EIU Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminology

Criminology Major & Minor

Prepare for a dynamic career in criminology and criminal justice with EIU’s student-centered program. Explore the causes of crime, its consequences, and solutions while building critical thinking skills for careers in law enforcement, corrections, advocacy, or law.

With growing demand in both public and private sectors, opportunities span specialties like juvenile supervision, conservation law, forensic investigation, and even roles in technology, planning, and public relations. Whether in the field or behind the scenes, EIU’s criminology program equips you for success in a wide array of careers.

Criminology and law enforcement are growing fields with exciting career opportunities in both the public and private sectors. From corporate security to government agencies at all levels, there’s a place for you to make an impact.

Law enforcement today goes far beyond traditional patrols. You could specialize in areas like juvenile supervision, conservation law, public health and safety, or even forensic investigation in the field or lab. There are also behind-the-scenes roles in budget planning, data analysis, technology, public relations, and more.

And don’t worry—working in law enforcement doesn’t always mean carrying a firearm. Criminology connects with many other fields like Biology, Business, Computer Information Systems, Health, and the Social Sciences. No matter your interests, EIU’s Criminology program helps you find your path!

Major

The Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice requires 49 hours (16 courses) of coursework. Ten core courses are required (e.g., Criminal Investigation, Criminological Theory, Philosophy of Law) and students select an additional six Criminology and Criminal Justice electives that suit their individual and professional interests. Given the interdisciplinary design of this degree program students can easily complete one, or more, academic minors and can, through careful planning with an academic advisor, double major in a related discipline.

Minor

While requiring 21 hours for the Criminology minor, the program also offers students a total of 60 hours of coursework, thus enhancing student selection and focus. Of the 21 hours for the minor, nine are required, including Philosophy of Law, Civil Liberties in America, and Introduction of Criminology. Students, in consultation with their advisers and in reflection of their professional interests, are then free to select 12 elective hours from remaining program offerings.