Sociology and Criminal Justice

Explore society and justice

Transform your future

The University of Delaware’s Department of Sociology & Criminal Justice is internationally recognized for its research, faculty, and academic programs, including a top-ranked graduate criminology program.

The department offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in sociology and criminal justice, preparing students with in-demand analytical, critical thinking, and research skills. Through a mix of theory and hands-on experiences—like the Inside Out program, which unites university and incarcerated students—students explore pressing issues such as health disparities, race, gender, violence, and law enforcement.

The department partners with the Center for Drug and Health Studies and the Disaster Research Center, offering hands-on research in substance use, health, and disaster response. Graduates thrive in fields like law, criminal justice, social work, education, business, health care, and advanced studies.

Why Sociology & Criminal Justice at UD?

18th

in the nation for criminology graduate programs

89%

of sociology graduates are employed or pursuing further education

92%

of criminal justice graduates are employed or pursuing further education

UD class behind prison walls

Group of people are sitting and facing each other in a circle, we only see their legs and feet, they are weaing jeans and sneakers

‘Inside-Out’ facilitates dialogue despite differences

No hoodies or sweatpants. No jewelry except wedding or engagement rings and small stud earrings. No phones. No pencils or blue pens — only black ink pens.

UD's innovative class held behind prison walls is changing lives of both UD students and their incarcerated classmates.