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Criminology (PhD)

Program Info

Degree Type:
Graduate
Questions?
(800) 414-5756
Application Deadline
Fall Admission (August): February 15 (Priority Deadline), May 15 | Spring Admission (January): September 15
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Unlock Your Future with a Leading-Edge PhD in Criminology at TROY

Do you want to inspire the next generation of criminologists? Are you interested in conducting groundbreaking research and shaping public policy that makes a meaningful contribution to the criminal justice field? At Troy University, our PhD in Criminology will help you better understand the complexities of crime and justice in society. Whether you want to pursue research, policy or teach, our online PhD in Criminology will prepare you to address complex issues within our criminal justice system.

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“If you are planning to pursue a PhD in Criminology, our program provides excellent opportunities for you to deepen your knowledge in the field. Our program is designed to help you achieve your professional goals, such as teaching at higher education institutions and advancing your career. The faculty members will help you develop strong research and statistical skills, as well as theoretical knowledge. With the in-depth knowledge you gain, you will be equipped to address complex issues of crime and justice and conduct research in the area of criminology that contributes to positive change in the field.”
Dr. Halil Akbas | Associate Professor | Associate Chair / Graduate Director | Department of Anthropology, Sociology and Criminology

Learn from Top-Notch Faculty Who Are Experts and Mentors

At TROY, our faculty members are leaders in the field. They've held high-level criminology jobs and have research interests spanning the profession — from policing strategies and human trafficking to cybercrime and digital forensics. They bring a wealth of experience from their own careers in criminology and are dedicated to supporting you throughout your studies. You'll learn from these distinguished scholars in online PhD in criminology courses. You'll also join them in research efforts and receive invaluable mentorship as they prepare you for criminology careers as an educator, researcher or public servant.

Take Your Learning into the Field with TROY's PhD in Criminology

As you pursue careers in criminology, experience matters. At TROY, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of advanced criminology and criminal justice system practices as you put your studies in motion. You'll have the chance to conduct research that addresses areas such as crime prevention or justice reform. You'll enhance your expertise through practicums or leading lectures as you prepare to shape the next generation. These opportunities are instrumental in preparing you for criminology career opportunities wherever you call home.
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Criminology PhD Curriculum

At TROY, you'll gain a deep understanding of criminal justice theories, research methodologies and policy applications through our online PhD programs. The program requires 60 credit hours with 24 hours of required program and research courses. Complete your core courses and then chart your own path — choosing specialized PhD in Criminology courses that fit your interests and needs. You might take courses such as:

PhD in Criminology Locations

Are you looking for online PhD programs in criminology? Get the flexibility you need at TROY, where you can take classes completely online and on your schedule. For more information about program availability and delivery options, call 1-800-414-5756.

TROY Online

Drive Change as You Tackle a PhD in Criminology Research Project

At TROY, you'll gain valuable expertise as you work alongside a faculty member on an advanced criminology research thesis.

As a PhD in criminology online student, you'll take a deep dive into an area of criminology and justice policy, building valuable experience. This allows you to explore and generate new research ideas, gain added expertise with research methods and share your findings — whether in leading journals or at conferences. These experiences will help you stand out for criminology jobs in academia, research and beyond.
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What Can You Do with a PhD in Criminal Justice or Criminology?

Unlike some PhD programs in criminology, we offer a flexible program tailored to your professional aspirations. With our PhD in Criminology, you'll have the knowledge, skills, tools and techniques to make positive change in the field. You'll be able to apply critical knowledge about criminology and crime prevention perspectives to real-world events. You'll also find a growing job market in both the public and private sectors, including with community agencies, government, nonprofits or higher education institutions.

TROY's PhD in Criminology will open doors to many criminology career opportunities, including in roles such as:

  • Criminal justice administrator
  • Criminology professor
  • Forensic research specialist
  • Law enforcement consultant
  • Policy advisor
  • Public policy analyst
  • Research director

Faculty Profiles

Dr. Halil Akbas

Dr. Halil Akbas

Dr. Halil Akbas is the Graduate Director and Associate Professor of criminal justice and criminology. His main research interests include the study of policing strategies, immigration, human trafficking and terrorism. Dr. Akbas teaches graduate courses in law enforcement, criminal justice policy, homeland security and more.
Learn more about our faculty 334-808-6207 hakbas@troy.edu
Dr. Andrew Tatch

Dr. Andrew Tatch

Dr. Andrew Tatch is the Associate Chair and Assistant Professor of Sociology. His main research interests focus on social stratification, substance use, impaired driving, and health disparities. He has published work on topics such as college student drinking, impaired driving predictors by gender, mental illness, and employment outcomes for those with visual impairments.
Learn more about our faculty 334-808-6691 atatch@troy.edu
Dr. Soheil Sabriseilabi

Dr. Soheil Sabriseilabi

Dr. Soheil Sabriseilabi is an Assistant Professor of Sociology and Criminology. His interests include the role of public opinion, especially in regard to religious forces, on the legalization of unnatural death. He has published papers about the effect of religious beliefs on attitudes toward capital punishment, abortion and euthanasia.
Learn more about our faculty 334-808-6779 ssabriseilabi@troy.edu
Dr. Jolene Vincent

Dr. Jolene Vincent

Dr. Jolene Vincent is an Assistant Professor of Sociology and Criminology. Her main research includes lethal and non-lethal violence using quantitative and qualitative methods. She also researches deviant leisure, homicide, human trafficking, racial disparities in crime, opioid misuse and domestic violence.
Learn more about our faculty 334-808-6782 jvincent194050@troy.edu
Dr. Amanda Heitkamp

Dr. Amanda Heitkamp

Dr. Amanda Heitkamp is an Assistant Professor of Sociology and Criminology. She is interested in exploring social norm violations, the effects of stigma, and deviant behaviors and beliefs. She has led or co-led manuscripts related to criminological theory, paranormal beliefs, conspiracy beliefs, stigma surrounding appearance, and legal cynicism among those with criminal justice contact.
Learn more about our faculty 334-808-6470 aheitkamp@troy.edu
Dr. Gary P. Daniel

Dr. Gary P. Daniel

Dr. Gary Daniel is a Professor of Practice in Digital Forensics. Dr. Daniel currently manages a digital forensics lab at Troy University and performs forensic examinations and consults with various law enforcement agencies nationwide. Dr. Daniel has been court-qualified as an expert in digital forensics and has testified as an expert witness in cases ranging from fraud to murder.
Learn more about our faculty 334-310-1605 gdaniel22372@troy.edu

FAQ About the PhD in Criminology Program

Learn more about TROY's criminology PhD programs and what sets us apart.
How long does a PhD in Criminology take?
“It depends” is the answer to, “How long does a PhD in Criminology take?” The time it will take is contingent on how many courses you enroll in each semester and the amount of time you spend on your research thesis. You can complete a PhD in Criminology in as little as four years, but you have up to eight years to finish your degree.
What can you do with a PhD in Criminal Justice compared to a PhD in Criminology?
Both degrees offer opportunities in academia, research and policy, but the focus of the work you'll do and the career paths you'll explore can vary significantly depending on your specialization. A PhD in Criminal Justice is often geared toward the application of law enforcement practices, policy analysis and criminal justice system management, leading to roles such as university professor, policy analyst, or senior administrator within justice agencies. In contrast, a PhD in Criminology dives into the sociological and psychological aspects of crime, focusing on understanding criminal behavior, which is ideal for careers in academic research, criminology theory, policy advising or forensic analysis. While both paths intersect in their aim to understand and address crime, criminal justice is more systems-oriented, whereas criminology delves into the root causes and societal impacts of crime.
Can you get a PhD in Criminology entirely online?
Absolutely! At TROY, you can pursue a PhD in Criminology online from wherever you call home.
What is the job outlook for criminology careers?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers in criminology, which fall under the category of sociologists, are projected to grow by 7% through 2033. This rate is faster than the average for all occupations, reflecting a steady demand for expertise in sociological research, including areas related to crime and criminal behavior.

What are the admissions requirements for TROY's PhD programs in criminology?

To apply for the criminology PhD programs, you must hold a master's degree in criminal justice, criminology or sociology from a regionally accredited university. Additionally, you need a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.6 in all of your graduate coursework. The application process also includes submitting a writing sample, a statement of intent, and providing three letters of recommendation.

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The Ph.D. in Criminology program is available through TROY Online.

Troy University now offering online Ph.D. in Criminology

Troy University's newest doctoral program, the Ph.D. in Criminology, aims to teach candidates about the root causes of crime, how to critically evaluate theoretical perspectives and how to apply practical approaches to crime.

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