Criminology
Bachelor of Science
Understand crime, make a difference
If you’re curious about why people commit crimes and want to help your community, University of Idaho’s Bachelor of Science in criminology prepares you for careers in probation, corrections, forensics and criminal investigation. According to the Idaho Department of Labor, demand for criminal justice professionals is predicted to increase 9.8% over the next decade. This sociology-based degree takes a big-picture look at the causes of crime and how society responds to it. You’ll build strong analytical, statistical and research skills while gaining a greater understanding of criminal behaviors and the historical factors shaping the American criminal justice system. The degree offers a multifaceted perspective, exploring subjects in homicide, policing, juvenile delinquency, psychopathy, violent crime, terrorism, social deviance and white-collar crime.
Highlights of the program include:
- Completing the degree either online or on the Moscow campus.
- Paying in-state tuition as a full-time, online student, regardless of location.
- Rounding out your studies with an optional minor in justice studies.
- Finishing your bachelor’s degree in just two years through U of I’s 2+2 program if you already have an associate degree.
- Gaining real-world experience through internships with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, probation and parole offices, victim services, correctional agencies and more.
- Conducting research with faculty members on topics such as human rights, firearms policy, deviance, law and society, criminal justice policy, social crime in the media and terrorism issues.
Overview
Related Topics
Justice begins with you
Degree fit
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Are curious why people commit crimes.
- Are interested in criminal justice.
- Want to prevent crime and victimization.
- Like to help people.
- Are a strong writer and communicator.
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,810 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and starting salaries
- Postsecondary Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers
$48,689 - Loss Prevention Managers
$48,420 - Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors
$43,429 - Lawyers
$62,873 - Correctional Officers and Jailers
$57,979
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.
To maximize aid and scholarship possibilities, be sure to complete your FAFSA. For information on FAFSA deadlines and answers to common questions, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.
Plan ahead — estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.
Scholarships
Unlock scholarship opportunities at University of Idaho! When you apply to U of I, you're automatically considered for scholarships. We also offer a variety of scholarships based on experience, background and academic programs that student can apply for to help pay for college.
Explore available scholarships on our Scholarships website.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning
- Join the state’s only Inside-Out Prison Exchange Program with the Idaho Correctional Institution-Orofino.
- Join the Citizens Police Academy jointly run between U of I and the Moscow Police Department.
- Compare and contrast international justice systems through the Idaho Criminology Abroad Spring Break program.
- Conduct research alongside professors.
- Present your research at regional and national conferences.
Internships
More than 75% of all criminology majors complete an internship or experiential learning activity before graduation. The criminology program has established internship opportunities with several agencies, including:
- Moscow Police Department
- Latah County Probation
- Latah County Youth Services
- Alternatives to Violence of the Palouse
- Idaho Fish and Game
- Idaho Department of Correction
- Idaho State Police
- Ada County Courts
Application information
Undergraduate applications open each September, and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.