Course at a glance
| Degree awarded | Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Criminology and Security Studies |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 years, then NYSC |
| Faculty / college | Faculty of Social Sciences |
| Career field / body | Security sector, law enforcement, corrections and research |
| UTME subjects | Use of English plus three relevant Arts or Social-Science subjects |
| Competitiveness | Moderately competitive |
On this page
- What Criminology and Security Studies is about
- A brief history of the discipline
- What you will study
- Why study Criminology and Security Studies & who it suits
- Careers & where graduates work
- Salary outlook in Nigeria
- Where it’s offered
- Is it a good course?
- Skills you’ll gain
- Licensing, professional bodies & further study
- How to get in (UTME requirements)
- Practise the UTME subjects free
- Related & alternative courses
- Frequently asked questions
What Criminology and Security Studies is about
Criminology and Security Studies is the study of crime, criminal behaviour, justice and security — why crime happens, how the justice system responds, and how societies prevent crime and manage security.
A brief history of the discipline
As crime and security became major social concerns, criminology developed as a field bridging sociology, law and security studies. It is increasingly relevant to Nigeria’s security sector.
What you will study
You study criminological theory, criminal justice, security studies, the sociology of crime, penology, elements of law, intelligence and security management, and research methods — with a project.
Why study Criminology and Security Studies & who it suits
This course suits analytical, curious students interested in people, society and how the world works, with good reading and writing skills. An interest in crime, justice and security is ideal.
Careers & where graduates work
Graduates work in the security sector, law enforcement and paramilitary agencies, private security, corrections, intelligence and research, and NGOs, and it is a foundation for further study in Law.
Salary outlook in Nigeria
Criminology pay depends on the sector — security, law enforcement, corrections or research.
| Career stage | Typical monthly pay (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry (graduate) | ₦80,000 – ₦200,000 |
| Mid-level | ₦200,000 – ₦500,000 |
| Senior | ₦600,000 – ₦1,200,000+ |
Figures are rough approximations (monthly gross) as of 2026, drawn from Nigerian salary aggregators. Actual pay varies widely by sector (oil & gas, fintech and multinationals pay far above the public service), employer, location (Lagos and Abuja pay more) and experience — treat these as a guide, not a guarantee.
Where it’s offered: notable universities
Criminology and Security Studies is offered at a growing number of Nigerian universities, including the University of Ibadan, among others.
This is not a ranked or exhaustive list — always confirm the current institutions and their requirements in the official JAMB brochure, or use our subject combination checker and the Criminology and Security Studies admission guide.
Is Criminology and Security Studies a good course to study in Nigeria?
Criminology and Security Studies is a growing, relevant field for the security sector, law enforcement and research, amid rising national focus on security.
Why it’s a strong choice:
- Growing relevance — security is a national priority.
- Paths into security, law enforcement, intelligence, corrections and research.
- A foundation for Law.
- A distinctive, focused specialism.
Challenges to weigh:
- A newer programme, offered at fewer schools.
- Some roles are sector-specific.
- Public-sector entry pay is modest.
- Competitive.
It suits students interested in crime, justice and security.
Skills you’ll gain
Beyond subject knowledge, Criminology and Security Studies builds transferable skills valued across many careers:
- Understanding of crime and justice
- Research and analysis
- Security awareness
- Critical thinking
- Communication
- Problem-solving
Licensing, professional bodies & further study
B.Sc Criminology and Security Studies (4 years) → NYSC → careers in security, law enforcement, corrections, intelligence and research.
How to get in: Criminology and Security Studies UTME requirements
The JAMB UTME combination for Criminology and Security Studies is Use of English plus three relevant Arts or Social-Science subjects. You also need five relevant O’Level credits including English Language. Confirm the exact requirement for your chosen university.
Practise the UTME subjects free
Prepare with free official-syllabus notes and timed CBT practice for your UTME subjects:
- Use of English — practise CBT
- Economics — practise CBT
- Government — practise CBT
- Commerce — practise CBT
Related guides
- How to choose the right course for JAMB
- Good courses you can study with a low JAMB score
- Understanding the JAMB brochure & subject combinations
- How to use the JAMB eligibility checker
- How to change your course or institution on JAMB
Related & alternative courses
If you like Criminology and Security Studies, you may also want to explore these related courses:
Frequently asked questions
How long is Criminology and Security Studies in Nigeria?
The B.Sc typically takes 4 years, followed by the one-year NYSC.
What are the JAMB subjects for Criminology and Security Studies?
Use of English plus three relevant Arts or Social-Science subjects
Where do Criminology graduates work?
In the security sector, law enforcement and paramilitary agencies, private security, corrections, intelligence, research and NGOs.
Can I study Law after Criminology?
Yes — it is a good foundation for postgraduate study, including Law and security-related fields.
Is Criminology and Security Studies a good course to study in Nigeria?
Yes — it is increasingly relevant given the focus on security, with roles in the security sector, law enforcement, intelligence and research.
What jobs can I get?
Roles in the security sector, law enforcement and paramilitary agencies, private security, corrections, intelligence, research and NGOs.
Can I join the police or security services?
Yes — it is strong preparation for the police, paramilitary and security agencies, as well as private security and intelligence.
Can I study Law after Criminology?
Yes — it is a good foundation for postgraduate study, including Law and security-related fields.
Sources: Course content and career pathways summarised from Nigerian faculties of social sciences and relevant professional/learned bodies; admission requirements from the official JAMB UTME brochure. Last checked: 22 Sept 2026. Belmadeng is an independent study platform and is not affiliated with JAMB, the NUC or any professional body. Programme structure, duration and requirements vary by university — always confirm details with your chosen institution and the official JAMB brochure.