Q&A for How to Become a Criminologist

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What subjects do I need to take for criminology?

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Some subjects include criminal law, psychology or psychology of crime, forensics, political science, and sociology.

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How long will it take me to become a criminologist?

Community Answer

Your bachelor's degree will probably take you four years; your master's degree, another four. That's at least eight years, then. If you continue on with your education to get an advanced degree, it will take you longer. You will also have to study for and pass a license exam.

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Question

Can someone studying criminal law become a criminologist?

Community Answer

Yes, having criminal law knowledge is a necessity for becoming a criminologist.

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What classes should I focus on if I am a junior in high school and I am interested in becoming a criminologist?

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You should focus on classes in psychology, biology, and even computer science.

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Can I become a criminologist if I am 12 years old?

Community Answer

No. To become a criminologist, you need a college degree. But you could start researching now about the things you will need to know.

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What is the difference between criminology and criminal justice? What are the requirements to become a homicide detective?

Community Answer

Criminology is the study of crime, while criminal justice tackles more of the law-enforcement side of things. To be any sort of detective, you first need to become an officer. Once you're a police officer, then through promotion and higher education, you may be a detective.

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Question

Can an arts students take up criminology?

Community Answer

Yes, anyone can take up criminology.

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What subjects are required to become a criminologist?

Community Answer

Undergraduate degrees for criminologists may range from biology and computer science to social work and criminal justice. Individuals studying a related area of criminology for their undergraduate degree should also study sociology and criminal psychology.

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Question

If I have a bachelor's in criminology do I still need to become a police officer?

Community Answer

To become a criminologist, no. You need to take an exam to get your license.

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Question

I'm Malaysian and I want to become a police officer or an FBI agent. What should I do, sit for foundation or do an A level program? What if I don't like science subjects, is it possible to become an FBI agent or any special agent?

Community Answer

It is probably best to do the A level program. If you don't like the things that come with becoming an FBI agent maybe you should try something else. I'd advice you to do a job that you are passionate about, and besides, anything is possible if you put your mind to it!

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If I want to do criminology studies after my bachelor of law, can I do that?

Community Answer

Yes. After you finish your bachelor's, you should pursue a master's degree in sociology, psychology, or criminal law.

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Do I have to have worked as a police officer as a requirement to become a criminologist?

Community Answer

No, this is not necessary, criminologists have far broader background than policing. You need to complete your high school level and enroll in a degree course in something relevant, like criminology, psychology, law, sociology, etc., then do a masters in criminology to ensure you can work as a criminologist.

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Question

What classes should I take in 11th and 12th grade to study criminology?

Christopher Guglielmana

Community Answer

I'm an 11th grader who will be taking psychology, criminal justice (intro), government, biology, criminal investigation, and will be taking forensic science as an elective next year. If your school has a sociology or anthropology class, then I bet you'd need to take those too.

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If I have a bachelor's degree in sociology, can I get a masters degree in criminology?

jadline makena

Community Answer

Yes this is because a degree in psychology and sociology are associated with criminology. Therefore, if you already have attained a degree in sociology, you can do a masters in criminology.

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Do I need to earn American citizenship to get a job with the FBI? Can I be accepted if I have the qualifications?

Community Answer

Yes, you need to be an American citizen to join the FBI. You can be accepted if you have the qualifications and are also an American citizen. If not, surely there is an equivalent in your own country.

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Question

What degree do I need to become a criminologist?

Community Answer

You need at least a bachelor's or master's degree. A bachelor's degree will take four years and masters another two.

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Question

I'm 14 years old. I go to a private school. The subjects are all limited, they have nothing to do with criminology. The have to do with biology. What should I do? What subjects do I take?

Community Answer

If your school doesn't offer subjects to do with criminology, study in your free time. In your school, brush up and try to perfect major areas such as basic math and English. Learn to balance your time, remember that you also need to know what you're learning in school. Buy a book about criminology (I recommend Criminology For Dummies), search online how you can improve your skills, and keep working hard.

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