Top U.S. universities for criminology studies?

I'm considering majoring in criminology and would love to get suggestions on the best universities in the U.S. with a strong criminology program. Are there any specific schools that are particularly known for this major?

Here's a list of some top universities that are well-regarded for their Criminology programs. As always, keep in mind that "best" often depends on what you're specifically looking for in a program, such as faculty research interests, coursework, research opportunities, and internships.

1. University of Maryland, College Park: The Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Maryland is one of the leading programs in the nation. They offer research opportunities and have faculty members who are renowned in the field.

2. University of Pennsylvania: UPenn's Department of Criminology offers an interdisciplinary approach and has a strong reputation in both teaching and research.

3. University of California, Irvine: Their Department of Criminology, Law and Society offers a unique approach to the study of crime and justice, emphasizing the social and community contexts in which crime occurs.

4. University of Florida: UF has a strong criminology program, with opportunities for internships and work in field settings.

5. Michigan State University: MSU's School of Criminal Justice, one of the oldest in the country, offers numerous opportunities for study in fields related to criminology.

Remember, it's not just about prestige or ranking. As you're researching programs, visit the school websites or contact admissions to better understand the specifics of each program and see which aligns best with your career goals and academic interests. Additionally, look at the curriculum, faculty, resources, internship and job placements, and consider how each school fits with your overall college preferences. Quality is often about fit and personal aspirations.