“The department of criminal justice recognized that traditional crimes are being committed using new forms of technology; we call this ‘old crimes with new tricks,’ such as cyberbullying and human sex trafficking,” said Kathryn Seigfried-Spellar, an assistant professor in the department. “In addition, new criminal activities have emerged, such as computer hacking. Finally, cybercrimes have the ability to impact not only individuals and businesses, but our nation’s security, so there is a growing need for students to have an understanding of cybercriminal behavior.”
Seigfried-Spellar assisted associate professor Jimmy Williams in the creation of the new minor. Both said students were very supportive of the addition.
“According to a survey of our criminal justice majors and minors, there is overwhelming support for the cyber criminology minor. Our students are excited about the opportunity to pursue this field of study. Many feel that it will greatly enhance their employability,” Williams said.
Jonathan Laufe, a junior majoring in criminal justice and political science, said after taking a course in criminology, he plans to pursue the new minor.
“It is an area I have been interested in for quite some time, and it’s great to see the University offering these classes,” Laufe said. “I believe this minor will make UA students more competitive candidates for career opportunities and graduate schools, as the nationwide emphasis on technology continues.”
Laufe said he hopes students consider the new minor and looks forward to potential future advancements in the field.
“The criminal justice department has done a great job with this minor, and with its involvement in the Cyber Institute. I hope to see this field expand even more, and for more students to take advantage of its opportunities,” he said.
Although the department has been hard at work implementing the minor for the spring semester, Seigfried-Spellar said the minor is aimed towards students of various fields.
“This minor is a reflection of the interdisciplinary nature of cybercrime and will complement students who are majoring/minoring in criminal justice, psychology, political science, forensic science, management and information systems, communications, computer science and accounting, just to name a few,” she said.
