Appalachian State University
Sociology (BS) - Criminology
Application Deadlines
Location
Boone campus
Hickory campus
Got credits?
Learn about transferring credits to App State
Decode criminal behavior and help shape safer communities.
Sociology is the study of social life, social change and the social causes and consequences of human behavior. Sociologists investigate the structure of groups, organizations and societies and how people interact within these contexts.
The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Sociology - Criminology degree program at App State focuses on the causes of crime and society’s responses to criminal behavior and the criminal justice system. It also explores what causes behavior to be defined as criminal, along with the various types of criminal behavior.
This program will prepare you for graduate study and careers ranging from substance abuse counseling, probation or parole, and juveniles case management, to law enforcement or legal professions.
A ‘Best College’ for 2025
The Princeton Review named App State among the best schools in the U.S. and Southeast for 2025.
Top 3 in innovation, undergraduate teaching
U.S. News & World Report has recognized App State as a top three school for innovation and the high quality of its undergraduate instruction for eight consecutive years.
A ‘Best College’ for value
App State’s quality, affordability and student outcomes place it among the nation’s 2024 best schools for value, according to Money.com
Elevate Your Education
Courses
Minors
A minor is optional. Suggested minors include:
- Anthropology
- Communication
- Community and Regional Planning
- Criminal Justice
- Economics
- Global Studies
- History
- Media Studies
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Social Work
- Statistics
Transferring Credits
Learn about App State’s credit transfer process, and use our Transfer Equivalency Course Search tool to determine how your courses may transfer to App State.
General Education
With courses in history, natural and social sciences and humanities, App State’s General Education Program will reshape your outlook on learning and provide a foundational skill set that will prepare you for any career.
Accelerated Master’s
You can begin your graduate studies as an undergraduate and earn your master’s degree in as little as one year.
Careers and Mountaineers
Where can an App State degree take you? Anywhere you want to go! Our passionate and engaged alumni become leaders in their communities and chosen professions.
Careers
- Advocacy Manager
- Community Relations Director
- Community Service Agency Worker
- Foster Care Worker
- Outreach Coordinator
- Policy and Advocacy Strategist
- Policy Director
- Policy Field Manager
- Political Researcher
- Population Specialist
- Public Administrator
- Research Analyst
- Attorney
- Paralegal
- Juvenile Detention Specialist
- Mediation Specialist
- Drug Court Officer
- Probation or Parole Officer
- Law Enforcement
- Group Home Counselor
- Youth Advocate/Counselor
- Correctional Caseworker
Some of these roles may require education beyond a bachelor’s degree.
Career information resource
App State’s Career Development Center
Services provided by the Career Development Center include resume reviews, career coaching, job and internship search assistance, and other tools for you to achieve life and professional success.
More to Explore at App State
Fund Your Education
Numerous scholarship and financial aid opportunities are available to help fund your App State education. Learn more about scholarships and financial aid.
International Experience
Work outside your cultural boundaries. Learn more.
Hands-on Research
Conduct cutting-edge research alongside faculty mentors. Learn more
Real-world Internships
Gain firsthand experience while earning your degree. Learn more
Find Your Community
Get inspired and get involved by joining App State clubs and organizations, such as the Sociology Club. Learn more
Honors College
Develop high-level creative thinking and research skills. Learn more and check out the departmental honors program.
Apply
Are you ready to become a Mountaineer? Take the next step, apply for admission to App State and elevate your future success.
Admissions questions? Contact us.
Connect
Program Contact
Dr. Cameron Lippard
Department Chair
[email protected]
828-262-6396
Dr. Amy Dellinger Page
Program Director
[email protected]
828-262-2201
Visit Campus
Explore App State’s campuses in Boone and Hickory and learn more about what life is like as a Mountaineer.
Attend an information session to get to know App State’s people and programs.
Admissions Counselor
Have questions related to the App State admissions process? Our admissions counselors are here to help.