Studying Criminology can lead to more career paths than you may initially think. Take a look at just five of the areas you can progress in to once you have graduated.
1. Criminologist
Unsurprisingly, many people who graduate with a Criminology degree pursue careers as criminologists. Criminologists analyse exactly why people commit crimes and find ways to reduce re-offending.
You will study crime and aim to understand social, psychological and economic factors that influence criminal behaviour and then go on to advise policymakers and create publications to positively influence and prevent crime.
2. Detective
A detective works within a police force to investigate and solve crimes, typically dealing with cases that are complex and serious such as missing persons, robberies, sexual offences, and murder.
Your day-to-day tasks will vary greatly, but you will find yourself conducting interviews, gathering and analysing evidence, and appearing in court to present findings. It’s also a highly collaborative role and you’ll work alongside other detectives and law enforcement officers.
It is a diverse role that allows you to branch off into many specialist areas. These include the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), fraud squad, drugs squad, firearms squad, child protection and special incidents, which may include international terrorism and national security.
3. Private Investigator
A private investigator has many of the same duties as a detective. The main differences are that private investigators don’t have the same amount of legal authority as a detective, and detectives tend to be employed through government agencies, being classed as public servants.
This role typically works independently or for a private investigation firm. Clients will hire you to work on specific cases and your role will vary depending on client needs. Some tasks include performing background checks, watching surveillance footage, locating missing people amongst many others.
Criminology at BCU
Find out more about our Criminology course.
4. Probation Officer
Probation officers provide support and guidance to offenders that are on probation from prison. You will find yourself working in prisons and within the community.
This role is all about creating positive changes and being a good influence to those you are supporting. You will need to be resilient and empathetic. As you are working directly with individuals that are on probation, it can be challenging and every day is different, but it can also be hugely rewarding.
5. Intelligence Analyst
An intelligence analyst essentially protects a countries national security from crime. You’ll work to prevent and detect any organised crime, which could range from cyber-crime to terrorist attacks.
Again, this role is heavily based on collecting and analysing data from various sources, including surveillance, human intelligence, reports and databases. You will also be developing strategies and action plans to identify and act upon potential threats.
Other roles
There are many other avenues you can take with a Criminology degree. Here are just a few more:
- Police Officer
- Prison Officer
- Social Worker
- Policy Advisor
- Case Worker