. In addition, the theory has been criticized for being used to support discriminatory practices and policies, such as eugenics and racial profiling.

Despite its limitations, the biological theory of crime remains an important area of research within criminology. Advances in neuroscience and genetics have led to new insights into the biological basis of criminal behavior, and researchers continue to explore the complex interplay between biology and environment in shaping criminal tendencies.

Classical criminology is a theory of crime that emerged during the Enlightenment era in the 18th century. It is based on the idea that humans are rational beings who make choices based on their self-interest and that crime is the result of the calculation of the potential gains and losses of criminal behavior. According to classical criminologists, individuals choose to commit crimes because they believe that the benefits of doing so outweigh the costs.

One of the key figures in the development of classical criminology is Cesare Beccaria, an Italian philosopher and economist who wrote the influential book “On Crimes and Punishments” in 1764. Beccaria argued that punishment should be proportionate to the harm caused by the crime and that the criminal justice system should be based on the principles of deterrence and prevention rather than revenge.

Another important figure in the classical school of criminology is Jeremy Bentham, an English philosopher and jurist who developed the concept of utilitarianism. Bentham believed that the purpose of the criminal justice system should be to maximize the happiness of society by deterring crime and punishing offenders in a way that would benefit society as a whole.

Critics of classical criminology argue that the theory is too simplistic and fails to take into account the complex social and psychological factors that contribute to criminal behavior. They also point out that the theory is based on an individualistic view of crime that ignores the role of social structures and institutions in shaping behavior.

Despite its limitations, classical criminology has had a significant influence on the development of modern criminal justice systems. The principles of deterrence and proportionality are still used in many legal systems around the world, and the idea that punishment should be based on the harm caused by the crime is widely accepted.

Critical criminology is a theoretical perspective that emerged in the 1960s and has since evolved to become a significant approach to studying crime and the criminal justice system. This approach is rooted in a critical analysis of society’s economic and social structure and aims to explain crime as a product of inequalities within that structure. Critical criminologists believe that the capitalist system is inherently criminogenic, meaning that it creates the conditions for crime to occur.

The key concepts of critical criminology include the idea that the law and criminal justice system are used by those in power to maintain their control over society, and that they are not neutral institutions that operate solely to uphold justice. Critical criminologists also argue that crime is a socially constructed concept, and that the definition of what constitutes a crime is influenced by power dynamics and the interests of those in power. Additionally, critical criminologists emphasize the role of social and economic factors in explaining criminal behavior, including poverty, inequality, and oppression.

The roots of critical criminology can be traced back to the works of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, who saw crime as a product of capitalism and the unequal distribution of wealth and power that it creates. Later, critical criminologists such as William Chambliss and Richard Quinney expanded on this perspective by analyzing the relationship between crime and the social and economic structures of society.

One criticism of critical criminology is that it can be overly deterministic, reducing crime to a simple product of societal structures and ignoring the agency of individual offenders. Additionally, some critics argue that critical criminology does not offer practical solutions to reduce crime and improve the criminal justice system.

Despite these criticisms, critical criminology has contributed to important debates about the causes of crime and the role of the criminal justice system in society. By highlighting the social and economic factors that contribute to criminal behavior, critical criminology has played a significant role in shaping criminal justice policy and practice, particularly in areas such as restorative justice and community-based interventions.

Cultural criminology is an interdisciplinary approach that studies the relationship between culture, crime, and social control. It emerged in the 1990s as a reaction to traditional criminology that viewed crime as a social problem caused by individual pathology, social disorganization, or a lack of social control. Cultural criminologists argue that crime is not simply a result of individual behavior but is also shaped by cultural norms, values, and practices.

Key Concepts:

• Cultural Criminology is a subfield of criminology that emphasizes the role of culture in shaping criminal behavior and responses to crime.
• Culture is defined broadly to include popular culture, subcultures, music, fashion, art, media, and other forms of symbolic representation.
• Crime is viewed as a cultural product that reflects and reproduces cultural values, meanings, and conflicts.
• The criminal justice system is seen as a cultural institution that produces and reinforces cultural beliefs and practices related to crime and punishment.
• The media is viewed as a powerful cultural force that shapes public perceptions of crime and justice.

Cultural criminology emerged in the late 1990s as a response to the limitations of traditional criminology. Cultural criminologists criticized traditional criminology for focusing on the individual, ignoring cultural factors, and neglecting the symbolic and cultural dimensions of crime. They argued that crime is a social and cultural construct that reflects the values, meanings, and conflicts of the society in which it occurs. Cultural criminology draws on various disciplines, including sociology, anthropology, cultural studies, and media studies.

Critics of cultural criminology argue that it overemphasizes the role of culture in shaping criminal behavior and ignores the importance of individual factors such as biology, psychology, and social structure. They also criticize cultural criminology for its focus on the symbolic and cultural dimensions of crime at the expense of more concrete factors such as poverty, inequality, and social injustice. Finally, some critics argue that cultural criminology has little practical relevance for policy and practice in the criminal justice system.

Despite its limitations, cultural criminology has made important contributions to criminology by highlighting the cultural and symbolic dimensions of crime and the role of the media in shaping public perceptions of crime and justice. It has also inspired new research on the relationship between culture, crime, and social control, and has influenced the development of new theoretical and methodological approaches to the study of crime.

Cultural Transmission Theory is a criminology theory that suggests that criminal behavior is learned through socialization and interaction with others. According to this theory, individuals learn criminal behavior through their social interactions with family members, peers, and other significant people in their lives. Cultural transmission theorists argue that criminal behavior is not biologically determined or a result of free will but rather a product of socialization.

• Criminal behavior is learned through socialization and interaction with others
• Criminal behavior is not biologically determined or a result of free will
• Individuals who associate with criminals are more likely to engage in criminal behavior
• Criminal behavior is transmitted through social structures, such as family, peer groups, and subcultures

Cultural Transmission Theory was first introduced by sociologist Edwin Sutherland in the 1930s. Sutherland argued that criminal behavior is learned through a process of social interaction with others who hold criminal values and attitudes. Sutherland believed that criminal behavior is not a result of innate personality traits or mental illness but rather a product of social learning.

One criticism of Cultural Transmission Theory is that it does not account for the role of individual agency in criminal behavior. Critics argue that individuals have the ability to make choices and that criminal behavior is not solely a product of socialization. Another criticism is that the theory does not explain why some individuals who are exposed to criminal behavior do not become criminals themselves. Additionally, some critics argue that the theory overlooks the influence of structural factors such as poverty and inequality in the transmission of criminal behavior.

Despite its limitations, Cultural Transmission Theory has been influential in shaping the field of criminology and has been used to inform policies and programs aimed at preventing criminal behavior. By understanding the ways in which criminal behavior is learned and transmitted through social structures, researchers and policymakers can develop interventions that address the root causes of criminal behavior.

Deterrence and rational choice theories of crime are two closely related theoretical perspectives that emphasize the importance of incentives and disincentives in shaping criminal behavior.

Deterrence theory posits that individuals are rational actors who weigh the costs and benefits of committing a crime before making a decision to do so. According to this theory, the certainty, severity, and swiftness of punishment are all factors that influence an individual’s decision to engage in criminal behavior. The theory suggests that if the potential costs of committing a crime outweigh the potential benefits, individuals will be deterred from engaging in criminal activity.

Rational choice theory, on the other hand, emphasizes the importance of choice and decision-making in criminal behavior. According to this theory, individuals are rational actors who make decisions based on the perceived costs and benefits of a particular course of action. In the context of crime, rational choice theorists argue that individuals will engage in criminal behavior if they believe that the benefits of doing so outweigh the costs.

Both deterrence and rational choice theories have a long history in criminology, with roots dating back to the classical school of criminology. However, the modern iterations of these theories have been developed in the context of contemporary social and political issues, such as the rise of mass incarceration and the use of deterrence as a justification for punitive criminal justice policies.

Critics of deterrence and rational choice theories argue that they are based on a limited and simplistic understanding of human behavior, and that they fail to take into account the broader social, economic, and cultural factors that contribute to crime. Additionally, these theories are often criticized for their reliance on punishment and the criminal justice system as the primary means of addressing crime, rather than addressing the underlying social and structural causes of criminal behavior.

Despite these criticisms, deterrence and rational choice theories continue to be influential in contemporary criminological research and policymaking, and they remain important theoretical frameworks for understanding the motivations and decision-making processes behind criminal behavior.

Feminist criminology is a perspective that seeks to address gender and other forms of inequality in the criminal justice system and in society at large. It emerged in the 1960s and 1970s as part of the broader feminist movement, which sought to expose and challenge patriarchal structures and practices in society.

The key concept in feminist criminology is patriarchy, which refers to the social, political, and economic dominance of men over women. Feminist criminologists argue that patriarchy influences all aspects of the criminal justice system, from the laws and policies that are created to the way in which criminal cases are investigated, prosecuted, and adjudicated.

Feminist criminology emphasizes the need to take gender into account when studying crime and criminal justice. This includes looking at the ways in which gender influences crime patterns, the experiences of victims and offenders, and the responses of the criminal justice system.

Some of the key contributions of feminist criminology include the development of gender-specific theories of crime, such as the pathways theory, which examines the unique factors that contribute to women’s involvement in crime. Feminist criminologists have also highlighted the ways in which the criminal justice system often fails to take into account the experiences and perspectives of women, particularly those who are marginalized or disadvantaged.

Critics of feminist criminology argue that the focus on gender and patriarchy can lead to an overemphasis on the experiences of women and a neglect of other important factors that contribute to crime, such as social class and race. Additionally, some have raised concerns that the focus on gender may lead to an essentialization of women as victims and men as offenders, and may overlook the ways in which gender intersects with other forms of identity and experience.

Despite these criticisms, feminist criminology remains an important perspective within criminology, as it continues to highlight the importance of taking gender into account when studying crime and criminal justice, and challenges the patriarchal assumptions that have long been embedded in the criminal justice system.

Labeling theory and symbolic interaction theory are two closely related perspectives in criminology that focus on how social labels and interactions shape individuals’ behavior and experiences within the criminal justice system.

Labeling theory, also known as social reaction theory, suggests that individuals become deviant when labeled as such by society. The theory argues that criminal behavior is not inherent in certain individuals, but rather is a result of the way society responds to their behavior. In other words, labeling theory suggests that social reactions to criminal behavior, such as stigmatization, marginalization, and exclusion, can actually contribute to the development of criminal identities and behaviors.

Symbolic interaction theory, on the other hand, emphasizes the role of social interactions and meanings in shaping individuals’ behaviors and identities. This theory suggests that individuals learn to interpret and respond to social symbols and meanings, including those related to crime and deviance, through their interactions with others. Symbolic interaction theory also emphasizes the importance of self-concept and identity in shaping individuals’ behavior, and suggests that individuals who have been labeled as deviant may adopt that label as part of their self-identity.

Labeling theory emerged in the 1960s as a response to earlier criminological perspectives that focused on the individual and their inherent traits and characteristics as the cause of criminal behavior. The theory was influenced by the broader social and cultural movements of the time, including the civil rights and anti-war movements, and sought to understand how social institutions, such as the criminal justice system, contribute to the creation and perpetuation of deviant behavior.

Symbolic interaction theory has its roots in the work of sociologists George Herbert Mead and Herbert Blumer in the early 20th century. Mead and Blumer emphasized the importance of symbolic interactions and meanings in shaping individuals’ behavior, and their work laid the foundation for the development of symbolic interactionism as a broader theoretical perspective. In criminology, symbolic interaction theory has been used to understand a range of phenomena, including the role of socialization and labeling in the development of criminal identities, the impact of the criminal justice system on individuals’ self-identity, and the importance of social support and relationships in reducing criminal behavior.

One criticism of labeling theory is that it does not account for the role of individual agency and choice in criminal behavior. Critics argue that the theory places too much emphasis on the social reactions to criminal behavior and not enough on the individual’s decision to engage in that behavior. Additionally, some scholars argue that the theory may inadvertently reinforce stereotypes and stigmas related to certain types of criminal behavior, by suggesting that labeling is a direct cause of criminal behavior.

Symbolic interaction theory has been criticized for its focus on individual-level interactions and meanings, and its relative neglect of larger structural factors, such as inequality and social institutions. Critics argue that the theory may overlook the ways in which social structures and systems shape individuals’ interactions and meanings, and that it may not adequately account for the role of power and privilege in shaping criminal behavior and criminal justice outcomes.

Despite these criticisms, labeling and symbolic interaction theories have had a significant impact on criminological thinking, and continue to inform contemporary research on crime and deviance. These theories have highlighted the importance of social interactions and meanings in shaping criminal behavior, and have challenged traditional criminological perspectives that focus solely on individual-level factors as the cause of crime.

Life course criminology is a theoretical perspective that emphasizes the importance of understanding the developmental trajectories of individuals in relation to their involvement in crime and other problem behaviors. This perspective views criminal behavior as a dynamic process that evolves over the course of an individual’s life, and suggests that early experiences and socialization can have lasting effects on future behavior.

Life course criminology emphasizes several key concepts, including:

• Age-graded theory: This theory suggests that individuals experience turning points throughout their lives that can either lead them towards or away from criminal behavior. These turning points can be influenced by a variety of factors, such as marriage, employment, and parenthood.
• Cumulative disadvantage: This concept refers to the idea that early negative experiences, such as poverty or abuse, can have a cumulative effect on an individual’s development and increase their risk for problem behaviors later in life.
• Trajectories: Life course criminology identifies several trajectories that individuals may follow in relation to their involvement in crime, such as early onset persistent offenders, adolescent limited offenders, and late onset offenders.

Life course criminology has its roots in several different disciplines, including sociology, psychology, and developmental psychology. The theoretical perspective was first articulated in the 1980s and has since been further developed and refined by numerous researchers in the field.

Critics of life course criminology argue that the theory may place too much emphasis on the importance of early experiences and may overlook the role of individual agency and decision-making in relation to criminal behavior. Additionally, some have raised concerns about the potential for life course criminology to be used to justify harsher criminal justice policies targeting individuals who are identified as high-risk based on their life trajectories.

Psychological theories of crime focus on individual traits, behaviors, and experiences that contribute to criminal behavior. These theories suggest that criminal behavior arises from mental, emotional, or developmental disorders that are either innate or acquired through socialization processes.

• Psychopathy: Psychopathy is a personality disorder characterized by callousness, impulsivity, and a lack of empathy. Psychopaths are thought to be more prone to criminal behavior due to their inability to feel guilt or remorse.
• Intelligence: Some theories suggest that low intelligence is a risk factor for criminal behavior. Individuals with lower cognitive abilities may have difficulty navigating complex social situations and may resort to criminal behavior as a means of achieving their goals.
• Early Childhood Experiences: Traumatic experiences during childhood, such as abuse, neglect, or exposure to violence, may lead to behavioral and emotional problems that contribute to criminal behavior.

Psychological theories of crime emerged in the early 20th century, with early researchers such as Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung exploring the relationship between psychological factors and criminal behavior. Later researchers, such as B.F. Skinner and Albert Bandura, further developed the field by examining how environmental factors and social learning can contribute to criminal behavior.

Critics of psychological theories of crime argue that they tend to focus too narrowly on individual factors and overlook the social and economic forces that can contribute to criminal behavior. Additionally, some critics argue that these theories may pathologize and stigmatize individuals with mental or emotional disorders, leading to discriminatory treatment within the criminal justice system.

Routine Activities Theory (RAT) is a criminological theory that focuses on the convergence of three factors that create an opportunity for crime: suitable targets, the absence of capable guardians, and the presence of motivated offenders. The theory suggests that crime occurs when a potential offender comes across a vulnerable target, such as an unlocked car or an unattended house, with no one around to deter them.

According to RAT, changes in social and economic conditions, such as an increase in the number of working women or a decrease in police presence, can affect the availability of suitable targets and capable guardians, thereby affecting the likelihood of crime. The theory also emphasizes the role of routine activities in shaping opportunities for crime. For example, a person who has a predictable routine, such as leaving for work at the same time every day, may become a suitable target for a potential offender who knows their schedule.

RAT was first proposed by Marcus Felson and Lawrence Cohen in 1979 as a response to the limitations of traditional criminological theories that focused primarily on individual-level factors, such as biological and psychological traits, to explain criminal behavior. Felson and Cohen argued that these theories were inadequate because they did not account for the situational factors that contribute to criminal behavior.

RAT was inspired by the work of environmental criminologists, who emphasized the importance of analyzing the physical and social environments in which crime occurs. The theory also drew on the work of routine activity theorists, who argued that crime is a function of the convergence of three necessary elements: motivated offenders, suitable targets, and the absence of capable guardians.

Critics of RAT argue that the theory places too much emphasis on situational factors and not enough on individual-level factors that may contribute to criminal behavior. They also argue that the theory fails to account for the role of social and economic factors in shaping opportunities for crime. For example, some researchers have argued that RAT fails to explain why crime rates vary across neighborhoods with similar routine activities.

Additionally, critics have argued that RAT is limited in its ability to explain white-collar crime and other forms of corporate crime, which may not fit neatly into the framework of motivated offenders, suitable targets, and the absence of capable guardians. Critics have also pointed out that the theory is unable to explain why certain types of crimes, such as drug offenses, are more prevalent in some neighborhoods than others.

Despite these criticisms, RAT has had a significant impact on criminological theory and research, and has been used to inform crime prevention strategies and policies. By focusing on the situational factors that contribute to criminal behavior, RAT has helped to shift the focus of criminological research and policy from individual-level factors to environmental and situational factors, and has provided a valuable framework for understanding the social and economic factors that shape opportunities for crime.

Self-control theory is a psychological theory of crime that argues that individuals who lack self-control are more likely to engage in criminal behavior. This theory proposes that self-control, which is learned during childhood and maintained throughout adulthood, is a key factor in predicting criminal behavior.

• Self-control refers to an individual’s ability to control their impulses and refrain from engaging in activities that may be harmful to themselves or others.
• Low self-control is often associated with impulsive behavior, short-sighted decision-making, and a lack of concern for the consequences of one’s actions.
• Criminal behavior is often the result of individuals with low self-control seeking immediate gratification and disregarding the potential negative consequences of their actions.

Self-control theory was first proposed by Travis Hirschi and Michael Gottfredson in 1990. The theory drew on previous psychological research on the importance of self-control in a variety of domains, including academic achievement, drug use, and social relationships. Hirschi and Gottfredson argued that low self-control was a key predictor of criminal behavior and proposed that self-control was learned during childhood through parental socialization practices.

Critics of self-control theory have argued that the theory is overly deterministic and does not take into account the impact of environmental factors on criminal behavior. Additionally, some researchers have argued that the theory places too much emphasis on individual characteristics and overlooks the importance of societal factors in shaping criminal behavior. Others have raised concerns about the potential for the theory to stigmatize individuals with low self-control as inherently criminal or deviant. Despite these criticisms, self-control theory continues to be an influential framework for understanding the causes of criminal behavior.

The social construction of crime theory suggests that crime is a product of societal definitions and interpretations rather than objective behavior. This theory emphasizes that criminal behavior is socially constructed and defined by society rather than being an inherent feature of the individual or the act itself. In other words, what is considered criminal behavior is determined by social norms, values, and beliefs.

Key concepts of this theory include the role of power and social control, as well as the idea that criminal behavior is a product of the social conditions in which it occurs. Social constructionists argue that laws and definitions of criminal behavior are not neutral, but rather reflect the interests of those in power. Therefore, crime is not an objective reality, but rather a product of social construction.

The social construction of crime theory has its roots in the work of sociologists such as Emile Durkheim, who argued that crime is a normal and necessary part of society. The theory gained further prominence in the 1960s and 1970s, when critical criminologists began to challenge traditional criminological theories that focused solely on individual factors such as biology or psychology.

Critics of this theory argue that it overlooks the role of individual agency and responsibility in criminal behavior, and that it fails to provide clear explanations for why certain behaviors are defined as criminal while others are not. Additionally, critics contend that the theory can be used to justify criminal behavior and to minimize the harm caused by criminal acts.

Despite these criticisms, the social construction of crime theory remains an important perspective in criminology, as it challenges traditional assumptions about criminal behavior and highlights the importance of social context in shaping definitions of crime.

Social control theory suggests that individuals are naturally inclined to engage in deviant behavior, but that socialization and social bonds prevent them from doing so. This theory posits that the strength of an individual’s connection to society determines the likelihood of that person engaging in criminal behavior. The more social bonds and connections an individual has, the less likely they are to commit crimes.

• Social bonds: Social control theory emphasizes the importance of social bonds in preventing criminal behavior. These bonds can take many forms, including family relationships, friendships, employment, and community involvement.
• Inner and outer controls: Social control theory distinguishes between inner controls (such as conscience, values, and beliefs) and outer controls (such as laws, sanctions, and social norms).
• Self-control: This theory emphasizes the importance of self-control in preventing criminal behavior. Individuals with high self-control are better able to resist temptations and impulses that might lead them to engage in criminal activity.

Social control theory has its roots in the early 20th century work of sociologists such as Travis Hirschi and Walter Reckless. Hirschi’s seminal work, “Causes of Delinquency,” emphasized the importance of social bonds in preventing criminal behavior. Reckless’s work on containment theory also emphasized the importance of social bonds, but added the concept of inner containment (i.e., self-control) as a factor in preventing crime.

Critics of social control theory argue that it does not adequately explain why some individuals who have strong social bonds still engage in criminal behavior. Additionally, some critics argue that the theory places too much emphasis on the role of social bonds and ignores other important factors that contribute to criminal behavior, such as economic inequality and structural disadvantage. However, social control theory has been influential in shaping criminological research and policy, particularly in the areas of juvenile delinquency and crime prevention.

Social disorganization theory posits that crime and other social problems are the result of the breakdown of social control in disorganized areas. The theory argues that social institutions, such as schools, churches, and the family, play a crucial role in maintaining social order and preventing crime. When these institutions are weakened or absent, crime and other social problems are more likely to occur.

Key concepts:

• Social disorganization: Refers to the breakdown of social control in a community.
• Concentrated disadvantage: Refers to the economic and social problems faced by individuals living in areas of high poverty and unemployment.
• Collective efficacy: Refers to the ability of a community to work together to achieve common goals and solve problems.

Social disorganization theory emerged in the early 20th century, as sociologists sought to understand the high rates of crime in urban areas. The theory was first developed by researchers at the University of Chicago, who studied the relationship between social disorganization and crime in the city’s slums.

Critics of social disorganization theory argue that it places too much emphasis on the role of social institutions in preventing crime, and overlooks the role of individual factors, such as biology and psychology, in criminal behavior. Additionally, some researchers have questioned the theory’s focus on inner-city communities, arguing that it may not be applicable to other types of communities. Finally, social disorganization theory has been criticized for its lack of attention to the impact of race, ethnicity, and gender on crime and social disorganization.

Social learning theory suggests that individuals learn to commit crimes through their social interactions and exposure to deviant behavior. The theory proposes that people acquire criminal behavior through observation, imitation, and reinforcement. Social learning theorists argue that individuals are not born with a propensity to engage in criminal behavior, but rather learn it from others in their social environment.

Key concepts of social learning theory include differential association, reinforcement, and imitation. Differential association refers to the idea that individuals learn criminal behavior from others who hold deviant values and attitudes. Reinforcement suggests that individuals are more likely to repeat behaviors that are rewarded, while punishment decreases the likelihood of behavior being repeated. Imitation suggests that individuals learn by modeling the behaviors of others, particularly those in their social circle.

The history of social learning theory can be traced back to the work of Edwin Sutherland, who proposed differential association theory in the 1930s. Later, Albert Bandura expanded on social learning theory, introducing the concept of self-efficacy and the role of cognitive processes in learning.

Critics of social learning theory argue that it places too much emphasis on the role of environmental factors in shaping behavior and fails to account for the influence of individual differences and biological factors. Additionally, the theory has been criticized for its inability to explain why some individuals exposed to deviant behavior do not go on to commit crimes.

Despite these criticisms, social learning theory has been influential in the field of criminology, particularly in the study of juvenile delinquency and the development of prevention programs. By understanding the role of social factors in the acquisition of criminal behavior, social learning theory has contributed to the development of interventions aimed at reducing crime and promoting positive social behaviors.

Strain theories of crime argue that the pressure or strain to achieve certain goals, such as financial success or social status, can lead to criminal behavior. The theory suggests that when individuals are unable to achieve their goals through legitimate means, they may resort to criminal activity as a way of achieving their desired outcomes. There are several variations of strain theory, but they all focus on the social and economic factors that contribute to criminal behavior.

One of the most well-known strain theories is Robert Merton’s strain theory. According to Merton, the American dream of achieving success through hard work and determination can create strain for individuals who are unable to attain financial success through legal means. Merton identified five different modes of adaptation that individuals may use to cope with this strain, including conformity, innovation, ritualism, retreatism, and rebellion.

Other strain theories, such as general strain theory (GST) and institutional anomie theory (IAT), emphasize the role of negative emotions, such as anger and frustration, in motivating criminal behavior. GST argues that individuals who experience strain are more likely to engage in criminal activity when they experience negative emotions, such as anger or frustration, and lack the coping mechanisms to deal with these emotions. IAT, on the other hand, suggests that the structure of society, specifically the emphasis on economic success, creates strain that leads to high rates of crime.

Critics of strain theory argue that it oversimplifies the complex factors that contribute to criminal behavior and ignores the role of personal choice and agency. Additionally, some research has suggested that individuals who experience strain may be more likely to engage in non-criminal coping mechanisms, such as drug use or alcohol abuse, rather than criminal behavior.

Despite these criticisms, strain theories have contributed to our understanding of the ways in which social and economic factors can contribute to criminal behavior. They have also been influential in shaping policies and programs aimed at preventing crime by addressing the root causes of strain, such as poverty and inequality.

Integrated theories of crime attempt to incorporate multiple perspectives and explanations for criminal behavior into a single framework. These theories recognize that no single approach can fully explain all aspects of criminal behavior, and instead seek to combine multiple theories in order to provide a more comprehensive understanding of crime.

One example of an integrated theory is the social development model (SDM), which combines elements of social control theory, social learning theory, and social disorganization theory. The SDM posits that a combination of personal and environmental factors, including family relationships, peer influences, and community characteristics, contribute to the development of criminal behavior.

Another integrated theory is the general theory of crime, which combines elements of control theory and strain theory. This theory suggests that individuals with low self-control are more likely to engage in criminal behavior, particularly when faced with situations that create a high level of stress or strain.

Critics of integrated theories argue that they may be overly complex and difficult to test empirically. Additionally, some argue that the combination of multiple theories may dilute the strength of each individual theory.

Despite these criticisms, integrated theories continue to be an important area of study in criminology, as they provide a more nuanced understanding of the complex factors that contribute to criminal behavior. By incorporating multiple perspectives and approaches, integrated theories have the potential to offer more effective strategies for preventing and reducing crime.

Criminal justice theories seek to explain the behavior of criminal justice agencies, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections. These theories also examine how these agencies interact with one another and how they affect individuals and society as a whole. This section will provide an overview of the key criminal justice theories.

Explanation of the theories and their key concepts:

• Due Process Model: This model emphasizes the protection of individual rights and focuses on ensuring that the criminal justice system operates fairly and impartially. The key concepts include the presumption of innocence, the right to a fair trial, and the right to legal counsel.
• Crime Control Model: This model emphasizes the need to control crime and protect society, often at the expense of individual rights. The key concepts include the use of harsh penalties, increased police presence, and speedy trials.
• Restorative Justice: This theory focuses on repairing the harm caused by criminal behavior and restoring relationships between offenders and victims. The key concepts include community involvement, victim-offender mediation, and restitution.
• Peacemaking Criminology: This theory emphasizes the need for social justice and promotes nonviolent approaches to conflict resolution. The key concepts include restorative justice, community involvement, and reducing social inequality.

The Due Process Model and Crime Control Model were developed in response to concerns about the fairness and efficiency of the criminal justice system. The Due Process Model gained popularity during the Warren Court era of the 1960s, while the Crime Control Model gained traction in the 1980s during a period of increasing crime rates.

Restorative Justice and Peacemaking Criminology emerged as alternatives to traditional criminal justice approaches in the 1970s and 1980s. Restorative Justice was first implemented in Canada in response to the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in the criminal justice system, while Peacemaking Criminology draws on Native American traditions of conflict resolution.

Critics of the Due Process Model argue that it can lead to overly lenient sentences and hinder law enforcement efforts. Critics of the Crime Control Model argue that it can lead to unjust convictions and excessive punishment. Restorative Justice and Peacemaking Criminology face criticism for being too idealistic and impractical in some cases.

Despite these criticisms, criminal justice theories continue to shape the way we understand and respond to crime in society.

Convict criminology is a unique theoretical perspective within criminology that incorporates the lived experiences of incarcerated individuals into the analysis of crime and justice. The theory seeks to challenge traditional criminological approaches that often rely on quantitative data and statistical analysis and instead promotes a more qualitative approach that incorporates the narratives of individuals who have been directly impacted by the criminal justice system.

The central premise of convict criminology is that individuals who have been incarcerated have a unique perspective on crime and justice that is often overlooked in traditional criminological analyses. This perspective is grounded in the lived experiences of individuals who have firsthand knowledge of the criminal justice system, including the flaws and limitations of the system. Convict criminologists argue that this perspective can provide valuable insights into the root causes of crime and can inform more effective approaches to preventing and reducing crime.

Convict criminology emerged in the 1990s as a response to what many criminologists saw as the limitations of traditional criminological theories and approaches. The theory was initially developed by a group of scholars who had all spent time in prison themselves and were interested in incorporating their own experiences into criminological research.

One of the earliest and most influential works in convict criminology is the book “Doing Time: 25 Years of Prison Writing” edited by Bell Gale Chevigny. The book is a collection of essays and stories written by prisoners that provides an intimate look at life behind bars and the impact of incarceration on individuals and their families. The book was widely praised for its raw and honest portrayal of life in prison and helped to bring attention to the perspective of incarcerated individuals in criminological research.

Convict criminology has been criticized for its focus on qualitative data and its tendency to rely on anecdotal evidence. Some critics argue that the theory overlooks the role of broader social and economic factors in shaping patterns of crime and instead focuses too narrowly on the experiences of individuals who have been directly impacted by the criminal justice system.

Another criticism of convict criminology is that it is often seen as being overly sympathetic to individuals who have committed crimes and can sometimes downplay the harm caused by criminal behavior. Some argue that this perspective can be dangerous and can lead to policies that prioritize the rights of offenders over the safety and well-being of the broader community.

Despite these criticisms, convict criminology remains an important theoretical perspective within criminology and has helped to draw attention to the lived experiences of incarcerated individuals and the impact of the criminal justice system on their lives.

Criminology is an interdisciplinary field of study that seeks to understand the causes, consequences, and prevention of crime. Throughout history, various theories have emerged to explain the complex nature of criminal behavior. Each theory offers a unique perspective on crime and criminal behavior, emphasizing different factors and variables that may influence criminal activity.

Some of the prominent criminology theories discussed in this article include biological theory, classical criminology, critical criminology, cultural criminology, cultural transmission theory of crime, deterrence and rational choice theories of crime, feminist criminology, labeling and symbolic interaction theories of crime, life course criminology, psychological theories of crime, self-control theory of crime, social construction of crime, social control theory of crime, social disorganization theory of crime, social learning theory of crime, strain theories of crime, integrated theories of crime, and convict criminology.

While each theory has its strengths and limitations, the interdisciplinary approach to criminology provides a more comprehensive understanding of criminal behavior. However, criticisms of criminology theories exist, including the tendency to focus on individual-level factors rather than societal-level factors and the potential for theories to be biased towards certain groups.

The need for interdisciplinary approaches in criminology is paramount to develop comprehensive crime prevention strategies. Future research should consider the interaction between individual, social, and environmental factors to gain a more nuanced understanding of crime and criminal behavior.

Implications for criminal justice policy and practice are significant. Policies should be evidence-based and consider the root causes of crime rather than solely focusing on punitive measures. Additionally, policies should address the needs of all members of society, especially those most vulnerable to criminal victimization.

In conclusion, criminology theories offer a unique perspective on the complex nature of crime and criminal behavior. While each theory has its strengths and limitations, the interdisciplinary approach to criminology provides a more comprehensive understanding of criminal behavior. Future research and criminal justice policies should consider a holistic approach to address the root causes of crime and promote social justice.

XXIII. References:

• Akers, R. L. (1998). Social learning and social structure: A general theory of crime and deviance. Transaction Publishers.
• Bandura, A. (1977). Social learning theory. Prentice Hall.
• Cohen, A. K. (1955). Delinquent boys: The culture of the gang. Free Press.
• Cullen, F. T., & Agnew, R. (Eds.). (2011). Criminological theory: Past to present. Oxford University Press.
• Durkheim, E. (1895). The rules of sociological method. Free Press.
• Hirschi, T. (1969). Causes of delinquency. University of California Press.
• Johnson, B. D. (2009). Adolescent development and the biology of puberty: Summary of a workshop on new research. National Academies Press.
• Katz, J. (1988). Seductions of crime: Moral and sensual attractions in doing evil. Basic Books.
• Laub, J. H., & Sampson, R. J. (1993). Turning points in the life course: Why change matters to the study of crime. Criminology, 31(3), 301-325.
• Lombroso, C. (1911). Criminal man. G. Putnam.
• Messner, S. F., & Rosenfeld, R. (2018). Crime and the American dream. Cengage Learning.
• Miller, W. B. (1958). Lower class culture as a generating milieu of gang delinquency. Journal of social issues, 14(3), 5-19.
• Merton, R. K. (1938). Social structure and anomie. American sociological review, 3(5), 672-682.
• Reiman, J. (2014). The rich get richer and the poor get prison: Ideology, class, and criminal justice. Routledge.
• Sutherland, E. H. (1947). Principles of criminology. Lippincott.
• Sykes, G. M., & Matza, D. (1957). Techniques of neutralization: A theory of delinquency. American Sociological Review, 22(6), 664-670.
• Taylor, I., Walton, P., & Young, J. (Eds.). (2013). The new criminology: For a social theory of deviance. Routledge.
• Thornberry, T. P. (1987). Toward an interactional theory of delinquency. Criminology, 25(4), 863-891.
• Tittle, C. R. (2000). Control balance: Toward a general theory of deviance. Westview Press.
• Wilson, J. Q., & Herrnstein, R. J. (1985). Crime and human nature. Simon and Schuster.

Criminology and Policing

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Sociology of Crime Research Paper Topics

The sociology of crime (criminology) is the study of the making, breaking, and enforcing of criminal laws. Its aim is to understand empirically and to develop and test theories explaining criminal behavior, the formation and enforcement of laws, and the operation of  criminal justice  system.

60 Sociology of Crime Research Paper Topics

• Age and crime
• Alcohol and crime
• Biosocial theories of crime
• Broken windows theory of crime
• Childhood sexual abuse
• Class and crime
• Collective efficacy and crime
• Conflict theory and crime and delinquency
• Corporate crime
• Corrections
• Court systems and law
• Crime and masculinities
• Crime hotspots
• Criminal and delinquent subcultures
• Criminal justice system
• Criminal sanctions
• Criminology research methods
• Cultural criminology
• Delinquent gangs
• Drugs and the law
• Environmental criminology
• Hate crimes
• Index Crime
• Juvenile delinquency and juvenile crime
• Life course theory of crime
• Measuring crime
• Organized crime
• Political crime
• Probation and parole
• Property crime
• Psychological theories of crime
• Public order crime
• Race and crime
• Race and the criminal justice system
• Radical/Marxist theories of crime
• Rape/sexual assault as crime
• Rational choice theory: a crime related perspective
• Schools and crime
• Sex and crime
• Sexual violence and exploitation
• Sexual violence and rape
• Social control theory of crime
• Social learning theory of crime
• Social support and crime
• Theories of juvenile delinquency
• Urban crime and violence
• Victimization
• Violent crime
• What is crime?
• White collar crime
• Zimbardo prison experiment

The roots of modern criminology can be found in the writings of social philosophers, who addressed Hobbes’s question: “How is society possible?” Locke and Rousseau believed that humans are endowed with free will and are self-interested. If this is so, the very existence of society is problematic. If we are all free to maximize our own self-interest we cannot live together. Those who want more and are powerful can simply take from the less powerful. The question then, as now, focuses on how is it possible for us to live together. Criminologists are concerned with discovering answers to this basic question.

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Locke and Rousseau, philosophers who are not considered criminologists, argued that society is possible because we all enter into a “social contract” in which we choose to give up some of our freedom to act in our own self-interest for the privilege of living in society. What happens though to those who do not make, or choose to break, this covenant? Societies enforce the contract by punishing those who violate it. Early societies punished violations of the social contract by removing the privilege of living in society through banishment or death. In the event of minor violations, sanctions such as ostracism or limited participation in the community for a time were administered. The history of sanctions clearly demonstrates the extreme and frequently arbitrary and capricious nature of sanctions (Foucault 1979).

The Classical School of criminology (Beccaria 1764; Bentham 1765) began as an attempt to bring order and reasonableness to the enforcement of the social contract. Beccaria in On Crimes and Punishments (1768) made an appeal for a system of ”justice” that would define the appropriate amount of punishment for a violation as just that much that was needed to counter the pleasure and benefit from the wrong. In contemporary terms, this would shift the balance in a cost/benefit calculation, and would perhaps deter some crime. Bentham’s writings (1765) provided the philosophical foundation for the penitentiary movement that introduced a new and divisible form of sanction: incarceration. With the capacity to finally decide which punishment fits which crime, classical school criminologists believed that deterrence could be maximized and the cost to societal legitimacy of harsh, capricious, and excessive punishment could be avoided. In their tracts calling for reforms in how society sanctions rule-violators, we see the earliest attempts to explain two focal questions of criminology: Why do people commit crimes? How do societies try to control crime? The “classical school” of criminology’s answer to the first question is that individuals act rationally, and when the benefits to violating the laws outweigh the cost then they are likely to choose to violate those laws. Their answer to the second question is deterrence. The use of sanctions was meant to discourage criminals from committing future crimes and at the same time send the message to noncriminals that crime does not pay. Beccaria and Bentham believed that a “just desserts” model of criminal justice would fix specific punishments for specific crimes.

In the mid-nineteenth century the early “scientific study” of human behavior turned to the question of why some people violate the  law . The positivists, those who believed that the scientific means was the preeminent method of answering this and other questions, also believed that human behavior was not a product of choice nor individual free will. Instead they argued that human behavior was “determined behavior,” that is, the product of forces simply not in the control of the individual. The earliest positivistic criminologists believed that much crime could be traced to biological sources. Gall (Leek 1970), referred to by some as the “father of the bumps and grunts school of criminology,” studied convicts and concluded that observable physical features, such as cranial deformities and protuberances, could be used to identify “born criminals.” Lombroso (1876) and his students, Ferri and Garofalo, also embraced the notion that some were born with criminal constitutions, but they also advanced the idea that social forces were an additional source of criminal causation. These early positivists were critics of the Classical School. They did not go so far as to argue that punishment should not be used to respond to crime, but they did advance the notion that punishment was insufficient to prevent crime. Simply raising the cost of crime will not prevent violations if individuals are not freely choosing their behavior. The early positivists believed that effective crime control would have to confront the root causes of violations, be they biological or social in nature.

Around 1900, Ferri gave a series of lectures critiquing social control policies derived from classical and neo-classical theory. What is most remarkable about those lectures is that, considered from the vantage point of scholars at the end of the twentieth century, the arguments then were little different from public debates today about what are the most effective means of controlling crime.

Then, as now, the main alternatives were ”get tough” deterrence strategies that assumed that potential criminals could be frightened into compliance with the law, versus strategies that would reduce the number of offenses by addressing the root causes of crime. We know far more about crime and criminals today than criminologists of the late nineteenth and early twentieth century knew, yet we continue the same debate, little changed from the one in which Ferri participated in.

The debates today pit those espousing rational choice theories of crime (control and deterrence theories being the most popular versions) against what still might best be called positivistic theories. To be sure, contemporary positivistic criminology is considerably different from the theories of Gall and Lombroso. Modern criminologists do not explain law-violating behavior using the shapes of heads and body forms. Yet there are still those who argue that biological traits can explain criminal behavior (Wilson and Herrenstein 1985; Mednick 1977), and still others who focus on psychological characteristics. But most modern criminologists are sociologists who focus on how social structures and  culture  explain criminal behavior. What all of these modern positivists have in common with their predecessors Gall, Lombroso, and company, is that they share a belief that human behavior, including crime, is not simply a consequence of individual choices. Behavior, they argue, is ”determined” at least in part by biological, psychological, or social forces. The goal of modern positivist criminologists is to unravel the combination of forces that make some people more likely than others to commit crimes.

Today the research of sociological criminologists focuses on three questions: What is the nature of crime? How do we explain crime? What are the effects of societies’ attempts to control crime? Approaches to answering these questions vary greatly, as do the answers offered by criminologists. For example the first question, what is the nature of crime, can be answered by detailing the characteristics of people who commit crimes. Alternatively, one can challenge the very definition of what crime, and consequently criminals, are. In an attempt to answer this question, some criminologists focus on how much crime there is. But of course, even this is a difficult question to answer because there are many ways to count crime, with each type offering different and sometimes seemingly conflicting answers.

Theories of Crime

Most accounts of the rise of criminological inquiry indicate that it had its beginnings in mid-nineteenth- century developments in Europe, including the work of Cesare Lombroso, an Italian prison physician, who argued that many criminals are atavists, that is, biological throwbacks to a human type, homo delinquens , that allegedly existed prior to the appearance of homo sapiens. Since the time of Lombroso and other early figures in criminology, the field has grown markedly, both in terms of the variety of scholars who have tried to uncover the causes of crime and also in terms of the diverse theories that have been produced by these persons (Gibbons 1994). Currently legal theorists, psychologists, economists, geographers, and representatives of other scholarly fields engage in criminological theorizing and research. There has also been renewed interest in sociobiological theorizing and investigation regarding criminality. Even so, the largest share of work has been and continues to be carried on by sociologists. Thus, criminology is frequently identified as a subfield of sociology (Gibbons 1979, 1994).

Although a few scholars have argued that crime should be defined as consisting of violations of basic human rights or for some other ‘‘social’’ conception, most criminologists opt for the legalistic view that crime and criminal behavior are identified by the criminal laws of nations, states, and local jurisdictions. Acts that are not prohibited or required by the criminal law are not crimes, however much they may offend some members of the community. Also, the reach of the criminal law in modern societies is very broad, involving a wide range of behavioral acts that vary not only in form but in severity as well. The criminal laws of various states and nations prohibit morally repugnant acts such as murder or incest, but they also prohibit less serious offenses such as vandalism, petty theft, and myriad other acts. Parenthetically, there is considerable controversy in modern America, both among criminologists and among members of the general public, as to whether certain kinds of behavior, such as marijuana use, various consensual sex acts between adults, or abortion, ought to be expunged from or brought into the criminal codes.

Persons of all ages violate criminal laws, although a number of forms of criminality are most frequent among persons in their teens or early twenties. Except for ‘‘status offense’’ violations such as running away, truancy, and the like, which apply only to juveniles (usually defined as persons under eighteen years of age), juvenile delinquency and adult criminality are defined by the same body of criminal statutes. However, criminologists have often constructed theories about delinquency separate from explanations of adult criminality. Although many theories of delinquency closely resemble those dealing with adult crime, some of the former are not paralleled by theories of adult criminality. In the discussion to follow, most attention is upon explanatory arguments about adult lawbreaking, but some mention is also made of causal arguments about juvenile crime.

Criminological Questions and Causal Theories

Given the broad compass of the criminal law, and given the variety of different perspectives from which the phenomenon of crime has been addressed, it is little wonder that there are many theories of crime. Most of these theories center on the explanation of crime patterns and crime rates, or what might be termed ‘‘crime in the aggregate,’’ or are pitched at the individual level and endeavor to identify factors that account for the involvement of specific individuals in lawbreaking conduct (Cressey 1951; Gibbons 1992, pp. 35–39)

These are related but analytically separate questions about the causes of crime. As Donald Cressey (1951) argued many years ago, an adequate account of criminality should contain two distinct but consistent aspects: First, a statement that explains the statistical distribution of criminal behavior in time and space (epidemiology), and second, a statement that identifies the process or processes by which persons come to engage in criminal behavior. Statistical distributions of criminal behavior in time and space are usually presented in the form of crime rates of one kind or another. One of the most familiar of these is the index crime rate reported annually for cities, states, and other jurisdictions by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The index crime rate is comprised of the number of reported cases of murder, non-negligent manslaughter, forcible rape, aggravated assault, robbery, burglary, larceny, auto theft, and arson per jurisdiction, expressed as a rate per 100,000 persons in that jurisdiction’s population.

Many crime rate patterns are well known, including relatively high rates of violence in the United States as compared to other nations, state-by-state variations in forcible rape rates, regional variations in homicide and other crimes within the United States, and so forth. However, criminological scholars continue to be hampered in their efforts to account for variations in crime across various nations in the world by the lack of detailed data about lawbreaking in nations and regions other than the United States (although see van Dijk, Mayhew, and Killias 1990).

Criminologists have developed a number of theories or explanations for many crime rate variations. One case in point is Larry Baron and Murray Straus’s (1987) investigation of rape rates for the fifty American states, in which they hypothesized that state-to-state variations in gender inequality, social disorganization (high divorce rates, low church attendance, and the like), pornography readership, and ‘‘cultural spillover’’ (authorized paddling of school children, etc.) are major influences on forcible rape. Steven Messner and Richard Rosenfeld’s (1994) institutional anomie theory is another example of theorizing that focuses on crime rate variations. They argued that in present-day America, cultural pressures to accumulate money and other forms of wealth are joined to weak social controls arising from noneconomic elements of the social structure, principally the political system, along with religion, education, and family patterns. According to Messner and Rosenfeld, this pronounced emphasis on the accumulation of wealth and weak social restraints promotes high rates of instrumental criminal activity such as robbery, burglary, larceny, and auto theft.

Crime rates are important social indicators that reflect the quality of life in different regions, states, or areas. Additionally, theories that link various social factors to those rates provide considerable insight into the causes of lawbreaking. But, it is well to keep in mind that crime rates are the summary expression of illegal acts of individuals. Much of the time, the precise number of offenders who have carried out the reported offenses is unknown because individual law violators engage in varying numbers of crimes per year. Even so, crime rates summarize the illegal actions of individuals. Accordingly, theories of crime must ultimately deal with the processes by which these specific persons come to exhibit criminal behavior.

In practice, criminological theories that focus on crime rates and patterns often have had relatively little to say about the causes of individual behavior. For example, variations in income inequality from one place to another have been identified by criminologists as being related to rates of predatory property crime such as burglary, automobile theft, and larceny. Many of the studies that have reported this finding have had little to say about how income inequality, defined as the unequal distribution of income among an entire population of an area or locale, affects individuals. In short, explanations of crime rate variations often have failed to indicate how the explanatory variables they identify ‘‘get inside the heads of offenders,’’ so to speak.

Although criminological theories about crime rates and crime patterns have often been developed independently of theories related to the processes by which specific persons come to exhibit criminal conduct, valid theories of these processes ought to have implications for the task of understanding the realities of individual criminal conduct. For example, if variations in gender inequality and levels of pornography are related to rates of forcible rape, it may be that males who carry out sexual assaults are also the individuals who most strongly approve of discrimination against women and who are avid consumers of pornography. In the same way, if income inequality bears a consistent relationship to rates of predatory crime, it may be that individual predators express strong feelings of ‘‘relative deprivation,’’ that is, perceptions that they are economically disadvantaged and distressed about their situation. However, some additional factors may also have to be identified that determine which of the persons who oppose women’s rights or who feel relatively deprived become involved in illegal conduct and which do not.

Perspectives, Theories, and Hypotheses

A number of arguments about crime patterns and the processes through which individuals get involved in lawbreaking are examined below. Before moving to these specific theories, however, two other general observations are in order. First, in criminology, as in sociology more generally, there is considerable disagreement regarding the nature of perspectives, theories, and hypotheses (as well as paradigms, frameworks, and other theoretical constructions). Even so, perspectives are often identified as broad and relatively unsystematic arguments; while theories are often described as sets of concepts, along with interconnected propositions that link the concepts together into an ‘‘explanatory package’’; and hypotheses are specific research propositions derived from theories. In practice, however, many causal explanations that have been described as theories have been incomplete and also conceptually imprecise. Jack Gibbs (1985) has labeled such ‘‘theories’’ as being in ‘‘the discursive mode’’ rather than as formal theories. Discursive arguments are stated in everyday language and their underlying logic is often difficult to identify. According to Gibbs, because many criminological theories are discursive, precise predictions cannot be deduced from them, nor is it possible to subject predictions to empirical test, that is, to validation through research.

Many criminological theories involve relatively vague concepts, faulty underlying logic, and other problems. At the same time, it is possible to identify a number of general theoretical perspectives in criminology and to differentiate these from relatively formalized and precise theories. For example, many criminologists contend that American society is criminogenic because it involves social and economic features that appear to contribute heavily to criminality. However, this is a general perspective rather than a theory of crime in that it does not identify the full range of factors that contribute to lawbreaking, and it also lacks a set of explicit and interrelated propositions. By contrast, the income inequality argument more clearly qualifies as a causal theory, as does the formulation that links gender inequality, pornography readership, and certain other influences to forcible rape.

A few other comments are in order on theoretical perspectives in criminology. During most of the developmental history of criminology in the United States, from the early 1900s to the present, sociological criminologists voiced support for the criminogenic culture thesis that directs attention to social-structural factors thought to be responsible for criminality. Thus, this view might also be referred to as ‘‘mainstream criminology.’’ Most criminologists have linked lawbreaking to major ‘‘rents and tears’’ in societal structure at the same time that most of them have assumed that these crime-producing features can be remedied or lessened through social and economic reforms of one kind or another (Gibbons 1992, 1994; Currie 1985).

In the 1970s, a markedly different perspective competed for attention. Often referred to as ‘‘radical- Marxist’’ or ‘‘critical’’ criminology, it asserted that the causes of crime arise out of societal characteristics that are inherent in corporate capitalism (Gibbons 1992, pp.122–130; Chambliss 1975; Quinney 1974, 1977). According to radical-Marxist criminologists, criminal laws serve the interests of the capitalist ruling class. In turn, the system of corporate capitalism over which the ruling class presides depends for its survival on the exploitation of the resources and people of other countries and the economic oppression of citizens within capitalist nations. These conditions create economic strains for many persons, contribute to the deterioration of family life, and drive many individuals into desperate acts of lawbreaking.

The radical-Marxist perspective received considerable attention in the 1970s. Those who criticized it claimed that it presented a one-dimensional, oversimplified account of the social sources of criminality. For example, while some criminal laws favor the interests of the owners of capital, many others serve broader social interests. Similarly, while some forms of crime may be related to economic problems, others are not.

A number of other alternative perspectives began to appear in criminology in the 1980s and 1990s, so that theorizing about crime and criminality has become even more diversified. These ‘‘new criminologies’’ (Gibbons 1994, pp. 151–175) include postmodernist viewpoints, feminist arguments, and a number of other strains of thought, all of which differ in a number of ways from ‘‘mainstream’’ criminology.

Although broad theorizing has continued to proliferate in criminology, another major trend in recent years has taken criminology in a different direction, toward relatively detailed theories specific to one or another form of crime and toward research investigations of those theories. Baron and Straus’s (1987) formulation that links gender inequality, pornography, and specific flaws in the social control system is a case in point, as is Kenneth Polk’s (1994) theorizing and research regarding the various ‘‘scenarios’’ of social interaction that culminate in lethal violence. Indeed, contemporary criminology has a rich accumulation of empirical evidence that can be drawn upon by those who seek to understand the nature and causes of criminality in modern societies.

Forms of Crime and Types of Offenders

The legal codes of the various states and of the federal government include hundreds of specific offenses, but the explanatory task is to develop a relatively small set of theories that make sense of this diverse collection of illegal activities.

In their response to this task, Michael Gottfredson and Travis Hirschi (1990) have argued that virtually all forms of criminal activity, and many kinds of deviant behavior as well, share certain features in common: they are spontaneous, unplanned actions requiring little or no skill for their commission. Further, Gottfredson and Hirschi have claimed that lawbreakers rarely specialize in specific acts of criminality. They concluded that virtually all of these varying criminal and deviant acts can be accounted for by a single, general theory that asserts they are the work of persons who are characterized by low self-control. Accordingly, in their view, there is no need for schemes that classify types of crime or kinds of offenders or for separate theories to account for them.

However, many criminologists contend that there are relatively distinct forms of crime that differ from each other and also that the behavior of many criminals is relatively patterned. For example, some offenders concentrate their efforts upon larcenous acts while others of them are mainly involved in acts of violence.

A number of criminologists have tried to sort the diverse collection of illegal activities into a smaller number of sociologically meaningful groupings or crime forms (Farr and Gibbons 1990; Gibbons 1994). Some have singled out crude property crime, consisting of larceny, burglary, robbery, and kindred offenses, as one type of crime; others have placed homicide and assaultive acts into another crime type; while still others have treated forcible rape and other sexual offenses as yet another broad form of lawbreaking. Then, too, ‘‘white-collar’’ or organizational crime has often been singled out as a crime pattern (Sutherland 1949; Schrager and Short 1978; Coleman 1987), consisting in large part of criminal acts such as antitrust violations, financial fraud, and the like, carried on by corporations and other large organizations. ‘‘Organized crime’’ is still another type that has received a good deal of criminological attention. Some persons have also pointed to a collection of offenses that receive little visibility in the mass media and elsewhere and have termed these ‘‘folk crimes’’ (Ross 1960–1961, 1973) or ‘‘mundane crimes’’ (Gibbons 1983). Finally, ‘‘political crime’’ has been identified as a major pattern of lawbreaking (Turk 1982).

Although these groupings identify forms of lawbreaking that may differ from each other in important ways, it is also true that they are relatively crude in form in that the underlying dimensions or variables on which they are based have not been spelled out. Further, there is disagreement among criminologists as to the specific crimes that should be identified as instances of white-collar crime, mundane crime, or some other category.

Criminologists have also developed systems for sorting individual offenders into behavioral types (Gibbons 1965). Although related to crime classification efforts, categorization of lawbreakers into types is a separate activity. While it may be possible to identify groupings such as predatory property crime, it many not be true that individual offenders specialize in that form of crime, hence it may be incorrect to speak of ‘‘predatory offenders’’ as a type of criminal. Most offender classification systems have been deficient in one respect or another (Gibbons 1985), but the most serious flaw is that they are oversimplified. Researchers have discovered that many offenders engage in a fairly diverse collection of offenses over their criminal ‘‘careers’’ rather than being crime specialists such as ‘‘burglars,’’ ‘‘robbers,’’ or ‘‘drug dealers’’ (Chaiken and Chaiken 1982).

The number of theories regarding particular forms of crime is extensive, thus they cannot all be reviewed here (for a review of many of them, see Gibbons 1994). Additional to those theories mentioned previously, a sampling of the more important ones would include the routine activities explanation of predatory property crime. Lawrence Cohen and Marcus Felson (1979) contend that predatory property crime involves three major elements: the supply of motivated offenders, the supply of suitable targets, and the absence of capable guardians. In other words, these crimes are carried out by persons with criminal motives, but the incidence of such offenses also depends upon the number of opportunities to burglarize homes or to rob persons. Also, the number of burglaries from one community to another is influenced by the degree to which residents in local areas act as guardians by maintaining surveillance over homes in their neighborhoods or by taking other crime-control steps. This theory takes note of the fact that criminal opportunities have increased in the United States in recent decades at the same time that capable guardianship has declined, due principally to changes in employment patterns. In particular, the number of families in which both adult members work during the day has grown markedly, as has the number of employed, single-parent families. Research evidence lends considerable support to this theory (Cohen and Felson 1979).

Research evidence also indicates that income inequality is related to predatory property crime (Braithwaite 1979; Carroll and Jackson 1983). Further, Leo Carroll and Pamela Jackson (1983) argue that the routine activities and income inequality arguments are interrelated. They suggest that the labor market trends identified in the former have led to increased crime opportunities, declines in guardianship, and heightened levels of income inequality.

Theories of Criminal Behavior

While theories about crime patterns and rates have been developed principally by sociological criminologists, representatives of a number of disciplines have endeavored to identify factors and processes that explain the involvement or noninvolvement of specific individuals in lawbreaking. Three basic approaches can be noted: the biogenicsociobiogenic, psychogenic, and sociogenic orientations. Biogenic-sociobiogenic views attribute the genesis or causes of lawbreaking, entirely or in part, to constitutional and hereditary factors, while psychogenic perspectives often contend that lawbreakers exhibit personality problems to which their illegal conduct is a response. By contrast, sociologists have most often advanced sociological theories, arguing that criminal behavior is learned in a socialization process by individuals who are neither biologically nor psychologically flawed. Also, some persons have constructed theories that combine or integrate elements of these three approaches, one case being James Wilson and Richard Herrnstein’s (1985) argument that the behavior of criminals has genetic and constitutional roots and that offenders tend to be more mesomorphic in body build, less intelligent, and more burdened with personality defects than their noncriminal peers. Wilson and Herrnstein also contend that various social factors such as unemployment, community influences, and the like play some part in criminality.

Three generalizations can be made about biological theories: First, conclusive evidence supporting these arguments has not yet been produced; second, biological factors cannot be ruled out on the basis of the empirical evidence currently on hand; and third, if biological factors are involved in criminality, they are probably intertwined with social and psychological influences (Trasler 1987; Fishbein 1990).

In the first half of the twentieth century, psychological arguments about criminals centered on claims that these persons were feebleminded, or somewhat later, that many of them were suffering from serious mental pathology of one sort or another. However, a number of reviews of the evidence, particularly that having to do with the alleged role of low intelligence or personality defects in criminality, turned up little or no support for such claims (Schuessler and Cressey 1950; Waldo and Dinitz 1967; Tennenbaum 1977).

Even so, there is a lingering suspicion among a number of criminologists that the criminal acts of at least some lawbreakers, including certain kinds of sexual offenders, can be attributed to faulty socialization and abberant personality patterns (Gibbons 1994). Additionally, some psychologists have argued that even though the broad theory that criminality is due to marked personality defects on the part of lawbreakers lacks support, it is nonetheless true that individual differences in the form of personality patterns must be incorporated into criminological theories (Andrews and Wormith 1989; Blackburn 1993; Andrews and Bonta 1998). Moreover, in the opinion of a number of sociological criminologists, the argument that individual differences make a difference, both in accounting for criminality and for conformity, is persuasive (Gibbons 1989, 1994). Personality dynamics play a part in the behavior patterns that individuals exhibit, thus such concepts as role and status are often not entirely adequate to account for the behavior of individuals. Lawbreaking is quite probably related to the psychic needs of individuals as well as social and economic influences that play upon them. On this point, Jack Katz (1988) has explored the personal meanings of homicidal acts, shoplifting, and a number of other kinds of criminality to the persons who have engaged in these acts.

Sutherland’s theory of differential association (Sutherland, Cressey, and Luckenbill 1992, pp.88– 90) has been one of the most influential sociological theories about the processes through which persons come to engage in criminality. Sutherland maintained that criminal behavior, including techniques of committing crime and conduct definitions favorable to lawbreaking activity, is learned in association with other persons. Many of the associations of persons involve face-to-face contact, but conduct definitions favoring criminality can be acquired indirectly from reference groups, that is, from persons who are important to individuals but with whom they do not directly associate. Sutherland also contended that associations vary in frequency, duration, priority, and intensity (the personal meaning or significance to individuals of particular social ties).

A very different theory, directed mainly at the explanation of juvenile delinquency, is that if, through faulty socialization, individuals fail to become bonded or connected to others (that is, if they do not develop positive attachments to adult persons such as parents or teachers), they will then be unlikely to refrain from misbehavior (Hirschi 1969). The emphasis in this argument is on the failure to acquire prosocial, nondelinquent sentiments rather than on the learning of antisocial ones. In this view, delinquency is the result of defective socialization rather than of socialization patterns through which criminal attitudes are learned. A more recent but related version of this argument, noted earlier in this essay, is that of Gottfredson and Hirschi (1990), who have claimed that criminality and other forms of deviance are most often engaged in by persons who are low on self-control.

Theoretical Integration

Clearly, there is a wealth of differing arguments about the causes of crime and individual lawbreaking now in existence. Not surprisingly, then, a number of scholars have begun to ask whether it might be possible to amalgamate some or all of these varied lines of explanation into an integrated theory and thereby to develop a more powerful causal argument. Some criminologists have suggested that biological, psychological, and sociological contentions about crime all have some part to play in explaining crime and that, therefore, they should be integrated (Barak 1998). Others have proposed more limited forms of integration in which, for example, several sociological arguments might be merged into a single formulation (e.g., Tittle 1995; Braithwaite 1989) or in which psychological claims about lawbreaking might be linked or integrated with sociological ones. But to date, criminological investigators have not moved very far in the direction of sophisticated theoretical integrations. Further research on the interconnections between biological, psychological, and social factors in crime and criminal conduct will probably be required if integrative efforts are to bear fruit.

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Major Criminology Theories and How They Affect Policy

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What is criminal behavior, and what causes it? How a society answers these fundamental questions plays an essential role in how it responds to crime, from developing crime prevention programs to designing incarceration systems and rehabilitating criminals. As part of this effort, criminologists and experts across related fields such as healthcare, sociology and psychology work toward an understanding of the causes of criminal behavior, both by proposing new theories and testing existing ones.

Each of the following theories has evolved with the advent of more sophisticated technology and the current trend toward examining criminal behavior, and they’ve also been impacted—albeit at a slower pace—by changes in public policy.

Rational Choice Theory: Tough on Crime

The U.S. justice system is largely influenced by a classical criminology theory, rational choice theory, which assumes that the choice to commit a crime arises out of a logical judgment of cost versus reward. This theory emphasizes punishment as the best means to deter individuals from committing crimes: Make the cost sufficiently outweigh the reward and individuals will decide that crime is not worth it. 1

On one hand, this seems reasonable, almost obvious. But a number of factors complicate such a simplistic understanding of crime and human nature: 2

• Adolescents have immature brains that cannot fully comprehend consequences
• Humans are generally influenced more by their emotions than cold logic
• Individuals who commit crimes often lack information or the perspective to make a sound judgment

In other words, the historical understanding of rational choice assumes a totally rational actor, but humans are never totally rational. Additionally, contemporary theorists suggest that the individuals who would be “scared straight” by punishment are already disinclined to commit crimes. Contemporary criminologists believe that policies based on rational choice theory should have more modest, specific targets and focuses. But while rational choice theory has evolved on the academic side, policy crafted according to its dictates has lagged behind. Examples of policies related to outdated interpretations of rational choice theory include:

• Three-strikes laws
• Extreme “tough on crime” punishments
• Placing juvenile offenders in adult facilities

Biological and Biosocial Theories: Addressing Root Causes

Classical biological theories of criminality stated that people are “born criminals” who cannot be deterred from committing crimes: Whether due to mental or physical disability, criminals cannot learn to control themselves.

In contrast, contemporary biological theories emphasize biosocial causes rather than strictly natural ones.

Some modern criminologists do consider genetic predispositions (including testosterone and IQ levels), but they look at the interplay between these factors and a person’s social environment rather than focusing on seemingly immutable traits. By foregrounding social factors, these criminologists theorize, we can mitigate risks of criminal behavior prompted by biological factors. 3

Policies based in this theory often start at the root of the problem—for example:

• Educating parents-to-be in high-risk categories (such as single parents, teenagers and low-income individuals) to avoid circumstances that might impede healthy child development
• Teaching children conflict resolution alternatives to violence in programs such as Second Step

Social Learning Theory: Learning by Example

Social learning theory proposes that we engage in either criminal or noncriminal behavior based on the social environment around us, and that we’re especially influenced by how other people reward or model behavior. This theory asserts that criminal behaviors are learned and therefore can be counteracted by developing a social environment in which criminal behavior is not normalized. 4

This theory is most frequently used as the basis for supportive, less punitive programs that serve juveniles, such as:

• The School Transitional Environment Program, which helps students entering middle school connect with schools, classmates and teachers who model more positive behavior than they encountered in their previous environments
• Communities That Care, which takes a preventative approach inspired by public health outreach, bringing a community together to support at-risk juveniles
• Teens, Crime and the Community and Community Works (TCC/CW), a multifaceted program that offers classroom curricula on topics such as conflict resolution, drugs and gun violence; this program uses positive role models such as teachers and police officers to deliver classes and puts these lessons to work through projects in the community

Labeling Theory: Once a Criminal, Always a Criminal

Labeling theory proposes that applying a label, whether that means informally designating a youth as a “bad kid” or a “troublemaker” or a more formal arrest or incarceration record, has a long-term effect on a given person. Policies inspired by labeling theory were popular in the 1970s, but they were perceived as ineffective and fell out of use, replaced by “tough on crime” rational choice approaches.

Contemporary research has shown evidence of the profound impact that labeling can have on individuals, as formal labeling has been shown to have a measurable effect on juveniles’ future education and employment opportunities—repercussions that can lead to continued criminal behavior. 5

Policies inspired by labeling theory thus focus on reducing negative repercussions of prior labels and providing opportunities for new growth. Examples include:

• “Ban the box” policies, which forbid employers from asking applicants about their criminal backgrounds, which evidence indicates reduces recidivism
• Wisconsin’s Inviting Convicts to College program and similar programs that prepare individuals with criminal pasts to succeed in college
• Civil citation laws, which provide a less stigmatizing alternative to formal arrests and the court system

Contributing to Criminal Justice

Through these and other criminology theories, experts in many related fields , such as psychology, law enforcement and public administration, collaborate to create a safer, more just society. Whether you currently work as a criminal justice professional or are looking to enter the field, learn how Kent State University’s online Master of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice can equip you to make a difference in the world through research, corrections, security and policy.

• Retrieved on June 4, 2018, from researchgate.net/publication/229474619_Rational_choice_theory_crime_control_policy_and_criminological_relevance
• Retrieved on June 4, 2018, from scholarlycommons.law.northwestern.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=6670&context=jclc
• Retrieved on June 4, 2018, from researchgate.net/publication/261595842_Policy_Implications_of_Biosocial_Criminology_Crime_Prevention_and_Offender_Rehabilitation
• Retrieved on June 4, 2018, from pdfs.semanticscholar.org/d036/149dad697619767bedb6af697a669cae928d.pdf
• Retrieved on June 4, 2018, from researchgate.net/publication/319256250_Policy_Implications_of_Contemporary_Labeling_Theory_Research

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Criminology - Research Guide: Sources for Lit Reviews

• Getting started
• Sources for Lit Reviews
• Gray literature collections
• Crime Rates
• Corrections
• Law Enforcement & Courts

Lit Review Sources

Journals featuring literature reviews.

• Annual Reviews Articles are lengthy literature reviews with BIG bibliographies. Useful for both the text summary and the citations for further reading. Includes Annual Review of Criminology , Annual Review of Law and Social Science and Annual Review of Sociology. HINT! Use the "Advanced Search" link in the upper right corner of the startup window. This permits searching in title, abstract, and keywords only and in specific journals.
• Crime & Justice. 1979- . A journal composed of literature review on criminal justice topics, published annually.
• Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science Penn's house journal since 1889, Ann AAPSS publishes single-topic issues six times per year. Recent issues on criminology and criminal justice have been: • Fatal police shootings : patterns, policy, and prevention . Ann AAPSS 687 (January 2020). • Regulating crime : the new criminology of crime control . Ann AAPSS 679 (September 2018). • Migrant smuggling as a collective strategy and insurance policy : views from the margins . Ann AAPSS 676 (March 2018). • The Middle East and regional transition, terrorism, and countering violent extremism : what the next President will face . Ann AAPSS 668 (November 2016). • Tough on crime, tough on families? Criminal justice and family life in America . Ann AAPSS 665 (May 2016). • The great experiment : realigning criminal justice in California and beyond . Ann AAPSS 664 (March 2016).
• Advances in Criminological Theory. 1989- . Print volumes, some e-books. Single-topic volumes.
• Criminal Justice History. 19 vols. 1980-2003. Print only, now ceased. Published by John Jay Press for the Crime and Justice History Group.
• Translational Criminology. 2009- . Published by the Center for Evidence-Based Crime Policy, George Mason University. More a report on current research projects in evidence-based crime policy than a journal of literature reviews.
• Sociology of Crime, Law, and Deviance An ebook series, each volume focused on a specific topic. Recent volumes include Methods of Criminology and Criminal Justice Research; Race, Ethnicity and Law; The Politics of Policing; and Punishment and Incarceration : a Global Perspective.

Best practices and systematic reviews databases

• The Campbell Collaboration See The Campbell Library for published systematic reviews of interventions in crime and justice, as well as social welfare, education, and international development. Campbell systematic reviews also appear in the open-access ejournal, Campbell Systematic Reviews .
• CrimeSolutions.gov / National Institute of Justice Web-based clearinghouse of more than 500 evaluated programs and practices.
• Model Programs Guide / Office of Juvenile Justice & Delinquency Prevention Identifies evidence-based juvenile justice and youth prevention, intervention, and reentry programs. Provides a finely-detailed topics list.
• What Works in Reentry Clearinghouse / Council of State Governments Scores specific reentry programs and practices for beneficial harmful evidence.
• Evidence-based practice online resources / Justice Research and Statistics Association Link list of government, academic, and nonprofit programs.

Dissertations

Every dissertation should include a literature review, to demonstrate how the dissertation fits into the research landscape.

• ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Searches doctoral dissertations, an excellent source for lit reviews.
• NCJRS Abstracts / National Criminal Justice Reference Service. c.1970- . Describes 220,000+ research reports, journal articles, and government documents relating to crime, law enforcement, and the justice system. Many fulltext documents and US Dept of Justice gray literature. HINT! Use the Advanced Search page's "Source Type" filter option for "Literature review", "Best practice/state-of-the-art review", "Issue overview", "Guideline", "Overview text" and other lit review-like genres. HINT! Use the NCJRS Thesaurus to find subject terms.
• Criminal Justice Abstracts with Full Text. 1968- . Abstracts of the scholarly literature and applied literature on criminology and related disciplines. Many citations also include fulltext. Reflects materials received at the Gottfredson Library (formerly Criminal Justice/National Council on Crime and Delinquency Library), Rutgers University Library, Newark.
• Index to Legal Periodicals (Current & Retrospective). 1908- . An excellent tool for tackling the enormous law review, legal yearbook, bar association, and government legal publications literature from the U.S., Canada, U.K., Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. For foreign legal research, consider using Index to Foreign Legal Periodicals (1985- ).
• Sociological Abstracts. 1963- . From across the field of sociology, useful subject terms include "crime rates," "recidivism," "victim offender relations," and "family violence." . Recently absorbed Social Services Abstracts, adding coverage for social work and social services journals.
• Gray Literature Database. (Gottfredson Library of Criminal Justice, Rutgers Univ.) A supplement to Criminal Justice Abstracts , describing technical reports, working papers, government and agency reports, and conference proceedings - that is, information not commercially published - available online or at the Gottfredson Library. CrimDoc is a similar gray literature database from Univ of Toronto.
• HeinOnline Legal research database containing fulltext documents organized into collections. New collections include Gun Regulation & Legislation in America and History of Capital Punishment.
• PsycINFO. 1887- . Published by American Psychological Association. Comprehensive coverage of the psychological research literature. HINT! The Advanced Search page has a "Methodology" search option filter - select "Literature Review" , "Meta Analysis" , and "Systematic Review" .

Guides and Tips for Writing Literature Reviews

• "How to write a literature review" / Andrew S Denney & Richard Tewksbury Journal of Criminal Justice Education 24, 2 (2013): 218-324 (via HeinOnline).
• "Doing a literature review" / Jeffrey W Knopf PS: Political Science & Politics 39, 1 (January 2006): 127-132 (via Cambridge Journals Online).
• Systematic approaches to a successful literature review / Andrew Booth. (SAGE, 2012) Print only.
• The literature review: a step-by-step guide for students / Diana Ridley. (2nd ed. SAGE, 2012) Print only.
• Preparing Literature Reviews in the Social Sciences (Penn Libraries guide) Needs updating, but still useful for suggestions.

Reference works

Reference works make excellent starting points for research; they provide concise articles on key topics by scholars of the field, often accompanied by suggestions for further reading. The sources listed below are print volumes shelved in the Van Pelt Library Reference Stacks , on the first floor of Van Pelt, unless otherwise noted.

• Compendium of Research on violence against women, 1993-2016. (National Institute of Justice, 2017) Annually-updated reference work describing every NIJ-funded research project on violence against women since 1993.

• ASC Division on Corrections & Sentencing Handbook Series Ebook series sponsored by the American Society of Criminology.

• Elsevier's dictionary of criminal science, in eight languages : English/American, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, Swedish, and German. Call Number: Available online Publication Date: Elsevier, 1960
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Return to: 2105 Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology    

The mission of the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology is to generate and disseminate knowledge and information that is theoretically driven and policy relevant for the fields of criminal justice and criminology. This is accomplished by engaging in research and scholarly activities to address issues of crime and justice affecting diverse populations in urban settings; producing students who are critical and ethical thinkers, knowledgeable about the issues of crime and justice, and prepared for leadership positions in the public and private sector that address crime and justice problems; and collaborating with communities, including public and private agencies through education, training, and research ventures that enhance our understanding of, and response to, issues associated with crime and the administration of justice. Through these activities, the Department promotes excellence in teaching, scholarship, and service that enhances the criminal justice profession and benefits the community at large.

The Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Criminal Justice represents a broad range of study designed to meet the academic needs of students seeking further graduate education, pre-professional students, and those already employed in the wide range of agencies that make up the criminal justice and juvenile justice systems.

The M.S. degree program’s focus of study includes the justice system as well as the nature, causes, and control of criminal behavior. The requirements of the program stress an integrated view of the criminal justice system. In this view, all components of the system interrelate with all other components to provide coordinated justice administration. The curriculum is designed to give students an understanding of the developing theoretical knowledge base in this area of study, while simultaneously providing an understanding of how each of the component parts relates in forming the justice system, and how offenders and victims fit within it.

In addition, students learn how the justice system influences, and is influenced by other institutions in society.

Student learning is enhanced as faculty members bring forth a myriad of expertise in criminal justice and criminology. Currently, faculty research areas of focus include but are not limited to: biosocial criminology, cybersecurity and cybercrime, developmental criminology, juvenile delinquency, youth violence, organizational misconduct, life-course criminology, evidence-based policing, fear of crime, drug market violence, offender decision-making, crime and public policy, drug policy, sentencing and corrections, crime measurement, urban crime and street criminals, constitutional law, community crime, victimization, and criminological theory. Faculty members conduct research drawing on their expertise in a variety of quantitative and qualitative research methods, thus allowing them to bring not only their topical expertise, but also their methodological experience into the learning environment.

Program Objectives

At the time of graduation, students who successfully complete the master’s degree program will be able to:

• Demonstrate a working understanding of the theoretical knowledge base in criminal justice and criminology.
• Critically analyze crime and justice issues and/or information utilizing theoretical, methodological, and statistical skills
• Apply learned terminology and theory to real-world situations that both relate to and expand outside the fields of criminology and criminal justice.
• Communicate effectively, in oral and written form, their understanding and analyses of crime and justice issues as they apply their knowledge to real-world problems and questions.
• Apply acquired research and statistical skill bases to evaluate the quality of scholarly products and their contribution to the fields of criminology and criminal justice.
• Provide an integrated view of crime and criminal justice systems and processes and how the components interact and intersect to provide coordinated justice administration.

Program Academic Regulations

The maximum time limit for completing MS in Criminal Justice is six years from the first semester of admission. A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher is required for graduation in all attempts of graduate courses taken while a student at Georgia State University. No grade of C- or below is accepted, and no more than three credit hours of coursework with a grade of C or C+ will apply toward the degree. Students can repeat a course one time, but no course in which a grade of B or higher has been earned may be repeated for degree credit. When a course is repeated, both grades count in the student’s cumulative grade point average.

Students should refer to additional program requirements in  Section 2030 of the Graduate Catalog   , especially Subsections 2030.35 Noncontinuous Enrollment and Requests to Re-enter, 2030.40 Course Load, 2030.65 Policy on Transfer Credit at the Master’s Level, 2030.85 Standards of Performance, 2030.90 Scholastic Discipline: Master’s Programs and Status, and 2030.95 Scholastic Warning, Exclusion and Termination (Master’s-Level).

Program of Study for the M.S. Criminal Justice Degree

A program of study plan must be completed by the student in consultation with and approved by the department’s Director of Graduate Studies. The program of study plan lists the required and elective courses to be taken by the graduate student to meet the degree requirements of the master’s degree program. The student also must declare whether s/he will take the thesis or the non-thesis option. The program of study must be approved by the Director of Graduate Studies and submitted to the Office of Academic Assistance by the end of the first year or after eighteen (18) semester hours of coursework have been completed. The Program of Study form is available from the Department.

Degree Requirements

The master’s degree program in criminal justice (M.S. program) requires completion of a minimum of 36 credit hours beyond the baccalaureate degree based on the approved Program of Study plan, of which 15 credit hours are required courses, 15-18 credit hours are elective courses, and 3-6 credit hours comprise the capstone experience. Semester hours are shown in parentheses after each entry. Special topics and issues courses marked with an asterisk (*) can be repeated for credit only if the section topic is not also repeated. Students may not register for thesis credit unless all other required courses have been completed successfully.

See 2000 Andrew Young School of Policy Studies    Subsection 2030.60 Policy of Independent Studies/Directed Readings at the Master’s Level regarding requirements for these courses. 

Required Courses (15 Credit Hours)

• CRJU 8010 - Theory and Practice in Criminal Justice 3 Credit Hours
• CRJU 8050 - Criminological Theory I 3 Credit Hours
• CRJU 8610 - Research Methods in Criminal Justice I 3 Credit Hours
• CRJU 8620 - Statistics in Criminal Justice I 3 Credit Hours
• CRJU 8710 - Legal Aspects of Criminal Justice 3 Credit Hours

Required Courses

Elective courses (15-18 credit hours).

Select courses from list below:

• CRJU 6040 - Comparative Criminal Justice Systems 3 Credit Hours
• CRJU 6060 - Ethics in Criminal Justice 3 Credit Hours
• CRJU 6940 - Internship in Criminal Justice 3 Credit Hours
• CRJU 7630 - Applied Regression Analysis for Criminal Justice 3 Credit Hours
• CRJU 7920 - Independent Study in Criminal Justice 3 Credit Hours
• CRJU 8110 - Law Enforcement Issues 3 Credit Hours *
• CRJU 8210 - Juvenile Justice Issues 3 Credit Hours *
• CRJU 8310 - Correctional Issues 3 Credit Hours *
• CRJU 8410 - Criminological Issues 3 Credit Hours *
• CRJU 8720 - Legal Issues in Criminal Justice 3 Credit Hours *
• CRJU 8830 - Selected Topics in Methods, Data, and Analysis 3 Credit Hours *
• CRJU 8900 - Selected Topics in Criminal Justice 3 Credit Hours
• CRJU 8910 - Readings in Criminal Justice 1 to 3 Credit Hours

Elective Courses

The elective courses provide concentrations and expertise in a variety of specialized areas. A student is required to complete 15 or 18 credit hours from the elective course offerings, depending upon whether they choose to complete the thesis or non-thesis option of the capstone experience. The selection of elective courses will depend on the student’s needs in terms of academic and career goals and must be made in consultation with and approved by the department’s Director of Graduate Studies through an approved Program of Study (described above). Students not in the Public Administration Track (described below) can take no more than six credit hours or two courses outside of regularly scheduled department courses. Students in the Public Administration Track are required to take 12 credit hours or four courses offered by the Department of Public Management and Policy.

Students interested in completing an internship ( CRJU 6940 - Internship in Criminal Justice   ) with a criminal justice agency or related organization for professional development and growth must obtain approval from the Director of Graduate Studies the semester prior to the intended internship placement. Internship credit requires the completion of 180 hours of field work. As part of the internship approval process, students are required to submit an agenda to the Director of Graduate Studies specifying (i) the placement agency/organization and contact person, (ii) the student’s expected roles, tasks, and responsibilities, and (iii) a description of the final course paper or project. Interested students are encouraged to seek internship information and opportunities from University Career Services ( career.gsu.edu/students/co-ops-internships/ ) and AYSPS career resources ( career.aysps.gsu.edu/current-students/ ).

Capstone Experience (3-6 Credit Hours)

Select one:

• CRJU 8980 - Capstone Seminar in Criminal Justice 3 Credit Hours
• CRJU 8990 - Thesis     6 Credit Hours

Capstone Experience

The capstone experience functions as an integrative experience and provides students with a choice of activities designed to enhance their knowledge of criminal justice and the research process to prepare them for entry into a doctoral program or a professional career. All master’s students will be required to complete a capstone experience during the latter part of their degree program. All students will complete either a thesis or capstone seminar for their capstone experience:

Thesis Research ( CRJU 8990 - Thesis   ) . Thesis research includes individual study of a selected research problem in criminal justice or criminology under the direction of an approved thesis chair and committee. The thesis must represent high standards of scholarly inquiry, technical mastery, and literary skill. It should be a contribution to the student’s area of study and should reflect the student’s independent efforts with guidance from the thesis committee. A thesis track student must take 15 credit hours of elective courses and a minimum of 6 continuous hours of thesis credit. Students may not register for thesis credit unless all other required courses have been completed successfully. See “Program Academic Regulations” above for minimum grade requirements.

Initiating a Thesis. The decision to write a thesis is made by the student in consultation with and approved by the department’s Director of Graduate Studies (DGS). Students considering a thesis must first meet with the DGS before the end of the first year (or prior to the completion of 18 credit hours) to learn more about the expectations and requirements of the thesis. Before approval is given, the student must demonstrate that a tenured or tenure-track faculty member of the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology is willing to chair the thesis committee. If approved to pursue a thesis, the student should follow these steps:

• Choose a thesis topic and develop a brief statement of the research problem with the assistance of the thesis committee chair.
• In consultation with the committee chair, identify at least two additional departmental committee members who are willing to serve and have appropriate academic preparation and/or experience relative to the thesis topic. Faculty from other institutions or a criminal justice agency may serve on the committee with prior approval.
• Complete and submit the department’s thesis application and committee appointment forms to the DGS for final approval.
• Obtain authorization from the Department’s Administrative Specialist for Graduate Programs to register for thesis credit hours.

Thesis Proposal and Proposal Defense. The proposal consists of the introduction, review of the literature, methods and procedures, and references. Students must submit the proposal to the committee two weeks prior to the proposal defense. The format of the defense is committee-driven, but typically entails the student presenting the proposal in front of the committee followed by Q&A. Following a successful defense and pending requested revisions, the student must obtain approval from the university Institutional Review Board (IRB) for projects involving research with human subjects before any data collection or analysis can begin.

Grades. The chair of the thesis committee will submit a grade of either IP or U for the student enrolled in CRJU 8990 - Thesis    until the semester in which the thesis is defended and completed. A grade of IP indicates that the student did not complete the thesis during the semester but was making satisfactory progress. A grade of U indicates that progress was unsatisfactory. At the end of the semester during which the thesis is defended and completed, the chair of the thesis committee will submit a grade of S or U. A grade of S indicates that the thesis was successfully completed and defended. A grade of U indicates that the thesis was not successfully defended or was not successfully completed following a successful defense. A student receiving a grade of U must petition for permission to register for additional thesis credits. Such permission is not automatic but depends upon the thesis committee chair’s determination that the student can complete the thesis satisfactorily in the succeeding semester. The grades of IP or U assigned to thesis work prior to the completion of the thesis will remain on the student’s record.

Final Defense of the Thesis. Every student who completes a thesis is subject to a final oral examination or defense. The student may only schedule the final thesis defense when all other degree requirements have been satisfied. Prior to scheduling the defense, the student must submit a final draft of the thesis to all members of the committee, who will determine the feasibility of a final defense. The thesis committee must receive and approve the final draft of the thesis prior to the scheduling of the final defense. The student and thesis committee must agree upon the date, time, and place of the final thesis defense. With the committee’s approval, the student must announce the date, time, and place for the final thesis defense at least two weeks prior to the date of the defense. No fewer than three members of the student’s thesis committee must attend the thesis defense. The defense will be open to all faculty members and the general public. Approval of the thesis requires a majority favorable vote by the thesis committee. Should an attempt be unsuccessful, the thesis committee has the prerogative for how to proceed, including the latitude to recommend additional requirements or the student’s termination from the program. The student is allowed two attempts to successfully defend the thesis. Immediately following the thesis defense, the committee chairperson should report the results to both the Director of Graduate Studies and the AYSPS Office of Academic Assistance.

Thesis Formatting and Style. The thesis must comply with current AYSPS format, style, and procedural instructions available here: aysps.gsu.edu/oaa/thesis-guidelines/ . Submission, Reproduction, and Publication of the Electronic Thesis. To be cleared for graduation, the thesis format must be approved by the Office of Academic Assistance and electronically submitted through the Georgia State University Library. See aysps.gsu.edu/oaa/thesis-guidelines/ for additional instructions.

Submission, Reproduction, and Publication of the Electronic Thesis. To be cleared for graduation, the thesis format must be approved by the Office of Academic Assistance and electronically submitted through the Georgia State University Library. See aysps.gsu.edu/oaa/thesis-guidelines/ for additional instructions.

Capstone Seminar in Criminal Justice ( CRJU 8980 - Capstone Seminar in Criminal Justice   ). The capstone seminar requires nonthesis students to complete written and oral critical analyses of scholarly literature, applying their core knowledge to real-world problems and questions within the fields of criminal justice and criminology. The seminar provides students with an integrative experience whereby theory, scholarly research, and practice are combined to solve specific organizational challenges and policy concerns involving crime and justice issues. A non-thesis track student must take 18 semester hours of elective coursework. Students choosing the non-thesis option will be required to enroll in the capstone seminar during the Spring semester (the course will not be offered during the Fall semester or Summer session). Students who have successfully completed at least 21 credit hours toward the degree, including all of the required courses, will be permitted to enroll in the capstone seminar.

Public Administration Track

• Public Administration Track - M.S. CJ Program    

Graduate Assistantship

Please note, graduate assistants are required to enroll for a minimum of 12 credit hours each Fall and Spring semester and 9 credit hours each Summer semester. These credit hours consist of courses required for the prescribed 36-hour program of study, as well as additional hours of CRJU 7980 - Research Practicum   . Research Practicum includes supervised research as an assistant to a faculty member. 

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Criminology with Forensic Psychology MSc

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This degree combines core modules in criminology and forensic psychology with optional modules on topics including drugs, trans-national crime and conflict, policing, terrorism and the major institutions of criminal justice

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Teaching and learning, facilities and support, entry requirements, fees and funding.

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Why study Criminology with Forensic Psychology MSc at Middlesex University?

This degree combines core modules in criminology and forensic psychology with optional modules on topics including drugs, trans-national crime and conflict, policing, terrorism and the major institutions of criminal justice. The programme is delivered within the Criminology and Sociology Department in the School of Law, with the forensic psychology component taught by colleagues with specialisms in criminological psychology.

The course is of special interest to those without a first degree in psychology but with a particular interest in psychological perspectives on crime and criminal justice. All staff delivering modules on the course are engaged in research that informs their teaching on the programme.

Students have the opportunity to study modules on criminology programmes with our European partner universities supported by Erasmus funding.

Students studying this master's degree at Middlesex will benefit from expert guest lectures. In past years observational visits to the criminal courts have assisted with developing knowledge of psycho-legal court room decision-making and a visit to an adult prison has built an understanding of imprisoned populations and the psycho-social intervention programmes operating within prisons. In 2020-21 such field visits will not be possible, but module teaching will incorporate specialist guest lectures delivered by experts working in these fields, together with the areas such as offender management, gangs, policing, prisoner care and welfare, and forensic psychology.

Students on the MSc are encouraged to participate in the Common Studies Programme in Critical Criminology, to be held either online or face-to-face. This is an opportunity to build links with postgraduate criminologists studying in universities across Europe including Athens, Barcelona, Ghent, Hamburg, Rotterdam, and also at John Jay College in New York.

You will be taught by experts from both Psychology and Criminology who have a wealth of specialist knowledge and research experience between them, including Dr Elena Martellozzo, who offers regular expert advice about online child safety to the Metropolitan Police.

Other research interests within the team include the criminal courts and justice administration; the treatment of mentally disordered offenders; drug policy and practice; violence towards sex workers; collective protest and social movements; organised crime and corruption; and penal abolitionism.

Course highlights

Here are just a few reasons why our program is the perfect choice for you:

• Learn from experts working in fields such as offender management, gangs and policing
• A focus on the operation of criminal courts and prisons
• Opportunities to exchange ideas with students from other countries via the Common Studies Programme in Critical Criminology.
• The course assists you to gain a critical appreciation of criminal offending, socio-legal decision-making frameworks, and the range of psycho-social interventions and punishments directed at different offender groups with the aim of providing you with an appreciation and knowledge of the wide range of careers available on successful completion of the course.

3 great reasons to pick this course

Our graduate destinations speak for themselves.

We are proud to see our graduates working to improve society at organisations like the Barnet Youth Offending Team, Belmarsh Prison, Prisoners Abroad and the Police.

of students were positive about the resources and facilities on their course.

Specialise your learning to follow your passion.

You’ll have the option of selecting specialist modules.

What will you study on the MSc Criminology with Forensic Psychology?

The programme is constructed of five core modules covering, in turn, contemporary criminological theory, methods, issues and debates and psychological approaches towards the causes and management of offending behaviour.

Students then choose one optional module (selected from the list below) that enable a focus on areas of special interest, including institutions of criminal justice, community safety, drugs, youth and adult offending and comparative perspectives on each of these areas.

The modules cover all types of crime, including white collar crime, state crime, digital and on-line crimes, sexual and violent crimes, discrimination and hate crime, drugs, terrorism issues and policing, as well as looking in depth at the criminal justice system and its different institutions.

Students are able to work in computer labs on specialist information retrieval, and gain data analysis skills with the use of the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and the qualitative data analysis package NVivo.

In addition, all students complete a 15,000-word research Dissertation under the supervision of a member of staff on a topic they choose, drawing on both criminological and psychological perspectives.

Not all of the optional modules listed will be available in any one year. Module availability is dependent on staffing and the number of students wishing to take each module.

Here is a brief overview of the modules.

• Core modules
• Dissertation & placement
• Optional modules

Contemporary Theory in Criminology (15 credits)

The module aims at fostering in-depth understanding, critical awareness and engagement with major theoretical trends and debates in contemporary criminology, with particular attention to critical criminological debates that have global relevance. The theories covered in this module will provide a foundation for thinking about and applying criminological theories to other core and optional modules students study on their programmes.

Research Strategies in Social Sciences (30 Credits)

The aim of this module is to:

(a) Equip students with the principles of research design and approaches to research methods that are underpinned by ethics and theory.

b) To develop understanding and the skills to design and conduct quantitative survey and qualitative interview research.

c) To analyse research findings using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.

d) To critically understand and deconstruct conventional research methods, analytical strategies and secondary data from a decolonial standpoint.

This module equips students with the knowledge and skills to undertake research for a dissertation or an organisation as well as to study advance research methods and analysis techniques offered on the programme while appreciating criminological research methods are shaped by historical power relations.

Forensic Psychology (15 Credits)

This module description is being updated.

Criminal Justice, Courts and Prisons (15 Credits)

This module uses the criminal justice system and its key institutions to critically examine contemporary issues, debates and official policy relating to crime control, the criminal courts, sentencing and punishment. It explores shifts and changes in criminal justice and penal system responses.

A central underpinning theme is a world of enhanced ‘securitisation’ alongside dominant discourses of ‘risk’ and public protection. This in turn has given rise to a ‘precautionary logic’ that permeates criminal justice organisations and infrastructure and has a significant bearing on who, and how people enter the criminal justice system. The module incorporates the intersection between migration and criminal justice, dynamics of power, gender, race and class, court trial justice, sentencing and imprisonment trends, and new considerations of restorative and integrative justice.

The module looks at approaches to crime control, offender management and justice system reform across European and international jurisdictions to consider whether ideas and alternative policies developed elsewhere might be feasible in the UK context.

Policing and Investigative Psychology (15 Credits)

This module aims to develop students’ understanding of how psychology can assist law enforcement investigations. Students will examine the application of cognitive and social psychology to the practice of investigative interviewing, as well as how offenders’ decision-making can be analysed in order to help make investigations more effective and efficient in areas such as behavioural offender profiling, geographic profiling, and policing, for example.

Students will examine and analyse interpersonal behaviour of both interviewers and suspects in investigative interviewing situations, for example, in suspect interviews.

Health, Crime & Punishment (15 Credits)

This module enables students to evaluate the various intersections between health, crime, and punishment. Using a range of criminological, sociological, and psychological perspectives, the module will critically explore the key debates and controversies surrounding medical involvement with the criminal justice system and the broader regulation of people’s behaviour.

A range of global policies and practices at the intersection of health and criminal justice, will be considered to examine how gender, sexuality, ethnicity, race, age, and disability are all subject to a range of health-based (as well as criminal justice) interventions.

Psychological Interventions and Approaches to Offending (15 Credits)

This module aims to develop students’ understanding of how psychology interacts with the criminal justice system. It will consider the psychological dimensions of offending and the judicial responses to it, focusing on specific groups of offenders (such as youth offenders, sex offenders, and mentally ill offenders), specialist courts, the aims and effectiveness of prison and forensic mental healthcare, and the development and evaluation of risk assessment instruments and behavioural interventions aimed at preventing recidivism.

Dissertation (60 Credits)

This module aims to synthesise learning from the criminology programmes of study, providing an opportunity for students to study independently and investigate a topic in depth. It fosters academic curiosity; an inquiry-based approach, and the employment and application of research skills thus facilitating the development of a higher level of theorising.

Students will define their own topic area, conduct a comprehensive review of existing knowledge on the subject, formulate a methodology for conducting their own enquiries and write an in-depth report of the findings of their research. Alternatively, students may choose to conduct a theoretically oriented piece of work involving the systematic analysis of an issue or area of policy/practice.

Placement (60 Credits)

Work-based placement (15 credits).

This module is the culmination of a student’s Masters study and provides the opportunity to synthesise professional and academic learning. It supports students to undertake a substantial work-based project that is designed to develop their own professional practice and address reflectively their role in practice or a service issue that the student has already identified in their workplace or professional field.

This module aims to link academic study with the 'real world’ of work.

It facilitates a process of reflective practice and applied learning and is designed to advance personal and professional development. The module supports students’ autonomy and independence by incorporating a flexible curriculum which allows for the negotiation of a work-based learning experience supportive of individual and organisational objectives.

Political Violence & Terrorism (15 Credits)

This module introduces students to key debates about political violence and contemporary terrorism. It follows two strands: one thematic, one historical.

The first considers a range of perspectives emerging from the study of the different forms of political violence, including themes such as: systemic and institutional violence, crowds and group violence, conspiracy, armed struggle and civil war, contemporary terrorism and martyrdom, war, conflict and sexual violence, religion and terror.

The second strand offers critical analyses of the controversies surrounding the definitions of political violence and terrorism in the different epochs.  It examines in detail the contributions of the major schools of criminological thought, along with the most recent sociological-criminological analysis of authorised and unauthorised political violence.

The module requires students to critically examine theoretical concepts and practical considerations in contemporary political violence and terrorism discourse drawing on a range of case studies.

Drugs & Crime (15 Credits)

This module aims to develop advanced skills in the application of theoretical concepts and frameworks in relation to drugs, drug use and drugs control and in critically analysing the relationship between drugs and crime. Students will critically evaluate initiatives within the criminal justice system to address the drugs ‘problem’.

The module also aims to foster a critical interest in the reform of drugs policy and institutions at both national and international levels.

Race and Social Justice (15 Credits)

This module aims at engaging students and deepening their knowledge around historical and contemporary issues of ‘race’ in relation to crime and criminal justice.

The specific theoretical approaches to understanding, and deconstructing conventional knowledge around will include: (i) intersectionality, namely the intersection of race with gender and class from feminist criminology, (ii) decoloniality, namely the colonial and racialised histories of modes of punishment, social control, and criminal justice processes from Southern criminology, and (iii) critical race perspectives from the UK and US which focus on systemic racism within the criminal justice system, and the racialised social construction of crime.

Gender, Crime and Justice (15 Credits)

This module engages with contemporary debates in gender and criminology, requiring students to critically explore and analyse the gendered dimensions of crime, deviance, and criminal justice. The aim of the module is for students to gain an understanding of critical gender issues in relation to offending, victimisation and criminal justice policy and practice.

If we have insufficient numbers of students interested in an optional module, or there are staffing changes which affect the teaching, it may not be offered. If that happens, we will advise you at the earliest time and help you choose an alternative module.

For more information about this course, please download the Criminology with Forensic Psychology MSc course specification (PDF) .

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You'll be taught by an experienced teaching team with a wide range of expertise and professional experience.

How we'll teach you

• Coursework and assessments

Teaching on the master's is delivered by academics who are actively researching in a range of criminological and psychological subject areas and who bring these specialisms to their lecture delivery and classroom discussion. Students are encouraged to participate in their learning and prepare to engage in debate within teaching sessions and online discussions led by programme staff.

Regular events and presentations (online or face to face where possible) are organised within the Department to assist a dynamic culture of knowledge exchange and the generation of ideas and debate among our postgraduate students.

Criminology conferences

Our Department of Criminology and Sociology is part of the Common Studies Session in Critical Criminology (CSSCC) which involves postgraduate Criminology Departments across different EU universities including Jay College of New York. The conferences are held twice a year across the Europe. You will be encouraged to participate and deliver your own paper as an opportunity to present your ideas in an international academic student environment. A certificate of attendance is awarded to the those who participate in the CSSCC.

The Centre for Social and Criminological Research holds seminars (online or face to face where possible) throughout the year and hosts an annual conference in April (either virtual or face-to-face). The conference brings together outside speakers, academic staff and current students to listen and discuss contemporary issues of crime and conflict in the world around us. Previous conference themes have been gangs, human rights and citizenship, punishment, policing and protest, feminist debates on sex work and pornography, and European migration and crisis.

Where will I study?

You will be studying at our leafy north London campus in Hendon.

We are regularly reviewing and updating our programmes to ensure you have the best learning experience. 

We are currently reviewing our approach to teaching and learning for 2024 entry and beyond. 

Your timetable will be built around on campus sessions using our professional facilities, with online sessions for some activities where we know being virtual will add value. We’ll use technology to enhance all of your learning and give you access to online resources to use in your own time.

The table below gives you an idea of what learning looks like across a typical week. Some weeks are different due to how we schedule classes and arrange on campus sessions.

You'll receive full information on your teaching before you start your course.

Learning structure: typical hourly breakdown:

This information is likely to change slightly for 2024/25 entry as our plans evolve. You'll receive full information on your teaching before you start your course.

Definitions of terms

Live in-person on campus learning – This will focus on active and experiential sessions that are both:

• Led by your tutors including seminars, lab sessions and demonstrations We'll schedule all of this for you
• Student-led by you and other students, like small group work and presentations.

Tutor set learning activities – This covers activities which will be set for you by your tutor, but which you will undertake in your own time. Examples of this include watching online materials, participating in an online discussion forum, completing a virtual laboratory or reading specific texts. You may be doing this by yourself of with your course mates depending on your course and assignments. Outside of these hours, you’ll also be expected to do further independent study where you’ll be expected to learn, prepare, revise and reflect in your own time.

Academic support

You have a strong support network available to you to make sure you develop all the necessary academic skills you need to do well on your course.

Our support services will be delivered online and on campus and you have access to a range of different resources so you can get the help you need, whether you’re studying at home or have the opportunity to come to campus.

You have access to one to one and group sessions for personal learning and academic support from our library and IT teams, and our network of learning experts. Our teams will also be here to offer financial advice, and personal wellbeing, mental health and disability support.

Assessments

Modules are assessed by a range of coursework design including essays, book reviews, student seminar presentations, a research proposal and a dissertation.

North London campus

Our north London campus is 23 minutes away by underground train, travelling from London Kings Cross.

Our Sheppard Library provides a wide range of resources and support to help you to succeed in your studies.

Over 1,000 study spaces including rooms for group study and over 500 computers available.

We have one of London's biggest and best university campuses with everything you need in one place.

Student support.

We offer lots of support to help you while you're studying including financial advice, wellbeing, mental health, and disability support.

Additional needs

We'll support you if you have additional needs such as sensory impairment or dyslexia. And if you want to find out whether Middlesex is the right place for you before you apply, get in touch with our Disability and Dyslexia team .

Our specialist teams will support your mental health. We have free individual counselling sessions, workshops, support groups and useful guides.

Work while you study

Our Middlesex Unitemps branch will help you find work that fits around uni and your other commitments. We have hundreds of student jobs on campus that pay the London Living Wage and above. Visit the Middlesex Unitemps page.

How can the Criminology with Forensic Psychology MSc support your career?

The course aims to equip you with the necessary skills to excel in a wide range of careers, such as; employment in posts working directly with offenders both in prison and within community-based reducing re-offending projects; roles concerning prisoner rehabilitation plans and prisoner health and well-being; charitable organisation-based roles supporting those on release from prison; community-based drug and alcohol project roles; domestic violence perpetrator project roles; and careers working on offender rehabilitation and therapeutic projects applying cognitive-thinking techniques

Students are also equipped for positions engaging in research, data analysis, and programme evaluation offered by research organisations, the charitable and voluntary sector, in Ministry of Justice Departments such as the National Offender Monitoring Service (NOMS), policing organisations, and the government's high-level crime fighting agency the National Crime Agency (NCA). There are many opportunities in work with young people experiencing family dysfunction and disadvantage, young people 'at risk' of offending, and in services supporting young and vulnerable 'care leavers'.

Students who have studied MSc Criminology with Forensic Psychology at Middlesex have gone on to work for the National Crime Agency, in prison drug service programmes, in offender pathway planning and monitoring with the probation service, in services aimed at victims of domestic violence, as mentors for young men coming out of prison, in housing and support services for released prisoners, in local government organisations, and in youth offending organisations.

Those already in industry view their master's-level studies as a means to facilitating career progression within their organisations. A number of students have continued their studies in criminology and psychology at PhD level. Staff in the department will work alongside the employability office to facilitate your future career decisions.

• International entry
• How to apply

Qualifications

We normally require a second-class honours degree 2:2 or above or equivalent qualification, in an appropriate subject

Entry onto this course does not require an interview.

We accept the equivalent of the below qualifications from a recognised overseas qualification:

• We normally require a second-class honours degree 2:2 or above in marketing, communications, or a business related field
• We will also accept a professional qualification of an equivalent standard
• You are welcome to apply if you do not have a formal qualification but have extensive marketing experience. You may be required to submit a GMAT score of 550 (or above) and/or come in for an interview.

To find out more about the qualifications we accept from your country please visit the relevant Support in your country page. If you are unsure about the suitability of your qualifications or would like help with your application, please contact your nearest Regional office for support.

Visas 

You will not need a visa to study in the UK if you are a citizen of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland. If you are a national of any other country you may need a visa to study in the UK. 

Part-time study

International applicants can apply for Student route (formerly tier 4) visas for part-time postgraduate study (courses leading to a qualification at RQF level 7 or SCQF level 11 and above).

Student route visa students studying part-time are subject to certain restrictions:

• no work (paid or unpaid)
• no work placements as part of the programme
• no dependants
• no extending under Student route visa in the UK. This includes Student route visa applications to work as a Students' Union Sabbatical Officer or for the Foundation Programme for postgraduate doctors and dentists
• not eligible for the Student route visa Doctorate Extension Scheme

*Please note that, if the course of your choice involves work experience, unpaid work, placements or internships, we will be unable to sponsor you to study a part- time course under the Student route (formerly tier 4) visa.

English language

You must have competence in English language to study with us. The most commonly accepted evidence of English language ability is IELTS 6.5 (with minimum 6.0 in all components). We also normally require Grade C GCSE or an equivalent qualification. 

If you don't meet our minimum English language requirements, we offer an intensive pre-sessional English course .

Applications for postgraduate study should be made directly to the university. Please visit our postgraduate application page for further information and to apply.

The fees below are for the 2024/25 academic year:

UK students 1

Full-time students: £10,500 Part-time students: £70 per credit Part-time students: £35 per dissertation credit

International students 2

Full-time students: £17,600 Part-time students: £112 per credit Part-time students: £56 per dissertation credit

Additional costs

The following course-related costs are included in the fees:

• All printing and copying required for your study
• Self-service laptops available for loan for a maximum of 24 hours
• Audio-visual equipment available for loan, including digital stills cameras, digital video recorders, digital audio recorders

Postgraduate scholarships

As an undergraduate alumnus continuing postgraduate studies at Middlesex, you are eligible for an alumni award worth 20% off your fees.

Fees disclaimers

1. UK fees: The university reserves the right to increase postgraduate tuition fees in line with changes to legislation, regulation and any government guidance or decisions. The tuition fees for part-time UK study are subject to annual review and we reserve the right to increase the fees each academic year by no more than the level of inflation.

2. International fees: Tuition fees are subject to annual review and we reserve the right to increase the fees each academic year by no more than the level of inflation.

Any annual increase in tuition fees as provided for above will be notified to students at the earliest opportunity in advance of the academic year to which any applicable inflationary rise may apply.

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We’ll carefully manage any future changes to courses, or the support and other services available to you, if these are necessary because of things like changes to government health and safety advice, or any changes to the law.

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At all times we’ll aim to keep you well informed of how we may need to respond to changing circumstances, and about support that we’ll provide to you.

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