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Criminology and Crime Analysis Online Degree Concentration Within the BS in Criminal Justice Program
You're viewing a Program Concentration
Total courses 4 (of 40)
Term length 8 weeks
Concentration Overview Why focus on criminology and crime analysis?
If questions like "What leads to deviant behavior?" and "How does someone go from antisocial to sociopath?" pop into your brain on a regular basis, adding a concentration in criminology and crime analysis to your criminal justice degree can help focus your studies.
With a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Criminology and Crime Analysis from Southern New Hampshire University, you'll learn how to use criminology theory to develop crime reduction and prevention strategies from faculty who've served on the front lines. Armed with this specialized knowledge, you can position yourself for success in law enforcement, social services and other related fields.
Skills you'll learn:
- Human behavior theory comprehension
- Crime reduction and prevention strategies
- Technology and societal trend analysis
- Empathetic practices for diverse populations
- Laws, regulations and ethical standards
- Field-relevant communication tactics
Courses & Curriculum Career-focused criminology and crime analysis classes
In our BS in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Criminology and Crime Analysis program, your course topics will range from theories of crime and punishment to the psychological and social basis of criminal behavior. Your critical thinking and communication skills will be sharpened as lessons open new windows into rehabilitation and recidivism, studies of specific types of crime, and social attitudes and policy.
Your 4-course criminology and crime analysis concentration explained
Your entire BS in Criminal Justice program consists of 40 courses (120 credits) total. This includes general education courses (42 credits), major courses (39 credits), major elective courses (12 credits) and other elective courses (27 credits). If you choose to take this concentration in criminology and crime analysis, you'll take 4 specific courses all related to criminology and crime analysis to meet the 12-credit major electives requirement.
Courses may include:
Criminology and Public Policy
Course ID:
CJ 306
Students will examine how the role and responsibilities of criminologists in the criminal justice field influence the development of various forms of public policies. Social control, deviance theories, and the relationship between the Constitution and civil liberties and public policies will be covered.
Prevention of Crime
Course ID:
CJ 346
In this course, students will apply their knowledge of criminological theory to analyze how it contributes to effective prevention of crime within communities. In addition, students will study the relationship between environmental design, evidence-based interventions, and criminological research in preventing crime.
Data-Based Policing Strategies
Course ID:
CJ 347
Through the examination of the historical evolution of data in policing strategies, students will study the challenges and benefits of data analysis in the deployment of proactive policing strategies. Students will apply their knowledge of data to determine how it is used to prevent crime.
Crime Analysis and Solutions
Course ID:
CJ 407
In this course, students will examine the various methodologies used in research to analyze the successes and failures of research based policing strategies. Common tools and technology will be used to determine patterns and trends related to criminal activity.
Visit the course catalog to view the full BS in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Criminology and Crime Analysis curriculum.
The Commons: SNHU’s gen ed program
All undergraduate students are required to take general education courses, which are part of SNHU's newly redesigned program, The Commons. The goal of The Commons' curriculum is to empower you with some of the most in-demand skills, so you can succeed not only in your academic career, but in your personal and professional life too.
Courses may include:
Cultural Awareness and Online Learning
Course ID:
IDS 105
This course introduces students to the skills relevant to university learning, and the foundational knowledge and values of intercultural fluency needed to understand and effectively navigate the complexities of contemporary society. Students will examine the various factors that influence an individual's perception of justice and the impacts that cultural and social diversity have on collaboration and communication processes. Through the application of interpersonal communication strategies, students will also learn to navigate various interpersonal conflict situations.
Self, Society, and the Humanities
Course ID:
HUM 102
In this course, students explore the interaction between individuals and society as a framework for understanding cultural inquiry. Through the examination of the scientific, creative, cultural, and historical humanities, students develop a practice of reflexivity to describe conceptions of self, others, and systems and their interconnectedness.
Foundations of Written Communication
Course ID:
ENG 130
This course focuses on written communication and writing practice. Students will gain the critical reading and information literacy related skills vital to academic and workplace success. Students will explore methods to analyze, summarize, and evaluate written works to isolate key ideas and information. Students will examine how to adapt the writing process to a variety of writing situations and present their own perspectives in written form.
Mathematical Reasoning for Modern Problem-Solving
Course ID:
MAT 126
In this course, students learn about the use of mathematical reasoning and the practical application of quantitative techniques to inform their decision-making process. Students will develop the skills to critically examine elements of a problem they might face in their day-to-day personal and professional lives, solve for various outcomes using quantitative techniques, and make informed decisions.
Ethics in Global Society
Course ID:
PHL 218
In this course, students explore various ethical frameworks from a cultural and global perspective. Students examine the ways that ethics influence actions, decisions, and perceptions. Furthermore, students develop associated skills related to critical thinking, such as awareness of bias, to analyze issues from an ethical standpoint.
STEM Principles and Problem-Solving
Course ID:
SCI 260
In this course, students learn to apply science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) methodologies to a wide variety of contemporary issues and complex challenges within society to obtain knowledge and use that knowledge to develop recommendations and propose solutions. Students will leverage a scientific mindset to gather information, analyze data, and communicate information in varying ways based on their intended audience.
Social Issues and Decision-Making
Course ID:
SCS 260
In this course, students use social science methodologies to analyze various sociocultural issues and their impacts on society. In their exploration of the concept of society and how it manifests in different cultures, students learn to contextualize themselves within society, examine the relationship between the individual and society, and analyze the ethical implications of decision-making related to contemporary social issues.
Minimum Specifications:
- CPU: Intel Core i7 12th Gen or AMD Ryzen 7 5000 series
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3070 (Laptop GPU) or AMD Radeon RX 6750M+
- RAM: 16GB DDR4 (32GB recommended for multitasking and creative work)
- Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD (1TB recommended for longevity)
- Display: 15.6” FHD (1920x1080), 60Hz+ (QHD optional for creative/visual work)
- OS: Windows 11 Home or Pro
- Internet/bandwidth: 5Mbps download, 1Mbps upload and less than 100ms latency
Additional Information:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Where to purchase: You may purchase any computer brand you wish from any location/reseller, relying on the minimum specs provided to ensure the acquisition of an appropriate machine. We recommend asking your preferred vendor if they offer a student discount, since many do.
- Mac users: You must verify your machine offers comparable specs.
- Devices that don’t meet minimum requirements: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device.
- Microsoft Office software: Office 365 is available to all students for free. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion.
- Antivirus software: This is strongly recommended for online students. Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Get Work Credit
Have a background in law enforcement training?
If you've completed a basic police, corrections or probation and parole academy training, you may receive up to 12 credits toward your criminal justice degree at SNHU. This will save you time (and money!) on your way to graduation.
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: June 29, 2026 | August 31, 2026
Next term starts:
May 4, 2026
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 93.4% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2025 survey with 8,718 respondents.
What to expect:
8-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
Dedicated instructors with real-world experience
SNHU instructors like Dr. Hector R. Garcia are at the heart of SNHU's mission of student success. With real-world criminal justice experience and passionate dedication to our students and their learning, our faculty are with you every step of the way.
Featured Faculty
Dr. Hector R. Garcia
In addition to his work in academia, Dr. Hector R. Garcia has spent over 30 years in law enforcement and security. He’s trained thousands on topics like emergency management and worked with international partners on the development of public safety and security initiatives.
Position
Associate Dean, Social Sciences
Joined
SNHU 2018
Education
- EdD in Organizational Leadership from Argosy University
- MS in Criminal Justice Administration from Lynn University
- BA in Criminal Justice from Florida Atlantic University
Read more about Dr. Hector R. Garcia and other online faculty at SNHU.
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 250,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
Step 3: Make your decision.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
Online undergraduate tuition
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 120-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
$342
$1,026
$41,040
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$250
$750
$30,000
*before previously earned credits are applied
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
$10,260 $15,390 $20,520 $25,650 $30,780If 30 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $30,780
If 45 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $25,650
If 60 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $20,520
If 75 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $15,390
If 90 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $10,260
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a bachelor's degree. Most bachelor's degrees require 120 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 90 credits, requiring a minimum of 30 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator, and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.
Ways to save on online tuition
Transfer your credits
Transfer up to 90 credits toward your bachelor's degree program at SNHU. If you’ve taken one course or many, we’ll evaluate them for you.
Apply for financial aid
Fill out the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for grants or work-study. (You could also be offered loans, though you’ll have to pay those back later.)
Military discounts and credit
Earn credits in leadership, technology and more – while taking advantage of tuition discounts for active-duty service members and spouses.
Explore scholarships
Getting free money for college – from SNHU or an outside organization – could help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Earn credit for exams and certificates
Bring in credits from popular options like CLEP, Sophia Learning, Google and other common credit for prior learning (CPL) experiences.
Tuition Reimbursement
Learn how you can save money with tuition reimbursement from your employer.
Benefit from your employer
Take advantage of an online tuition discount through your organization’s partnership with SNHU. Check with your employer to see if your organization partners with us and if you’re eligible for additional tuition savings and partner education benefits.
Career Outlook What can I do with my concentration in criminology and crime analysis?
As part of one of the largest and most popular criminal justice programs in the U.S., Southern New Hampshire University's online BS in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Criminology and Crime Analysis degree was built to help set you up for success in the field.
The topics covered throughout your concentration courses are highly applicable in many areas of criminal justice. That means you can put your new criminology and crime analysis skills to use in something you feel passionate about, like policing, corrections, human services and homeland security.
Occupations
Earning your BS in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Criminology and Crime Analysis will help position you for several career paths. It's important to note that law enforcement positions may involve additional training and eligibility requirements.
Social and Community Service Managers
Focus on the public well-being of children, homeless people, older adults or veterans, or help people with substance use or mental health disorders.
Police and Detectives
Gather facts and collect evidence for criminal cases, observe the activities of suspects and make arrests.
Read more about how to become a detective.
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
Supervise people placed on probation or develop rehabilitation plans for people on probation or parole.
9%
Increase nationally in roles for social and community service managers through 2032, projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1
$77,030
Median annual pay nationally for social and community service managers as of May 2023, according to the BLS.1 Statistic not based on wage data for SNHU graduates.
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, not on SNHU graduate outcomes, and do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
What SNHU students are saying
My advisor, Carol, was amazing from day 1. She would call me all the time and just check in.
Katlyn Genovese '23
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you study criminology with a concentration in criminology and crime analysis online?
Yes — and there are many benefits, particularly flexibility. Like all of our online degrees, the BS in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Criminology and Crime Analysis program has no set class times. Each week, you'll log in when it works for you and complete your assignments on your schedule. Then, you'll submit them by the weekly deadlines — typically Thursday and Sunday nights.
This structure can make it easier to balance your coursework with your job, family responsibilities and other commitments, while still making progress toward your degree.
What can you do with a degree in criminal justice with a concentration in criminology and crime analysis?
Earning your BS in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Criminology and Crime Analysis online at SNHU can help you grow specialized skills that can make you stand out to employers. By combining a foundation in criminal justice with the data-savvy skills of criminology and crime analysis, you'll be positioned for success in a diverse array of career paths, including:
- Police and detectives: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) cites five main areas of responsibility for detectives and criminal investigators. They interview people to gather information, search records to uncover clues, conduct surveillance, collect evidence for clients, and check for civil judgments and criminal history. The BLS projects 3% growth for this area of law enforcement through 2032.1
- Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists: Probation officers oversee people on probation. Correctional treatment specialists create rehabilitation plans for those on probation or parole. The BLS estimates about 7,400 openings each year, on average, for these roles through 2032.1
- Social and community service managers: Whether serving children, the homeless, older adults, veterans or people with substance abuse or mental health needs, these roles focus on public well-being. The BLS projects 9% growth in this category through 2032.1
Learn more about some of the types of criminal justice career paths.
How much money can you make with a degree in criminal justice with a concentration in criminology and crime analysis?
That depends partly on your career plans and partly on your ultimate educational goals.
Want to use your bachelor’s in criminal justice with a concentration in criminology and crime analysis to pursue a traditional path in law enforcement as a detective? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), police and detectives made median annual wages of $74,910 in 2023.1
If you want your degree to lead to work in the prison system as a probation officer or correctional treatment specialist, know that the BLS reported median annual wages of $61,800 in 2023.1
Is working for the public well-being what you aspire to? Social and community service managers made a median annual wage of $77,030 in 2023.1
Is victim advocacy where your passion lies? The BLS reported a median annual wage of $58,380 for social workers who help victims of crimes in 2023.1
Is a degree in criminal justice with a concentration in criminology and crime analysis worth it?
The BS in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Criminology and Crime Analysis degree is versatile and meaningful. You can take it in several directions, from traditional law enforcement roles to working in the prison system or social services.
As you complete your criminology and crime analysis courses, you’ll develop the skills and knowledge to succeed in law enforcement, social services and related fields. And you’ll gain something just as vital – a better understanding of people.
What degree do I need to be a crime analyst?
SNHU's online BS in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Criminology and Crime Analysis is uniquely designed to help prepare you for success as a crime analyst.
Developed by industry experts who understand the demands of today's workforce, this specialized degree offers a perfect path for a crime analyst – whether you're just starting your career or ready to make a change.
How do you become a crime analyst?
Becoming a crime analyst requires the right balance of criminal justice, research and data analytics skills. To this end, a bachelor's degree – while not always required – may be a powerful way to break into the field.
SNHU's online BS in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Criminology and Crime Analysis degree is uniquely designed to help grow this very specific skill set. On one hand, you'll get the foundation you need to succeed in a protective service occupation. On the other, you'll gain competence with data analytics – which is itself a high-demand skill in just about every imaginable industry.
Real-world experience and on-the-job training are also helpful. Those with a background in law enforcement, for example, can gain practical knowledge that may position them for successful crime analysis careers.
Plus, those with law enforcement training could transfer their experience for up to 12 college credits at SNHU – saving you time and tuition.
What is the purpose of crime analysis?
Put simply, crime analysis is designed to predict and prevent criminal behavior. It achieves this goal through the analysis of a wide variety of data, which then informs strategic solutions to help reduce crime and protect communities.
"Crime analysts need to learn quantitative and qualitative techniques, to analyze data and develop crime prevention and intervention models," said Mahmut Cengiz, an SNHU adjunct professor and senior data analyst.
"Crime has a pattern. Crime analysis, instead of relying on law enforcement approximations, uses statistical prediction to identify the most probable areas for urgent police intervention," he said.
What is a concentration?
At colleges and universities, a concentration is a focused area of study within a larger degree program. A concentration generally replaces elective coursework in the major or discipline, allowing students to focus their studies on an area of interest.
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Sources & Citations
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/social-and-community-service-managers.htm (viewed Apr. 19, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/protective-service/police-and-detectives.htm (viewed Apr. 19, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/probation-officers-and-correctional-treatment-specialists.htm (viewed Apr. 19, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm (viewed Apr. 19, 2024)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.