Hi everyone. I've been closely considering a criminology major for a while now and I'm starting to look into colleges. Any thoughts on the top programs in California? I'd love to stay close to home. Also, does anyone know how hefty the workload generally is for this major? Appreciate any advice!
Reply: I'm so excited to hear about your interest in criminology – it's a fascinating field! Among California schools, you may want to consider the University of California, Irvine (UC Irvine), which has a highly-regarded Department of Criminology, Law and Society. In addition to this, the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) offers a Legal Studies program where you can focus on Criminology. Also, if you're open to private schools, the University of Southern California (USC) has a notable Social Sciences department, with a variety of criminology and criminal justice classes.
As for workload, it is essential to remember that it largely depends on the specific school and program. However, criminology is a comprehensive field that tends to combine social science (like sociology and psychology), legal studies, and in some cases, elements of political science. Consequently, you may find yourself dealing with a noticeable amount of reading, research work, and paper writing. You can balance your workload by planning your course schedule wisely and utilizing on-campus resources like writing centers and academic advising.
Also, don't forget to engage in related extracurricular activities or internships. This will not only give you practical insights into the criminology field but will also enhance your college application profile. There are many options, for instance, you could join a pre-law society, work for student government, or volunteer at a local law enforcement agency.
Remember, choosing where to apply is a personal decision, and you should consider factors beyond rankings such as campus culture, financial aid availability, and location. Best of luck with your applications!
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