University of Delaware

What you'll study

The programme combines core criminological theory with practical methods and elective options to give a broad, applied understanding of crime and the justice system. Students typically study foundational topics such as:

• Criminological theory — classical and contemporary explanations of crime and offending.
• Research methods and statistics — quantitative and qualitative techniques for analysing crime data and evaluating programmes.
• Law and criminal procedure — the structure of the legal system, rights of the accused and courtroom processes.
• Policing and corrections — organisation, policy and practice in policing, probation and prison systems.
• Juvenile justice and victimology — responses to youth offending and the impact of crime on victims and communities.
• Specialist electives — such as white‑collar crime, cybercrime, forensic psychology, substance misuse and restorative justice.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on a strong secondary school record and fulfilment of the University of Delaware's general undergraduate entry standards. Typical expectations include:

• A completed secondary school diploma or equivalent recognised qualification.
• Good grades in a broad range of subjects; applicants with coursework in social studies, mathematics and English are well prepared for the programme.
• Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts demonstrating successful completion of prior post‑secondary work; some credit may be awarded for relevant coursework.
• International applicants must demonstrate equivalent academic preparation and provide evidence of English language proficiency where required.

Career prospects

Graduates from the criminology programme go on to a wide range of careers in the public, private and third sectors. Common pathways include:

• Law enforcement and policing, including investigative and specialised units.
• Corrections, probation and community supervision roles.
• Social services and victim support agencies, working with vulnerable populations.
• Policy, research and analysis posts in government, think tanks and NGOs.
• Legal careers and paralegal work, or progression to law school.
• Forensic and intelligence roles in private security or public agencies; and postgraduate study in criminology, sociology, public policy or related fields.

Why study at University of Delaware

The University of Delaware offers criminology students access to research‑active faculty across disciplines and a curriculum that balances theory, methods and applied learning. The campus’s location in the mid‑Atlantic provides strong internship and networking opportunities with state and local agencies, courts, non‑profits and community organisations. Small seminar classes, undergraduate research projects and opportunities for experiential placements allow students to gain practical experience and build professional contacts, while advising and career services help prepare students for employment or further study after graduation.