UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · UNITED STATES
Criminology, BA
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
The Bachelor of Arts in Criminology at the University of Pennsylvania offers students a comprehensive understanding of crime and social control. This program integrates theoretical frameworks and methodological approaches from various disciplines, including statistics, neuroscience, sociology, and psychology, to provide a liberal arts perspective on crime. Students will develop the skills to critically analyze and generate knowledge within the field of criminology.
Careers
A degree in Criminology provides a strong foundation for a variety of career paths in criminal justice, law, social services, and research. Graduates are prepared for roles in law enforcement, policy analysis, victim advocacy, and further academic study.
- Law Enforcement Officer
- Parole Officer
- Probation Officer
- Forensic Scientist
- Court Administrator
- Criminal Defense Attorney
- Prosecutor
- Policy Analyst
- Researcher
- Social Worker
- Victim Advocate
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the BA in Criminology?
- To apply for the BA in Criminology, you must meet the general university admission requirements and have a High School Diploma or equivalent. Specific course unit requirements for the major are detailed in the curriculum section.
- How much does the BA in Criminology cost?
- Tuition for the BA in Criminology is assessed per course unit, and the exact cost depends on the number of units taken. Estimated living costs are not provided. For the most current and accurate tuition and fee information, please refer to the University of Pennsylvania's official admissions and finance websites.
- How long does the BA in Criminology program take to complete?
- The Criminology major requires a minimum of 34 course units. While the total duration is not explicitly stated, this indicates the academic workload needed for the degree.
- How do I apply for the BA in Criminology?
- You can apply through either the Common Application or the Coalition Application, selecting the College of Arts & Sciences as your home base. The application process involves completing the chosen platform, submitting supporting documents, and indicating your interest in the Criminology BA.
- What are the application deadlines for the BA in Criminology?
- Application deadlines are typically in November for Early Decision I (decisions in December), in January for Early Decision II (decisions in February), and in January for Regular Decision (decisions in March).
- What kind of careers can I pursue with a BA in Criminology?
- A degree in Criminology prepares you for roles in law enforcement, probation and parole, court administration, policy analysis, research, and social services. Graduates may also pursue further academic study in fields such as law.
Entry requirements
High School Diploma or EquivalentStudents must meet general university admission requirements.
Specific course unit requirements for the major are detailed in the curriculum. Students are advised to consult with the College of Arts & Sciences for general education requirements and with their academic program for any updates.
Fees
Tuition (international)For the International Master of Public Administration (I-MPA) program, estimated tuition for Fall 2026 - Spring 2027 is $41,652 per term, totaling $83,304 for the degree. This does not apply to the BA in Criminology.
Tuition (home)Tuition for the BA in Criminology is assessed per course unit. The exact cost depends on the number of course units taken and is subject to change. Specific undergraduate tuition rates for the upcoming academic year are typically updated in the spring. Please refer to the University of Pennsylvania's official tuition and fees pages for the most current information.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided for this program.
The provided tuition and fee information is primarily for a graduate program (I-MPA) and may not reflect undergraduate BA program costs. Undergraduate tuition is typically calculated on a per-course-unit basis. Students should consult the University of Pennsylvania's official admissions and finance websites for accurate and up-to-date tuition and fee information for the BA in Criminology.
How to apply
1. Choose an Application PlatformSelect either the Common Application or the Coalition Application. Penn is a partner institution with QuestBridge, which can also be used.
2. Complete the ApplicationFill out all required sections of the chosen application, providing information about your academic background, extracurricular activities, and personal essays.
3. Select Your ProgramIndicate your interest in the Criminology, BA program within the School of Arts & Sciences.
4. Submit Supporting DocumentsSubmit all necessary supporting documents as per the application instructions, which may include transcripts, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores (if applicable).
5. Application ReviewPenn reviews applications holistically, considering academic achievements, personal qualities, and potential contributions to the university community.
Accreditation
The University of Pennsylvania is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the BA in Criminology?
+
To apply for the BA in Criminology, you must meet the general university admission requirements and have a High School Diploma or equivalent. Specific course unit requirements for the major are detailed in the curriculum section.
How much does the BA in Criminology cost?
+
Tuition for the BA in Criminology is assessed per course unit, and the exact cost depends on the number of units taken. Estimated living costs are not provided. For the most current and accurate tuition and fee information, please refer to the University of Pennsylvania's official admissions and finance websites.
How long does the BA in Criminology program take to complete?
+
The Criminology major requires a minimum of 34 course units. While the total duration is not explicitly stated, this indicates the academic workload needed for the degree.
How do I apply for the BA in Criminology?
+
You can apply through either the Common Application or the Coalition Application, selecting the College of Arts & Sciences as your home base. The application process involves completing the chosen platform, submitting supporting documents, and indicating your interest in the Criminology BA.
What are the application deadlines for the BA in Criminology?
+
Application deadlines are typically in November for Early Decision I (decisions in December), in January for Early Decision II (decisions in February), and in January for Regular Decision (decisions in March).
What kind of careers can I pursue with a BA in Criminology?
+
A degree in Criminology prepares you for roles in law enforcement, probation and parole, court administration, policy analysis, research, and social services. Graduates may also pursue further academic study in fields such as law.