Does LSU have criminology?

So, Does LSU Have Criminology? Let’s Break It Down.

Ever wondered if LSU in Baton Rouge offers a straight-up criminology degree? Well, here’s the deal: you won’t find a specific undergraduate major labeled “Criminal Justice” there. But don’t let that discourage you! If you’re fascinated by the world of crime and justice, there’s definitely a path for you at LSU.

The secret? A Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Sociology. Now, stick with me. Within that Sociology degree, you can choose a concentration in Criminology. Think of it as a deep dive into the criminal mind and the systems built to understand and manage crime.

Criminology at LSU: More Than Just Textbooks

This isn’t just about memorizing definitions. Criminology is like an intersection of different fields – sociology, psychology, even law. You’ll be exploring what makes people commit crimes, how crime plays out in communities, and what we can do about it. You’ll be looking at crime patterns, the reasons behind them, and how police work to keep things in check. It’s about the big picture, and how crime ripples through society.

And the professors? They’re not just teaching from dusty books. LSU sociologists are out there doing the research, getting their hands dirty with real-world problems. They might be looking at how crime changes in gentrifying neighborhoods, or whether anti-crime programs are really helping everyone. They use everything from in-depth interviews to complex data analysis to get to the bottom of things.

What You’ll Study: A Mix of Everything

The Criminology concentration isn’t a one-trick pony. You’ll get a solid grounding in sociology, but you’ll also need to flex your brain with electives, a foreign language (time to brush up on your Spanish!), social studies, and even some math. It’s a well-rounded education that prepares you for… well, just about anything.

So, Where Can This Take You?

That’s the million-dollar question, right? A Criminology concentration can open doors to a surprising number of careers. You could become a community advocate, working to make neighborhoods safer and stronger. Maybe you dream of being a judge, making tough decisions in the courtroom. Of course, there’s law enforcement – from local police to federal agencies. And if you’re the argumentative type, law school might be calling your name!

Don’t Forget the Rest of the LSU Family!

Keep in mind that LSU is a system of universities. While the main campus in Baton Rouge takes the spotlight with its Criminology concentration, other LSU schools offer full-blown Criminal Justice degrees. Places like LSU Alexandria (LSUA) and LSU Shreveport (LSUS) have Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Criminal Justice programs. So, if you’re dead-set on a Criminal Justice degree, those might be worth checking out. They’re designed to get you ready for careers in law enforcement, corrections, and all sorts of related fields.