BA Criminology: Course Fees, Admission 2026, Syllabus, Top Colleges, Career Scope

Updated on Feb 6, 2026 05:05 IST
Akansha Bisht

Akansha BishtSenior Executive

BA Criminology/ Bachelor of Arts in Criminology is a UG academic course of 3 years. It focuses on the knowledge of crime and the psychology behind the criminal mindset. If subjects like penology, forensic science, criminal laws, police administration, criminal psychology, victimology, statistics in criminology, etc, interest you, then this course might just be for you. BA Criminology admissions are usually based on merit procedures. However, CUET is one of the most sought-after BA Criminology entrance exams that aspiring candidates prepare for.

Read the article for more BA Criminology course details.

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BA Criminology Course Details: Highlights 

BA Criminology courses teach about the working of the legal judicial system of the country and identify the root cause of crimes in order to tackle them efficiently and provide effective solutions.

Check out the general overview of some key BA Criminology details:

Particulars

Details

Course Name

BA Criminology

Level

UG

Duration

3 Years

Admission Procedure

Merit/Entrance-based

Eligibility Criteria

Pass class 12 in a relevant discipline with at least 50% aggregate from a recognized board.

Entrance Exams

CUET

Colleges

Nehru Arts & Science College, University of Mysore, University of Madras, National Forensic Sciences University, St. Peter’s College, Shri Krishna University, etc.

Fees

INR 16,700 - INR 1.5 Lakh

Job Profiles

Police officers, detectives, crime analysts, forensic scientists, probation officers, correctional officers, etc.

Salary in India

Entry level positions: INR 4 lakh

Mid level positions: INR 6 - 10 Lakh 

Senior level positions: INR 20 Lakh 

Top Recruiters

National Investigation Agency, National Crime Records Bureau, Central Bureau of Investigation, Police Departments, Enforcement Directorate, Forensic Departments, Maheshwari and Co. etc.

Information source: Multiple sites across the web, may vary.

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Q:   What is Criminology?
A:

Criminology is all about the occurrence & prevention of crime. From types of crimes, nature of crimes, crime rate to future control in a safe society. Understanding the origins and effects of criminal behaviour is a multidisciplinary field that incorporates ideas from sociology, psychology, law,  anthropology,  and other academic fields.

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Criminology Courses

BA in Criminology

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Q:   What are the advantages of pursuing BA Criminology?
A:

BA Criminology graduates get to assist in serving justice and contribute to society. One can gain skills such as critical thinking, problem solving in areas like crime investigation, criminal psychology, etc which can help them make a fruitful career in this field.

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BA in Criminology course

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Table of contents
  • BA Criminology Eligibility Criteria and Admission 2026
  • BA Criminology Entrance Exams 2026
  • Types of BA Criminology Courses
  • BA Criminology Syllabus 2026
  • Best BA Criminology Colleges in India
  • Popular Private BA Criminology Colleges in India
  • BA Criminology Career Scope: Job Profile, Salary and Top Recruiters
  • BA Criminology FAQs 2026
  • Course Cutoffs
  • Popular BA Criminology Specializations
View More

BA Criminology Eligibility Criteria and Admission 2026

The BA Criminology Eligibility Criteria can differ depending on the college. Here are the basic requirements to be taken care of before enrolling in the BA Criminology course:

  • Clear class 12 in a relevant discipline.
  • Secure a minimum of 50% aggregate from a recognized board.
  • 5% Relaxation is given TO reserved classes such as SC/ST/OBC etc. (may vary)
  • There is no age limit specified as such.

Information source: Multiple sites across the web.

Read more:

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Top Arts Colleges in Delhi/NCR 2026

 

BA Criminology Admission 2026

Check out the general admission process for the BA Criminology courses in India:

  1. Conduct personal-level research and know the eligibility in your chosen college.
  2. Look out for whether the admission requires appearing in any entrance; if yes, then choose the exam accordingly.
  3. Register, prepare, and appear for the exams accepted/ conducted by the colleges and wait for the results.
  4. Apply to the universities/ colleges by filling out the application/ registration form
  5. You'll get shortlisted based on your score, which you can find on the official websites of the exam bodies.
  6. Attend the counselling sessions, fill the choice forms and get updates on the latest notifications.
  7. Pay the fees and get your documents verified before you start with your classes.

Information source: Multiple sites across the web.

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Q:   Is there any age bar for admission to Criminology courses?
A:

Usually, there is no age limit for Criminology course of any academic level. If you are planning to take admission in Criminology course then make sure that you that have the required academic qualifications and you fulfil the marks criteria.

Know more about -

Criminology Admission

 

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Q:   Are BA Criminology admissions merit based or entrance based?
A:

BA Criminology admissions are based on both merit and entrance. To be eligible - pass 12th with at least 50%. You can have a background in any discipline from a recognised board. Consider preparing for exams like CUET for getting in some of the best colleges in India.

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BA Criminology Entrance Exams 2026

CUET stands among the Top Entrance Exams for humanities courses. Refer to the table below for more details.

Entrance Exams 2026

Entrance Exam Schedule 2026

CUET 2026

CUET Exam Date 2026

Information source: Official website of the institute/exam, may vary.

More to read on BA Criminology entrance exam:

CUET UG Difficulty Level 2026: Is CUET Easy Or Complicated?

What Type of Questions are Asked in CUET UG 2026?

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Important Exam Dates

DatesUpcoming Exam Dates
01 Nov ' 25 - 14 Mar ' 26

CGCUET 2026 Registration

ONGOING
13 Oct ' 25 - 22 Apr ' 26

AAT 2026 Application Deadline (Round 3)

ONGOING
13 Oct ' 25 - 31 May ' 26

AAT 2026 Application Deadline (Round 4)

ONGOING
Mar ' 26

SHIATS Entrance Exam Application Process

TENTATIVE
14 Mar ' 26

SAT India exam (March attempt)

Mar ' 26

PUBDET 2026 Applications

TENTATIVE
Apr ' 26

SHIATS Entrance Exam Application Correction Window

TENTATIVE
DatesPast Exam Dates
27 Feb ' 26

Last date to apply for March Attempt

23 Feb ' 26 - 26 Feb ' 26

CUET 2026 Application Process (Re-opened)

01 Feb ' 26

AAT 2026 Assessment (Round 2)

Q:   What is CUET UG exam?
A:

Common University Entrance Test/ CUET UG is an entrance exam. It is conducted for admission to UG programs offered by various central, state, private and deemed universities. Candidates willing to take admission to undergraduation programme in streams like Science, Humanities, Commerce, Law and Management must appear for CUET UG exam when conducted.

This entrance examination assesses candidates at various levels: Language, domain knowledge and general aptitude. CUET UG is conducted annually in computer based mode. CUET UG scores are accepted by more than 300 universities across India. 

Q:   What is the maximum score for CUET UG 2026 exam?
A:

The maximum marks for the CUET UG exam are 250. Actual total marks you can score depend on number of subjects you choose.

For instance, the subject combination for B.Com at Allahabad University is English or Hindi, Accountancy/Book Keeping, and General Test. So, total marks will be 750.

know more about -

Humanities & Social Sciences

Q:   What is the CUET UG syllabus for general test?
A:

The following are topics which are covered in the CUET UG exam: 

  • General Knowledge, Current Affairs
  • General mental ability, Numerical ability
  • Reasoning (Simple application of basic Mathematical concepts, quantitative arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and statistics)
  • Logical and analytical reasoning

Types of BA Criminology Courses

In the table below, you'll find some top colleges with their fee and other details offering the BA Criminology course in India.

Types of BA Criminology Courses

BA Criminology Course Details

Full-Time BA Criminology courses

This is a regular full-time conventional degree where students physically attend the college and course lectures and give their exams in the offline mode.

Distance BA Criminology courses

Students can attend lectures from anywhere as per their comfort and do not need to be physically present in the college as all the course material is made available online.

Online BA Criminology courses

From admission to examinations, everything is completed online and students pursuing online courses can receive their degrees without attending any college.

Note - This info. is taken from the official website and may differ.

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Q:   Is it expensive to pursue Criminology in India?
A:

Pursuing Criminology in India can be quite reasonable as most of the colleges have an average tuition fee of less than INR 1 lakh. 

College Name

Average Placement Package

Institute of Distance Education, University of MadrasINR 16710
University of LucknowINR 60320
University of MadrasINR 3000
PRSU - Pandit Ravishankar Shukla UniversityINR 30250
Tamil Nadu Open UniversityINR 9000

Source - Multiple external/ official sites, data may vary.

Hope it helps

BA Criminology Syllabus 2026

Refer to the table below:

Semester 1

Basics of Criminology

Criminal Psychology

Criminal Laws

Forensic Science

Semester 2

Penology

Victimology

Police Administration

Criminal Theories

Semester 3

Crime Prevention

Research Methods

Statistics in Criminology

Applied Criminology

Semester 4

Cyber Crime

Environmental Laws

Juvenile Justice

Drug Abuse and Management

Semester 5

Crime Scene Management

Crime Investigation

Crime Prevention

Electives

Semester 6

Rehabilitation and Counselling Psychology

Security Management

Internship

Practical and Viva 

Information source: multiple sites on the web (may vary)

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Bachelor of Arts (BA) Courses

 

 

Q:   What are the main subjects taught in Criminology course?
A:

Main topics in the curriculum of Criminology include - Introduction to Criminology, Types of Crime, Causes of Crime, Firearms & ammunition, Fingerprints, Preparation of Summons & Warrants. Graduates can find employment in non-profit or social organisations that combat crime. They may also work for the government in divisions such as law enforcement, social reform, or the court. 

Know more about - Criminology Subjects

Q:   Is the BA Criminology syllabus tough?
A:

The difficulty may differ for individuals. Syllabus is a mix of fundamental and advanced topics revolving around the crime, its occurrence and its prevention. You can look forward to subjects like Penology, Local and Special Laws, Forensic Medicine, Criminal Psychology, Victimology, etc.

Best BA Criminology Colleges in India

Students can choose from a wide range of colleges. In India both government and private colleges offer BA Criminology courses.

These offer correct guidance and mentorship to the students through their networks in this industry.

Best Government BA Criminology Colleges in India

Refer to the table below:

Best Government Colleges

Tuition Fee

Maharaja’s College, University of Mysore

INR 41,580

National Forensic Sciences University

INR 6 L

 

Best Private BA Criminology Colleges in India

Refer to the table below:

Best Private Colleges

Tuition Fee

Institute of Distance Education, University of Madras

INR 16,710

OPJS University

INR 75,000

Shri Vaishnav Vidyapeeth Vishwavidyalaya
INR 1.27 Lakh

Joy University

INR 1.5 Lakh

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22 Courses
55.95 K - 86.01 K
9.24 - 9.5 LPA

#1 NIRF

35 Courses
432 - 18.5 K
8.4 LPA

#3 NIRF

65 Courses
500 - 19.09 K
7 LPA

#2 NIRF

25 Courses
33.81 K - 50.45 K
5.4 LPA

#4 NIRF

1.4 L - 1.42 L
8 LPA

#5 NIRF

22.2 K - 6.82 L
5.5 - 6.22 LPA

#8 NIRF

Q:   Can you suggest colleges that offer admission to Criminology courses based on CUET scores?
A:

Several universities offer Criminology courses in India. Most accept CUET for the same. For instance,

Jamia Millia Islamia offers a Master of Arts in Social Work with a specialisation in Criminology and Justice; Banaras Hindu University, which provides a similar MA program; and Aligarh Muslim University, which also offers an MA in Social Work with a focus on Criminology and Justice. 

 

Q:   Should I pursue BA Criminology courses from government or private colleges?
A:

In most cases - Government colleges are more affordable & reputable. Whereas private colleges are known for their industry tie ups, infrastructure and facilities. Factors such as budget, distance, location, etc greatly influence this decision.

Popular Private BA Criminology Colleges in India

1.07 L - 16 L
3.4

#75 India Today

Humanities & Social Sciences Applications open. Apply Now

1.6 L - 5.92 L
3.8

Humanities & Social Sciences Applications open. Apply Now

2.1 L

Humanities & Social Sciences Applications open. Apply Now

4 Courses
9 L
3 L - 16 L
2.5

Humanities & Social Sciences Applications open. Apply Now

1.7 L - 2.8 L

Humanities & Social Sciences Applications open. Apply Now

BA Criminology Career Scope: Job Profile, Salary and Top Recruiters

BA Criminology graduates work in various areas. These include investigation, police firms, forensic laboratories, legal and social work etc. Each job profile in this field offers practical application of the core fundamentals learned in the course curriculum. Those who sincerely pursue their career in the field of criminology can easily make high incomes, as the number of skilled professionals in the market is comparatively less than the demand, which creates a skill gap in the market. Which in turn increases the scope for serious individuals.

BA Criminology Job Profiles and Salaries

Refer to the table below for popular BA Criminology Job Profiles and Salaries:

MA Criminology Job Profiles

Average Annual Salary

Police Officer

INR 6.2 LPA

Detective

INR 4 LPA

Forensic Expert

INR 3.3 LPA

Lawyer

INR 5.4 LPA

Journalist

INR 4.6 LPA

Social Worker

INR 2.8 LPA

Civil Servant

INR 5.6 LPLA

Source - Ambitionbox.com

Read more:

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BA Criminology Top Recruiters

Refer to the table given below:

BA Criminology Top Recruiters

National Investigation Agency

Enforcement Directorate (ED)

National Crime Records Bureau

Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)

Central and State Police Departments

Narcotic Control Bureau

Maheshwari and Co.

Dhir and Dhir Associates Law Firm

NGO’s

Forensic Department 

Research and Analysis Wing (RAW)

The Intelligence Bureau

Information Source: Multiple sites on the web (may vary)

Also read:

Government Jobs After Humanities Stream

Highest Paying Career Options For Humanities Students in India

 

Q:   What salary package is offered to Criminologists?
A:

Hi

According to Naukri.com - average salary for criminology professionals in India is 3.5 Lacs per year (INR). It has the potential to climb to 25 Lacs per year with experience. 

Refer to the table below for more information

Job Profiles

Average Annual Salary (in INR)

Criminologist

INR 5 lakh

Detective

INR 4 lakh

Forensic Science Technician

INR 6 lakh

Criminal Lawyer

INR 3.5 lakh

Lecturer

INR 4 lakh

Social Worker

INR 2.5 lakh

Crime Investigator

INR 3 lakh

Source - Multiple external/ official sites, data may vary.

Q:   What are areas of employment after completing Criminology course?
A:

A few areas where Criminology graduates can work are Forensic departments, non-governmental organizations,  Human Rights Agencies, the National Institute of Social Defence, the Intelligence Bureau, the Central Bureau of Investigation, Police departments, and Educational Institutes. Even some mulit-national companies hire fraud analysts, fraud prevention analysts, and cyber crime analysts, and researchers in digital forensics. Click to read the Cyber Crime Course.

BA Criminology FAQs 2026

Candidates can refer to this section for more related BA Criminology FAQs.

Q:   What kind of research methods are used in Criminology?
A:

Criminology research uses a variety of methods 

  • Quantitative methods are the primary techniques used to study the causes and distribution of crime. Quantitative methods include survey research, field research, and evaluation research of the criminals and there nature.
  • Case studies are the techniques that allow for a detailed analysis of specific cases, such as a juvenile delinquent or an institution.
  • Mixed methods research method combines elements of qualitative and quantitative research. 
  • Experimental methods are sometimes used in criminology research. 
Q:   What are the different theories of crime in Criminology course?
A:

There are different theories of crime in criminology course, here are some theories related to crime.

  • Social disorganization theory 
  • Labeling theory
  • Biological and psychological theories of crime
  • Rational choice theory
  • Classical criminology
  • Social learning theory
  • Developmental criminology
  • Social control theory

Know more about - 

Criminology Syllabus

Course Cutoffs

The cutoffs of popular BA Criminology colleges is given below:
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Behala College499526
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Popular BA Criminology Specializations

Following are the most popular BA Criminology Specializations . You can explore the top Colleges offering these Specializations by clicking the links below.

Popular Specializations

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Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 2 weeks ago

Some personality traits speak loudly if someone is made for Criminology, to be honest. Having an analytical mind, sharp eyes, curiosity, and being detail-oriented are the signs that you're the best for such fields. 

On top of that, a Criminology course will teach you a lot about legal systems, crimin

...Read more

R

Rashmi Thakur

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 weeks ago

Of course, it is. Non-police roles are equally important in crime investigation and research. Being a Criminology professional, you can help CIDs, law firms, and research labs through analyzing evidence, understanding criminal psychology, and crime prevention.

Know more about -

Criminology Career

S

Shikha Arora

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 weeks ago

It's vast, to speak honestly. This field is not only emerging but also growing at a fast pace. You can join CBI, forensic labs, law firms, educational institutions, or other investigative agencies. 

Criminology professionals are not only required in India but are highly-valued in other countries as w

...Read more

G

Gunjan Dhawan

Contributor-Level 9