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Personal Statement for Criminology Tips: With Helpful Examples

In this article, we discuss how to write a personal statement for criminology with helpful examples.

One student dreams of being an FBI officer and the other is fascinated by designing surveys. What do they have in common? Criminology will help both of them land their dream jobs. Read on for our top tips for writing a personal statement for criminology.

Table of contents, what is a personal statement for criminology, what should you consider when writing a personal statement for criminology, how to write an effective personal statement for criminology.

  • Example 1 – A focus on academic achievement
  • Example 2 – A focus on a professional goal

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

It’s a short essay that applicants of criminology programs submit when they apply for specific criminology courses at colleges or universities.

It helps applicants show their preparedness and convince the selection committee of their suitability to undertake the program.

The personal statement should include details of the applicant’s skills and strengths, motivations, career aspirations, and ability to contribute to the institute. It shows how the applicant stands out from other contenders.

1. Qualifications

To study criminology for an undergraduate (4-year) degree, applicants should generally have achieved a good GPA in High School and may be required to attend an admissions interview.

Furthermore, applicants may be asked to have achieved good grades in certain subjects such as psychology, sociology, and law. Finally, some courses may require applicants to have specific work experience or to have completed certain courses before they can be accepted and being able to use a computer is essential.

In order to ensure that applicants are well-prepared for a degree in criminology, they may also be expected to demonstrate knowledge of wider research, current affairs, and social, organizational, or global issues.

2. Motivation and interest in Criminology

It is important to consider motivation when writing a personal statement for criminology to show why you are interested in the field and what you plan to do with your degree.

Motivation can be personal, such as wanting to help people or make a difference in society, or professional, such as wanting to use your skills and experience to advance your career. You must be motivated to pursue this field to the best of your ability and use the knowledge you gain to benefit both yourself and society.

Motivation can include a commitment to research, a desire to solve problems, and a willingness to take on difficult tasks.

‘When people think of fighting crime it’s natural that they might think of police officers and the FBI, but I believe that without skilled researchers gathering and interpreting data policing will remain reactive rather than proactive.’

3. Life Experiences that relate to criminology

These could include:

  • Family situations that involve law enforcement or the judiciary system. How have these experiences shaped your life and motivated you to pursue a criminology degree?

‘Being the eldest daughter of two police officers has taught me how to balance life, a part-time job, volunteering and schoolwork. I have been taking college courses at our local community college while finishing up high school in order to accelerate my degree and I gained a great deal of knowledge from my social work college-level classes’

  • Personality traits that are suited to the intended career. Have you always been fascinated by the work of the police and the FBI?
  • Do you have a relative or family friend that worked in law enforcement, social services or in the courts that you want to emulate?
  • Talking about how psychology has had a direct impact on your life, such as having counselling sessions for anxiety and how this has given you the desire to work with people that have been affected by crime.

4. Background knowledge of criminology

It’s important to show an understanding of some elements of criminology. These could include some criminological research and theories or having an awareness of contemporary crime prevention strategies.

‘As part of our High School Psychology course, we studied critical analyses of crime studies, which involves looking at the various aspects of a crime such as the social and economic factors that lead to it and the use theoretical frameworks to understand the underlying causes and effects of criminal behavior.’

Being familiar with laws and criminal justice systems in your state, and an understanding of the ethical considerations applicable to criminology will be valuable to you.

During the application process, it is important to demonstrate that you have the following skills:

  • written and verbal communication skills,
  • critical reading and writing skills,
  • technology and analysis skills,
  • research and problem-solving skills,
  • understanding of social, organizational and global issues,
  • an awareness of current affairs on both a local and a global perspective.

Enhanced communication skills such as clarifying, listening and offering advice as well as the ability to gather and assess data and other information will help your application.

6. Experience

Think about your experiences in jobs, work experience, work placements, apprenticeships and any other relevant education or professional background.

Additionally, one should reflect on any current or past work in the criminal justice field, such as working in youth corrections.

Furthermore, it is important to consider any personal experiences that may have influenced the decision to pursue criminology, such as volunteering with victims or exposure to the criminal justice system.

Step 1: Talk about your qualifications

Discuss how your qualifications or current GPA specifically prepares you for a criminology degree.

Mention any other qualifications, volunteering positions or work experience you have that may be relevant.

Step 2: Explain why you chose criminology.

Show the reader your enthusiasm and knowledge of the field by providing evidence of your passion for the subject. This could include discussing your experience with law enforcement or the judicial system or providing examples of research on crime and criminal justice topics.

‘My biggest dream is to be an FBI agent and with that goal in mind I am committed to studying the field of criminology, to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of criminal justice, law, and psychology.’

Your personal statement should include stories that highlight your experiences and explain how these contributed to your choice of a career in criminology. Make sure to connect your experiences and goals by emphasizing how they have helped shape your path.

Step 3: Share your knowledge of criminology and solving crime.

Show an intellectual interest in which authors, modules, theorists, and debates have interested you, and how they could help you with your criminology degree.

Demonstrate your knowledge of criminology by discussing the topics you’ve researched on your own. This could include specific theories, current events, or other relevant topics.

Step 5: Show your initiative and drive

Showing initiative and drive is important. You can do this by writing about your academic achievements, your extra-curricular activities, and any relevant work experience to show the review committee the level of commitment and dedication you have towards your chosen career path.

You should also include details of any wider research or current affairs you are interested in. This could include discussing how you understand local law enforcement and crime concerns and how they can be integrated into a larger global perspective, or mentioning articles or books you have read about your chosen field of study.

Step 6: Proofread and edit your personal statement before submitting it

Accuracy in grammar and spelling is of utmost importance when writing a personal statement for criminology. Good written communication skills are essential for this field of study, as they are necessary for understanding, interpreting and critically analyzing any given data.

These communication skills also have a direct impact on the overall impression of a written statement, as a document full of errors can create a negative impression and make it appear as though the author is sloppy or not careful enough. In addition, as criminology is a field that requires much research and problem solving, attention to detail is critical for any successful analysis.

Examples from winning personal statements for Criminology

Example 1 – a focus on academic achievement.

Being the eldest daughter of two police officers has taught me how to balance life, a part time job, volunteering and schoolwork. With a 4.0 GPA, I have been taking college courses at our local community college while finishing up high school in order to accelerate my degree and I gained a great deal of knowledge from my social work college classes. I was also fortunate enough to learn about the law, criminal justice system, and how the court process works when my sister obtained an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Chelmhurst College – she jokes that I spent more time reading her notes and textbooks than she did! I am committed to a career in criminal justice research and have already volunteered on two projects undertaken by the state office, working on collating survey data relating to local crime.

My ambition has always been to work in Criminology, and I am confident in my ability to remain dedicated and professional. My academic and professional achievements have set me up to be an ideal student for a degree in Criminology. When people think of fighting crime it’s natural that they might think of police officers and the FBI, but I believe that without skilled researchers gathering and interpreting data policing will remain reactive rather than proactive. I want to be a big part of better understanding and lowering crime rates in my state through well-designed research projects that connect with the citizens we are working hard to protect.

Example 2 – a focus on a professional goal

My biggest dream is to be an FBI agent and with that goal in mind I am committed to studying the field of criminology, to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of criminal justice, law, and psychology. As part of our High School Psychology course, we studied critical analyses of crime studies, which involves looking at the various aspects of a crime such as the social and economic factors that lead to it and the use of theoretical frameworks to understand the underlying causes and effects of criminal behaviour. I was fascinated by the process of researching and analyzing data from crime statistics, identifying patterns, and coming to logical conclusions.

Working on interviews and other investigative techniques to gain insights into criminal mindsets and motivations will, I hope, make me a better FBI officer in the future and develop my sense of compassion for people trapped in challenging situations, as both the victims and perpetrators of crime. I have strong communication skills and am a team player, which I believe will fit well with the ethos of Milwaukee College.

Some of these questions were already covered in this blog post but I will still list them here (because not everyone carefully reads every paragraph) so here’s the TL;DR version.

What is Criminology?

Criminology is the scientific study of crime, including its causes, consequences, and control. It examines the legal and social aspects of crime, as well as the social, economic, and political factors that influence it.

It also looks into the various theories and approaches used to explain criminal behaviour and the effectiveness of various strategies used to control it. Furthermore, it considers the ethical issues related to criminal justice, such as the rights of victims and offenders, and the impact of crime on society.

By studying criminology, students can gain a better understanding of the criminal justice system, the causes of crime, and the ways in which it can be prevented and controlled.

What kind of career can be achieved with a Criminology degree?

With a degree in criminology, a wide range of career aspirations can be achieved.

  • Law enforcement, such as a police officer, detective, or federal agent;
  • Corrections, such as a probation officer or correctional officer;
  • Social work, such as a case manager or community outreach worker;
  • Criminal justice research, such as a crime analyst or research assistant;
  • Victim advocacy, such as a victim advocate or crisis counsellor.
  • Forensic psychology, forensic accounting, and cybercrime.

What traits are needed to be successful in Criminology?

Criminology is an exciting and challenging field which requires a range of skills and qualities to be successful. These include:

  • Dedication: Being dedicated to the study of criminology and its related fields, and having a strong commitment to learning.
  • Reliability: Being dependable and able to complete tasks accurately and efficiently.
  • Concentration: Having the ability to focus intently and pay attention to detail.
  • Professionalism: Being able to ethically and responsibly handle sensitive matters.
  • Adaptability: Being able to adjust to changing environments and quickly respond to issues as they arise.
  • Compassion: Being able to empathize with others, understand their views and opinions, and provide necessary assistance.

What kind of research should I do to write a personal statement for Criminology?

  • Review the Course Overview and Requirements: Research the topics that will be covered in the course, such as criminal law, criminal justice, criminology theories, and research methods.
  • Identify Your Interests: Think about why you are interested in Criminology and what experiences or skills you can bring to the course. Consider your past experiences, such as volunteering in a criminal justice organization or working in a related field, and any research or writing you have done on criminology topics.
  • Collect Evidence: Collect evidence to support your personal statement. This could include academic qualifications, recommendations, and any other evidence that shows your commitment to the field of Criminology.
  • Brainstorm and Outline: Create an outline of your personal statement. Brainstorm ideas and develop a strong thesis statement that outlines why you would be a good fit for the course and why you are passionate about Criminology.
  • Write and Edit: Once you have outlined your personal statement, it’s time to write and edit. Make sure to review your statement for grammar, spelling, and clarity and get feedback.

What should a Criminology personal statement include?

A Criminology personal statement should include information about the applicant’s interest in and knowledge of the field of Criminology, as well as their skills, experiences, and achievements in relation to the subject. It should also include their future ambitions and plans for contributing to society through their study of Criminology. Additionally, applicants should demonstrate their ability to research, their ability to work with others, and their readiness for the degree course.

In order to make their personal statement unique, applicants should start the essay with a personal experience, carefully curate the most relevant points, use storytelling instead of making formal statements, use simple language, and personalize the essay.

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  • How to Write a Personal Statement for Criminology: With Helpful Examp

criminology personal statement intro

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Criminology Personal Statement Examples

  • 1 Personal Statement Example Links
  • 2 Career Opportunities
  • 3 UK Admission Requirements
  • 4 UK Earnings Potential For Criminologists
  • 5 Similar Courses in UK
  • 6 UK Curriculum
  • 7 Alumni Network

Personal Statement Example Links

  • Personal Statement Example 1
  • Personal Statement Example 2
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  • Personal Statement Example 4
  • Personal Statement Example 5

Are you considering a career in criminology? Writing a personal statement for a criminology course can be a daunting task. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of personal statement examples and a course overview.

Criminology is a field of study that examines the causes of crime and the way society responds to it. It is an interdisciplinary field that draws on sociology, psychology, law, and other social sciences to understand why people commit crimes and how to prevent them.

A criminology course typically covers topics such as criminal law, criminal justice, criminology theories, and research methods. Students learn about the history and development of criminology, the different types of crime, and the impact of crime on society. They also explore the various approaches to crime prevention and criminal justice.

When writing a personal statement for a criminology course, it is important to demonstrate your interest in the field and your commitment to learning. You should also explain why you are a good fit for the course. For example, you could mention your past experiences, such as volunteering in a criminal justice organization or working in a related field. You could also highlight any research or writing you have done on criminology topics.

Finally, you should explain why you are passionate about criminology and why you want to pursue a career in the field. Most importantly, show some personality and eagerness of getting a criminology course.

Career Opportunities

A degree in criminology can open the door to a wide range of career opportunities. Graduates can pursue careers in law enforcement, corrections, social work, criminal justice research, and victim advocacy.

Law Enforcement: Graduates with a degree in criminology can pursue a career in law enforcement. This could include a career as a police officer, detective, or federal agent.

Corrections: Graduates can pursue a career in corrections, such as a probation officer or correctional officer.

Social Work: Graduates can pursue a career in social work, such as a case manager or community outreach worker.

Criminal Justice Research: Graduates can pursue a career in criminal justice research, such as a crime analyst or research assistant.

Victim Advocacy: Graduates can pursue a career in victim advocacy, such as a victim advocate or crisis counselor.

Other Industries and Sectors: Graduates can also pursue careers in other industries and sectors, such as private security, homeland security, and private investigation.

Overall, a degree in criminology can open the door to a wide range of career opportunities in law enforcement, corrections, social work, criminal justice research, and victim advocacy. Graduates can also pursue careers in other industries and sectors, such as private security, homeland security, and private investigation.

UK Admission Requirements

In order to be accepted into a criminology course at a UK university, applicants must generally have achieved a minimum of a 2:1 in their undergraduate degree. This is the same as most other courses in the social sciences, and is the same entry criteria for many other courses in the UK.

In addition to the academic requirements, applicants may also be asked to submit a personal statement and may be required to attend an admissions interview. This is to ensure that applicants have the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful in the course.

In terms of prerequisites, applicants may be asked to demonstrate knowledge of certain topics such as psychology, sociology, and law. This is to ensure that applicants have a basic understanding of the subject matter before they begin the course.

Finally, some courses may require applicants to have specific work experience or to have completed certain courses before they can be accepted. This is to ensure that applicants have the necessary background knowledge and experience to be successful in the course.

UK Earnings Potential For Criminologists

The average earnings for someone with a degree in criminology can vary greatly depending on the job they obtain and the level of experience they have. According to the National Careers Service, the median salary for a probation officer in the UK is £23,000 to £29,000 per year. Other roles such as police officers, forensic scientists, and prison officers have salaries ranging from £20,000 to £40,000 per year.

In terms of trends in the job market, the demand for criminology professionals is expected to increase in the coming years due to an aging population and the need for more crime prevention initiatives. Additionally, technology is playing an increasingly important role in crime investigation and prevention, leading to an increased demand for professionals with knowledge of the field.

Overall, the average earnings for someone with a degree in criminology can range from £20,000 to £40,000 per year, depending on the job they obtain and the level of experience they have.

Similar Courses in UK

Other university courses related to Criminology include Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, and Law.

Forensic Science is the application of scientific methods to the investigation of crime. It involves the collection, analysis, and interpretation of evidence to help solve crimes. It is a highly specialized field that requires a deep understanding of chemistry, biology, and other sciences. The key difference between Forensic Science and Criminology is that Forensic Science focuses on the scientific aspects of crime, while Criminology focuses on the social aspects.

Criminal Justice is the study of the criminal justice system, including the roles of law enforcement, courts, and corrections. It examines the causes of crime, the impact of criminal behavior, and the effectiveness of criminal justice policies. The key difference between Criminal Justice and Criminology is that Criminal Justice focuses on the legal aspects of crime, while Criminology focuses on the social aspects.

Law is the study of legal systems , including the interpretation and application of laws. It examines the structure of the legal system, the principles of legal reasoning, and the impact of legal decisions. The key difference between Law and Criminology is that Law focuses on the legal aspects of crime, while Criminology focuses on the social aspects.

UK Curriculum

The key topics and modules covered in a Criminology course will vary depending on the university and the course structure. Generally, the course will cover a range of topics related to crime, criminal justice, and the criminal justice system. These topics may include:

  • Crime and Society: This module will explore the relationship between crime, society, and culture. It will examine the causes of crime, the impact of crime on individuals and communities, and the different responses to crime.
  • Criminological Theory: This module will explore the theories of crime and criminal behaviour. It will examine the different theories of crime causation and the implications of these theories for criminal justice policy and practice.
  • Criminal Law: This module will explore the legal framework governing crime and criminal justice. It will examine the different types of offences, the elements of a criminal offence, and the defences available to an accused.
  • Criminal Justice Process: This module will explore the criminal justice system, from the investigation of a crime to the sentencing of an offender. It will examine the roles of the police, prosecutors, defence lawyers, and judges in the criminal justice process.
  • Research Methods: This module will explore the research methods used in criminology. It will examine different types of research designs, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques.

In addition to these core modules, some Criminology courses may also include modules on topics such as policing, corrections, and crime prevention.

Alumni Network

One notable alumni from the course of Criminology is Dr. Roberta Iversen. Dr. Iversen is a professor of criminology and criminal justice at the University of South Carolina. She is a leading expert in the field of criminal justice and has authored numerous books, articles, and reports on the topic. She has also been a consultant for the United Nations, the World Bank, and the US Department of Justice.

Dr. Iversen is an active member of the criminology and criminal justice community, regularly speaking at conferences and workshops. She is also a member of the American Society of Criminology and the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences. She is currently working on a project to develop a global database of criminal justice research and data.

Alumni events and networking opportunities are available through the University of South Carolina’s Alumni Association. These events include lectures, workshops, and networking events with other alumni, faculty, and staff. Additionally, the Alumni Association offers a variety of online resources, such as job postings, professional development opportunities, and mentoring programs.

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Criminology Personal Statement Example

Writing a Criminology personal statement and don’t know how to start? You can use our Criminology personal statement example as an inspiration and guide to perfect your own when applying through UCAS .

In my experience, I have always been able to tell when people are lying and find out the truth. Reading about forensic psychologists in prisons and discovering Criminology, I became convinced that my talents could be best utilized as a Forensic Psychologist within the criminal justice system.

In order to fulfill my ambition and become a prison service psychologist, I intend to study Criminology at the Masters’s level. Besides History and German, I also studied Film and Sociology at A-Level. The linguistic skills I acquired at school will be valuable when I discuss psychological issues with prisoners. Due to its proximity to Criminology, Sociology was my favourite subject. Throughout the course, I learned about societal attitudes toward criminals and punishment methods that I can apply to my degree.

Throughout my studies, I have held a variety of jobs. As a waitress at a very popular restaurant venue, I developed excellent teamwork skills and learned how to keep a level head under pressure. With three jobs and my studies, I have managed to juggle my time at London South Bank. Over the course of nearly two years, I worked at the O2 centre as a customer service representative.

Additionally, I used my German language skills as a German Market Researcher for MPeurope, conducting numerous telephone interviews with consumers each day to meet research goals. I learned how to convey complex information in a clear and confident manner, a skill that will be useful when I present and give seminars about the degree.

It has required exceptional time management and organizational skills to juggle three jobs and study. Many events at school were organized by me as a result of my teachers recognizing my organizational skills early on. As a student, I enjoyed playing competitive basketball at school, and I hope to join the university’s female basketball team.

To improve my knowledge of Criminology outside of school and the workplace, I enjoy reading books on the subject. Having read the Oxford Handbook of Criminology religiously, I became convinced that I wanted to work in prisons after reading the chapters prisons. Roger Matthews’ book Doing Time, an Introduction to the Sociology of Imprisonment, and Michel Foucault’s Discipline and Punish have taught me about changing attitudes toward punishment in Europe over the past three centuries.

Travelling with friends to new places and learning about new cultures is also one of my favourite things to do. I know how enriching it is to be part of a multicultural environment. On the course, I hope to befriend people of many different backgrounds and organise trips abroad with them.

For, I feel duty-bound to take advantage of every opportunity university life will offer me since I am the first member of my family to go to university and have chances that were not available to my parents. I feel ready and prepared to complete my studies and start my career as a psychologist within the prison service.

Criminology Personal Statement

A criminology personal statement is a part of your UCAS application and is sent to all of the criminology courses you are applying to. The goal is to convince the admission staff that you are the perfect candidate to study Criminology, and it should be very personal. Write about your interests, college, your apprenticeship, your motivations, and the reason you want to study Criminology at university.

Recommended reading:

  • How to Write a Personal Statement That Stands Out
  • How to Write a Personal Statement for a PhD
  • UCAS Personal Statement: A Writing Guide And Tips For Success
  • Tips for Writing a Personal Statement for the University
  • UCAS Reference Letter: Ultimate Writing Guide

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Home › University › How To Write A Personal Statement? 10 Tips + Student Questions Answered › How To Start A Personal Statement: Tips & Examples

How To Start A Personal Statement: Tips & Examples

  • Published January 20, 2023

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Table of Contents

We’re regularly asked the question “ how to start a personal statement ”? It’s a challenging task for anybody but worry not as we’re here to help guide you through the process. 

The introduction is the first thing the admissions committee will read. That’s why the first sentence of a personal statement should be a catchy, attention-grabbing hook or story that grabs the reader’s attention and sets up the main point of your essay.

A lacklustre introduction may lose your readers’ interest, preventing them from reading the rest of your personal statement!

But don’t worry, this article will guide you on writing a personal statement introduction, a few examples of opening sentences and how to captivate the admissions tutors. Without further ado, let’s get started.

Top Tip: Leave Your Introduction For Last

You know what they say, the hardest thing to do is  start . So skip the introduction for now and focus on the main body of your personal statement. If you’re not sure what your main content should be, read out how to write a personal statement guide.

After nailing down the main points, you’ll have a concrete idea of how your introduction can captivate the reader and stay relevant to the bulk of the writing. Go ahead and work on the rest of your personal statement.

Come back when you’re finished! And if you’re worried about your conclusion then check out our advice on  personal statement conclusions .

2. Cut To The Chase

You only have  4,000 characters  to sell yourself as an ideal student candidate. Make each character and paragraph count! That means forget about flowery words and directionless statements. When you start your personal statement, explain your motivations for choosing your course in one or two sentences.

Although you will discuss this in-depth in the main body of content, capturing your reader’s attention with a quick overview of why you’re enthusiastic about your chosen course is crucial. That’s why capturing the reader’s attention by jumping straight to the point is key to starting a personal statement.

how to write a personal statement introductions

3. Be Specific

Never give vague details when expressing why you want to pursue your course. “I always wanted to be an engineer since I was a kid,” or “I want to become a doctor because I enjoy science” isn’t advised. 

On that note, if you’re applying to medicine refer to our guide on  how to write a medical personal statement . We suggest being more specific than that, and you can include your academic achievements too. Here are a few suggestions that may help you:

  • You witnessed an inspirational figure in your life solve a massive problem with a specific skill set (doctor, engineer, etc.)
  • While you were at a charity event, you encountered a problem that kept people in deprivation. By pursuing this course, you’re a part of the solution.
  • You’re good at, and you enjoy a specific skill set. The course you’re eyeing puts great emphasis on this particular skill.
  • There was a moment in your life when you succeeded in solving a problem. You felt significant by doing so, and you want to keep doing that for the rest of your life (teaching poor children how to read)
  • You watched a movie or read a book that ignited your passion for the course. After doing volunteer work or part-time employment related to your course, you’re determined to pursue it.

Craft a sentence or two that encapsulates the core of your “why.” Do this, and your reader will want to read more!

4. Demonstrate Knowledge In Your Chosen Course

An essential element of starting a personal statement is to express why you’re enthusiastic about taking your chosen course. You need to demonstrate that you’re aware of what you’re getting yourself into in the process. Answer any of these prompt questions for inspiration:

  • What do you find interesting about the course?
  • How do you believe the course will help you achieve your goals?
  • How will you use your chosen course to contribute to society?
  • What hurdles do you expect to encounter, and how will you handle them?

Decide which of these questions fits best into the main content of your  personal statement . Write your answer in a sentence or two, weave them into your application essay and think about the help you received from your tutors in the past.

5. Ditch The “Since I Was A Child” Line

We’re often asked  what not to put in a personal statement  and “Since I was a child” is a cliche statement that gets thrown around haphazardly. How many students have said this at least once in their personal statements?

Recalling your childhood passions is a weak “why” for pursuing your course. Why? Because the admissions committee is looking for a relevant and up-to-date reason.

When you were little, you had zero knowledge and little enthusiasm to become successful in your field. You had no idea what skillsets you needed or what other options were available to you.

But if you were to cite a recent event in your life that supports your determination to pursue your course, that screams “educated choice” right there. And  that  is what the admission committee is looking for after reading hundreds, if not thousands of introductions.

6. Brainstorm Several Versions Of Your Opening Lines

The desire to get it right the first time paralyses you from starting. So permit yourself to write freely. Write as many versions of your opening lines as possible.

Don’t worry about the grammar, spelling, or character count just yet. Type everything that goes off the top of your head. When you’re done, take a look at your list.

Cross out the ones you dislike, and encircle the ones you think have potential. Then start piecing the puzzle pieces together to check out if the intro lines fit with the rest of your personal statement. 

If you’ve found three potential opening statements, try reading them aloud together with the rest of your personal statement. Do they flow seamlessly into one another? Make the necessary adjustments. Play around with it until you feel you’ve hit the spot.

7. Make Your Opening Statement Error Free

Your opening statement is your hook line. Spelling or grammatical errors at the start discourage your reader from reading further. If you have errors at the beginning, you’ll most likely have them in your main content!

So make sure your English is simple, flawless, and straightforward. Run your personal statement through a tool like Grammarly to weed out most of the errors.

The Hemingway app is also a helpful tool for checking for passive voice and other writing problems. Take advantage of writing assistant tools, especially if you’re a non-native English writer.

8. Read Examples Of Personal Statements

Read as many personal statement examples as you can. Any that captivated you, keep them in your notes. Figure out  why  these statements stood out to you compared to the others. What elements can you place in  your  personal statement?

When reading personal statements that put you off, find out why. What characteristics do they have that elicit a negative reaction from you? List them down, and make sure you avoid them.

After this exercise, you should have a few more ideas about your personal statement introduction.

9. Ask For Feedback

Never underestimate what feedback can give you. Ask your family, friends, and acquaintances about your opening statement. Does your personality shine through? Is it straight to the point? Does it flow smoothly with the main content of your personal statement?

Listen to what they have to say. Jot down important points. You’ll need their feedback to get a second opinion on whether it works for you or not.

10. Give Yourself Time

Your chosen career depends on your college education. And a first crucial step is to convince the admission committee you’re worth accepting into your university. You have to give your personal statement your best shot. Give yourself enough time to brainstorm and think everything over.

You can’t finish a complete,  well-written personal statement  in a week. Much less overnight!

So make sure you set aside enough time to put your best foot forward. After finishing a complete draft of your personal statement, put it down. Forget about it for a few days. Then come back and reread it.

With a fresh set of eyes, you’ll notice details you may not have seen before! Revise as much as you need.

Do I Need To Write An Introduction For A Personal Statement?

Yes, we recommend writing an introduction for your personal statement as it provides context to the rest of your writing. The introduction is an opportunity to make a good first impression and capture the university admissions officer’s attention.

What is a good opening sentence for a personal statement?

Here are some examples of a good opening sentence for a captivating introduction. Note how it ties into the university degree almost straight away with first-hand experience:

  • “Growing up in a small town with limited resources sparked my curiosity and drive to pursue higher education and make a positive impact in my community.”
  • “From a young age, I have been fascinated by the intricacies of the human mind and the power of psychology to improve people’s lives.”
  • “As a first-generation college student, I am determined to break barriers and pave the way for future generations through a career in law.”
  • “My passion for sustainable design was ignited by a volunteer trip to a developing country, where I witnessed the devastating effects of environmental degradation firsthand.”
  • “A chance encounter with a blind person and their guide dog inspired me to pursue a career in veterinary medicine, with the goal of improving the lives of animals and their human companions.”

Please do NOT use these in your personal statements, use these to guide you on how you want to start your personal statement.

Can You Open Your Personal Statement With A Quote?

It is a risky move to open your personal statement with a quote and can come across as clichéd or insincere to the university admission officers. However, there are rare occasions when it can work, just make sure the quote relates to your degree and experience you’re writing about.

Get Ready To Write Your Personal Statement

How does one start a captivating personal statement? Take the time to think about what makes an effective introduction.

Read examples of personal statements from other students to glean ideas for how yours might stand out. Once you have read through some good ones, they should be more than just two or three!–look closely at what elements made them so successful. 

Then try applying those same principles on how to start a personal statement! Don’t forget to bookmark this post for future reference.

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Criminology and the Criminal Justice System Certificate

The criminology & criminal justice system certificate program.

The Criminology and Criminal Justice System Certificate at UMass Amherst explores the sociological theories of crime, law, and the criminal justice system.  It equips students to analyze and critique criminal justice structures and processes from a social science perspective.  Central topics explored in these courses include criminological theory, sociology of law, deviance and conformity, access to justice, inequality, mass incarceration, and more.  Students who pursue the Criminology and the Criminal Justice System certificate often go on to pursue graduate school of law school, or go into a variety of careers, including as prosecutors or defense attorneys, social justice activists, educators, probation or parole officers, consultants, policy analysts, or law enforcement officers.

*This is not a law enforcement program, and completing the Criminology and Criminal Justice System Certificate  does not provide educational incentives for regular full-time officers in participating cities and towns through salary increases through the Quinn Bill (Police Career Incentive Pay Program).

The Criminology and Criminal Justice System Certificate requirements include 5 courses, including SOC 241: Criminology; one of three core courses, and three elective courses, one of which may be taken outside of the department if desired.

Certificate Requirements

Required course:.

SOCIOL 241 Criminology 

Choose one course from the following:

SOCIOL 248 Conformity and Deviance SOCIOL 323 Sociology of Law SOCIOL 342 Deviance & Social Order

Choose three upper-level (200+) Sociology / CJ electives:

(Courses offered vary by semester; some are offered only online through CPE.)

SOCIOL 218 The Law, Logic, and Social Science of Courtroom Evidence SOCIOL 242 Drugs & Society SOCIOL 252 Introduction to Human Rights SOCIOL 248 Conformity and Deviance SOCIOL 323 Sociology of Law SOCIOL 340 Probation & Parole SOCIOL 342 Deviance & Social Order SOCIOL 343 Hate Crime in America SOCIOL 344 Gender and Crime SOCIOL 345 Juvenile Delinquency (online only) SOCIOL 346 Communities Crime SOCIOL 347 Corporate Crime SOCIOL 348 Mass Incarceration in the USA SOCIOL 349 Race, Class & Crime SOCIOL 350 Policing and Surveillance SOCIOL 374 Gender, Crime & Family (online only) SOCIOL 391M Serial Mass Murder (online) SOCIOL 392J Race & Policing SOCIOL 394F Crime & Forensics (online) SOCIOL 394S White Collar Crime (online) SOCIOL 395AP American Police (online) SOCIOL 395K Domestic Violence SOCIOL 497S Surveillance and Society

One course from a department outside of Sociology may be used toward the certificate. Some of the available options are listed below.

Other courses may be approved on a case by case basis by the Director of Undergraduate Advising.

ANTHRO 215 Forensics: Myth and Reality CMPSCI 391LI Computer Crime Law EDUC 297A School-to-Prison Pipeline HISTORY 397RL Special Topics: Rape Law: Gender, Race, (In)justice HONORS 322H Criminal Law and Justice in the U.S. JOURNAL 290J: Journalism in Jail LEGAL 250 Intro to Legal Studies LEGAL 333 Law & Culture in America LEGAL 360 Civil Liberties in Wartime LEGAL 397K Seminar: Human Trafficking LEGAL 397RE Law & Politics of Race and Ethnicity in the U.S. LEGAL 472 Race, Gender, and the Law LEGAL S390P/SPP S390P Politics and Policy in the American Police State POLSCI 162 Intro to Constitutional Law POLSCI 163 Intro to Civil Liberties POLSCI 297GL/LEGAL 297R Gender, Law & Politics POLSCI 360 Constitutional Law PSYCH 297F or 321 Forensic Psychology PSYCH 355 Adolescent Psychology PSYCH 380 Abnormal Psychology PSYCH395F Forensic Psychology and Disability (online) WGSS 340 Critical Prison Studies

Students are strongly encouraged to pursue a criminology or criminal justice-based internship or practicum in order to apply the skills they will develop in their coursework. Practica credits do not count toward total certificate credits/requirements.

Multiple Credentials Policy

No more than two courses used to fulfill the requirements of any one credential may be applied towards the fulfillment of another credential, wherein “credential” is defined as an academic degree program (major), minor, or certificate. One course may only be applied to two credentials. For more information, view the Multiple Credentials Policy .

Completing Your Certificate

Once you have enrolled in the final class for your certificate, please fill out the  Certificate Completion Form  and submit an unofficial transcript. Forms may be submitted via e-mail to @email .

Note:  To receive the Certificate in Criminology and the Criminal Justice System, a minimum 2.0 GPA must be maintained  across  courses applied to certificate requirements.

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PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE Law with Criminology Personal Statement

Submitted by Christine

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Law with Criminology Personal Statement

Learning about the intricacies of the legal system intrigues me, as its absence would result in the breakdown of society. In addition, I want to understand the complexity of human behaviour. Everyone acts in a different manner and this makes humans unique. Being able to appreciate this and use this empathy to form an argument is essential in being able to sway someone into seeing your perspective. As a psychology student, the topic of criminology is an area I am especially curious about. I am fascinated by the different perspectives surrounding why people commit the crimes they do, particularly the nature-nurture debate. I have enjoyed the debate on the influence of genetic versus environmental factors in the development of criminality.

My Psychology A Level requires me to be analytical and to be able to engage with different points of views. It has developed my thinking skills and made me realise that data must be looked at thoroughly in order to form a strong argument. English Literature requires me to take into account other people's interpretation of texts. This, in turn, allows me to explore other aspects I have not considered before. The practise of presenting to a group in English Literature has improved my communication skills. I have had to confidently discuss concepts such as the presentation of Othello, challenging the audience to see beyond Shakespeare's use of literary device, such as foil. Patience is needed when working out the solution to a problem. At times Maths can be very challenging, but this has enabled me to step out of my comfort zone. I am confident in asking for help and acting upon advice. This will be important when I continue my studies as it is vital to be able to develop an array of strategies to resolve issues and ensure I reach my potential.

Completing a MOOC in Corporate Lawyers and Ethics in Society has developed my thoroughness during work. For instance, when making a decision, one must consider minor and major factors that would impact the end result. The most interesting part of this course was what it taught me on the morality of lawyers. Day-to-day they are constantly faced with issues that impact their own consciences. This enlightened me as to how tough law is and that there is never a right answer. Completing this course alongside my A Levels has also developed my time management skills.

Once a week, I travel to Eastbourne for my Chinese lessons so that I am able to communicate with my family members in China, Malaysia, Singapore as well as the United Kingdom. Being able to speak three languages enables me to have more connections with people when I travel back to Asia. I have often found myself having to translate for others that have a language barrier and are unable to say the things that they want; my translating for them allows them to say and understand what the thoughts are of the other person.

For the past five years, I have helped in my parents' take-away shop, often running it myself, which has taught me the importance of responsibility. I have to make sure customers are happy through reading their facial expressions and body language and deal with difficult customers in order to play my part in a team. There are often conflicts that come up which need to be resolved in a calm and quick manner. I have adapted quick thinking skills to resolve such problems so that both parties are happy. In my free time I like to read. The Lost Soul by Rosie Goodwin fuelled my love for law, but also opened my eyes to all the different areas in law. This book has given me an insight of how many illegal activities go unnoticed and how children are vulnerable to exploitation. This made me aware of how corrupt society may be and how its untrue presentation needs to be challenged. Studying Law with Criminology would allow me to widen my education and I would love to learn more about how our society is built up from these rules that hold everyone together.

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Sociology with criminology personal statement example.

Society plays a vital part in our lives, providing the norms and values we follow throughout our daily routine. Sociology helps us understand the aspects of society from the seemingly insignificant to those of greatest importance. I am fascinated by topics such as crime, culture, education, and government policy; therefore, sociology became an essential part of my life, enticing me to study it further.

Alongside sociology, criminology captured my particular attention, with its in-depth focus on criminality and the criminal justice process. The summer 2011 riots increased my interest in the subject as the country constantly debated the causes and consequences of such delinquent behaviour. As a result I have decided to combine my two interests and pursue a degree in Sociology and Criminology at university.

Studying A-level Sociology has allowed me to be critical and objective about how I perceive the world surrounding me. Key perspectives such as Marxism captivated me in the way it distinguishes the class division between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat; how it explores the influence of capitalist ideology within the institutions of society. What interests me about studying this subject is that the perspectives always challenge each other, influencing my ideologies, allowing me to learn the differences and find my place in these on-going debates.

The forensic psychology unit of my A-level psychology has attracted me in the ways researchers explore crime, and provide possible reasons for engaging in criminal behaviour. I find the study by Wikstrom & Tafel very thought-provoking, as it focuses on the social influence in delinquent behaviour such as poverty, and living in a disadvantaged neighbourhood. It helped me discover some features of the origins of criminal behaviours.

I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the research methods used in psychology, sociology and geography. Knowledge of the different methods enabled me to understand their use and suitability in different settings. Throughout my Geography A-level, I found that human geography in many ways relates to sociology. The unit on rebranding places interested me the most. Conducting surveys and interviews with the developers of Kings Cross Central, and Kings Cross police force, enabled me to gain an insight into the main reasons behind rebranding, and evaluate the levels of criminality within the area.

Throughout my secondary school and in my sixth form I have volunteered for numerous events including open days, parents evenings and enrolment day. These have improved my communication skills, enabling me to communicate with people of all ages and backgrounds, also allowing me to use my bilingual skills in a productive way. I have undertaken various responsibilities as the chairperson of Amnesty International at my sixth form, a member of the school council executive and a form representative. I believe these experiences have helped increase my confidence, leadership skills, group work and time management.

My work experience as a reception assistant at a primary school and, as receptionist at an education resource centre taught me the importance of interpersonal skills, teamwork and also increased my awareness of self-reliance. As a checkout assistant I come across different customers every day and have experienced dealing with difficult situations in a professional manner.

In my spare time I enjoy swimming, reading novels and graphic designing using various software such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. I also have a passion for surreal art and photography. I won a photography competition recently with Thomson Reuters, where many students from schools across different boroughs participated.

I am a reliable and committed student who is passionate about sociology and criminology. I feel that university will deliver the vast knowledge and understanding of these subjects that I crave, providing me with opportunities to pursue a rewarding future career.

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You've given me real.

Wed, 20/11/2013 - 01:30

You've given me real inspiration for my personal statement, there's not much else around apart from yours!

Thanks so much :)

where can I find Wikstrom &

Sat, 30/08/2014 - 19:56

where can I find Wikstrom & Tafel study?

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  1. Crimonology Personal Statement Examples

    Criminology Personal Statement Example 10. I have always been interested in the human mind. I have always wanted to know how it works, what triggers a certain behaviour, how people think and why do they do the things they do. What always struck me most about the human mind, was its complexity...

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    Example 1: entry-level criminology personal statement. Here's an example of a personal statement for someone who's applying for an undergraduate degree in criminology: I'm a highly motivated student seeking entrance to Rose and Thorn University's Undergraduate Degree in Criminology. I was a model student in secondary school.

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    Browse our range of Criminology personal statement examples. Gain inspiration & make sure you're on the right track when writing your own personal statement. Order Prospectus

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    A Criminology personal statement should include information about the applicant's interest in and knowledge of the field of Criminology, as well as their skills, experiences, and achievements in relation to the subject. It should also include their future ambitions and plans for contributing to society through their study of Criminology.

  5. Criminology Personal Statement Examples

    Writing a personal statement for a criminology course can be a daunting task. To help you get started, we've compiled a list of personal statement examples and a course overview. Criminology is a field of study that examines the causes of crime and the way society responds to it. It is an interdisciplinary field that draws on sociology ...

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    This is a real personal statement written by a student for their university application. It might help you decide what to include in your own. There are lots more examples in our collection of sample personal statements. I wish to study Criminology because I intend to make my career in the Prison Service. When I leave university, I will apply ...

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    A criminology personal statement is a part of your UCAS application and is sent to all of the criminology courses you are applying to. The goal is to convince the admission staff that you are the perfect candidate to study Criminology, and it should be very personal. Write about your interests, college, your apprenticeship, your motivations ...

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    This personal statement is unrated. Much of what we see in the media today is about crime, whether it's reports of terrorism in the news or on TV shows which are about catching criminals, either way, we hear about it every day. I've always had a fascination about how crimes are solved and investigated; I've been watching documentaries on ...

  9. Criminology Personal Statement Example 12

    Criminology Personal Statement Example 12. Criminology, as an increasingly popular topic, began to interest me throughout high school during my studies in history. How crimes were perceived and treated in the past, predominantly during the Elizabethan era, truly grasped my interest. I started to question the thought processes behind people ...

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    Passion. I want to see an interest in and passion for Criminology that is gained from real life, not just fictional television programmes. Tell me why you want to study Criminology, what you hope to be doing in the future and especially why you want to come to USW to study it.

  11. How to Write a Personal Statement for a Criminology Degree

    Many schools that offer a criminology degree, either a Bachelor's or a Master's degree, will require you to submit a personal statement with your application materials. Your personal statement is an opportunity to explain what led you to this career path and how the program will help you achieve ...

  12. Criminology and Criminal Justice Personal Statement

    Find the ideal university course for you in minutes by taking our degree matchmaker quiz today. Take Quick Quiz Take Full Quiz. Inspire your Criminology and Criminal Justice personal statement with our UCAS examples and learn from previous students who have already applied to university.

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  14. Criminology Personal Statement

    This example Criminology Personal Statement can be used as a guide to help write your personal statement to apply to university. Have a look for further examples on this site. ... Personal Statement Service. The Old Dairy 12 Stephen Road Headington, Oxford, OX3 9AY United Kingdom. VAT Number 425 5446 95. 24/7 0800 334 5952

  15. Criminology Personal Statement

    Criminology Personal Statement. Submitted by Laura. I believe that a career in criminology will be challenging, interesting but also rewarding. I am studying A-Level PE, English Literature and Modern History. Although none of these directly relate to criminology, I am very enthusiastic about trying something completely new that interests me a lot.

  16. Criminology & Criminal Justice Personal Statement Example

    I am fully committed to studying Criminology at degree level. I consider myself an outgoing, cheerful, industrious, intelligent and friendly person who has much to contribute to the wider life of the university, and would relish at the opportunity to continue my academic studies at the highest possible level. This personal statement was written ...

  17. Criminology Personal Statement: A Guide to Success

    Criminology Personal Statement: A Guide to Success ... Enquire Now

  18. How To Start A Personal Statement: Tips & Examples

    Decide which of these questions fits best into the main content of your personal statement. Write your answer in a sentence or two, weave them into your application essay and think about the help you received from your tutors in the past. 5. Ditch The "Since I Was A Child" Line.

  19. Criminology Personal Statement Example 16

    Criminology Personal Statement Example 16. I am interested in studying Criminology at university for the purpose of gaining a wider understanding of the causes and consequences of crime and delving deeper into the effects crime has on society. The way the human mind operates is something I find very intriguing, especially in terms of criminals.

  20. Criminology and Forensics Personal Statement

    Criminology and Forensics Studies Personal Statement. Lewis F. Korns simply stated, 'Crime is as much a condition as an intention'. This quote resonates with me as everyone is influenced by oversimplified perspectives of crime. The complexity of crime and the criminals who commit them is what draws me to Criminology.

  21. Criminology and the Criminal Justice System Certificate

    The Criminology and Criminal Justice System Certificate requirements include 5 courses, including SOC 241: Criminology; one of three core courses, and three elective courses, one of which may be taken outside of the department if desired. Certificate Requirements Required course: SOCIOL 241 Criminology . Choose one course from the following:

  22. Criminology Personal Statement Example 15

    Criminology Personal Statement Example 15. The study of criminology appeals to me as it allows opportunities to gain a deeper insight into the origins and societal factors affecting why a person would execute a crime. One area in particular that fascinates me is the motives of a person, and what pursues someone to commit a crime.

  23. Law with Criminology Personal Statement

    Law with Criminology Personal Statement. Learning about the intricacies of the legal system intrigues me, as its absence would result in the breakdown of society. In addition, I want to understand the complexity of human behaviour. Everyone acts in a different manner and this makes humans unique. Being able to appreciate this and use this ...

  24. Sociology with Criminology Personal Statement Example

    This personal statement is unrated. Society plays a vital part in our lives, providing the norms and values we follow throughout our daily routine. Sociology helps us understand the aspects of society from the seemingly insignificant to those of greatest importance. I am fascinated by topics such as crime, culture, education, and government ...