Innate observation skills and tactical nous, in addition to the abilities to deduce and solve intricate of the mysteries, have been the hallmark of many a fictional character — from Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot to Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes or Satyajit Ray’s Feluda. Wondering whether it could be translated in real life? A course in criminology could help.
A degree in criminology could fit the bill for those aspiring for a career that is off the beaten path. The field holds out enormous potential as well: a recent survey by the trade association NASSCOM underlines that not more than 10-15 per cent of posts relating to information/ data security in upscale organisations have been filled. From crime investigation to detecting money-laundering in banks or information security officers — a bouquet of career avenues hold out to those wanting to pursue criminology.
Dr R Thilagaraj, professor and head, Department of Criminology in University of Madras, states that criminology is an inter-disciplinary course, involving the study of subjects such as psychology and sociology and criminal law, and laws governing our nation, IPC and CrPC. Students would also be introduced to complex subjects such as forensic medicine and analysis. Investigative journalism too forms part of the curricula. At the UG level, students would go through a setting akin to the police academy, with ample stress on physical training and related activities.
Getting sensitised with the police force too forms part of the course. “PG students would have to intern in police stations and jails to get to know how the justice system works, in addition to prison administration. An internship of one month in police stations is a must for the students,” he adds. Dr Thilagaraj underlines the importance of the degree when he points out that the State government had recently stipulated that degree holders in criminology be given preference while making appointments to the police force. More and more degree holders are entering the police force, he adds. In the private sector, graduates are absorbed as security officers in leading private organisations.
The degree is not just restricted to the police force. Speaking to Express, head of the School of Criminology of Tamil Nadu Open University, S Latha, states that an increasing number of advocates have been taking up the course for that extra edge. “They realise that they would be more successful if they study this course,” she adds.
Of late, a degree that has seen a spurt in the number of applicants and intense competition is that on cyber forensics and information security. BCA, MCA and even engineers are vying to study this ‘purely technical’ degree, which would involve study of computer networking, cryptology and mathematics. “The degree is tough and is in demand. Employment opportunities too are aplenty,” she adds.
Courses at the under-graduate level are of three years in duration, while at the PG level it is of two years.