PhD in Criminology at Pennsylvania State University

The graduate program in Criminology is for students seeking the Ph.D. degree. Students may either enter the program with an M.A. degree or earn that degree en route to the Ph.D. program. The program offers an advanced education on various aspects of criminology to persons interested in research careers in academia and public service.

The graduate program emphasizes theory and research on crime and justice, research and statistical methodology, and substantive knowledge about crime and its control.

1. Know: Graduates will demonstrate a deep conceptual understanding of criminological theory and the interrelated institutions and processes of the criminal justice system, as well as specialized knowledge in a sub-area of the discipline.
2. Apply: Graduates will be able to apply theory and current research to identify gaps in the literature and generate new knowledge in criminology.  
3. Communicate: Graduates will be able to communicate with the discipline through clear, well-organized manuscripts, proposals, and formal presentations. 
4. Think: Graduates will be able to critically analyze unpublished and published research by other scholars in criminology and in their specialty area.
5. Professional Practice. Graduates will demonstrate a commitment to active citizenship in the department and the discipline and engage with research, as well as with colleagues and students, in an ethical manner.