BA in Sociology - Criminology in Norman United States | University of Oklahoma

Numerous films and television programs depict scenes involving criminals, law enforcement, and prison environments. Daily news broadcasts provide updates on homicides, thefts, and drug-related arrests. At OU, criminology experts investigate the root causes of criminal activity. While considering biological and psychological factors, they primarily focus on societal influences—such as community environments and social circles—that contribute to unlawful conduct. Researchers in this field also examine criminal justice systems, youth justice, organized crime, political violence, terrorism, and how crime is portrayed in media. OU's Criminology program offers courses and faculty-mentored projects where students explore crime theories and learn to validate them through empirical research. The department's faculty specialize in diverse areas including social deviance, justice administration, gang activity, violent crime, and corporate offenses. Students have opportunities to collaborate with professors on research projects and cultivate their own academic interests within the broad field of criminology. Additionally, the program offers a three-credit internship option, allowing students to gain practical experience in settings like police agencies or correctional facilities over a semester.