Criminology B.A. / Minor
Study crime, justice, and inequality through an interdisciplinary lens that prepares you to question, analyze, and lead.
Manhattan University's Criminology major draws on sociology, psychology, law, economics, and anthropology to examine policing, mass incarceration, cybercrime, and comparative justice. Grounded in real research and close faculty mentorship near the heart of New York City, you graduate ready for law school, advocacy, public service, and federal agencies.
This program is part of Social and Behavioral Sciences
The Manhattan Advantage
Why Study Criminology at Manhattan University?
At Manhattan University, Criminology students learn to understand crime not as an isolated act but as the product of social, cultural, and economic forces. Our interdisciplinary curriculum pairs criminological theory with real research, hands-on data analysis, and the critical study of justice, inequality, and the law. Guided by faculty mentors and located minutes from New York City, you graduate prepared to pursue law school, advocacy, public service, and a wide range of careers in the justice field, with the perspective and skills to lead.
Academics
Curriculum & Courses
Explore courses that build a deep understanding of crime, justice, and the law, along with the research skills to analyze them. The major moves from criminological theory and sociological methods to timely electives in policing, incarceration, and criminal justice, culminating in a capstone built on original research.
To view the whole curriculum, please visit Manhattan University's academic catalog.
- Criminology
- Crime Mapping
- Gender, Crime & Justice
- Issues in Contemporary Policing
- Juvenile Justice
- Mass Incarceration and Collateral Consequences
- Criminal Justice Ethics
- Seminar in Sociology
- Sociological Theories
Criminology Minor
A focused 15-credit sequence that pairs a two-course foundation in criminological theory and the study of gender, crime, and justice with nine credits of electives spanning policing, incarceration, juvenile justice, law, and social inequality. The minor allows students in any major to add a rigorous, evidence-based understanding of crime and the justice system to their degree, complementing fields such as political science, psychology, sociology, social work, and pre-law.
Why Study in New York City
There is no better place to study crime and justice than New York City. As home to one of the largest court systems, police departments, and federal field offices in the country, the city turns classroom theory into living case studies in policing, incarceration, criminal justice reform, and public policy. Manhattan University students gain access to internships and research alongside the agencies, nonprofits, and advocacy organizations shaping justice across the five boroughs. This real-world experience deepens your understanding of how laws are made, enforced, and challenged, and helps you build the professional network and practical skills needed to lead in one of the most consequential justice landscapes in the nation.
Potential Careers with Criminology
Graduates are equipped to pursue a wide range of careers in the justice field and beyond, from law enforcement and corrections to advocacy, policy, and the law. Many criminology students also continue to graduate programs and law school.
- Community Service Manager
- Correctional Officer
- Criminal Investigator
- Forensic Science Technician
- Intelligence Analyst
- Lawyer
- Police Officer
- Policy Analyst
- Private Investigator
- Probation Officer
- Victim Advocate
- Paralegal
Learn From Leaders in the Field
Criminology faculty are scholars and mentors whose research spans policing, incarceration, inequality, gender, and the law. In small classes, they work closely with students through advising, original research, and internships, helping you connect criminological theory to the realities of crime and justice. You will learn from professors who bring active scholarship and a real-world perspective into every course.
The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences
The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences is the largest of Manhattan University's three schools, offering 33 undergraduate majors, six graduate programs, and six combined degrees across the humanities, natural and social sciences, and professional fields. Grounded in the University's Lasallian Catholic mission and located near the heart of New York City, the School pairs rigorous academics with small classes, close faculty mentorship, and real-world experience throughout the five boroughs and beyond. With strong pre-law and pre-health advising and a focus on ethical, engaged scholarship, Kakos graduates leave prepared to lead, and the University ranks in the top 3% nationally for salary impact (Wall Street Journal, 2026), evidence of where that preparation leads.
Program Costs & Financial Aid
Manhattan University is committed to making a high-quality, career-focused education accessible and affordable. Through a combination of competitive tuition, robust financial aid, and our Jasper Guarantee, students and families can plan their education with confidence. The Jasper Guarantee locks your tuition rate for all four years—ensuring financial stability and eliminating unexpected increases as you work toward your degree.
More than 90% of Manhattan University students receive some form of financial assistance, including merit scholarships, grants, and need-based aid, significantly reducing the overall cost of attendance.
- View Tuition & Fees
- Explore Financial Aid
- Learn More About Scholarships
- Learn About the Jasper Guarantee
A Manhattan University education is an investment in your future, and we are dedicated to helping you access the resources that make it possible.
A Smarter Investment in Your Future
Jasper Guarantee
At Manhattan University, every undergraduate student is protected by the Jasper Guarantee, which locks your tuition rate for all four years, ensuring clarity, stability, and peace of mind as you plan your education. This promise reflects our commitment to affordability and to supporting students and families throughout their academic journey.
Admissions Information for Manhattan University
Start Your Career with Criminology
Applying to Manhattan University is designed to be clear and accessible. Review the requirements below to take the next step toward your degree.
Requirements:
- Application & transcript
- SAT/ACT optional
- Personal statement
- Letter(s) of recommendation
Deadlines:
- Early Action: November 15
- Regular Decision: February 1
Admission and Application Process
International Students:
Support available for visas, documentation, and English-language assessments.
Prepare for the Real World
At Manhattan University, your education is built around who you are and where you want to go. Whether you’re ready to apply or just starting to explore, take the next step when you’re ready — we’re here to help.