The study of criminology offers a variety of career paths with diverse opportunities. Hear from our alumni about their career successes after graduation.
Alumni Career Panel
Experience our recent Alumni Career Panel, hosted in collaboration with the Criminology Society (CSY), where you will hear from our alumni about how to navigate career paths.
POSSIBLE CAREERS
- Careers in Law (e.g. Criminal Lawyer)
- Careers in Courts
- Careers in Law Enforcement, Correctional Services and Border Security
- Careers in Civil Society (e.g. human rights advocacy, working with victimized populations)
- Careers in Government Departments and Agencies
- Careers in Private Sector (e.g. private security, banking and financial sector)
- Careers in Research and Academia
POST-GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES
- Law School (JD)
- Master of Arts in Criminology, Socio-Legal Studies, Criminology & Social Justice, Sociology, Political Science, Communication Studies
- Master of Public Policy, Administration and Law (MPPAL)
NETWORKING
- Join the Criminology Society at York University (CSY) Student Club
- Attend Critical Criminology Conferences such as the National Conference of Critical Perspectives: Criminology and Social Justice
- Attend various talks related to criminology organized by York Research Units such as the Jack and Mae Nathanson Centre on Transnational Human Rights, Crime and Security, the Centre for Feminist Research and the Centre for Refugee Studies
York University's Criminology program provided me with a strong foundation in social justice, policy analysis, and criminological research. The program challenged me to critically examine the intersections of crime, inequality, and systemic barriers. These experiences shaped my career aspirations in criminal justice reform and policy development, ensuring that my work is both research-driven and community-focused.
— Dorothy Yan, MA Criminology & Social Justice Candidate,
Toronto Metropolitan University,
Honours BA Criminology - 2024
Completing an undergraduate degree in Criminology has worked to shape my worldview and has furthered my strong interest in the criminal justice system as well as the protection of human rights. Many of the professors worked diligently to create open spaces for students to engage in material as well as ask questions in class and during office hours. Many professors are also open to providing immense support for students in their post-undergraduate endeavours. I would recommend the Criminology program at York University for students who are interested in analyzing the criminal justice system from a theoretical and critical point of view.
Julia Agozzino, JD Candidate,
University of Windsor Faculty of Law,
Honours BA Criminology - 2024
The criminology program at York University has equipped me with numerous skills relevant to the various roles I have held with the Canada Border Services Agency. As a Student Border Services Officer, I was able to use my strong foundation in analyzing criminal behaviour, risk assessment, and an understanding of legal frameworks to identify potential security risks, apply critical thinking and legislative principles to enforcement decisions. In my current role, my criminology background emphasized the importance of effective communication and attention to detail. I apply these skills at work through streamlining office operations, effectively communicating with passengers, and managing sensitive documents and data.
— Chanel McLean, Program/Project Support Clerk,
Canada Border Services Agency,
Honours BA Criminology & Political Science - 2024
Choosing York University's Criminology program was a pivotal starting point in my academic journey. The program's intersectional approach provides a comprehensive understanding of criminology while emphasizing the interplay between race, gender, and class. The program's various classes cover diverse criminological topics, ensuring students are well-rounded and prepared for various professional challenges. Graduates of the program have numerous career paths available, with the program excelling in preparing students for the legal field.
John M Dief, JD Candidate,
Queen’s University Faculty of Law,
Honours BA Criminology - 2024
The criminology program was an incredibly thought-provoking program that challenged me to understand crime and the justice system from a different perspective. As I progressed through the years, I was able to learn about various types of crime such as digital crime, sex and crime, youth criminalization and much more. These have all influenced my policing career in many different ways. Specifically, the knowledge I have gained through the criminology program has allowed me to become equipped with addressing sensitive issues such as victimization, with greater awareness and empathy. Through this approach I can ensure that individuals who come into contact with police have a much more positive and helpful experience.
— Maria Pignataro,
Police Constable, York Regional Police,
BA Criminology - 2023
My experience in the Criminology program at York University gave me a strong foundation in understanding criminal justice and social issues both socially and individually. In my role at a GPS ankle monitoring program with Recovery Science Corporation these courses helped sharpen my analytical and communication skills, both of which are critical to my work in ensuring ethical decision-making.
— Cheyenne Rostan,
Alerts Management Agent,
Recovery Science Corporation,
BA Criminology & Sociology - 2024
