Criminology Subfields

Most criminology  departments offer a range of courses. If you’re interested in learning about resources for a particular criminology topic, browse to a topic page from the A-Z listing below.

  • Biological Criminology: Digital illustration of a DNA.

    Biological Criminology

    A subfield of criminology that examines how biological and genetic factors contribute to criminal behavior.
  • Criminal Justice: Gavel and scale of justice on wood table

    Criminal Justice

    The study of laws, law enforcement, courts, corrections, and the broader justice system that works to prevent and respond to…
  • Penology: Prison is where criminals spend their time.

    Penology

    A subfield of criminology and criminal justice that focuses on the punishment, treatment, and rehabilitation of offenders.
  • Psychological Criminality: Silhouette of a man's head.

    Psychological Criminology

    A subfield of criminology that applies psychological theories and principles to understand, explain, and predict criminal behavior.
  • Émile Durkheim, a founding figure in sociology, believed that crime is a normal and necessary part of society.

    Sociological Criminology

    A subfield of criminology that examines crime and criminal behavior through social, cultural, and group influences and interactions.
  • Victimology: Thief snatches bag from woman on the night street.

    Victimology

    Victimology is a subfield of criminology that focuses on crime victims, their experiences, rights, and the impact of crime on…