Jobs for Bachelor of Criminology and Security Studies Graduates

Understanding crime and managing security

Criminology and security studies degrees examine the causes of crime, policing, criminal justice, security management, risk assessment, investigations and, in many programmes, cybercrime and terrorism. Kenyan graduates work in private security companies, corporate security departments, banks, insurers, the criminal justice system and humanitarian organisations that need security risk management in difficult areas.

Where graduates work

• Security officer, supervisor and manager in private security firms, hotels, malls and estates
• Corporate security and loss prevention in banks, retail chains and manufacturers
• Fraud analyst, investigator and forensic roles in banks, insurers and audit firms
• Safety and security officers with NGOs and international organisations
• Probation, prisons and other criminal justice careers through government recruitment

Regulation of private security

The Private Security Regulation Act, 2016 established the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA), which registers private security firms and licenses private security officers. If you work in the private security industry, PSRA registration and compliance will be part of your job. Employers in the sector also expect knowledge of occupational safety and health requirements.

Entry requirements

Places are allocated through KUCCPS with a minimum C+ mean grade. Some universities offer diploma-to-degree routes. Recruitment into the National Police Service, Kenya Defence Forces, prisons and the National Intelligence Service follows separate processes with their own requirements, including fitness and integrity checks.

Skills that help

Employers value report writing, risk assessment, incident investigation and familiarity with CCTV and access control systems. For fraud and investigation roles, add certifications such as the Certified Fraud Examiner credential, and strong Excel or data analysis skills. A clean record and a certificate of good conduct are essential in this field.

Career path

Graduates progress from officer or analyst roles to security manager, head of security, risk manager or fraud manager. Specialising in cybercrime, investigations or humanitarian security can lead to regional roles. Government recruitment rounds are covered in our guide to applying for government jobs.