PhD in Criminology, Ph.D

University of South Florida (USF) in Tampa, founded in 1956, is a large, urban public research university with a dynamic and diverse student body of nearly 50,000. USF’s location in a vibrant metropolitan area blends academic life with internship and employment possibilities across finance, healthcare, technology, and the creative industries. The campus is known for its research intensity and community partnerships that connect students to real-world challenges.

USF provides an extensive range of academic programs—about 460 offerings—across undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels, enabling students to pursue interdisciplinary pathways and specialized study. The international community of nearly 4,700 students benefits from comprehensive services including dedicated international advising, language support, orientation, and cultural programming. Strong co-op and internship networks help translate academic learning into career outcomes.

Prospective international students will find a supportive environment with scholarship options, career development centers, and resources for housing and health services. Tampa’s diverse economy offers numerous experiential learning and employment opportunities, while USF’s emphasis on research and innovation supports students aiming for graduate study or industry roles. USF is well suited for students who want a metropolitan university experience with extensive academic and professional resources.

The PhD in Criminology at the University of South Florida is for students who have a Master's degree and want to become experts in criminology. This PhD program, taught in English, takes several years to complete and is based on campus.

The curriculum covers subjects like criminal justice, research methods, and statistical analysis. Students develop skills in research, critical thinking, and problem-solving, and get hands-on experience with fieldwork and research projects.

Graduates can become Criminology Professors, Crime Analysts, Policy Analysts, or Research Directors, working for government agencies, universities, research institutions, or non-profit organizations, such as the FBI, the Department of Justice, or the National Institute of Justice.