Criminology Online - Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Criminology Overview

Interested in this program on campus? Click here to learn more.

The online criminology degree program at SMWC emphasizes a social science understanding of crime and criminal behavior with an emphasis on critical reading, writing and research. Our degree programs provide the flexibility to lead you to the career of your dreams. Our transfer-friendly, online degree programs provide you with the flexibility to continue your career while working toward your degree. Plus, you’ll graduate with a strong foundation in liberal arts.

Students complete 24 hours of criminology coursework – through our online courses. Criminology students can choose a concentration area: either psychology or sociology. You will learn more about topics such as policing, criminal interviewing and investigation, corrections and procedure. The hours completed in the concentration area can be tailored to fit your particular area of interest, and these courses must be approved by your academic advisor. Our faculty work hard to make online degrees personalized, as well as ensuring technology efficiency to eliminate barriers while educating students.

With multiple online start dates in January, March, August and October, you can start your degree whenever you’re ready.

Criminology Major Curriculum – College Catalog

Criminology Minor Curriculum – College Catalog

FAQs

What is criminology?
Criminology is the study of the nonlegal aspects of crime, criminal behavior and delinquency. It involves an analysis of society’s response to crime, who commits crimes and why they do. Criminologists play a key role in helping society understand crime, policy and social justice. Through coursework and internship opportunities, you’ll learn a little bit about each area of criminology.

What are the benefits of earning an online degree in criminology?
An online degree in criminology from SMWC provides the knowledge and tools to lead you to a wide variety of jobs in the field. A criminology degree also allows you to benefit society by identifying, apprehending and rehabilitating criminals and, in turn, helping control and reduce crime. The Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences at the College is dedicated to ensuring that students succeed no matter what area within criminology they pursue. To see the full list of states that this program is offered in click here.

What can you do with a degree in criminology?
Those who hold a bachelor’s degree in criminology most often pursue graduate study or rewarding careers in a variety of fields, including:

Law enforcement
Law
Education
Criminal Justice
Government
Politics
Forensics
Judicial/Courts
Rehabilitation
Research

Check out our blog 5 careers you can have with a criminology degree.

What is the average annual salary of someone with a criminology degree?
Employment of detectives and criminal investigators is expected to grow by 10% by 2026. As you look at starting salaries, keep in mind that the cost of living and opportunities to move with a career or industry sector should also factor into your decision. The average salary for a person with a criminology degree is $48,583 , according to CareerExplorer.com.

What kind of flexibility does an online program provide?
According to a study by Education Dynamics, 80% of online college students are employed. SMWC’s online programs are designed with the needs of students in mind, whether it be family, job or other responsibilities. Our transfer-friendly approach will ensure that you can finish your degree, and our 8-week format allows you to set your own pace and study based on your schedule.

What support and resources are provided at SMWC?
The Learning Resource Center (LRC) provides exceptional, personalized learning resource services to encourage student success. The LRC offers help to online students with a range of academic support services, including a writing center, tutoring, college success courses and more.

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is routinely ranked by US News and World Report among the Best Regional Universities in the Midwest and the Best Value Schools. Our departments are also routinely ranked for their individual degree programs.
See the SMWC Difference:

Rankings