Criminal Justice Vs. Criminology: What Is the Difference?

You might hear about criminal justice and criminology when thinking about legal and law enforcement careers. At first glance, they might seem the same, but they are pretty different! If you’ve ever wondered whether these two fields are correct, this blog will help explain the difference.

Let’s explore what makes criminal justice and criminology different, their roles, and how each could lead to thrilling career opportunities.

What is Criminal Justice?

Criminal justice refers to the systems and processes that approach, tackle, and enforce laws, prevent crimes, and punish criminal activities. It involves:

• Police officers who protect the public.
• Court systems that ensure justice is served.
• Corrections officers who supervise individuals in prison or on probation.

It is action-oriented in nature. Very often, professionals dealing with criminal justice interact face-to-face with individuals and ensure that the laws are followed and met accordingly.

What is Criminology?

On the other hand, criminology deals with studying the causes behind criminal behavior. It is more research-based, focusing on understanding the reasons for crime. Criminologists look at patterns, study social influences, and try to find solutions to reduce crime.

For instance:

• Why do some communities have more crime?
• What drives a person to commit a crime?
• How does this prevent future crimes from occurring within society?

Criminologists work in research labs, universities, or policy-making organizations that supply critical data to law enforcement.

Key Differences between Criminal Justice and Criminology

Criminal Justice

• Focuses on the enforcement of the law.
• Includes police, courts, and corrections. Provides research and policy-making.
• Fieldwork—hands-on analysis behind the scenes.

Criminology

• Provides research and policy-making.
• Studying the causes of crime.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that criminal justice careers, such as police officers, are projected to rise 3% through 2031. Moreover, the jobs within criminology, which include a broad area in sociology and research, have also grown steadily. Both careers are extraordinarily relevant and serve an essential function within community safety.

Which Career Pathway is Right for You?

The choice between criminal justice and criminology depends on the individual’s interest. 

Ask yourself:

• Do I enjoy working directly with people to solve problems?
• Do I enjoy researching and analyzing data for a solution?

Suppose criminal justice might be the best fit for those who like to be on the front lines, helping people directly. On the other hand, if one loves solving puzzles and understanding why things happen, then criminology is their calling.

How Can You Get Started?

Whether your interest is in criminal justice or criminology, proper education is key to either path. The Criminal Justice program at Northwest Career College provides a sound foundation in the legal system and the necessary skills for practical application in law enforcement, courts, or corrections.

We focus on giving students the tools to succeed in the field, such as:

• Legal knowledge.
• Ethical decision-making.
• Hands-on experience.

With proper preparation, you would be set toward a fulfilling criminal justice or criminology career.

Enroll Now

Ready to take that first step into an exciting career? Enroll at Northwest Career College today and build the skills you need to succeed in a criminal justice career. With the proper education, the difference you can make in your community is real.