Solving problems, profiling criminals and studying crime are all aspects of a criminologist’s job. As a branch of sociology, criminology involves analyzing how certain factors make individuals deviate from social norms.
A criminologist’s work is fascinating and provides critical aid to law enforcement and the criminal justice system. A career in this field may begin with enrolling in the online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Applied Psychology – Forensic Psychology program from Florida Institute of Technology.
Employment Outlook and Job Duties for Criminologists
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment growth in the occupational category of sociologists, which includes criminologists, will increase by 7% from 2023 to 2033. This is faster than the average projected growth of all occupations. Individuals with advanced degrees and well-developed research skills should have stronger career options.
Local, state and federal law enforcement agencies employ criminologists. These professionals are responsible for a variety of job duties, including analyzing the behavior and methodology of criminals to predict or prevent additional crime. They may also review how various law enforcement tactics affect crime rates.
Questioning offenders, studying demographic data and behavior, and creating criminal profiles are other aspects of a criminologist’s work. They also maintain extensive records and write reports of their findings. With experience and additional educational qualifications, criminologists may advance to positions with consulting firms, government agencies or universities and work on developing crime prevention policies.
Potential Criminologist Salary Range
According to BLS data from 2024, sociologists nationwide had a median annual wage of $101,690. The top 10% of these professionals earn more than $168,590 annually.
However, sociologist positions may require more education than entry-level criminologist positions. According to ZipRecruiter data, the majority of criminology professionals earned between $62,000 to $94,500 annually, as of June 2025.
Recent bachelor’s graduates generally start at the lower end of salary ranges and can increase their earnings potential as they gain experience, certifications and specialized training. Additional factors influence potential salary ranges, including a candidate’s education and work history, as well as the type and size of employer.
Required Education and Training for Criminologists
Entry-level criminologist positions generally require a bachelor’s degree, according to the Indeed Career Guide. Some employers also require previous experience, which students may obtain through related jobs and internship programs while pursuing their degree.
In degree programs such as Florida Tech’s online BA in Applied Psychology – Forensic Psychology, coursework can include social psychology, integrated theories of crime, law and psychology, forensic clinical psychology, victim studies and advocacy, and research methods in applied psychology. Graduates of an applied forensic psychology program should be able to:
- Understand theories relating to probable cause, policing and rules of evidence
- Understand concepts of applied psychology, such as empirical findings, trends and theory
- Critically examine clinical assessment methods
- Examine human behavior, crime and criminality from various viewpoints
This type of degree program prepares students for criminology careers as well as job pursuits in areas like service coordination in the legal field. Some employers offer opportunities for continuing education. As such, it may be possible for eligible employees to secure an entry-level position with a bachelor’s degree and use a tuition assistance or reimbursement program to pay for a master’s degree in criminology or sociology, paving the way for higher-level, specialized careers — and increased earning potential.
Could a Career as a Criminologist Be a Good Choice?
Criminology can be a challenging yet rewarding career path for individuals interested in studying crime and human behavior, particularly those with strong problem-solving skills and meticulous attention to detail. Other important attributes for this career include responsibility and integrity, as well as the ability to take a broad view of an issue and think logically.
Aspiring criminologists can hone these traits and gain specialized knowledge by earning an applied psychology degree with a concentration in forensic psychology online from Florida Tech. Further, this degree prepares criminologists to pursue advanced education and a broad array of unique, essential career opportunities.
Learn more about Florida Tech’s online BA in Applied Psychology – Forensic Psychology program.
