CSS202

BSc (Hons) Criminology & Security Studies

Analyze Threats, Forge Solutions. Become a Leader in National Security and Justice.

4 Years
Full-time
Hands-on Learning

Next Start Dates

October 2025
Apply Now

Program Gallery

Southern Atlanctic University
Digital Forensics Lab

Program Overview

This interdisciplinary program fuses classical criminological theory with modern security challenges. You will explore the root causes of crime, the workings of the criminal justice system, and the complex landscape of national and cyber security. Graduates are equipped to analyze risks, develop policy, and implement strategies to create a safer society.

Why This Program?

  • Gain hands-on experience with digital forensics tools and security simulation software in our state-of-the-art Security Operations Lab.
  • Participate in exclusive field visits to institutions like the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), INTERPOL, and leading private security firms.
  • Learn from a faculty comprising seasoned criminologists, former intelligence officers, and cybersecurity experts.
  • Option to specialize in high-demand tracks: Cyber Criminology or Strategic Security Management.

Real-World Importance

In an era of evolving cybercrime, transnational terrorism, and complex social unrest, experts in criminology and security are essential.

They work at the front lines, from profiling criminal behavior and rehabilitating offenders to protecting critical national infrastructure and corporate assets from digital and physical threats.

This field is dedicated to understanding the 'why' behind crime and the 'how' behind preventing it, making our communities and nation more resilient..

Curriculum Overview

Program Structure

75%
Core Courses
15%
Electives
10%
Practical Experience

Key Topics

Theories of Crime and Social Deviance
Criminal Law & Judicial Process
National Security & Intelligence Analysis
Cybercrime & Digital Forensics
Terrorism & Counter-Terrorism Strategies
Victimology & Restorative Justice

Course Outline

Year 1: Foundations of Crime and Society

Year 2: The Criminal Justice System

Year 3: Advanced Security Challenges

Year 4: Capstone & Specialization

Career Opportunities

Intelligence Analyst

Potential Sectors:

DSSNIAEFCCPolice ForcePrivate Security Firms

Cyber Security Specialist

Potential Sectors:

BankingTech CompaniesGovernment AgenciesConsulting

Policy Advisor

Potential Sectors:

Ministry of JusticeNational AssemblyNGOs (e.g., UNODC)Think Tanks

Corrections Officer / Prison Administrator

Potential Sectors:

Nigerian Correctional ServiceState Governments

Security Consultant

Potential Sectors:

Multinational CorporationsOil & GasAviationMaritime

Learning Outcomes

Critically evaluate major criminological theories and apply them to analyze contemporary crime patterns.
Design and conduct ethical research on crime, security trends, and the efficacy of justice policies.
Perform basic digital forensic analysis and assess vulnerabilities in security systems.
Develop strategic security risk assessments and policy recommendations for public and private organizations.
Articulate complex security issues effectively to diverse audiences, from community groups to executive boards.

Admission Requirements

UTME Requirements

O'Level Requirements

  • English Language
  • Mathematics
  • Government or History
  • Economics
  • Any other relevant subject (e.g., Biology, Commerce, Literature-in-English)

Five (5) O'Level credit passes at not more than two sittings. Government or History is specifically required. Private universities may accept one sitting.

JAMB Subjects

  • English Language (Compulsory)
  • Government
  • Economics
  • Any other Social Science or Science subject

JAMB Score Requirements

Minimum Score

150

Competitive Score

180

JAMB cut-off for Criminology and Security Studies is typically moderate.

Direct Entry Requirements

Other Requirements

Grading System

Our Successful Alumni

Chioma Adeyemi

Chioma Adeyemi

Head of Cyber Intelligence, EFCC

Class of 2016

"The program's focus on both theory and practical tech skills allowed me to seamlessly transition into a role combating financial cybercrime. The network I built at SAU is unparalleled."

Did You Know?

Modern criminology is deeply intertwined with psychology, sociology, and even data science, making it a truly interdisciplinary field.
The global cybersecurity market is expected to exceed $500 billion by 2030, creating a massive demand for experts who understand the criminal mind behind cyber attacks.
Predictive policing, using data analytics to forecast crime hotspots, is a rapidly growing application of criminological research.

Meet Your Department Head

Dr. Abiodun Falaye

Dr. Abiodun Falaye

Professor of Security Studies & Former National Security Advisor

Welcome to the nerve center for future security leaders. At Southern Atlantic, we move beyond the textbook to tackle the real-world security dilemmas facing Nigeria and the world. Your journey to safeguarding the future starts here.

Dr. Falaye brings over 25 years of field experience from his tenure in national security advisory and international peacekeeping missions. His research focuses on counter-terrorism strategy and cybersecurity policy in West Africa.

Accreditation

National Universities Commission (NUC)

Exam Preparation

This program provides a strong foundation for professional certifications such as Certified Cyber Security Consultant (CCSC), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), and other security management credentials.

Facilities & Resources

  • Security Operations Lab (SecLab) with simulation software and digital forensics workstations.
  • Mock courtroom for practicing judicial procedures and mock trials.
  • Dedicated debate and negotiation room for crisis simulation exercises.

Industry Connections

Partners

Nigerian Police ForceNSCDCEFCCIntersec GroupPulseTech Solutions

Initiatives

  • Annual Security Summit
  • Cyber Range Challenge
  • Guest Lecture Series from Intelligence Community Leaders

Scholarship Opportunities

Future Defender Scholarship

Awarded to students demonstrating exceptional leadership potential and a commitment to public service.

Contact Information

Department of Criminology & Security Studies
criminology@sauni.edu.ng+234 803 123 4567
Southern Atlantic University | Empowering Change Through Education