Criminology at WGU
Are You Looking to Enroll in a Criminology Degree Program?
If you're considering a career in criminology, you might be exploring degree options to help you get started in this fascinating field. While WGU doesn't offer a criminology or justice program, we do have other program options that could be a better fit for the criminology careers you might be interested in. Criminologists play a vital role in understanding the causes and consequences of crime, working with law enforcement, policymakers, and communities to develop strategies for crime prevention and intervention. Keep reading to explore the skills required for criminology and similar professions, as well as the degree programs WGU offers that can prepare you for success in this field.
Skills in Criminology and Similar Professions
Criminologists must possess a diverse skill set to be successful in their careers. Some of the key skills any criminologist should have include:
- Knowledge of sociology and anthropology: Understanding the complexities of society and culture is essential for analyzing crime patterns and identifying effective interventions.
- Excellent written communication skills: Criminologists often produce reports and research papers, so the ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely is crucial.
- Knowledge of teaching and course design: Many criminologists are involved in educating others, whether through academic institutions or community-based programs. The ability to develop engaging and informative courses is a valuable skill.
- Analytical thinking skills in criminal investigations: Criminologists must be able to critically analyze data and information to identify trends, patterns, and potential solutions to criminal behavior.
- Math knowledge: A strong foundation in mathematics is necessary for understanding and interpreting statistical data, which is a key component of criminological research.
- Thoroughness and attention to detail: Meticulous attention to detail is crucial when analyzing data, conducting research, and preparing reports.
- The ability to understand people's reactions within the criminal justice system: Criminologists must be empathetic and perceptive to understand how individuals, police officers, probation officers, and communities respond to crime and its effects.
Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science
WGU's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program covers a wide range of topics, including programming languages, data structures, algorithms, and software engineering. Students will hone skills that are relevant for a future criminologist, such as:
- Analytical thinking: Developing the ability to break down complex problems into smaller, manageable components.
- Problem -solving: Learning how to approach challenges methodically and creatively to find effective solutions.
- Attention to detail: Cultivating the ability to spot errors and inconsistencies in data and code.
- Knowledge of technology and its applications: Understanding the role of technology in modern society and its potential for both positive and negative impacts.
By developing a strong foundation in computer science, students are well prepared to tackle the technological challenges they may encounter in criminology careers, from analyzing digital evidence from crime scenes to developing tools for crime prevention and analysis.
Bachelor's Degree in Cybersecurity
In WGU's Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance program, students learn to protect and defend computer systems and networks from security threats. The program covers topics such as network security, cryptography, and risk management. Skills that are relevant for a future criminologist include:
- Knowledge of cybersecurity principles and practices: Understanding how to safeguard sensitive information and systems from unauthorized access and malicious attacks.
- Analytical thinking: Developing the ability to assess complex security situations and identify potential vulnerabilities.
- Risk assessment and management: Learning how to evaluate and prioritize risks, and implement appropriate countermeasures to mitigate them.
- Strong problem-solving skills: Cultivating the ability to address security challenges and respond effectively to incidents.
This program prepares students for criminologist careers by developing their understanding of cybercrime and the strategies needed to prevent and investigate it. Graduates will be well equipped to tackle the growing challenges of cybercrime in an increasingly digital world.
Bachelor’s Degree in Finance
WGU's Bachelor of Science in Finance program covers a variety of topics related to financial management, including investments, financial planning, and risk management. Students will acquire skills that are relevant for a future criminologist, such as:
- Analytical thinking: Developing the ability to analyze financial data and identify patterns and trends.
- Understanding of financial systems and markets: Gaining a solid foundation in the structure and operations of financial institutions, as well as the factors that influence financial decision-making.
- Attention to detail: Cultivating the ability to spot anomalies and inconsistencies in financial data.
- Problem-solving skills: Learning how to approach financial challenges and develop effective solutions.
A bachelor's degree in finance is a good choice for future criminologists, as it provides a solid understanding of financial systems and the potential for fraud and financial crime. With this knowledge, graduates can contribute to efforts aimed at detecting, investigating, and preventing financial crimes.
Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting
WGU's Bachelor of Science in Accounting program covers topics such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, and auditing. Students will develop skills that are relevant for a future criminologist, such as:
- Analytical thinking: Learning how to analyze financial statements and other accounting data to identify potential issues and opportunities.
- Attention to detail: Developing the ability to spot errors and inconsistencies in financial records.
- Understanding of financial reporting and controls: Gaining knowledge of the principles and practices used to ensure the accuracy and reliability of financial information.
- Problem-solving skills: Cultivating the ability to address accounting challenges and devise appropriate solutions.
A bachelor's degree in accounting is a good choice for future criminologists, as it equips them with the skills to detect, investigate, and prevent financial crimes. Graduates will be prepared to contribute to efforts aimed at maintaining the integrity of financial systems and combating fraud.
$53,022
is the average annual salary for a criminology job, according to Comparably.
Careers Similar to Criminology
Criminology is a great career if you are passionate about helping others and positively impacting society. If you’re serious about turning it into a successful career, there are many other paths and roles to consider:
- Lawyer: Like criminologists, lawyers work within the legal system, addressing criminal behavior and advocating for justice on behalf of their clients.
- Sociologist: Sociologists, like criminologists, study human society and behavior, often focusing on understanding the root causes of crime and the social factors that contribute to it.
- Forensic accountant: Forensic accountants, akin to criminologists, investigate financial crimes and fraud, using their expertise to uncover illegal activities and bring perpetrators to justice.
- Journalist: Journalists, much like criminologists, investigate and report on crime-related stories, helping to raise public awareness and contribute to informed decision-making within communities.
- Government official: Government officials share similarities with criminologists in that they often work on developing and implementing policies and programs aimed at reducing crime and promoting public safety.
- Cybersecurity analyst: Cybersecurity analysts, like criminologists, focus on understanding and preventing criminal activities in the digital realm, protecting sensitive information and systems from cyber threats.
- Marketing researcher: Marketing researchers parallel criminologists in the sense that they both gather and analyze data to identify patterns and trends, though marketing researchers apply this skill to help organizations make informed decisions about their products and services.
The employment of criminologists has a positive career outlook. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the job outlook for sociologists, which typically includes criminologists, is projected to grow by 5% between 2019 and 2029.
14%
career growth of criminologists is projected from now to 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics.
Why Choose WGU?
Why should you choose a WGU online accounting or cybersecurity degree over a degree program somewhere else? For starters, we’re dedicated to helping our students achieve their educational goals by providing flexible online degree programs that fit their lifestyle. But that’s just the start. Here are several reasons a WGU degree is a great fit for students.
- We make it affordable to earn your degree. Our tuition is charged per six-month term, not per credit, so graduating faster costs less.
- Along with our already-low tuition, our scholarships and financial aid make college even more affordable for even more students.
- Thanks to our competency-based education, you can pass courses by proving what you know, meaning you can accelerate your program and graduate faster.
- Our degree programs are designed with your employment and success in mind, so the skills you learn will translate directly to your work post-graduation.
Prepared for Success on the Job
*From a 2023 Harris Poll of 300 employers of WGU graduates.
100% of employers said that WGU graduates were prepared for their jobs.*
97% of employers said that they would hire another WGU grad.*
98% of employers said WGU graduates met or exceeded expectations.*
Which Degree Should You Choose?
Choosing these degrees is a great alternative to a criminology degree program and can make sure you have training and credentials that will help you succeed.
Technology
Computer Science – B.S.
Problem solvers and math lovers needed! Your task:...
Problem solvers and math lovers needed! Your task:
Lay the groundwork for the computing breakthroughs that will enable tomorrow's technologies. Utilize your previous college courses or IT experience to help you complete your degree faster.
- Time: 60% of graduates in similar programs finish within 25 months.
- Tuition: $3,985 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 38 total courses in this program.
You'll have the opportunity to earn these certifications:
- Linux Essentials
- Axelos ITIL Foundation
Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:
- Architecture and systems
- Data structures
- AI
- Computer theory
- Version Control
- Linux
Technology
Cybersecurity and Information Assurance – B.S.
Protect your career and earning potential with this degree....
Protect your career and earning potential with this degree.
- Time: 60% of graduates finish within 29 months.
- Tuition: $4,265 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 34 total courses in this program.
Certifications included in this program at no extra cost include:
- Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) - Associate of (ISC)2 designation
- Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) - Associate of (ISC)2 designation
- ITIL® Foundation Certification
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst Certification (CySA+)
- CompTIA IT Operations Specialist
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Network Vulnerability Assessment Professional
- CompTIA Network Security Professional
- CompTIA PenTest+
- CompTIA Project+
- CompTIA Secure Infrastructure Specialist
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Security Analytics Professional
Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:
- Secure Systems Analysis & Design
- Data Management
- Web and Cloud Security
- Hacking Countermeasures and Techniques
- Digital Forensics and Incident Response
Business
Finance – B.S.
This online finance program is career-focused so you will gain relevant...
This online finance program is career-focused so you will gain relevant industry skills.
- Time: 62% of graduates finish similar programs within 24 months
- Tuition: $3,575 per 6-month term
- Courses: 41 courses in this program
Some careers and jobs this business degree will prepare you for:
- Management
- Accounting
- Finance
- Spreadsheets
- Financial Analysis
- Problem Solving
The competency-based model at WGU allows you to move as quickly as you can master the material, and do your coursework on your schedule. Flexibility is key with the B.S. in finance at WGU.
Business
Accounting – B.S. Business Administration
Have a knack for numbers or fine-tuning finances?...
Have a knack for numbers or fine-tuning finances?
- Time: 62% of graduates finish within 24 months
- Tuition: $3,755 per 6-month term
- Courses: 41 courses in this program
Skills for your résumé you will learn in this program include:
- Accounting
- Finance
- Financial Statements
- Communication
- Detail Oriented
- Research
Take your first step toward CPA certification and learn how to use GAAP, ledgers, and journals.
