Written By
Nicole Sonnier
Digital Content Specialist,
Grand Canyon Education
Criminology and criminal justice are related but distinct fields. Criminology focuses on the causes and effects of crime through research and theory, while criminal justice deals with the systems, law enforcement, courts and corrections.
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Approved and verified accurate by the Assistant Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences on Nov. 18, 2025.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Grand Canyon University. Any sources cited were accurate as of the publish date.
Choosing the right academic path is a significant step toward building a career in criminology or criminal justice. While both disciplines address crime and promote public safety, they differ in focus and methodology.
Criminology aims to understand the causes, patterns and consequences of criminal behavior. It often draws from disciplines such as sociology and psychology to analyze why crimes occur and how they affect society.1 In contrast, criminal justice involves organized systems that promote public safety and enforce laws, which include law enforcement, legal proceedings and correctional services.2 These organized systems, working together, maintain order and respond to crime.
If you’re considering a career in this area, it’s important to understand these distinctions and evaluate the career opportunities each path offers to find the best fit for your interests and long-term goals.
GCU’s Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies bridges these two domains, offering students a comprehensive understanding of the U.S. justice system while also exploring the behavioral and societal aspects of crime. Students can study criminal law, criminology, juvenile delinquency, criminal procedure and victimology, teaching them how to examine both the theoretical underpinnings of crime and the operational functions of justice agencies.
For those particularly interested in criminology, the program addresses areas such as crime causation, behavioral analysis and policy development. These subjects can prepare students for careers in research, advocacy or public policy. Students who are more inclined toward criminal justice can engage with practical studies in law enforcement, corrections and court systems. This hands-on approach can equip them for direct roles in policing, probation and legal administration.
A key feature of the program is the focus on critical thinking, ethics and communication. These transferable skills can be valuable in many professional fields. Whether a student sees themselves analyzing crime data to influence legislation or working directly in public safety, GCU’s justice studies degree can provide a strong foundation for both career paths.
Explore Your Future in Justice
Discover more about pursuing criminology or criminal justice by enrolling in GCU's BS in Justice Studies program.
Criminology and criminal justice are two distinct fields within the broader context of crime and public safety. Recognizing the differences between them is essential when selecting an academic and career path that best suits you. Let’s take a closer look at each field to help clarify its focus and the professional opportunities it offers.
Criminology is the study of crime, its causes and its effects on individuals and society. It uses sociology, psychology and public policy principles to analyze criminal behavior and understand the broader social conditions that contribute to crime. Rather than focusing on how crimes are prosecuted or punished, criminology seeks to answer deeper questions about why crimes occur and their impact on communities.
Criminologists help to shape public safety strategies and influence policy decisions. They often work in research settings, analyzing crime data to identify patterns and trends, evaluating the effectiveness of prevention programs and providing recommendations to lawmakers and law enforcement agencies.1 Some criminologists work in academic environments, where they teach and conduct research that advances the field. Others serve as consultants for government or charitable organizations that focus on justice reform and community well-being. A criminology degree can be well-suited for students who are curious about the root causes of crime and passionate about using research to drive change.
Common roles in criminology include:
Criminal justice is the study of the systems, policies and practices that society uses to prevent, investigate and respond to crime.2 Unlike criminology, which focuses on understanding the causes of criminal behavior, criminal justice centers on the operational aspects of maintaining law and order. It includes the institutions and procedures that uphold justice and protect public safety.
The core components of the criminal justice system include:
Professionals in criminal justice often work directly within these systems to enforce laws, support victims and manage offenders. A criminal justice degree is ideal for students who want to be at the forefront of public safety, working within structured systems to uphold justice and serve their communities.
Common career paths include:3
As criminology and criminal justice have significantly different focuses, this comprehensive comparison will help students determine which aligns better with their interests and career goals.
Criminology is mainly theoretical. It investigates the reasons behind criminal behavior by examining the psychological, social and economic factors that contribute to crime. Criminal justice, on the other hand, is more practical and systems-oriented. It emphasizes how society responds to crime through law enforcement, legal proceedings and corrections.
Students studying criminology often develop strong research and analytical skills. They learn to interpret crime data, evaluate theories and contribute to policy development. Criminal justice students, meanwhile, build procedural knowledge and operational skills, gaining an understanding of criminal law, investigative techniques and criminal procedures. This preparation can equip them for frontline roles within the justice system.
Criminology graduates may find employment in academic or policy research settings, think tanks or charitable organizations that focus on crime prevention. Criminal justice graduates are more likely to work in public-facing positions within police departments, correctional facilities, court systems or federal agencies.
A Bachelor of Arts or Science in Criminology typically focuses on social science research and theory, while a BA or BS in Criminal Justice emphasizes the structure and function of the justice system. Both degrees offer career pathways, but the right choice depends on whether a student is more interested in studying the causes of crime or actively working to enforce and uphold the law.
At Grand Canyon University, students can explore both through programs in justice studies and criminal justice. These degrees are designed to equip learners with the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in law enforcement, legal services, corrections or policy research, allowing them to make a real impact in their communities.
Now that you understand the difference between criminology and criminal justice, you are better equipped to choose what best fits your goals. Criminology leans into research and theory, while criminal justice emphasizes structure, procedure and public service. To help you prepare for your future career, consider the Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies, which can provide a solid foundation in both criminal justice and public safety. For those looking to further their education, GCU also offers Master of Science in Criminal Justice degrees with emphases in law enforcement and legal studies, helping professionals to prepare for roles within the justice system.