Department of Sociology & Criminology UWG

The faculty of the Criminology program are committed to provide quality instruction to undergraduate and graduate students on subjects that fall within the scope of the discipline, conduct research that contributes to the body of knowledge in the field, and engage in service that allows practical application of our knowledge and skills. In conjunction with the goals of the University, the College, and the Department, our program is based on the philosophy of a liberal arts education, grounded in social science methodologies. The focus for undergraduate students is to achieve mastery of basic academic competencies and a basic level of expertise in the field of criminal justice/criminology. The graduate program promotes a more critical examination of criminal justice/criminology issues, as well as enhancing analytical and communication skills. Faculty seek opportunities to involve students in a range of professional activities to facilitate their entry into the job market or further educational pursuits.

For more information on the Bachelor of Science degree in Criminology, contact the program coordinator, Dr. Chris Williams (cwilliam@westga.edu).

B.S. in Criminology

Program Description

The Criminology program at the State University of West Georgia is located in the Department of Sociology and Criminology. The Criminology program is widely conceived to include not only the study of crime and society's reaction to crime but also the areas of crime and justice that traditionally make up the disciplines of criminology and legal studies. The faculty members who specialize in Criminology represent broad and varied backgrounds in working with the criminal justice system, dealing with offenders and victims, and conducting research on a wide range of criminal justice issues.

Declaration Requirements

To be admitted into the B.S. program in Criminology, students must first complete Core Areas A-E with a cumulative GPA (including all transfer credit) of 2.5 or better. To graduate with a degree from this program, students must receive a grade of "C" or better in CRIM 3240, CRIM 4284, and at least one methods course (SOCI 4000, SOCI 4003, or SOCI 4613).

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge of the basic structure and functions of the main components of the criminal justice system - law enforcement, courts, corrections and juvenile justice.
Knowledge of the main theories in criminology that offer various ways of understanding why people commit crime.
Knowledge of the basic research methods in the social sciences.
Knowledge of how the major criminal justice institutions respond to crime, criminals and victims.
Ability to ask relevant questions and engage in research to explore special issues in criminology/criminal justice and their effects on the larger society.
Knowledge of the roles of race/ethnicity, class and sex in criminal behavior and societal response to crime.
Ability to apply criminology theories, principles and concepts to address "real life" problems and situations in the criminal justice fi eld; ability to engage in critical thinking/analysis.
Demonstration of strong oral and written communication skills.
Ability to utilize appropriate technology in the study of criminology/criminal justice issues.
Knowledge of career options in criminology/criminal justice, including pursuit of advanced degrees.
Ability to engage in ethical behavior in a professional work setting.

Minor in Criminology

Complete 15 hours including CRIM 1100 and four upper division Criminology courses.

Extra-curricular activities

For students who wish to get involved, we currently host Lambda Alpha Epsilon, the Co-Ed Criminology Fraternity as well as the Chi Omega Phi Chapter of Alpha Phi Sigma (the National Criminal Justice Honor Society).. Students are also encouraged to get involved in the Sociology Club or Alpha Kappa Delta (the Sociology Honor Society).