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Should I get my PhD in Sociology or Criminology ?
So I got my bachelors degree in Sociology, with a lot of my research centering injustices within the criminal justice system. I am really interested in analyzing the CJS as an institution and looking at the ways it discriminates against different intersectional identities. I like looking at social justice issues and justice reform. Recently, I have been looking into getting a PhD as I hope to become a professor. I have talked with three professors about this, two sociology professors one english professor, and two of them(the english prof and a soc prof) believe I should pursue a PhD in criminology instead of sociology. They say this because A) sociology is incredibly competitive B) Sociology is being targeted right now under the Trump administration. They say I'll be more marketable if I do Criminology instead. The issue is, I don't want to be tied down to crime. I am incredibly interested in learning about all the issues with the criminal justice system and learning about ways we can fix it and reform our justice system. I find recividism to be very interesting as well, as well as issues in policing. However, I am interested in looking at these things through a sociological lens. I love sociology, I love how diverse it is, and I just feel that is where my heart is. However, I'll be very honest to say my understanding of Criminology is limited to the one entry level criminology course I took in my undergrad. Idk I just don't know what to do, and I'm scared if I pick sociology I'll regret it down the road if I can't find a job being a sociology professor. What should I do???
1 answer
Kim Igleheart
Kim’s Answer
What will your Masters be in? Have you considered Data Analytics? The ability to quantify is so important these days!
If you get a Masters in Criminology, will you be able to get the PhD in either CRJ or SOC? I personally recommend trying to broaden your exposure before trying to narrow your educational choices. With only one CRJ class, it's easy to see why you'd pick SOC! A couple of years of real life work experience in the field could help, and would add greater meaning to your subsequent educational studies. Unless you have a reason for wanting to zip through from BA to PhD in as few years as possible?
I realized when I went back to college at the age of 54 that my life experience allowed me to relate to the course material in ways I had not been able to as an 18 year old.
I wish you the best!
Kim