Criminal Justice vs. Criminology: What's the Difference?
If you're considering a career in law enforcement, legal systems, or criminal justice reform, you might be wondering: What’s the difference between criminology and criminal justice? Both fields are centered on crime, but they approach it from different perspectives.
Think of criminology as understanding the why behind crime — its causes, effects, and societal factors. Criminal justice, on the other hand, focuses on the how — enforcing laws, managing the legal system, and maintaining public safety. It’s like comparing the science behind a storm to the strategies for weathering it: both are essential, but they lead to different career paths and skill sets.
At the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, our online criminal justice program blends the practical focus of criminal justice with insights from criminology, preparing students to make a well-rounded impact in the field.
What is Criminal Justice?
Criminal justice is the system of practices and institutions that uphold laws, manage crime, and administer justice. This field is action-oriented and focuses on how laws are enforced, how courts operate, and how corrections maintain public safety.
Key Elements of Criminal Justice
- System-Based: Emphasizes the operations of law enforcement, courts, and corrections.
- Law Enforcement: Criminal justice professionals protect public safety, investigate crimes, and enforce laws.
What Can You Do with a Criminal Justice Degree?
Graduates with a degree in criminal justice often work directly within law enforcement or the legal system in roles such as:
- Police Officer or Detective
- Court Administrator
- Correctional Officer
- Private Investigator
What is Criminology?
Criminology focuses on understanding the causes of crime and its effects on society. By examining social, psychological, and environmental factors, criminologists aim to uncover why crimes occur and how they can be prevented.
Key Elements of Criminology
- Theoretical Focus: Explores crime causes, societal behavior, and preventive strategies.
- Research-Based: Criminologists conduct studies that influence policy and improve justice systems.
Criminology Career Options
Criminologists often pursue careers in research, policy, or reform, such as:
- Social Researcher
- Policy Analyst
- Forensic Psychologist
- Academic/Professor
Criminal Justice vs. Criminology: At a Glance
| Criminal justice | Criminology | |
| Focus | Law enforcement, courts, and corrections | Causes of crime and societal impact |
| Approach | Practical and procedural | Analytical and research-based |
| Careers | Police Officer, Probation Officer, Private Investigator | Policy Analyst, Researcher, Academic |
Employment Outlook and Salary Information
With a growing demand for qualified professionals, criminal justice careers offer stability and impact. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
- Police officers earn a median annual wage of $74,910, with 4% job growth projected through 2033.
- Probation officers earn a median annual wage of $61,800, with similar growth rates.
- Legal support workers earn a median annual wage of $67,700, with 1% growth projected through 2033.
Which Path is Right for You?
Choosing between criminology and criminal justice depends on your interests and career goals. If you’re drawn to analyzing societal causes of crime, criminology might be the better fit. But if you’re eager to work directly in law enforcement or legal systems, criminal justice is likely your best choice.
Make an Impact with UL Lafayette
Both criminology and criminal justice play vital roles in shaping society’s approach to crime. As Dr. David Khey, professor and head of the University’s Department of Criminal Justice, explains, “Criminal justice education is very multidisciplinary in nature. We take elements of human services, public health, and sociology to understand patterns of human life.”
UL Lafayette’s online criminal justice program reflects this multidisciplinary approach, giving you the knowledge and skills to explore both the practical and theoretical sides of the field. Whether you see yourself analyzing the root causes of crime or working on the front lines of public safety, this degree can help you reach your goals.
Ready to take the next step? Learn more about how our online criminal justice program can help you make an impact.
