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Criminology Subfields

Criminology is a broad discipline that’s typically taught through many subfields and areas of specialization. These areas explore crime from different perspectives, including why people commit crimes, how societies respond to crime, how laws are created and enforced, and the experiences of victims. Listed below are guides for common core areas taught in undergraduate programs.

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…