personal statement for criminology course

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Personal Statement for Criminology Tips: With Helpful Examples

In this article, we discuss how to write a personal statement for criminology with helpful examples.

One student dreams of being an FBI officer and the other is fascinated by designing surveys. What do they have in common? Criminology will help both of them land their dream jobs. Read on for our top tips for writing a personal statement for criminology.

Table of contents, what is a personal statement for criminology, what should you consider when writing a personal statement for criminology, how to write an effective personal statement for criminology.

• Example 1 – A focus on academic achievement
• Example 2 – A focus on a professional goal

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

It’s a short essay that applicants of criminology programs submit when they apply for specific criminology courses at colleges or universities.

It helps applicants show their preparedness and convince the selection committee of their suitability to undertake the program.

The personal statement should include details of the applicant’s skills and strengths, motivations, career aspirations, and ability to contribute to the institute. It shows how the applicant stands out from other contenders.

1. Qualifications

To study criminology for an undergraduate (4-year) degree, applicants should generally have achieved a good GPA in High School and may be required to attend an admissions interview.

Furthermore, applicants may be asked to have achieved good grades in certain subjects such as psychology, sociology, and law. Finally, some courses may require applicants to have specific work experience or to have completed certain courses before they can be accepted and being able to use a computer is essential.

In order to ensure that applicants are well-prepared for a degree in criminology, they may also be expected to demonstrate knowledge of wider research, current affairs, and social, organizational, or global issues.

2. Motivation and interest in Criminology

It is important to consider motivation when writing a personal statement for criminology to show why you are interested in the field and what you plan to do with your degree.

Motivation can be personal, such as wanting to help people or make a difference in society, or professional, such as wanting to use your skills and experience to advance your career. You must be motivated to pursue this field to the best of your ability and use the knowledge you gain to benefit both yourself and society.

Motivation can include a commitment to research, a desire to solve problems, and a willingness to take on difficult tasks.

‘When people think of fighting crime it’s natural that they might think of police officers and the FBI, but I believe that without skilled researchers gathering and interpreting data policing will remain reactive rather than proactive.’

3. Life Experiences that relate to criminology

These could include:

• Family situations that involve law enforcement or the judiciary system. How have these experiences shaped your life and motivated you to pursue a criminology degree?

‘Being the eldest daughter of two police officers has taught me how to balance life, a part-time job, volunteering and schoolwork. I have been taking college courses at our local community college while finishing up high school in order to accelerate my degree and I gained a great deal of knowledge from my social work college-level classes’

• Personality traits that are suited to the intended career. Have you always been fascinated by the work of the police and the FBI?
• Do you have a relative or family friend that worked in law enforcement, social services or in the courts that you want to emulate?
• Talking about how psychology has had a direct impact on your life, such as having counselling sessions for anxiety and how this has given you the desire to work with people that have been affected by crime.

4. Background knowledge of criminology

It’s important to show an understanding of some elements of criminology. These could include some criminological research and theories or having an awareness of contemporary crime prevention strategies.

‘As part of our High School Psychology course, we studied critical analyses of crime studies, which involves looking at the various aspects of a crime such as the social and economic factors that lead to it and the use theoretical frameworks to understand the underlying causes and effects of criminal behavior.’

Being familiar with laws and criminal justice systems in your state, and an understanding of the ethical considerations applicable to criminology will be valuable to you.

During the application process, it is important to demonstrate that you have the following skills:

• written and verbal communication skills,
• critical reading and writing skills,
• technology and analysis skills,
• research and problem-solving skills,
• understanding of social, organizational and global issues,
• an awareness of current affairs on both a local and a global perspective.

Enhanced communication skills such as clarifying, listening and offering advice as well as the ability to gather and assess data and other information will help your application.

6. Experience

Think about your experiences in jobs, work experience, work placements, apprenticeships and any other relevant education or professional background.

Additionally, one should reflect on any current or past work in the criminal justice field, such as working in youth corrections.

Furthermore, it is important to consider any personal experiences that may have influenced the decision to pursue criminology, such as volunteering with victims or exposure to the criminal justice system.

Step 1: Talk about your qualifications

Discuss how your qualifications or current GPA specifically prepares you for a criminology degree.

Mention any other qualifications, volunteering positions or work experience you have that may be relevant.

Step 2: Explain why you chose criminology.

Show the reader your enthusiasm and knowledge of the field by providing evidence of your passion for the subject. This could include discussing your experience with law enforcement or the judicial system or providing examples of research on crime and criminal justice topics.

‘My biggest dream is to be an FBI agent and with that goal in mind I am committed to studying the field of criminology, to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of criminal justice, law, and psychology.’

Your personal statement should include stories that highlight your experiences and explain how these contributed to your choice of a career in criminology. Make sure to connect your experiences and goals by emphasizing how they have helped shape your path.

Step 3: Share your knowledge of criminology and solving crime.

Show an intellectual interest in which authors, modules, theorists, and debates have interested you, and how they could help you with your criminology degree.

Demonstrate your knowledge of criminology by discussing the topics you’ve researched on your own. This could include specific theories, current events, or other relevant topics.

Step 5: Show your initiative and drive

Showing initiative and drive is important. You can do this by writing about your academic achievements, your extra-curricular activities, and any relevant work experience to show the review committee the level of commitment and dedication you have towards your chosen career path.

You should also include details of any wider research or current affairs you are interested in. This could include discussing how you understand local law enforcement and crime concerns and how they can be integrated into a larger global perspective, or mentioning articles or books you have read about your chosen field of study.

Step 6: Proofread and edit your personal statement before submitting it

Accuracy in grammar and spelling is of utmost importance when writing a personal statement for criminology. Good written communication skills are essential for this field of study, as they are necessary for understanding, interpreting and critically analyzing any given data.

These communication skills also have a direct impact on the overall impression of a written statement, as a document full of errors can create a negative impression and make it appear as though the author is sloppy or not careful enough. In addition, as criminology is a field that requires much research and problem solving, attention to detail is critical for any successful analysis.

Examples from winning personal statements for Criminology

Example 1 – a focus on academic achievement.

Being the eldest daughter of two police officers has taught me how to balance life, a part time job, volunteering and schoolwork. With a 4.0 GPA, I have been taking college courses at our local community college while finishing up high school in order to accelerate my degree and I gained a great deal of knowledge from my social work college classes. I was also fortunate enough to learn about the law, criminal justice system, and how the court process works when my sister obtained an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Chelmhurst College – she jokes that I spent more time reading her notes and textbooks than she did! I am committed to a career in criminal justice research and have already volunteered on two projects undertaken by the state office, working on collating survey data relating to local crime.

My ambition has always been to work in Criminology, and I am confident in my ability to remain dedicated and professional. My academic and professional achievements have set me up to be an ideal student for a degree in Criminology. When people think of fighting crime it’s natural that they might think of police officers and the FBI, but I believe that without skilled researchers gathering and interpreting data policing will remain reactive rather than proactive. I want to be a big part of better understanding and lowering crime rates in my state through well-designed research projects that connect with the citizens we are working hard to protect.

Example 2 – a focus on a professional goal

My biggest dream is to be an FBI agent and with that goal in mind I am committed to studying the field of criminology, to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of criminal justice, law, and psychology. As part of our High School Psychology course, we studied critical analyses of crime studies, which involves looking at the various aspects of a crime such as the social and economic factors that lead to it and the use of theoretical frameworks to understand the underlying causes and effects of criminal behaviour. I was fascinated by the process of researching and analyzing data from crime statistics, identifying patterns, and coming to logical conclusions.

Working on interviews and other investigative techniques to gain insights into criminal mindsets and motivations will, I hope, make me a better FBI officer in the future and develop my sense of compassion for people trapped in challenging situations, as both the victims and perpetrators of crime. I have strong communication skills and am a team player, which I believe will fit well with the ethos of Milwaukee College.

Some of these questions were already covered in this blog post but I will still list them here (because not everyone carefully reads every paragraph) so here’s the TL;DR version.

What is Criminology?

Criminology is the scientific study of crime, including its causes, consequences, and control. It examines the legal and social aspects of crime, as well as the social, economic, and political factors that influence it.

It also looks into the various theories and approaches used to explain criminal behaviour and the effectiveness of various strategies used to control it. Furthermore, it considers the ethical issues related to criminal justice, such as the rights of victims and offenders, and the impact of crime on society.

By studying criminology, students can gain a better understanding of the criminal justice system, the causes of crime, and the ways in which it can be prevented and controlled.

What kind of career can be achieved with a Criminology degree?

With a degree in criminology, a wide range of career aspirations can be achieved.

• Law enforcement, such as a police officer, detective, or federal agent;
• Corrections, such as a probation officer or correctional officer;
• Social work, such as a case manager or community outreach worker;
• Criminal justice research, such as a crime analyst or research assistant;
• Victim advocacy, such as a victim advocate or crisis counsellor.
• Forensic psychology, forensic accounting, and cybercrime.

What traits are needed to be successful in Criminology?

Criminology is an exciting and challenging field which requires a range of skills and qualities to be successful. These include:

• Dedication: Being dedicated to the study of criminology and its related fields, and having a strong commitment to learning.
• Reliability: Being dependable and able to complete tasks accurately and efficiently.
• Concentration: Having the ability to focus intently and pay attention to detail.
• Professionalism: Being able to ethically and responsibly handle sensitive matters.
• Adaptability: Being able to adjust to changing environments and quickly respond to issues as they arise.
• Compassion: Being able to empathize with others, understand their views and opinions, and provide necessary assistance.

What kind of research should I do to write a personal statement for Criminology?

• Review the Course Overview and Requirements: Research the topics that will be covered in the course, such as criminal law, criminal justice, criminology theories, and research methods.
• Identify Your Interests: Think about why you are interested in Criminology and what experiences or skills you can bring to the course. Consider your past experiences, such as volunteering in a criminal justice organization or working in a related field, and any research or writing you have done on criminology topics.
• Collect Evidence: Collect evidence to support your personal statement. This could include academic qualifications, recommendations, and any other evidence that shows your commitment to the field of Criminology.
• Brainstorm and Outline: Create an outline of your personal statement. Brainstorm ideas and develop a strong thesis statement that outlines why you would be a good fit for the course and why you are passionate about Criminology.
• Write and Edit: Once you have outlined your personal statement, it’s time to write and edit. Make sure to review your statement for grammar, spelling, and clarity and get feedback.

What should a Criminology personal statement include?

A Criminology personal statement should include information about the applicant’s interest in and knowledge of the field of Criminology, as well as their skills, experiences, and achievements in relation to the subject. It should also include their future ambitions and plans for contributing to society through their study of Criminology. Additionally, applicants should demonstrate their ability to research, their ability to work with others, and their readiness for the degree course.

In order to make their personal statement unique, applicants should start the essay with a personal experience, carefully curate the most relevant points, use storytelling instead of making formal statements, use simple language, and personalize the essay.

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Criminology Personal Statement Examples

• 1 Personal Statement Example Links
• 2 Career Opportunities
• 3 UK Admission Requirements
• 4 UK Earnings Potential For Criminologists
• 5 Similar Courses in UK
• 6 UK Curriculum
• 7 Alumni Network

Personal Statement Example Links

• Personal Statement Example 1
• Personal Statement Example 2
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• Personal Statement Example 5

Are you considering a career in criminology? Writing a personal statement for a criminology course can be a daunting task. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of personal statement examples and a course overview.

Criminology is a field of study that examines the causes of crime and the way society responds to it. It is an interdisciplinary field that draws on sociology, psychology, law, and other social sciences to understand why people commit crimes and how to prevent them.

A criminology course typically covers topics such as criminal law, criminal justice, criminology theories, and research methods. Students learn about the history and development of criminology, the different types of crime, and the impact of crime on society. They also explore the various approaches to crime prevention and criminal justice.

When writing a personal statement for a criminology course, it is important to demonstrate your interest in the field and your commitment to learning. You should also explain why you are a good fit for the course. For example, you could mention your past experiences, such as volunteering in a criminal justice organization or working in a related field. You could also highlight any research or writing you have done on criminology topics.

Finally, you should explain why you are passionate about criminology and why you want to pursue a career in the field. Most importantly, show some personality and eagerness of getting a criminology course.

Career Opportunities

A degree in criminology can open the door to a wide range of career opportunities. Graduates can pursue careers in law enforcement, corrections, social work, criminal justice research, and victim advocacy.

Law Enforcement: Graduates with a degree in criminology can pursue a career in law enforcement. This could include a career as a police officer, detective, or federal agent.

Corrections: Graduates can pursue a career in corrections, such as a probation officer or correctional officer.

Social Work: Graduates can pursue a career in social work, such as a case manager or community outreach worker.

Criminal Justice Research: Graduates can pursue a career in criminal justice research, such as a crime analyst or research assistant.

Victim Advocacy: Graduates can pursue a career in victim advocacy, such as a victim advocate or crisis counselor.

Other Industries and Sectors: Graduates can also pursue careers in other industries and sectors, such as private security, homeland security, and private investigation.

Overall, a degree in criminology can open the door to a wide range of career opportunities in law enforcement, corrections, social work, criminal justice research, and victim advocacy. Graduates can also pursue careers in other industries and sectors, such as private security, homeland security, and private investigation.

UK Admission Requirements

In order to be accepted into a criminology course at a UK university, applicants must generally have achieved a minimum of a 2:1 in their undergraduate degree. This is the same as most other courses in the social sciences, and is the same entry criteria for many other courses in the UK.

In addition to the academic requirements, applicants may also be asked to submit a personal statement and may be required to attend an admissions interview. This is to ensure that applicants have the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful in the course.

In terms of prerequisites, applicants may be asked to demonstrate knowledge of certain topics such as psychology, sociology, and law. This is to ensure that applicants have a basic understanding of the subject matter before they begin the course.

Finally, some courses may require applicants to have specific work experience or to have completed certain courses before they can be accepted. This is to ensure that applicants have the necessary background knowledge and experience to be successful in the course.

UK Earnings Potential For Criminologists

The average earnings for someone with a degree in criminology can vary greatly depending on the job they obtain and the level of experience they have. According to the National Careers Service, the median salary for a probation officer in the UK is £23,000 to £29,000 per year. Other roles such as police officers, forensic scientists, and prison officers have salaries ranging from £20,000 to £40,000 per year.

In terms of trends in the job market, the demand for criminology professionals is expected to increase in the coming years due to an aging population and the need for more crime prevention initiatives. Additionally, technology is playing an increasingly important role in crime investigation and prevention, leading to an increased demand for professionals with knowledge of the field.

Overall, the average earnings for someone with a degree in criminology can range from £20,000 to £40,000 per year, depending on the job they obtain and the level of experience they have.

Similar Courses in UK

Other university courses related to Criminology include Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, and Law.

Forensic Science is the application of scientific methods to the investigation of crime. It involves the collection, analysis, and interpretation of evidence to help solve crimes. It is a highly specialized field that requires a deep understanding of chemistry, biology, and other sciences. The key difference between Forensic Science and Criminology is that Forensic Science focuses on the scientific aspects of crime, while Criminology focuses on the social aspects.

Criminal Justice is the study of the criminal justice system, including the roles of law enforcement, courts, and corrections. It examines the causes of crime, the impact of criminal behavior, and the effectiveness of criminal justice policies. The key difference between Criminal Justice and Criminology is that Criminal Justice focuses on the legal aspects of crime, while Criminology focuses on the social aspects.

Law is the study of legal systems , including the interpretation and application of laws. It examines the structure of the legal system, the principles of legal reasoning, and the impact of legal decisions. The key difference between Law and Criminology is that Law focuses on the legal aspects of crime, while Criminology focuses on the social aspects.

UK Curriculum

The key topics and modules covered in a Criminology course will vary depending on the university and the course structure. Generally, the course will cover a range of topics related to crime, criminal justice, and the criminal justice system. These topics may include:

• Crime and Society: This module will explore the relationship between crime, society, and culture. It will examine the causes of crime, the impact of crime on individuals and communities, and the different responses to crime.
• Criminological Theory: This module will explore the theories of crime and criminal behaviour. It will examine the different theories of crime causation and the implications of these theories for criminal justice policy and practice.
• Criminal Law: This module will explore the legal framework governing crime and criminal justice. It will examine the different types of offences, the elements of a criminal offence, and the defences available to an accused.
• Criminal Justice Process: This module will explore the criminal justice system, from the investigation of a crime to the sentencing of an offender. It will examine the roles of the police, prosecutors, defence lawyers, and judges in the criminal justice process.
• Research Methods: This module will explore the research methods used in criminology. It will examine different types of research designs, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques.

In addition to these core modules, some Criminology courses may also include modules on topics such as policing, corrections, and crime prevention.

Alumni Network

One notable alumni from the course of Criminology is Dr. Roberta Iversen. Dr. Iversen is a professor of criminology and criminal justice at the University of South Carolina. She is a leading expert in the field of criminal justice and has authored numerous books, articles, and reports on the topic. She has also been a consultant for the United Nations, the World Bank, and the US Department of Justice.

Dr. Iversen is an active member of the criminology and criminal justice community, regularly speaking at conferences and workshops. She is also a member of the American Society of Criminology and the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences. She is currently working on a project to develop a global database of criminal justice research and data.

Alumni events and networking opportunities are available through the University of South Carolina’s Alumni Association. These events include lectures, workshops, and networking events with other alumni, faculty, and staff. Additionally, the Alumni Association offers a variety of online resources, such as job postings, professional development opportunities, and mentoring programs.

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A Guide to Writing A Criminology Personal Statement

Table of Contents

If you are interested in criminology, it’s about time you pursue your dream. Take a step by applying for a career course in any reputable institution. Sending out your application is not enough. You need to include a compelling personal statement. The criminology degree personal statement examples below is an excellent guide.

A personal statement allows you to market your skills and highlight your qualifications. If you have no idea how to write a personal statement, you’ll find some good samples in this article that will guide you. 

What Is A Personal Statement?

A personal statement is a document that expresses your reason for wanting to study criminology and describes any relevant experience or skills you have. Writing a personal criminology statement can be pretty tricky, but you must include all the relevant information about yourself.

In your statement, highlight your academic achievements and experience in the field of criminology. Explain your interest and motivation in studying criminology and detail what you’ll do after graduation.

Criminology Degree Personal Statement Examples

I am interested in studying criminology as it is a fascinating field that combines elements of psychology, sociology, and law. I want to gain an in-depth understanding of criminal behavior and the factors that contribute to it to help reduce crime rates. My previous academic achievements demonstrate my ability to engage with complex theoretical concepts. Studying Criminology at university will equip me with the skills needed to pursue a career in this area. Through volunteering work experience, I have gained knowledge of how the criminal justice system operates, which has further cemented my interest in this topic.

My name is Megan Skye, and I am interested in studying criminology. I first became aware of this field when I was working as a psychiatric nurse and saw the link between mental health and crime. Since then, I have become increasingly fascinated by why people commit crimes and what can be done to prevent them.

I know that criminology is a necessary discipline, not just for understanding crime but also for developing effective strategies to tackle it. This is something that inspires me to continue learning about it. In my current role as an A&E nurse, I frequently see the consequences of crime on individuals. So I am keen to learn more about how we can address this issue from a wider perspective.

I got interested in criminology through the media. This was because of the broadcast messages about crimes that happened all over the world. I was displeased that people could go to any length to commit certain crimes.

Is there a reason why they derive pleasure from committing crimes? Are there people who are born criminals? How can we reduce the rate of crime in society? As these questions filled my mind, I took an interest in certain crime stories. I once volunteered in my community. And that experience equipped me to communicate with the public and criminology requires one to be good with the public. I have leadership skills that will make me successful in this field.

When I was younger, I loved watching detective shows on TV. The mystery and puzzle-solving always appealed to me. And as I got older, I began to see the criminal justice system in a new light. Seeing how crimes are investigated and criminals brought to justice has sparked my interest in criminology. A field that combines psychology, law, sociology, and investigative skills. 

Obtaining a Criminology degree will allow me to understand crime from all angles; its causes, effects on society and potential prevention methods. I would also like to gain practical experience through work placements with Police forces or similar organizations involved in crime prevention/investigation. This course of study is the perfect next step for me: it is both stimulating intellectually and offers plenty of scope for personal growth.

When I was younger, I wanted to be a police officer. However, over time I realized that I was more interested in why people commit crimes than in catching criminals. This led me to enroll in an online criminology and criminal justice course. 

I have enjoyed learning about crime and the criminal justice system. My favorite module so Far has been juvenile delinquency, which looked at why young people break the law. In addition to my studies, I also work as a volunteer with young offenders trying to help them stay away from crime. 

Studying for a criminology degree will equip me with the skills needed to pursue a career in this field. Ultimately, I hope to work within law enforcement or social work, helping offenders in rehabilitation.

I have always been interested in how societies work and why people commit crimes. This interest led me to study criminology at university, where I developed an understanding of the complexities behind criminal behavior. The course has given me a strong foundation in the theories and methods used by researchers in this field. I am keen to continue my studies and further develop my knowledge of criminology, aiming to become a researcher one day.

My fascination in criminology was born from my exposure to new ideas and contrasting ideologies surrounding crime and justice. After spending time immersed in this field, I am drawn to the notion that there is no single approach to tackling criminal activity. It is a complex issue requiring multifaceted solutions.

My current aim is to pursue a master’s degree in criminology. This is to develop a further understanding of both classical theories about crime and recent advancements within the discipline. Ultimately, I hope to play a role in shaping future policymaking around issues such as law enforcement, rehabilitation, and victim support services. This is while maintaining close collaboration with academics who are leaders within this field. In addition, working alongside those on the frontline will give me invaluable insight into how these policies impact those directly affected by crime daily.

A personal statement is a document in which you describe your reasons for wanting to study criminology and highlight your academic and professional qualifications. A criminology personal statement also shows off your knowledge of the criminal justice system and why you are interested in studying it.

When writing your statement, highlight any relevant experience or skills that could make you a valuable asset to any criminology program. With a well-written personal statement, you can achieve your career goal just like you desire.

The criminology degree personal statement examplesabove were generated using Hey INK . Why not try it out?

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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Criminology Personal Statement Example

Writing a Criminology personal statement and don’t know how to start? You can use our Criminology personal statement example as an inspiration and guide to perfect your own when applying through UCAS .

In my experience, I have always been able to tell when people are lying and find out the truth. Reading about forensic psychologists in prisons and discovering Criminology, I became convinced that my talents could be best utilized as a Forensic Psychologist within the criminal justice system.

In order to fulfill my ambition and become a prison service psychologist, I intend to study Criminology at the Masters’s level. Besides History and German, I also studied Film and Sociology at A-Level. The linguistic skills I acquired at school will be valuable when I discuss psychological issues with prisoners. Due to its proximity to Criminology, Sociology was my favourite subject. Throughout the course, I learned about societal attitudes toward criminals and punishment methods that I can apply to my degree.

Throughout my studies, I have held a variety of jobs. As a waitress at a very popular restaurant venue, I developed excellent teamwork skills and learned how to keep a level head under pressure. With three jobs and my studies, I have managed to juggle my time at London South Bank. Over the course of nearly two years, I worked at the O2 centre as a customer service representative.

Additionally, I used my German language skills as a German Market Researcher for MPeurope, conducting numerous telephone interviews with consumers each day to meet research goals. I learned how to convey complex information in a clear and confident manner, a skill that will be useful when I present and give seminars about the degree.

It has required exceptional time management and organizational skills to juggle three jobs and study. Many events at school were organized by me as a result of my teachers recognizing my organizational skills early on. As a student, I enjoyed playing competitive basketball at school, and I hope to join the university’s female basketball team.

To improve my knowledge of Criminology outside of school and the workplace, I enjoy reading books on the subject. Having read the Oxford Handbook of Criminology religiously, I became convinced that I wanted to work in prisons after reading the chapters prisons. Roger Matthews’ book Doing Time, an Introduction to the Sociology of Imprisonment, and Michel Foucault’s Discipline and Punish have taught me about changing attitudes toward punishment in Europe over the past three centuries.

Travelling with friends to new places and learning about new cultures is also one of my favourite things to do. I know how enriching it is to be part of a multicultural environment. On the course, I hope to befriend people of many different backgrounds and organise trips abroad with them.

For, I feel duty-bound to take advantage of every opportunity university life will offer me since I am the first member of my family to go to university and have chances that were not available to my parents. I feel ready and prepared to complete my studies and start my career as a psychologist within the prison service.

Criminology Personal Statement

A criminology personal statement is a part of your UCAS application and is sent to all of the criminology courses you are applying to. The goal is to convince the admission staff that you are the perfect candidate to study Criminology, and it should be very personal. Write about your interests, college, your apprenticeship, your motivations, and the reason you want to study Criminology at university.

Recommended reading:

• How to Write a Personal Statement That Stands Out
• How to Write a Personal Statement for a PhD
• UCAS Personal Statement: A Writing Guide And Tips For Success
• Tips for Writing a Personal Statement for the University
• UCAS Reference Letter: Ultimate Writing Guide

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Criminology degree personal statement example (1b)

I wish to study Criminology because I intend to make my career in the Prison Service. When I leave university, I will apply for the fast track to Governor Programme. The psychology of crime is something that has always fascinated me. Obviously, Criminology is a subject that will draw on this and teach me new things which are vital both to my own personal development and understanding and capabilities as a Governor.

Being descended from Elizabeth Fry and both my Great Aunt and Father having been probation officers, the interest has always been in the family. My personal interest in crime began to develop from about the age of twelve. My father’s career choice was, perhaps, the initial instigator but since then, my development has been solely down to my own research and attention to the subject. Deciding on the Prison Service rather than the police or other crime related careers I think began with hearing my aunt talk about her work with Restorative Justice in Wandsworth gaol. I then advanced my plans to Governor after reading Phil Wheatley’s Perrie Lecture.

Jeffrey Archer’s prison diaries enthused me to continue with my career choice and that it was the right one. It also taught me a great deal about prison life and the general mentality behind the majority of inmates. I realise of course that it cannot be taken as fact but nevertheless, it taught me a lot. Colin Wilson’s book, “The Serial Killers; a study into the psychology of crime” captivated me to the end and explained a great many questions I had in relation to the topic. Roger Hopkins Burke, in his book “An introduction to criminological theory” educated me on a broader range of topics but was of equal interest and undoubtedly usefulness. Due to my particular attention to Serial Killers, I gained a lot from reading “Hunting Evil” by David Wilson, “In Cold Blood” by Truman Capote and “Killing for Company” by Brian Masters. These all gave special insight into the mind of a serial killer accompanied by other information relating to the subject of Criminology. As a member of the Howard League for Penal Reform, I feel reasonably knowledgeable about current affairs in the prison service and I supplement this by reading any news articles or speeches of related interest. I read, with particular interest, Ann Widdecombe’s thoughts on the prison service and her time as Minister in Charge of Prisons.

Having studied both Psychology and Law to A2 Level, I feel I have a basic introduction to Criminology, but obviously this is not enough. I have been on a prison visit to a C Category gaol (Cornhill/Shepton Mallet) and would very much like to go again. However, given the age restrictions, I was very lucky to be permitted last time and may not be so lucky again until I am 18. It was, however, a very useful trip. I had a long opportunity to talk to many of the inmates (all of whom are lifers) which was very interesting and also a small insight on what to expect in later years. I desperately wanted to become a volunteer for a local organisation working with young offenders recently released from young offenders institutes or simply young people who were fast headed in that direction. Unfortunately, one must be 18 to help. As soon as I turn 18, I will definitely embrace all the opportunities that will then be open to me in this field.

For eight years, I was a chorister at Wells Cathedral. This consisted of extreme time pressure under an exacting conductor who demanded the highest quality of professionalism every day. These years taught me focus and concentration and how to balance my school work (particularly through my GCSE’s) alongside extra curricular activities as we had an hours practice before school every day, two hours after school twice a week and 3 hours every Sunday morning including Christmas and Easter. Of course we often also had extra concerts, services and recordings (CDs, television and radio) on top of everything else. Having been both Deputy and Head Chorister, I feel I have an ability to show leadership skills and am able to demand and achieve respect from my peers and seniors.

At school I very much enjoyed being a regular member of both hockey and netball teams, musical ensembles and orchestras, all of which I intend to continue at University. Reading has always been something I have found great solace in, along with cooking and creative writing

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'Predator catchers' cover the USA, live-streaming their brand of vigilante justice

Usa today found evidence of "predator catchers" stings in about three-quarters of u.s. states in recent years. they are everyday citizens intent on catching people they believe would abuse children..

The confrontation often starts with a simple question: “What are you doing here?”

In video after video posted by groups across the country, a version of that question is posed to a panicked man who, according to the makers of the videos, expected to meet a child he'd sent sexual messages to online.

The men soon learn they were tricked – not by police, the FBI or law enforcement of any kind – but by a complex decoy operation set up by so-called “predator catchers."

Essentially modern-day iterations of the early 2000s TV segment “To Catch a Predator” tailor made for the social media age, the videos are made by everyday citizens intent on catching and shaming people they believe would abuse children. Some confrontations are live-streamed, others are posted online in edited videos.

Predator catchers seem to be nearly everywhere: USA TODAY found evidence of their stings in about three-quarters of U.S. states in recent years. No formal national organization links them all; they operate a ragtag network of like-minded people spreading their brand of justice to a massive social media following.

Some formally organize, including the nonprofit Bikers Against Predators, which works with volunteers to set up operations across the country. Other individuals and small groups are active in their local communities, like Musa Harris – known as the Luzerne County Predator Catcher in Pennsylvania. Still others are social media influencers who film confrontations with their targets in public places.

On social media, the predator catchers are cheered on by people glad to see alleged sexual predators exposed. Some experts and law enforcement officials, however, have a more conflicted view.

Xavier Von Erck, a founder of the group Perverted Justice that worked with Dateline NBC to produce “To Catch a Predator,” told USA TODAY part of the driving force behind today's self-governing predator catchers has changed.

“There seems to be more of a motivation nowadays to expose these guys to enhance an individual's social media stature than there is to build an organization that can work with police and get arrests,” Von Erck said.

Times have also changed. When he started out, Von Erck said few laws were on the books prohibiting the online grooming of children. Today, modern-day groups run up against a complex landscape of laws that don’t always support their operations and face the ire of police and prosecutors at odds with their methods.

"We don't have a criminal justice system in the United States where vigilantes or citizens investigate crime," said Indiana prosecutor Eric Hoffman of Delaware County.

Doing what's necessary

Those who identify as "predator catchers" say their motives are pure: They want to expose those who prey on children.

"We want to catch the sickest of the sick. We want to catch the worst guys," said Bikers Against Predators President Robert Bloom, who goes by the name "Boots" online.

Predator catcher operations have been credited with arrests all across the country, including recently in Winchester, Indiana ; Albany, Oregon ; Lower Burrell, Pennsylvania ; and University City, Missouri . 

Bloom and his team of about a dozen volunteers have been confronting and catching people since 2021. The goal, he said, is to make communities aware of potential predators among them and deliver solid cases to law enforcement. Out of roughly 300 investigations, he estimated about one-third have led to successful court cases.

“Our mission has always been to spread awareness to the community, and our videos do that pretty easily," Bloom said. "But at the same time we want them to face justice and pay for these crimes."

Even if their efforts don't result in criminal charges, some predator catcher groups say the exposure and shame of alleged offenders is worth it.

“The way I see it, the justice system is not doing what it needs to do as far as locking up these guys and giving them actual sentences,” Eric Schmutte, founder of Predator Catchers Incorporated, told the Indianapolis Star, part of the USA TODAY Network, in 2021. “So, us exposing them is the next best thing so people can at least know that these guys are predators.”

Others push back on the notion they are motivated by internet fame.

"To me, it's not about anybody knowing what I'm doing," Austin Spain, who runs Bedford Predator Patrol in Indiana, previously told the Indianapolis Star . "It's about making the world safer for our kids."

What happens in a typical video?

Dozens of videos live streamed or posted to video platforms such as TikTok and YouTube document the "predator hunter" process. Videos often rack up hundreds of thousands of views and can last as long as an hour or more.

Every operation is distinct, but the framework follows a familiar pattern: In the days or weeks leading up to a confrontation online "decoy" profiles are set up on dating apps or through social media platforms appearing to be those of young children. Then, the predator catchers wait for the friend requests and messages to roll in.

When a target turns the conversation sexual and wants to meet with the decoy, a time and place is set, often at a public place, such as a store or gas station. Bloom said it's important to let the target lead the conversation to avoid the appearance of "baiting" them, which can hurt evidence in court.

The videos of the interactions that follow often include a heated exchange. The predator catchers often do their own interrogations, which sometimes spiral into arguments and threats.

"I want you to be honest ... Admit that you came here to meet a child," Dustin Lampros, an MMA fighter who also posts predator-catching videos on YouTube, said while confronting a man at a store in a recent video.

"You're really pissing me off," Lampros said as the man responded with denials.

Subjects of the decoy operations sometimes say they knew they were being set up, or claim they didn't believe the person they were talking to was really a child. When proper remorse is not forthcoming, they are commonly threatened with a call to their wife or employer.

If the alleged predators make a run for it, the predator catchers may follow them to their homes. The encounters sometimes end in arrest, but other times, police will just take a statement and say they'll investigate further without taking anyone into custody.

Bloom takes a different tact. When he talks with his subjects, he tries to keep a calm tone and tell them what they want to hear to get them talking and to admit more on camera, he said.

Those who take a more confrontational, aggressive approach with their targets "are going to get hurt. They're going to get shot," Bloom said.

Tenuous criminal cases

Depending on state laws, some type of child solicitation charge may result from the civilian sting operations, or police may uncover additional evidence of online child sex crimes.

But a growing number of law enforcement agencies and prosecutors are warning against such improvised investigations, which they say amount to cyber vigilantism. 

Hoffman, the Delaware County, Indiana, prosecutor, said evidence collected by predator catcher groups won’t hold up in court, and he won’t buckle to pressure to prosecute such cases. One group operates out of Muncie, part of his jurisdiction, but Hoffman said there have been no recent cases because the group knows his stance.

“I have no problem getting perverts off the street," Hoffman said. "But it just has to be done in the appropriate legal, ethical and safe way.”

How a 'predator catcher' encounter can backfire

Experts worry predator catcher operations put public safety at risk and can jeopardize getting a conviction in court – leading to potential predators walking free.

In Hartford City, Indiana, police said an altercation turned violent and had to be broken up by an officer last month . In Winston Salem, North Carolina, a confrontation inside a Target ended with a shot fired, WGHP reported two years ago.

And in an infamous case that contributed to the cancellation of the NBC Dateline series, the subject of a sting operation took his own life .

In some cases, law enforcement already had a suspect on their radar, but intervention by a predator catcher group prompted the suspect to delete evidence of their crimes, thwarting a legitimate investigation, Hoffman said.

In some jurisdictions, a suspect's conduct is only illegal if they are talking to actual child or law enforcement posing as a child – self-proclaimed "predator catchers" don't count.

Mary Graw Leary, a former prosecutor and a senior associate dean at the Catholic University law school, said legal statutes have elements that have to be proven in court, which citizens with no training may not know.

“Like all investigations, they have to be done very professionally and correctly, so there can be issues about preservation of evidence, there can be issues about potential entrapment,” she said.

In Orange County, California, District Attorney Todd Spitzer has made it clear to law enforcement that he will not bring charges against any suspect caught in a predator catcher trap, unless police can conduct their own investigation without relying on evidence collected by citizens, according to a 2023 memo to police chiefs provided to USA TODAY.

“Cyber-vigilantes, even when well-intentioned, lack the training necessary to properly and safely investigate these cases,” Spitzer wrote. “The Orange County District Attorney’s Office does not condone or endorse this behavior and encourages anyone who believes criminal activity has taken place to report it to law enforcement and avoid direct confrontation.”

An uneven response from law enforcement

Bloom thinks it's a mistake for prosecutors to blanketly refuse to take on cases reported by predator catchers, but he understands why some DAs have concerns about the evidence collected by groups who aggressively confront subjects and seem most interested in streaming dramatic videos.

"They're are going to ruin it for us in those areas because they’re acting ridiculous," he said. "They're trying to do too much and do that for the views."

Still, in some parts of the country, arrests and convictions in cases initiated by predator catchers have been racking up. Predator Catchers Incorporated boasts on its website of 150 arrests and 61 convictions based on its investigations.

In Albany, Oregon, police arrested 26 people in March and April after reports from a California-based predator catcher, according to Public Information Officer Laura Hawkins. She said the local prosecutor filed charges in all the cases, and at least a couple have already led to guilty pleas.

“Personally, I’m not a fan of the methods here, but the intent is good,” Albany Police Chief Marcia Harnden said in a statement.

Predator catchers can't protect all kids

Predator catcher efforts can't fix one tragic reality: Most abusers of children are not strangers on the internet, but rather, already part of the children's lives. Bloom said he's helped expose some subjects who were also abusing their own family members.

Many predator catchers efforts focus on the most sensational kind of child sexual abuse, so-called "stranger danger," said Ryan Shields, a criminology professor at the University of Massachusetts Lowell and an expert on child sexual abuse prevention.

Even so, the problem of the exploitation of children online is real, Shields said. Parents and guardians are the first line of defense. Keeping kids safe online includes:

• Fostering an open dialogue at home.
• Having ongoing conversations about how to use the internet, establishing family rules and expectations about internet use and knowing what to do if kids see something that makes them uncomfortable.
• Talking to kids about what to do if someone online asks them for pictures or personal information, and what to do if that happens to a friend.
• Discussing whether monitoring children's social media use is the right choice for your family.

Don't scare kids about being online, Shields said; give them the tools to navigate it while offering support.

"One of our shared values is that we want to keep kids safe," he said. "We really need to think big in terms of solutions ... and not focus on things that are unlikely to really move the needle."

Contributing: Holly V. Hays, Indianapolis Star

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PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE Law and Criminology Personal Statement

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Law and Criminology Personal Statement

A recent trip to the Royal Courts of Justice reaffirmed my interest in law and criminology  degree. Firstly, I sat in on cases which particularly interested me as I was able to see court in practice. Secondly, I also took part in a mooting case within a court room, presenting my case as a barrister to the judge, which made me realise that I would love to do this as my future career. Therefore, studying law and criminology appeals to me even more to help me with my career ambitions. I love the criminal side of the law and the statutes behind criminal acts. I find the cause of crime to be of interest to me, as well and I love focusing on different theories and perspectives as to why people commit crime.

My currents subject relate to my course of law and criminology. Within A-level Law I am learning parts of compulsory modules that are taught in university such as Criminal Law. I enjoy law as I find it interesting and I love learning about different cases that have occurred that are used in court today. In Law I am developing my critical analysis skill which enables me to present clear and concise points. In addition, Sociology relates as I am learning about crime and deviance, which relates to the criminology aspect. I enjoy learning about the different social aspects as to why people commit crime, such as subcultures and ethnicity. I recently achieved an A grade essay on the relationship between social problems and levels of crime. This is useful as it is an important aspect that will be taught in criminology. Psychology relates as it gives me an insight into the criminal mind. In psychology I particularly enjoyed the topic of eye witness testimonies and examining the different factors that can improve the reliability of eye witness testimonies like age, anxiety and misleading information.

One of my biggest achievements is being a volunteer police cadet for five years. Volunteer police cadets are partnered with the London Metropolitan Police Service. Being a volunteer police cadet has given me confidence, organisational skills, and made me more open to valuing other people’s opinions. I am able to communicate with people at all levels and within a team. I completed my two weeks’ work experience with the police force and had various opportunities to work with police officers gaining a further insight into law enforcement.

I also have a part-time job waitressing at a catering service. This job has enabled me to become more independent, organised with my time and how to use my own initiative. Furthermore, I play football; in secondary school I was on my school team and I was captain for both the junior and senior team. This was a big achievement as it showed my coach recognised the effort I made within the team. It taught me to be a team player and to use other people’s strengths to help when necessary. It also taught me to be a leader and communicate with my team. As well I play the guitar and I taught myself to play with only a few lessons. By learning the guitar it taught me to dedicate myself to a cause even if I found it hard.

Overall, I believe my passion for law and criminology comes across from all aspects, such as my recent visits to court rooms, my academic suitability, my voluntary experiences and my extra-curricular activities.  I am particularly interested in joining the mooting club as I think it will be very interesting and it will further help me develop my skills and knowledge about the criminal side of law. I am keen to start university as I believe it will be a new stage in my life, which will teach me many vital lessons in which I will need in later life. Although I know it will require hard work, I am prepared to dedicate myself and I am excited to achieve my full potential.

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Sociology with criminology personal statement example.

Society plays a vital part in our lives, providing the norms and values we follow throughout our daily routine. Sociology helps us understand the aspects of society from the seemingly insignificant to those of greatest importance. I am fascinated by topics such as crime, culture, education, and government policy; therefore, sociology became an essential part of my life, enticing me to study it further.

Alongside sociology, criminology captured my particular attention, with its in-depth focus on criminality and the criminal justice process. The summer 2011 riots increased my interest in the subject as the country constantly debated the causes and consequences of such delinquent behaviour. As a result I have decided to combine my two interests and pursue a degree in Sociology and Criminology at university.

Studying A-level Sociology has allowed me to be critical and objective about how I perceive the world surrounding me. Key perspectives such as Marxism captivated me in the way it distinguishes the class division between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat; how it explores the influence of capitalist ideology within the institutions of society. What interests me about studying this subject is that the perspectives always challenge each other, influencing my ideologies, allowing me to learn the differences and find my place in these on-going debates.

The forensic psychology unit of my A-level psychology has attracted me in the ways researchers explore crime, and provide possible reasons for engaging in criminal behaviour. I find the study by Wikstrom & Tafel very thought-provoking, as it focuses on the social influence in delinquent behaviour such as poverty, and living in a disadvantaged neighbourhood. It helped me discover some features of the origins of criminal behaviours.

I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the research methods used in psychology, sociology and geography. Knowledge of the different methods enabled me to understand their use and suitability in different settings. Throughout my Geography A-level, I found that human geography in many ways relates to sociology. The unit on rebranding places interested me the most. Conducting surveys and interviews with the developers of Kings Cross Central, and Kings Cross police force, enabled me to gain an insight into the main reasons behind rebranding, and evaluate the levels of criminality within the area.

Throughout my secondary school and in my sixth form I have volunteered for numerous events including open days, parents evenings and enrolment day. These have improved my communication skills, enabling me to communicate with people of all ages and backgrounds, also allowing me to use my bilingual skills in a productive way. I have undertaken various responsibilities as the chairperson of Amnesty International at my sixth form, a member of the school council executive and a form representative. I believe these experiences have helped increase my confidence, leadership skills, group work and time management.

My work experience as a reception assistant at a primary school and, as receptionist at an education resource centre taught me the importance of interpersonal skills, teamwork and also increased my awareness of self-reliance. As a checkout assistant I come across different customers every day and have experienced dealing with difficult situations in a professional manner.

In my spare time I enjoy swimming, reading novels and graphic designing using various software such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. I also have a passion for surreal art and photography. I won a photography competition recently with Thomson Reuters, where many students from schools across different boroughs participated.

I am a reliable and committed student who is passionate about sociology and criminology. I feel that university will deliver the vast knowledge and understanding of these subjects that I crave, providing me with opportunities to pursue a rewarding future career.

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You've given me real.

Wed, 20/11/2013 - 01:30

You've given me real inspiration for my personal statement, there's not much else around apart from yours!

Thanks so much :)

where can I find Wikstrom &

Sat, 30/08/2014 - 19:56

where can I find Wikstrom & Tafel study?

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