Criminology, BA

Criminology, BA

Central to Analyzing the Components of Crime

Central's BA in Criminology helps students understand why people commit crimes, how crime impacts society, and what policies or programs can be used to prevent crime. Students prepare for variety of careers in criminal justice and related fields, further graduate studies, and/or career advancement.

Curriculum emphasizes on development of strong communication and critical thinking skills, understanding of diversity and equity, and ethical decision making. The program offers elective courses such as: Gangs in America, Hate Crimes, Cybercrime, Sexual Predators, Police Crisis Response, Cults and Conspiracies, Domestic Violence, Criminal Law, Drugs & Society, and Anger and Aggression.

Accelerated Program Option

The Department offers an accelerated program, where motivated students can earn a BA in Criminology and a MS in Criminal Justice in five years. Students apply in their junior year of study. 

Program Features

  • Full-time faculty include nationally and internationally recognized experts in the fields of criminal law, criminology, and psychology
  • Part-time faculty are current or former leaders in the criminal justice field and represent a variety of agencies including the Connecticut Judicial Branch, Department of Correction, State Police, and State’s Attorney’s Office.
  • Faculty have published extensively and trained criminal justice practitioners on topics such as sexual victimization, hate crimes, cybercrimes, juvenile risk assessment, forensic treatment, problem-oriented policing, police education, anger management, motivational interviewing, and cognitive-behavioral therapy
  • Small class sizes taught by professors well-connected with criminal justice agencies
  • Highly diverse student population
  • Internship opportunities
  • Financial aid and scholarships available
  • Free on-campus child care available

The program provides a great foundation and a wealth of knowledge to help students become successful working in the field – regardless of what Criminology route they may so choose. All professors hold plenty of experience in field work and research and are able to teach students everything they need to know to thrive in their future careers.

- Karolina '14

Did You Know?

Faculty secured over $1 million in grants and contracts working with agencies such as the Hartford Police Department, CT Public Defender Services, CT Department of Correction, and CT Judicial Branch, U.S. Department of Justice, and the National Institute of Health.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate knowledge regarding criminological theory, criminal justice system, causes of criminal behavior, and professional conduct.
  2. Develop an appreciation for the role of science in advancing knowledge in the field of criminology and criminal justice.
  3. Communicate in oral and written forms in a professional and articulate manner.
  4. Critically evaluate information and use sound, ethical judgment to solve practical problems in the field.
  5. Demonstrate an understanding of diverse populations and cultures, and how their experiences differ throughout the criminal justice system.