Criminology vs Criminal Justice: What’s the Difference?

Criminology and criminal justice are often confused with one another as both deal with crime, causes, and societal response. However, they differ significantly not only in focus and academic study, but also in terms of career opportunities. That’s why CSU Global offers two distinct pathways for students interested in these fields of study:

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice
• An Undergraduate Specialization in Criminology

Before choosing a degree path, it’s important to understand the distinctions between these related but very different disciplines.

Criminology vs Criminal Justice

To understand the difference between criminology and criminal justice, it’s worth starting by breaking down what each of the two disciplines entails.

What is Criminology?

Criminology is the scientific study of crime, criminal behavior, and the ways society responds to unlawful actions. It aims to understand why crimes occur and what social, psychological, and economic factors influence criminal activity.

Academically, criminology degrees and programs focus on theory and research. Students often explore courses like sociology, psychology, legal studies, and advanced research methods. Through a criminology specialization, you will learn how to evaluate crime data, analyze behavioural patterns, and study how different environments influence criminal behavior.

What is Criminal Justice?

Criminal justice is a critical aspect of society. It explores how policing, the court system, correctional facilities, and more work together through set systems and processes to uphold laws and protect public safety.

Students pursuing criminal justice typically take courses in policing, ethics, criminal law, and public administration, also briefly exploring criminology. The program is more hands-on, preparing students for direct involvement in enforcing laws and maintaining order.

So What is the Difference Between Criminology and Criminal Justice?

Although criminology and criminal justice overlap, they diverge in focus and career application. Below is a snapshot of some of the main differences.

Criminology:
Focus: Crime causes and patterns
Skills: Research, analysis, policy development
Degree Type: Social science and research-based
Careers: Criminologist, policy analyst, researcher

Criminal Justice:
Focus: Law enforcement, courts, and corrections
Skills: Problem-solving, leadership, and law enforcement
Degree Type: Applied criminal justice and public service
Careers: Police officer, corrections officer, investigator.

Career Opportunities in Criminology and Criminal Justice

Students can pursue rewarding careers in both fields, but the type of work varies depending on the degree chosen. Criminology careers tend to be research-driven, while criminal justice careers are more hands-on with law enforcement and public safety.

Criminology Degrees and Career Paths

A degree in criminology prepares students for careers focused on understanding and reducing crime through research and analysis. Graduates often work in government, research institutions, or nonprofit organizations. Common career paths include:

• Criminologist: Study crime patterns, causes, and prevention methods to influence policy and practice.
• Policy Analyst: Evaluate laws and programs to recommend improvements for justice systems.
• Forensic Psychologist: Apply psychological expertise to criminal investigations, helping assess offenders, provide expert testimony in court, and advise on rehabilitation.
• Corrections Treatment Specialist: Develop rehabilitation and treatment plans for individuals in correctional facilities.
• Researcher: Conduct academic or applied research on criminal behavior and rehabilitation programs.

These roles require strong analytical and critical thinking skills, and some benefit from advanced degrees. Job demand is steady, especially in research, policy, and forensic roles, as society seeks to better understand crime trends. Criminologist salaries typically range from $45,000 to $60,000 annually, with experienced criminologists and specialists earning upwards of $100,000.

Criminal Justice Degrees and Career Paths

Criminal justice degrees prepare graduates for direct involvement in protecting and serving communities. Careers are often with law enforcement, corrections, or the court system. Common options include:

• Police Officer: Enforce laws, protect communities during emergencies, and carry out thorough investigations.
• Corrections Officer: Oversee individuals in prisons and detention centers, ensuring safety and rehabilitation.
• Detective/Criminal Investigator: Work on solving complex cases by gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing leads.

Careers in criminal justice, including law enforcement, corrections, and investigations, remain in consistent demand, with thousands of openings each year. Median salaries vary by role – about $47,920 for correctional officers, $60,250 for probation officers, and $66,000-$83,000 for police officers and detectives.

Which Degree Is Better for Law Enforcement or Government Jobs?

For careers in law enforcement, corrections, or government agencies, a criminal justice degree is generally the better choice, as it provides the practical skills and training needed for these hands-on roles.

A criminology degree, however, is valuable for roles that influence policy, research, or crime prevention strategies. Government jobs in agencies like the FBI, Department of Justice, or state policy offices often require criminology expertise to shape evidence-based programs.

Which Degree Is Right for You?

If you’re interested in analyzing crime data, conducting research, and influencing public policy, criminology may be the right fit. If you prefer hands-on, action-oriented careers in law enforcement, security, or corrections, criminal justice could be a better path for you. It all depends on your long-term goals.

At CSU Global, our criminal justice degree options are designed with flexibility, affordability, and career-focused support, making it easier for students to balance studies with personal and professional commitments.

Find the Right Criminal Justice Program at CSU Global

CSU Global offers accredited, fully online programs in criminal justice with the option to specialize in criminology. These programs support both law enforcement careers and research- or policy-focused paths. Start your career journey with CSU Global.