Criminology

Welcome to the Department of Criminology

The Department of Criminology is committed to providing high-quality support and education for students pursuing careers in the criminal justice field. Our program prepares students with the knowledge and practical skills needed for careers in victim advocacy, law and legal systems, and the application of behavioral sciences in settings such as probation, parole, jails, and prisons. Courses are designed to be engaging, informative, and hands-on to help students transition successfully into their chosen careers.

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Undergraduate Degrees

We offer two undergraduate degrees:

scales of justice

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Criminology

A comprehensive and flexible program that reflects the wide range of career opportunities in criminal justice.

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man with a brain

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Forensic Behavioral Sciences

A comprehensive program that integrates psychology, anthropology, and linguistics to better understand crime and criminal behavior.

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Undergraduate Emphasis Options

Students can tailor their education through these undergraduate emphasis options:

Forensic Behavioral Sciences (FBS)

Prepare for careers applying behavioral sciences within the criminal justice system.

Law Enforcement

Prepare for careers in local, state, federal, and private law enforcement agencies and related organizations.

Corrections

Prepare for careers working with offenders in probation, parole, jails, prisons, and community corrections.

Victimology

Prepare for careers supporting victims through advocacy, counseling, and victim services programs.
Department Chair
Coordinators

Graduate Program - Master of Science (M.S.) in Criminology

The Master of Science in Criminology is a flexible 30-unit program that prepares students for advanced professional, administrative, research, and academic opportunities in criminal justice.

Learn more about the Graduate Program!

Resources

Additional Programs and Opportunities

Enhance your degree with specialized certificates in legal studies, victim services, and other areas of criminal justice.

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Gain hands-on law enforcement training and real-world field experience through Fresno State’s unique Directed Policing program.

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Apply classroom knowledge through supervised internships with local criminal justice and community agencies.

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Participate in research and service-learning experiences that connect behavioral science concepts to real-world practice. 

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Join a select cohort of high-achieving students for advanced study, research, and Honors recognition. 

Contact Dr. Ditchfield, the Criminology Honors Program Coordinator, for help and more information: ditchfield@mail.fresnostate.edu 

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Develop courtroom, public speaking, and legal advocacy skills through intercollegiate mock trial competitions.

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Discover scholarship opportunities that support your academic and professional goals in criminology. 

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Student Resources

Access resources and opportunities designed to help you succeed as a criminology student.
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Faculty

Browse the faculty directory to learn about their expertise and areas of instruction.
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Contact Us

Department Office
Location: Science II, Area C - Room 159
Email: criminologydept@mail.fresnostate.edu
Phone: 559.278.2305

Permission Number Request Form - Fall 2026