Criminologist

Explore a Career as a Criminologist

A criminologist is a social science expert who studies crime, criminal behavior, and the systems that respond to crime. Their work influences public policy, law enforcement practices, and rehabilitation strategies. Rather than focusing on individual crimes, criminologists examine broad trends, assess social risk factors, and develop evidence-based strategies to improve justice and community safety.

What Do Criminologists Do?

Criminologists explore the causes of crime, analyze societal responses, and help develop programs that prevent criminal behavior or support offender rehabilitation. Their work is rooted in sociology, psychology, law, and public policy.

Typical responsibilities include:

Researching crime trends and criminal justice system effectiveness.
Conducting interviews and surveys to understand criminal behavior.
Analyzing data on policing, sentencing, and corrections.
Advising government agencies, law enforcement, and non-profits.
Contributing to policy development and social reform.

What Makes This Career Unique?

Criminologists address the deeper "why" of criminal behavior. Unlike police officers or forensic technicians, criminologists are not focused on solving crimes—they seek to understand and prevent them. Their work is critical in shaping national crime policies, designing community programs, and advocating for social justice.

Typical Responsibilities

Analyzing crime statistics and legal policy.
Conducting social research in areas like gender-based violence or youth delinquency.
Evaluating rehabilitation and reentry programs.
Writing reports, policy recommendations, and academic papers.
Teaching or contributing to public education on justice issues.

Skills That Set Criminologists Apart

Knowledge of sociology, law, and psychology.
Research and data analysis (qualitative and quantitative).
Strong writing and presentation skills.
Empathy, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making.
Awareness of systemic issues in justice and equity.

Pathway to Becoming a Criminologist in Canada

Undergraduate Education

To become a criminologist, students usually begin with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminology, Criminal Justice, Sociology, or Psychology. While many Canadian universities offer criminology programs, the focus and structure can differ significantly between institutions.

Here are examples of top programs:

Simon Fraser University (SFU) – BA in Criminology

One of Canada’s top-ranked criminology programs.
Offers theoretical foundations and applied learning through co-op placements.
Courses include criminal law, corrections, cybercrime, surveillance, policing, and Indigenous justice.
Strong emphasis on research methods and social justice.
Optional Honours program and study abroad opportunities.

University of Toronto – BA in Criminology and Sociolegal Studies

Focuses on the relationship between law, society, and justice.
Courses include socio-legal theory, human rights, crime and media, and critical perspectives on punishment.
Ideal for students interested in legal reform or academic research.
Small seminar-style classes in upper years.
Offered through the Faculty of Arts & Science (St. George campus).

Carleton University – BA in Criminology and Criminal Justice

Highly customizable with three concentrations: Law, Psychology, or Sociology.
Courses cover policing, youth justice, restorative justice, corrections, and forensic psychology.
Emphasizes interdisciplinary thinking and applied knowledge.
Strong links to federal agencies due to its Ottawa location.
Co-op opportunities available in third year.

University of Ottawa – BSocSc in Criminology

Offered in English, French, or bilingual format.
Emphasizes human rights, social inequality, and the criminalization process.
Curriculum includes field research, theoretical approaches, and case study analysis.
Strong connection to policy development and Canadian justice reform.
Students can combine with a major in Women’s Studies, Political Science, or Sociology.

Wilfrid Laurier University – BA in Criminology

Practical and policy-focused, with an option to combine with Psychology or Policing.
Includes courses on security studies, victimology, forensic psychology, and community-based policing.
Offers community service-learning placements.
Available at both Waterloo and Brantford campuses.

Ontario Tech University – BA in Criminology and Justice

Tech-focused approach, integrating digital forensics, cybercrime, and surveillance.
Strong emphasis on justice system reform and rehabilitation.
Includes courses in terrorism, border control, forensic science, and ethical policing.
Option for specialization in legal studies or youth, crime & justice.
Capstone project and field placement opportunities.

Master's Degree (Optional but Recommended)

To advance in criminology—especially in research, teaching, or policy—many professionals pursue a Master’s degree in Criminology, Justice Studies, or Legal Studies. Programs typically include coursework in advanced research methods, public policy evaluation, and specialized areas like transnational crime or penal reform.

Top Canadian MA programs:

University of Toronto – MA in Criminology (research-intensive with thesis)
Simon Fraser University – MA in Criminology with applied or research tracks
University of Ottawa – MA in Criminology with bilingual thesis options
Toronto Metropolitan University – MA in Criminology and Social Justice
Carleton University – MA in Legal Studies with criminology research focus

Professional Certification

While no formal license is required to become a criminologist, membership in professional associations can offer networking and continuing education:

Canadian Criminal Justice Association (CCJA)
Canadian Sociological Association (CSA)
Canadian Association for Security and Intelligence Studies (CASIS)

Professionals may also pursue certificates in restorative justice, mediation, Indigenous governance, or program evaluation.

Career Outlook and Salary Expectations

Criminologists in Canada find work in diverse settings:

Government departments (Public Safety, Correctional Services, Statistics Canada)
Policy think tanks and advocacy organizations
Non-profits focused on mental health, violence prevention, or rehabilitation
Law enforcement agencies (in research, not patrol)
Academic institutions (as researchers, lecturers, or coordinators)

Salary Ranges:

Entry-level policy analyst or researcher: $45,000–$60,000 CAD
Mid-career advisor or program evaluator: $65,000–$85,000 CAD
Senior roles or academic positions: $90,000–$110,000+ CAD

Criminologist vs. Forensic Science

Specialist: A Key Difference

Though both roles operate within the justice field, they have distinct focuses. Criminologists use social science methods to study the causes of crime and the effectiveness of justice responses. Their background is in sociology, psychology, or law, and they typically work in research, policy, or education.

In contrast, forensic science specialists use natural sciences—like biology or chemistry—to analyze physical evidence from crime scenes. They work in laboratories or law enforcement agencies, using DNA analysis, toxicology, and ballistics to support investigations. While forensic scientists contribute to solving individual cases, criminologists aim to prevent crime at a systemic level.

If you're more interested in understanding and transforming the justice system than working with lab evidence, criminology is likely the better fit.

Interesting Facts

Criminologists in Canada are increasingly involved in cybercrime prevention and restorative justice initiatives.
The discipline blends legal, social, and technological elements—especially with AI and predictive policing.
Criminology is a top field for students interested in law, sociology, or social justice advocacy.

Is This Career Right for You?

This path may be ideal if you:

Want to reduce crime through research, education, and policy.
Prefer social science and justice over law enforcement.
Enjoy asking “why” and solving complex social problems.
Are comfortable with data, writing, and public speaking.

At Alpha Study Canada, we guide students through every step—from choosing the right criminology program to building a compelling university application. Whether you're planning your undergraduate studies or preparing for graduate school, our expert advising can help you turn your interest in justice into a meaningful career.

< Letter "C"

< Career Exploration

ALPHA STUDY CANADA