Compare two majors
Pick any two majors to see courses, skills, and typical career roles side by side. Useful if you're weighing two options that sound similar, like Computer Science vs. Data Science, or Biology vs. Biochemistry.
Law & Public Policy
Criminology
The scientific study of crime, its causes, and societal response.
Typical courses
- ✓Introduction to Criminology
- ✓Theories of Crime
- ✓Research Methods in Criminology
- ✓Statistics for Social Science
- ✓Juvenile Delinquency
- ✓Victimology
Skills you'll build
Analyzing crime data and patternsUnderstanding theories of criminal behaviorStatistical and research methodsCritical evaluation of criminal justice policyClear, evidence-based writingUnderstanding social factors linked to crimePolicy analysis and recommendation
Good fit if you...
- ★Curious about why crime happens, not just how the system responds
- ★Comfortable with statistics and social science research
- ★Interested in policy debates around punishment and prevention
- ★Considering research, policy, or graduate study in criminal justice
Social Sciences
Criminal Justice
How crime, law enforcement, courts, and corrections systems work.
Typical courses
- ✓Introduction to Criminal Justice
- ✓Criminology
- ✓Criminal Law
- ✓Policing & Law Enforcement
- ✓Courts & Criminal Procedure
- ✓Corrections
Skills you'll build
Understanding legal systems and criminal procedureAnalyzing crime data and trendsCritical thinking about justice, fairness, and policyResearch and report writingInterviewing and investigative reasoningUnderstanding ethics and use of authorityWorking within regulatory and procedural systems
Good fit if you...
- ★Interested in law, justice, and how the legal system operates
- ★Comfortable engaging with difficult or sensitive topics
- ★Interested in policy, advocacy, or public service
- ★Detail-oriented about procedure and fairness
Roles this could lead to
This comparison covers what each field of study typically includes. It's not a ranking, and it isn't a guarantee of course availability or outcomes at any specific school. See our disclaimer.