Criminology

This isn’t CSI … a degree in Criminology is so much more.

If you’re looking for a career that allows you to make a difference in people’s lives and in society, criminology is a great choice. A degree in criminology or criminal justice allows you be an active participant in your community, and the world, and make a positive impact on those around you.

Criminology is the study of crime, including various topics such as victimology, crime and inequality, juvenile delinquency, corrections and punishments, plus ethics and philosophy. At Davis & Elkins College, you can pursue an associate’s degree in criminal justice, focusing on practical applications for those interested in obtaining a job in the field right way, or a bachelor’s degree in criminology, which expands on theoretical concepts to be implemented with practical application for hands-on learning.

The Criminology program offers a critical analysis of the criminological theories. By establishing a strong foundation in theoretical criminology, a graduate of the program will be able to apply their knowledge to everyday practical applications in the fields of law enforcement, juvenile justice, law, institutional corrections, community corrections, and research and policy development. Graduates may also utilize this information at the graduate and law school levels!

Program at a Glance

Degrees: A.A. in Criminal Justice, B.A. in Criminology
Optional Concentration: Cybersecurity
List of Courses (full list available in Course Catalog)

Criminology Majors Can Get Training in…

Corrections and Punishment
White Collar Crime
Criminological Research Methods
Women & Crime
Law Enforcement
Juvenile Justice
Criminal Investigations

Cybersecurity Concentration Courses include…

Cybercrime and Governance
Network and System Security
Cyber Forensics

A cybersecurity concentration as a component of a criminology degree is a unique offering that prepares students for positions investigating cybercrime.

Cybersecurity Concentration is being offered as a hybrid course (online/in-person)

In 2017, 19 independent colleges and universities united to create the Lower Cost Models for Independent Colleges (LCMC) Consortium. These LCMC courses offer expert instruction, are skills-focused, and career-ready, enhancing the on-campus experience by offering shared courses online that complement the courses taken in-person at D&E.

Students sign up for these hybrid courses as they would other D&E courses. The courses are offered online and may have different starting and/or ending dates from the regular D&E academic calendar. D&E faculty members are available for support and guidance throughout the course. Class sizes are intentionally small, so early registration is important to reserve space in the classes. Tuition is incorporated into the regular course load.

Criminology Degree Opportunities

As a student studying criminology at D&E, you will have many opportunities for experiential learning. Throughout your courses, you are taught how to write a police report, testify in court, secure a crime scene, collect evidence, write an affidavit and serve a search warrant. In addition to practical experience in the classroom, all students are required to participate in an internship. The internship opportunity allows you to learn what the job is about, network with people working in the field and develop job leads.

Whether you earn an associate’s degree in criminal justice or a bachelor’s degree in criminology from D&E, you’ll be prepared for success in a variety of positions. There are always career openings in this versatile field – law enforcement, social service organizations, federal government and much more. If you pursue a bachelor’s degree, you’ll also be prepared for graduate studies.

Learn about our Pre-Law minor >

Career & Salary Outlook

A degree in Criminology from Davis & Elkins College opens the door to a wide range of impactful and rewarding careers across the public and private sectors. Our program prepares graduates to think critically about crime and justice, while developing skills in research, analysis, and communication that align with today’s criminal justice landscape.

Common Career Paths for Criminology Graduates

Police Officer / Detective
Serve your community by enforcing laws, investigating crimes, and promoting public safety. D&E’s curriculum builds a strong ethical and legal foundation for success in local, state, and federal law enforcement.
Median Salary: $69,160/year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Probation Officer / Correctional Treatment Specialist
Work directly with individuals on parole or probation to support rehabilitation and reduce recidivism. Graduates gain a well-rounded understanding of correctional systems and offender behavior.
Median Salary: $59,860/year

Federal Law Enforcement Agent (FBI, DEA, ATF, U.S. Marshals)
Pursue high-impact careers protecting national security, combating organized crime, and investigating federal offenses. D&E’s program lays the groundwork for further training and federal qualifications.
Median Salary: $93,970/year (varies by agency and rank)

Cybercrime Analyst / Investigator
Use your knowledge of criminology and digital forensics to investigate online crimes, from identity theft to cyberterrorism. This path aligns with the D&E Cybersecurity concentration.
Median Salary: $88,740/year

Victim Advocate
Support individuals who have experienced crime by providing resources, counseling, and legal guidance. Our courses emphasize empathy, justice, and trauma-informed practices.
Median Salary: $49,860/year

Juvenile Justice Specialist
Focus on youth in the justice system, working in detention centers, courts, or rehabilitation programs. D&E’s coursework in psychology and social justice provides strong preparation.
Median Salary: $60,250/year

Policy Analyst
Shape laws and criminal justice policies through research and advocacy. For students interested in advanced roles, D&E offers a graduate pathway through California University of Pennsylvania’s Master’s in Legal Studies program.
Median Salary: $76,480/year

Forensic Science Technician
Assist in crime scene investigation and laboratory analysis. While D&E does not offer a specialized forensic science major, our program provides a strong foundation in criminological theory and investigative methods.
Median Salary: $63,740/year

This outlook reflects national median salaries and general job responsibilities. Actual salaries may vary based on location, experience, and education level. For the most up-to-date information, visit bls.gov.

Davis & Elkins College and California University of Pennsylvania (CAL U) have partnered to offer undergraduate criminology students a clearer path to obtaining a master’s degree. As part of a pilot project this fall, one D&E senior is already earning credit hours that will apply to the graduate school program.

According to the agreement, D&E students can transfer six credits from their criminology bachelor’s degree program to CAL U’s master’s degree programs in criminal justice studies: applied criminology or forensic linguistics. To be eligible, students must maintain a 3.0 GPA. Faculty and administration from both institutions will work together to provide guidelines for students interested in participating in the program.