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The UGC NET Criminology 2026 examination is an important national-level test for candidates who aspire to build a career in teaching and research in criminology, criminal justice, and related social sciences. Qualifying this examination makes candidates eligible for Assistant Professor positions and the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF).
At ANSS Academy, we have prepared this complete guide to help aspirants understand the application process, eligibility criteria, syllabus coverage, exam pattern, and career scope in Criminology.
UGC NET Criminology 2026 – Overview
The UGC NET Criminology examination is conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode and consists of two papers:
- Paper 1 – General Teaching & Research Aptitude
- Paper 2 – Criminology (Subject-Specific)
Key Highlights:
- Mode: Online (CBT)
- Total Questions: 150
- Total Marks: 300
- Duration: 3 Hours
- No Negative Marking
Both papers are conducted in a single session.
UGC NET Criminology 2026 Application Form
Candidates must apply online after the official notification is released.
Application Process:
- Visit the official UGC NET portal
- Register with personal details
- Fill academic information
- Upload required documents
- Pay the application fee
- Submit and download confirmation page
Applicants should review all details carefully before final submission.
UGC NET Criminology 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Master’s degree in Criminology or related discipline
- Minimum 55% marks for General category
- Relaxation for reserved categories as per official rules
Final-year postgraduate students may also apply.
Age Limit
- JRF: Upper age limit applicable as per official notification
- Assistant Professor: No upper age limit
Candidates should refer to the latest official notification for updates.
UGC NET Criminology 2026 Exam Pattern
Paper 1
- 50 Questions
- 100 Marks
- Teaching aptitude, research aptitude, reasoning
Paper 2 (Criminology)
- 100 Questions
- 200 Marks
- Entirely subject-based
Each question carries 2 marks, and all questions are compulsory.
UGC NET Criminology 2026 Syllabus (Brief Overview)
This is a brief overview of the syllabus. For detailed and official syllabus information, candidates should refer to the official UGC NET portal.
The Criminology syllabus broadly includes:
Theories of Crime
- Classical and positivist theories
- Sociological perspectives
- Psychological explanations
- Critical and contemporary theories
Criminal Justice System
- Police administration
- Courts and judicial processes
- Correctional institutions
- Prison reforms
Victimology
- Victim rights
- Compensation and rehabilitation
- Role of victim in criminal justice
Penology and Correctional Administration
- Punishment theories
- Rehabilitation and reform
- Community corrections
Juvenile Justice
- Juvenile delinquency
- Legal frameworks
- Prevention strategies
Cyber Crime and Emerging Crimes
- Cyber laws
- Digital crime investigation
- Organized and transnational crime
Research Methods in Criminology
- Data collection techniques
- Quantitative and qualitative research
- Statistical tools
- Ethical issues in research
Conceptual clarity and application-based understanding are crucial for success.
Importance of Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
At ANSS Academy, we strongly recommend solving previous year questions because they:
- Help identify important criminological theories
- Improve analytical reasoning
- Reveal question trends
- Enhance time management
Criminology questions often test theoretical application and real-world understanding.
Preparation Strategy Suggested by ANSS Academy
Consistency and structured revision are essential.
Career Scope After Qualifying UGC NET Criminology
Qualifying UGC NET Criminology opens various career opportunities:
Assistant Professor
Teaching roles in universities and colleges.
Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)
Financial assistance for Ph.D. and advanced research.
Research & Policy Institutions
Opportunities in crime research organizations and policy think tanks.
Government & Law Enforcement
Roles in criminal justice departments and correctional services.
NGOs & Social Organizations
Work in rehabilitation, victim support, and community programs.
Criminology offers strong academic and applied career pathways.
Final Words from ANSS Academy
The UGC NET Criminology 2026 examination requires conceptual clarity, understanding of crime theories, and knowledge of criminal justice systems. With structured planning and regular practice, qualifying this examination is achievable.
Before starting preparation, review eligibility criteria, understand the exam pattern, and download the latest syllabus. Focus on theoretical understanding and consistent mock practice.
At ANSS Academy, we remain committed to guiding Criminology aspirants with structured preparation strategies and exam-oriented support to help them achieve success.
