A criminologist is a person who analyzes crime and criminal behaviors and attempts to provide explanations as to who commits crime and why they do it. A criminologist analyzes a criminal’s behavior and the methods he or she employs. Criminologists may work independently, or they may be employed by public law enforcement agencies, private universities or security companies.

A criminologist develops profiles of criminals and criminal behavior using research and studies that examine psychological behavior, social issues, environmental factors, education levels and biological factors. Criminologists also help make crime statistics into usable tools for law enforcement agencies. By developing profiles and organizing statistics into meaningful information, a criminologist strives to develop strategies to help prevent criminal behavior.

Not all criminologists have the “glamorous” job of profiling famous criminals or being commentators on news programs, but most do the difficult and tedious work of collecting, cataloging and reporting on crime data. This is where most criminologists begin their careers. Many use the platform of their degree to become law enforcement agents, such as police officers, FBI agents or medical examiners. Others go into the educational field and teach or conduct research. Private security companies, state and federal correctional systems, drug enforcement agencies and the US Customs all employ criminologists as well.

A criminologist must have a genuine interest in human nature and in helping to improve society. Other important traits include communication, listening, analysis and research skills. A criminologist must have a creative, analytical mind, a strong ethical sense and integrity. Pay is often low for those who have only an undergraduate degree and work for a government agency. For those who wish to move up in prestige and pay, an advanced degree is recommended.

A criminologist has a criminal justice degree and may have focused on psychology and sociology in college. A criminologist with an undergraduate degree should have studied a wide range of subjects, including constitutional law, criminal law, criminal theory, psychology, sociology, government statistics and abnormal psychology.

A criminologist may choose to specialize in a particular field, focusing on a particular age group, certain types of crimes, crime prevention, criminal investigations, litigation, corrections, profiling or research. Depending on his or her focus, a criminologist may attend a crime scene or autopsies to contribute to an investigation. Criminologists may interview suspects or help police develop a profile to catch a criminal. They may also contribute to a prosecution by testifying as an expert witness, or they may work with the corrections system to help rehabilitate criminals and develop crime prevention programs.