With the rise of crime there is an inevitable need for professionals, who not only hold the expertise in deciphering causes and effect of criminal activity, but also are equally adept at strategising for prevention. For long, the discipline of criminology has been subjected to misleading opinions and interpretations. It is a subset of sociology and includes scientific study and their manifestations. It seeks to measure the effectiveness of a society’s response to illegal activity and propose ways to both prevent and address the same. 

Many consider this subject to be same as forensic science and criminal law. It’s not. While the innate focus of forensic science lies on the scientific study of tracing evidence, criminology encompasses a psychological study of behaviour.

A paradigm shift has been observed in criminal jurisprudence, litigation, and sentencing.

The Indian Legal System, once an ardent believer of deterrent sentencing is gradually progressing towards reformative sentencing with a focus on rehabilitation. TiharHaat, a venue for the purchase of products made my inmates of Tihar Jail is an example of the impact, a criminologist can make on punishment. 

Criminologists, in study and in practice make extensive use of precedence in sociology, psychology and law. A background in these disciplines is desired. They are driven with a burning passion to create an impact and to fight crime. A career in criminology is extremely hyped by many popular TV shows like Sherlock, CSI Miami, and Numbers, all of which portray their protagonists as strong analysts, keen observers, ardent researchers, strong and valued individuals. All of this holds true in the real world as well. Research, observation skills, ability to connect the dots, logical reasoning, active visualisation, excellent written, verbal expression, empathy, ability to trigger reformation and a strong sense of character are some of the skills that make for an ace criminologist. 

A student looking to make a career in the adrenaline-pumping discipline needs to be +2 passed with a science or arts background and then move to pursue either a specialised study of criminology or a degree in a more generic subject. University of Pune, Osmania University, Gujarat University, University of Madras, Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan National Institute of Criminology and Forensic Science, and Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University are some of the institutions that offer specialised degree programmes in this subject. 

One may also look at pursuing sociology or psychology at the undergraduate level if they don’t want to dive deep into the subject. Delhi University, Punjab University, Ambedkar University, Christ University, and Ashoka University are some of the universities that offer an undergraduate degree in psychology and sociology. 

One may then look at pursuing a graduate degree and allied disciplines. Criminology and law, criminology and forensic science, criminology and psychology, forensic psychology and criminology are some of the popular combinations in India and abroad. The most exciting facet of this study is that its knowledge can be applied to various professions and academic domains in purview of the societal study as a whole. Anthropology, human behaviour, politics and policy formulation are domains which have no direct influence but yet strike a chord somewhere. Not only this a professional determined to make it as an ace criminologist can specialise in subjects like victimology, penology, juvenile justice, and crime investigation.

There are a plethora of opportunities available for professionals in this field. They can make their career as a crime investigator, a counsellor, a medical investigator, a social worker, a rehabilitation specialist, a policy maker, or join the police forces, and law enforcement agencies. They may also explore possibilities with organisations like Central Bureau of Investigation, Research and Analysis Wing, National Human Rights Commission, National Commission for Women, National Commission for Protection of Child Rights, Forensic Labs, and Bureau of Police Research and Development. Professionals who intend to groom young minds can also explore the possibilities in academia. 

Specialised opportunities like those in crime intelligence, law reform, research, international law enforcement and community correction lie abroad, if one wants to move overseas. Irrespective of anyone’s interest, expertise or previous educational background and work experience, there are all sorts of opportunities available in this field. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie seeking outdoor thrill, or like to work in labs, the chances are you’ll find a fulfilling career in such a broad domain. 

The writer is founder and Chief Executive Officer, Mindler.