Saint Michael's College

What you'll study

The Criminology programme combines theoretical and applied perspectives to help you understand why crime occurs, how societies respond, and how policy and practice can reduce harm. Courses draw on sociology, psychology, law, ethics and data analysis to give a broad, balanced foundation.

• Core topics: theories of crime and deviance, criminal law and procedure, juvenile justice, penology and corrections, ethics and the justice system.
• Research and methods: quantitative and qualitative research methods, criminological statistics, programme evaluation and policy analysis.
• Applied and specialised modules: policing and community safety, victimology, substance misuse and crime, restorative justice, cybercrime and technology in policing.
• Capstone and experiential learning: senior thesis or capstone project involving independent research or policy analysis, supervised internships with criminal justice agencies, NGOs or community organisations.
• Interdisciplinary electives: courses in psychology, sociology, anthropology, political science and public health to deepen understanding of related social processes.

Programme structure

The degree follows a liberal-arts model with a mix of required core courses, electives within criminology and related departments, and general education requirements. Students typically take introductory theory and research methods in early years, progress to specialised electives and fieldwork in later years, and complete a capstone research project or practicum before graduation.

Entry requirements

Saint Michael’s seeks applicants with a strong secondary-school record and demonstrated interest in social sciences, civic engagement or related fields. Typical admissions materials include a completed application, academic transcripts, a personal statement and one or more letters of recommendation. International applicants must provide evidence of secondary qualifications equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma and demonstrate English language proficiency if required.

Applicants who have relevant work, volunteer or internship experience in community organisations or justice settings are encouraged to highlight this. Transfer students are considered and may receive credit for prior college-level coursework following evaluation.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Criminology programme pursue a wide range of careers across public, private and non-profit sectors or continue to graduate-level study. The degree prepares students for roles that require strong analytical, ethical and communication skills.

• Law enforcement and policing roles at local, regional or national levels
• Court services, probation and corrections work
• Victim advocacy, community outreach and restorative-justice programmes
• Policy analysis, crime prevention, and positions in local government or criminal-justice reform organisations
• Research and data analysis roles in think-tanks, universities or public agencies
• Further professional study in law, social work, public policy, forensic psychology or criminology at postgraduate level

Why study at Saint Michael's College

Saint Michael’s College offers a liberal-arts environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, enabling students to pursue in-depth research and applied learning. The college’s location near Burlington provides access to internship and practicum placements with courts, social-service agencies and community organisations, while campus programmes emphasise ethical practice, civic responsibility and interdisciplinary inquiry.

Students benefit from opportunities for hands-on experience, faculty-supervised research projects, and a supportive community that encourages leadership and public service—preparing graduates to enter the workforce or continue to advanced study equipped with practical skills and a strong theoretical foundation.