The Bachelor of Arts in Criminology at St. Edward’s draws from multiple disciplines to study the causes of crimes, the effect of crime, and the impact on people and society.
You’ll delve into...
Criminology is a social science, drawing from the fields of sociology, psychology, social work and political science. It is closely related to criminal justice, which is the study of the criminal justice system and all of its different parts. This field is quickly expanding, and its growing popularity means competition is intense. It's also a field that demands considerable research. Our students benefit from diverse academic perspectives, networking with local professionals, service learning opportunities, and professional conferences.
Major Requirements: The BA in Criminology requires 51 hours of major courses, which include a combination of coursework from crime and the justice system; law, legislation and policy; and courses on specific types of crime and criminals.
Electives: Students complete 12 hours of elective courses in any area of study they choose. These courses do not have to relate to the major.
General Education Requirements: 57 hours of general education courses are required, which students complete over four years in addition to their major courses and electives.
View and download the full degree plan for the Criminology major (PDF).
A few examples of courses students in this major take:
The Criminology faculty are dedicated to helping students learn and grow. Faculty members are dynamic and have expertise in a variety of areas and are actively engaged in scholarly activities. They exude excellence in teaching, research, and service.
I live for the 'ah-ha' moment when my students understand the concept I am trying to convey. When you combine the understanding of theoretical concepts and how they can be used in the practitioner’s world, it is learning at its best.
– Michelle Richter, Associate Professor in the Department of Criminology
Along with personal attention and mentorship from their professors, our students have access to offices and programs outside of the classroom that support their success. We encourage students to take advantage these resources that help them thrive and excel:
Students majoring in Criminology can explore career paths and practical application of their studies through internships and interactions with the greater Austin community.
Explore your passions, apply information in a practical setting, and learn from experts in the field. An internship can help you boost your resume and network with professionals. Students have interned in organizations including:
Criminology majors have the unique opportunity to choose between a victim services historical research project or a 20-hour community service project. Research Projects can be presented at either the World History Association of Texas (WHAT) or the Symposium on Undergraduate Research and Creative Expression (SOURCE). Community service projects may be completed in organizations such as:
Our graduates have entered the field in a wide range of professional roles.
Criminology is a research-based discipline, and graduates often go to law school or graduate school to get a Masters in Social Work (MSW) or a Masters in Counseling (MAC). Students interested in pursuing graduate studies are encouraged to take electives in the area they plan to study.
Read about our successful alumni. See what they have to say about life after St. Edward’s.
A minor in Criminology can help students expand their knowledge about crime. This program can be particularly helpful for students interested in pursuing a law degree.
The following coursework is required for a minor in Criminology: