Welcome
Why choose a Minor in Criminology?
The objective of the undergraduate minor in Criminology is to provide students with a strong foundational understanding of crime, criminal behavior, and the systems that respond to it. Through focused coursework, students explore key topics such as the causes of crime, the structure and function of the criminal justice system, and the social, legal, and ethical issues that shape responses to crime in modern urban environments.
This minor is designed to complement a wide range of majors while preparing students for future graduate study or professional training in fields related to criminal justice, law, social services, and public policy. Students develop critical thinking, analytical, and problem solving skills that are essential for understanding complex social issues and contributing meaningfully to their communities and future careers.
Level Up Your Skills
The Department of Criminology offers opportunities for involvement through the Criminology Club and Alpha Phi Sigma. The Criminology Club is open to all students and hosts events such as the Criminal
Justice Career Fair and Murder Mystery Dinner, while also supporting members who attend professional conferences to present research and network with professionals. Alpha Phi Sigma is the department’s chapter of the National Criminal Justice Honor
Society, providing students with opportunities for academic recognition, professional
development, and engagement within the field.
Explore a unique opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary, hands-on learning through
USF’s Center for Justice Research & Policy (CJRP), C.I.B.R. Lab, TIP Lab, and CREATE Lab. These interdisciplinary research centers advance evidence-based solutions in criminology, cybercrime, human trafficking, and prison reentry while providing students with applied, community-focused research and professional
development opportunities.