masters in criminal justice personal statement examples

We use cookies to enhance our website for you. Proceed if you agree to this policy or learn more about it.

• Essay Database >
• Essays Samples >
• Essay Types >
• Personal Statement Example

Criminal Justice Personal Statements Samples For Students

28 samples of this type

WowEssays.com paper writer service proudly presents to you a free catalog of Criminal Justice Personal Statements meant to help struggling students tackle their writing challenges. In a practical sense, each Criminal Justice Personal Statement sample presented here may be a guidebook that walks you through the critical stages of the writing procedure and showcases how to compose an academic work that hits the mark. Besides, if you need more visionary help, these examples could give you a nudge toward an original Criminal Justice Personal Statement topic or inspire a novice approach to a threadbare subject.

In case this is not enough to quench the thirst for effective writing help, you can request personalized assistance in the form of a model Personal Statement on Criminal Justice crafted by a pro writer from scratch and tailored to your particular instructions. Be it a simple 2-page paper or a profound, lengthy piece, our writers specialized in Criminal Justice and related topics will deliver it within the pre-agreed period. Buy cheap essays or research papers now!

Example Of Personal Statement On Organization Of Society

The organization of society is structured around particular systems. The legal system of a group or nation is dependent on many factors from diverse fields. Justice develops as a result of history, religion, culture, or necessity. In order to study the organization of justice among peoples, it is necessary to be informed of different theories of sociology, anthropology, and psychology. My bachelor’s degree in Communication from the University of California, San Diego, has prepared me for versatility in learning and through academic development I have discovered I am interested in studying law.

Example Of Legal Education Personal Statement

Good personal statement on phd in law.

I am a second-generation Cuban American and the first generation in my immediate family to attend and graduate from college as well as to pursue studies in Law School. I received my Bachelors degree in Marketing from the University of Florida with a minor in Mass Communications. In college I was a member of the Pre-legal Honor Society and held the position of advertising chair.

Don't waste your time searching for a sample.

Get your personal statement done by professional writers!

Just from $10/page

Personal Statement On Doctor of Jurisprudence Program

Good personal statement on my personal development, example of admission statement personal statement, personal statement, beyond freedom and dignity personal statement, example of personal statement on applicants must submit a one-page essay describing their long-term and short-term, passion for law personal statement example, example of personal statement on law school, education personal statement.

I desire an entry-level position serving as a Probation Officer or Probation Agent. I wish to utilize my education, background, and skills. I can bring a professional demeanor to the position.

Berkeleys Architecture Studies Personal Statement Examples

Professedly, the death penalty debate is perhaps one of the most heated debates that are ongoing. Several valid agreements have been put forward in favor of death penalty just like a plethora of valid arguments have been put forward against death penalty. Taking the proponents side, I am strongly opinionative that death penalty should be upheld for various reasons.

Trinity Law School Re-Admission Essay Personal Statement Examples

In the past months, I have been working at the Gene Ramos law office as a legal assistant under the attorney’s office. Primarily, the firm focuses on wrongful termination and personal injury. The legal knowledge accrued from my studies has been instrumental in the cases I have been handling. Further, the guidance I receive from the attorney and the experience I have gained from resolving client’s legal matters continue to inspire me to achieve my dream of becoming an attorney, or as I now refer to as a guardian of the people and custodian of the law.

Example Of Intellectual Property Law Personal Statement

Example of personal statement on cal state university, statement of purpose, good studies personal statement example, statement of qualifications personal statement, proper personal statement example about statement of purpose, good example of applicant’s name: personal statement, admission committee:, applicant’s name personal statement, personal statement of interest.

__________ School of Law

Office of Admissions

__________ University Personal Statement of Interest __________ School of Law

Free University of California Personal Statement Sample

Personal statement on the road ahead, free labor studies program personal statement sample, good personal statement on oklahoma city university school of law, knowledge in finance personal statement example, qualifications and achievements personal statement example, what qualities do you have that will make you a good accountant, good personal statement on engineering, military lawyer personal statement.

I am a strong energetic man, student at Thomas M. Cooley Law School, a school that is popularly known for diligence of its students, and I am writing this personal statement in hope of joining U.S. Army JAG Corps in your esteemed military camp. Such career, I believe, is indispensible for my future fulfillment of my dream and will benefit me for the rest of my life.

Password recovery email has been sent to [email protected]

Use your new password to log in

You are not register!

By clicking Register, you agree to our Terms of Service and that you have read our Privacy Policy .

Now you can download documents directly to your device!

Check your email! An email with your password has already been sent to you! Now you can download documents directly to your device.

or Use the QR code to Save this Paper to Your Phone

The sample is NOT original!

Short on a deadline?

Don't waste time. Get help with 11% off using code - GETWOWED

No, thanks! I'm fine with missing my deadline

ESLDIRECT.COM

ESL Resources for Job Hunters, English Learners, Adult Learners and Tutors

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.

More Personal Statement Tutorials

• Guide to Writing a Winning Personal Statement for University
• How to Write a Winning Scholarship Personal Statement: With Examples
• Statement of Purpose vs. Personal Statement: Six Differences Between the Two
• Residency Personal Statement Examples: Top Tips for Best Length, Content, and Structure
• Statement of Purpose Examples: How to Write the Best One for You?
• Best Internal Medicine Personal Statement Examples For Residency
• Nursing Personal Statement Examples in 2023
• How to Write a Resume Personal Statement That Gets You the Job – with Examples and Tips
• Pharmacy Personal Statement Examples: How to Write a Strong Statement for Pharmacy School
• How to Write a Personal Statement for Psychology: With Helpful Tips and Examples
• Law Personal Statement Examples to Help With Your Law School Application
• How to Write a Personal Statement for Criminology: With Helpful Examp

• AI Content Shield
• AI KW Research
• AI Assistant
• SEO Optimizer
• AI KW Clustering
• Customer reviews
• The NLO Revolution
• Press Center
• Help Center
• Content Resources
• Facebook Group

A Guide to Writing A Criminology Personal Statement

Table of Contents

If you are interested in criminology, it’s about time you pursue your dream. Take a step by applying for a career course in any reputable institution. Sending out your application is not enough. You need to include a compelling personal statement. The criminology degree personal statement examples below is an excellent guide.

A personal statement allows you to market your skills and highlight your qualifications. If you have no idea how to write a personal statement, you’ll find some good samples in this article that will guide you. 

What Is A Personal Statement?

A personal statement is a document that expresses your reason for wanting to study criminology and describes any relevant experience or skills you have. Writing a personal criminology statement can be pretty tricky, but you must include all the relevant information about yourself.

In your statement, highlight your academic achievements and experience in the field of criminology. Explain your interest and motivation in studying criminology and detail what you’ll do after graduation.

Criminology Degree Personal Statement Examples

I am interested in studying criminology as it is a fascinating field that combines elements of psychology, sociology, and law. I want to gain an in-depth understanding of criminal behavior and the factors that contribute to it to help reduce crime rates. My previous academic achievements demonstrate my ability to engage with complex theoretical concepts. Studying Criminology at university will equip me with the skills needed to pursue a career in this area. Through volunteering work experience, I have gained knowledge of how the criminal justice system operates, which has further cemented my interest in this topic.

My name is Megan Skye, and I am interested in studying criminology. I first became aware of this field when I was working as a psychiatric nurse and saw the link between mental health and crime. Since then, I have become increasingly fascinated by why people commit crimes and what can be done to prevent them.

I know that criminology is a necessary discipline, not just for understanding crime but also for developing effective strategies to tackle it. This is something that inspires me to continue learning about it. In my current role as an A&E nurse, I frequently see the consequences of crime on individuals. So I am keen to learn more about how we can address this issue from a wider perspective.

I got interested in criminology through the media. This was because of the broadcast messages about crimes that happened all over the world. I was displeased that people could go to any length to commit certain crimes.

Is there a reason why they derive pleasure from committing crimes? Are there people who are born criminals? How can we reduce the rate of crime in society? As these questions filled my mind, I took an interest in certain crime stories. I once volunteered in my community. And that experience equipped me to communicate with the public and criminology requires one to be good with the public. I have leadership skills that will make me successful in this field.

When I was younger, I loved watching detective shows on TV. The mystery and puzzle-solving always appealed to me. And as I got older, I began to see the criminal justice system in a new light. Seeing how crimes are investigated and criminals brought to justice has sparked my interest in criminology. A field that combines psychology, law, sociology, and investigative skills. 

Obtaining a Criminology degree will allow me to understand crime from all angles; its causes, effects on society and potential prevention methods. I would also like to gain practical experience through work placements with Police forces or similar organizations involved in crime prevention/investigation. This course of study is the perfect next step for me: it is both stimulating intellectually and offers plenty of scope for personal growth.

When I was younger, I wanted to be a police officer. However, over time I realized that I was more interested in why people commit crimes than in catching criminals. This led me to enroll in an online criminology and criminal justice course. 

I have enjoyed learning about crime and the criminal justice system. My favorite module so Far has been juvenile delinquency, which looked at why young people break the law. In addition to my studies, I also work as a volunteer with young offenders trying to help them stay away from crime. 

Studying for a criminology degree will equip me with the skills needed to pursue a career in this field. Ultimately, I hope to work within law enforcement or social work, helping offenders in rehabilitation.

I have always been interested in how societies work and why people commit crimes. This interest led me to study criminology at university, where I developed an understanding of the complexities behind criminal behavior. The course has given me a strong foundation in the theories and methods used by researchers in this field. I am keen to continue my studies and further develop my knowledge of criminology, aiming to become a researcher one day.

My fascination in criminology was born from my exposure to new ideas and contrasting ideologies surrounding crime and justice. After spending time immersed in this field, I am drawn to the notion that there is no single approach to tackling criminal activity. It is a complex issue requiring multifaceted solutions.

My current aim is to pursue a master’s degree in criminology. This is to develop a further understanding of both classical theories about crime and recent advancements within the discipline. Ultimately, I hope to play a role in shaping future policymaking around issues such as law enforcement, rehabilitation, and victim support services. This is while maintaining close collaboration with academics who are leaders within this field. In addition, working alongside those on the frontline will give me invaluable insight into how these policies impact those directly affected by crime daily.

A personal statement is a document in which you describe your reasons for wanting to study criminology and highlight your academic and professional qualifications. A criminology personal statement also shows off your knowledge of the criminal justice system and why you are interested in studying it.

When writing your statement, highlight any relevant experience or skills that could make you a valuable asset to any criminology program. With a well-written personal statement, you can achieve your career goal just like you desire.

The criminology degree personal statement examplesabove were generated using Hey INK . Why not try it out?

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

Explore All Write Personal Statement Articles

How to draft meaningful length of law school personal statement.

Are you confused on how to write a law school personal statement? One of the essential elements of your application…

• Write Personal Statement

Effective History and International Relations Personal Statement to Try

Are you considering studying history and international relations? Or you may be curious about what a degree in this field…

Guide to Quality Global Management Personal Statement

Are you applying for a global management program and want to stand out from the crowd? A well-written personal statement…

How to Draft Better Examples of Personal Statements for Residency

Achieving a residency can be a massive accomplishment for any aspiring medical professional. To secure your spot in one of…

Tips for Drafting a Free Example of Personal History Statement

A personal history statement can be crucial to many applications, from university admissions to job search processes. This blog will…

Writing Compelling Dietetic Internship Personal Statement

Applying for a dietetic internship is a rigorous process and requires submitting a personal statement, which is an essential part…

• FindAMasters
• Forensic Psychology Masters Personal Statement Sample

Written by Sarah Hastings-Woodhouse

This is an example personal statement for a Masters degree application in Forensic Psychology. See our guide for advice on writing your own postgraduate personal statement .

Since completing my Bachelors degree in Psychology, I have been determined to further develop my knowledge of human behaviour and motivation, and to find an application for my skills that would have a tangible, positive effect on the lives of those around me. I was excited to discover your Forensic Psychology MSc, as I believe it will equip me with the skills necessary to make a real impact within the criminal justice system.

My interest in crime and punishment was ignited when I participated in a prison listener scheme run by the Samaritans during my final year of university. I took hundreds of calls from prison inmates and staff who were struggling to cope and developed gained a concerning insight into the often-overlooked psychological distress experienced by so many within the prison system.

I also volunteered with the UK government’s Independent Monitoring Board, which involved assessing day-to-day living standards at my local prison and speaking with prisoners and staff to deeper understand their experiences. I greatly appreciated the opportunity to contribute to the Board’s monthly reports, which are used to inform local and national government policy.

In my final year at university, I completed a module in Criminal Psychology, which allowed me to appreciate the how complex the causes and consequences of criminal behaviour are. An aspect of the module that particularly interested (and frustrated) me was learning about the frequency of re-offending, and the shortcomings within rehabilitative services that often lead to it.

My voluntary experience within the prison system, combined with my understanding of Psychology have convinced me that a career as a Forensic Psychologist would be the most impactful way to apply my experience, passion, and knowledge. I am particularly interested in working with prisoners at risk of re-offending and was drawn to the module on this course focusing on rehabilitation and risk assessment, as well the option to gain practical experience within parole services.

It is my strong belief that though a crucial moral shift away from punishment and towards prevention and rehabilitation has been taking place for some time, it has not yet gone far enough. I believe that the field of Forensic Psychology places a crucial role in facilitating this societal change. In the future, I hope to apply my new-found expertise to helping break that cycle of crime, punishment and re-offending that is the cause of so much avoidable suffering.

Forensic Psychology - MSc

Newcastle university school of psychology, forensic psychology msc, nottingham trent university school of social sciences, forensic psychology (msc), university of derby college of health, psychology and social care, msc applied forensic psychology, edinburgh napier university school of applied sciences, msc - forensic psychology, birmingham city university faculty of business, law and social sciences, find a masters in forensic psychology.

If you're interested in a studying Forensic Psychology, then why don't you check out our regularly updated catalogue of available Forensic Psychology Masters courses .

Our postgrad newsletter shares courses, funding news, stories and advice

Looking for the best universities for Nursing & Health in Canada? Compare ranking tables from top sources here, along with their methodologies.

Looking for the best universities for Nursing & Health in the USA? Compare ranking tables from top sources here, along with their methodologies.

Looking for the best universities for Nursing & Health in the UK? Compare ranking tables from top sources here, along with their methodologies.

Looking for the best universities for Nursing & Health in Ireland? Compare ranking tables from top sources here, along with their methodologies.

Looking for the best universities for Nursing & Health in Australia? Compare ranking tables from top sources here, along with their methodologies.

Looking for the best universities for Nursing & Health in France? Compare ranking tables from top sources here, along with their methodologies.

Sarah Hastings-Woodhouse

Sarah joined FindAMasters as a Content Writer in 2021 and produces polished and thoroughly researched pages to inspire and inform prospective postgraduate students. In her time at FindAMasters, she has gained a comprehensive understanding of the postgraduate journey and has engaged with hundreds of prospective postgraduates while manning the advice stand at our popular study fairs.

FindAMasters. Copyright 2005-2024 All rights reserved.

Unknown    ( change )

Have you got time to answer some quick questions about Masters study?

Select your nearest city

• Aberystwyth
• Beaconsfield
• Bishop Burton
• Bournemouth
• Bridlington
• Chatham Maritime
• Cirencester
• East Malling
• Hemel Hempstead
• High Wycombe
• Huddersfield
• Isle of Man
• Jordanstown
• London Central
• London East
• London South
• London West
• Londonderry
• Loughborough
• Middlesbrough
• Milton Keynes
• Musselburgh
• Northampton
• Potters Bar
• Saffron Waldon
• Scarborough
• Southampton
• St Leonards on Sea
• Stoke on Trent
• Wolverhampton

You haven’t completed your profile yet. To get the most out of FindAMasters, finish your profile and receive these benefits:

• Monthly chance to win one of ten £10 Amazon vouchers ; winners will be notified every month.*
• Access to our £6,000 scholarship competition
• Weekly newsletter with funding opportunities, application tips and much more
• Early access to our physical and virtual postgraduate study fairs

Or begin browsing FindAMasters.com

or begin browsing FindAMasters.com

*Offer only available for the duration of your active subscription, and subject to change. You MUST claim your prize within 72 hours, if not we will redraw.

Create your account

Looking to list your Masters courses? Log in here .

Let us help you find a Masters

Never miss a course

Enter our ambassador competition

Get funding news, tips and advice

Hear about upcoming events

Sign up to our newsletter today

We've been helping students find the right postgraduate course for over a decade.

Login to your account

Enter your username below to login to your account.

Guidance from our top admission experts — for free!

• Admit Finder

Discover Past Admits, Gauge Your Chances!

• Shortlist Builder

Personalized University Picks, Just a Click Away.

• Course Finder

Navigate Global Courses Tailored for You

• Scholarship Finder

Unlock Funding Opportunities Worldwide.

Get tailored study abroad advice.

Sign in for exclusive content!

Planning to study abroad?

Build your target shortlist and see your odds of getting into top schools with Ambitio's AI shortlist builder!

Heading Out Already?

Our Ivy League mentors and top admission experts can help with personalized tips to get you into your dream school

6 minutes read

How To Write Criminology & Forensic Science Personal Statement Example

Dirghayu Kaushik

2 September 2024

Key Takeaways:

• A forensic science personal statement showcases your passion, skills, and goals beyond academics.
• Highlight experiences that sparked your fascination with criminal behaviour and the science behind investigations.
• Demonstrate an analytical mindset, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to make an impact.
• Discuss your understanding of forensics as a multidisciplinary field combining science and human psychology.
• Convey motivation to specialize, communicating your vision for an impactful career in the field.

Writing an attractive personal statement is crucial when applying for forensic science programs , criminology, or criminal justice programs. It’s your opportunity to showcase your interest in forensics, analytical mindset, and future career aspirations. Admissions committees seek students passionate about uncovering the complexities of crime scenes, combining disciplines like science, sociology, and anthropology for a unique perspective.

An exceptional forensic science personal statement should highlight your problem-solving abilities , critical thinking skills, and a knack for teamwork. Provide insights into experiences that sparked your fascination with forensics, criminal behaviour, and the intricate puzzles of investigations. Demonstrate your commitment to making a valuable contribution to this challenging yet rewarding field through clear communication skills and a drive to learn.

Worried about the cost of Studying Abroad?

Sign up to access 25 game-changing scholarships that could cover your costs.

• What Is A Forensic Science Personal Statement?

A forensic science personal statement is a crucial component of your application to undergraduate or graduate programs related to forensics, criminology, or criminal justice studies. This essay allows you to showcase your passion, motivations, relevant experiences, and future goals within the forensic science field.

In a forensic science personal statement, you’ll need to communicate why you are drawn to this multidisciplinary area that combines science, law, and investigations. You can highlight your analytical thinking abilities, problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and interest in complex criminal cases. Admissions committees will look for your understanding of the role forensic science plays in the criminal justice system and your potential to excel in this demanding yet rewarding career path.

Stuck on How to Pick Your Ideal College?

Sign up to access your tailored shortlist and simplify finding your ideal college.

• Tips To Write A Successful Statement of Purpose

Writing a winning personal statement is crucial for securing your place in a competitive forensic science, criminology, or criminal justice program. This essay is an opportunity to showcase your unique qualifications, experiences, and perspectives that make you an ideal candidate.

With that said, here are some tips to help you write a successful personal statement:

Highlight Your Passion for Forensic Science

Explain what sparked your interest in forensics and criminology from a young age. Discuss personal experiences, school roles (prefect), internships, or work experiences in the criminal justice system that solidified your passion for this field. Mention documentaries, shows, or books that fueled your fascination with solving puzzles and seeing the bigger picture behind criminal behavior.

Demonstrate Understanding of the Field

Show you are aware that forensic science is a multidisciplinary field combining sciences like toxicology, biology (DNA interpretation), and chemistry (fibre analysis) with criminology and psychology. Discuss how you aim to deepen your knowledge through practical experiences and an analytical mind suited for discovery and courtroom responsibilities.

Discuss Relevant Skills and Qualities

Emphasise skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and attention to detail that will make you an ideal candidate. Provide examples of how extracurriculars, academic projects, or interests like puzzles allowed you to develop and apply these qualities, preparing you for this challenging career.

Share Your Motivation and Goals

Convey your desire to pursue a master’s and specialise in a specific forensic domain like criminal psychology or digital forensics. Explain how this qualification will provide a solid foundation for an impactful career helping the criminal justice system and society by interpreting evidence and understanding human behaviour and mental health issues.

Adhere to Format Guidelines

Research the program’s requirements and follow length, structure, and formatting specifications. Revise for clarity, flow, and impactful storytelling that convinces admissions you are a highly motivated applicant well-suited for their forensic studies.

See how Successful Applications Look Like!

Access 350K+ profiles of students who got in. See what you can improve in your own application!

• 3 Forensic Science Studies Personal Statement Samples

You know that curiosity that grips you from a young age about what makes people tick? That indescribable urge to get to the root of things? Well, that’s exactly what led me down this path towards forensic science. From the moment I thumbed through my first forensics book, I was hooked by the incredible integration of science and human behaviour.

My academic career has been a quest to deepen my understanding of these interconnected disciplines. Whether studying toxicology, analyzing DNA processes, or delving into criminology theory, each learning experience has been another piece of the puzzle. But it’s not just about knowledge – I’ve also prioritized hands-on training through internships and volunteering with law enforcement. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of applying forensic techniques in the real world.

In the correctional facility where I interned, I had the privilege of working alongside devoted forensic professionals. Their impacts – from untangling mental health factors to providing courtroom testimony – were inspirational. With my problem-solving mindset, stellar teamwork abilities, and commitment to ethics, I know I have the potential to be that game-changing forensic scientist making a profound difference.

Let me take you back to when I was a kid, utterly transfixed watching forensic experts on TV meticulously comb through crime scenes. I’d imagine myself there, piecing together the forensic evidence to crack the case. That same exhilaration has driven my academic path and pursuit of practical forensic experiences.

My psychology electives highlighted how crucial forensic specialists are in understanding criminal motivations and rehabilitating offenders. Simultaneously, chemistry and biology fueled my passion for evidence analysis through toxicology, DNA, and more. From documenting deteriorating crime scene samples to studying interrogation techniques, each project and internship deepened my respect for this fascinating convergence of science and human behaviour.

What truly sets me apart is my innate ability to approach complex problems from multiple angles. I thrive on collaborating with teammates, proposing creative solutions, and persevering until the puzzle is solved. My determination to specialize in forensic psychology stems from this drive to not only interpret evidence but also elucidate the human narratives propelling crimes.

They say to follow your obsessions and let them become your calling. Well, my calling has been forensic science for as long as I can remember. The intricacies of uncovering criminal cases through detailed evidence analysis? I’m utterly fascinated by the process.

On my academic journey, I’ve built a sturdy foundation through rigorous coursework and lab training. Analyzing fingerprints, interpreting DNA sequences, reconstructing crime scene timelines – each module amplified my zeal for this multifaceted field. But it’s the human element underlying forensics that truly captivates me. To better understand criminal psychology and motivations, I purposely undertook electives in sociology and human behavior.

My enthusiasm extends far beyond the classroom too. By actively participating in forensics clubs, developmental workshops, and internships, I’ve gained invaluable real-world experience working with law enforcement. Collaborating alongside seasoned professionals sharpened my teamwork abilities, communication skills, and appreciation for diverse perspectives in forensic investigation.

So as I approach the next phase of this journey, I’m fueled by determination to excel. With my work ethic, a keen eye for detail, and natural problem-solving talents, I have all the tools to distinguish myself as an impactful forensic scientist making groundbreaking discoveries.

Start Your University Applications with Ambitio Pro!

Get Ambitio Pro!

Begin your journey to top universities with Ambitio Pro. Our premium platform offers you tools and support needed to craft standout applications.

Unlock Advanced Features for a More Comprehensive Application Experience!

Start your Journey today

At the end of the day, a personal statement for criminology or forensic science programs is about more than just academics – it’s about painting a vivid picture of who you are as an individual. This is your chance to step out from behind the transcripts and test scores and let your authentic voice shine through.

So don’t be afraid to get personal. Share the experiences that sparked your fascination with the mysteries behind criminal behaviour. Discuss the challenges you’ve overcome or the “aha” moments that solidified your path. By infusing your statement with genuine passion and personality, you’ll forge a memorable connection with admissions committees.

Transform your academic aspirations into reality with Ambitio Elite. Immerse yourself in personalized guidance, AI Copilot support, and expert mentorship. Commence your journey today! Explore Ambitio Elite

What is the purpose of a criminology and forensic science personal statement?

A criminology and forensic science personal statement is a document that accompanies your university application. Its purpose is to showcase your motivation, interests, and qualifications for pursuing a degree in criminology and forensic science. It should highlight your strengths, experiences, and goals, demonstrating why you are a strong candidate for the program.

How do I start writing my criminology and forensic science personal statement?

Begin by brainstorming your ideas, interests, and experiences related to criminology and forensic science. Reflect on what sparked your interest in the field, any relevant coursework or projects you’ve undertaken, and your career aspirations. Create an outline to organize your thoughts, and then start writing your statement. Make sure to tailor your statement to the specific program you are applying to.

What should I include in my criminology and forensic science personal statement?

Your personal statement should cover your motivation for studying criminology and forensic science, your relevant academic background and skills, any relevant work or volunteer experience, and your career goals. You should also highlight your personal qualities, such as teamwork and communication skills, and demonstrate your knowledge of the field.

How long should my criminology and forensic science personal statement be?

The length of your personal statement will depend on the specific requirements of the university or program you are applying to. Typically, it should be around one to two pages in length, with a clear and concise writing style. Make sure to check the application guidelines for specific word count or page length requirements.

How can I make my criminology and forensic science personal statement stand out?

To make your personal statement stand out, focus on showcasing your unique experiences, skills, and perspectives. Use specific examples to illustrate your points, and demonstrate your passion for the field. Avoid clichés and generic statements, and instead, focus on what sets you apart from other applicants.

How do I edit and proofread my criminology and forensic science personal statement?

Once you have written your personal statement, edit and proofread it carefully to ensure it is error-free and effective. Ask teachers, mentors, or peers to review your statement and provide feedback. Make sure to check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors, as well as clarity and coherence.

Spread the Word!

Share across your social media if you found it helpful

Table of Contents

• • What Is A Forensic Science Personal Statement?
• • Tips To Write A Successful Statement of Purpose
• • 3 Forensic Science Studies Personal Statement Samples
• • Conclusion

Build your profile to get into top colleges

Phone Number

What level are you targetting

Almost there!

Just enter your OTP, and your planner will be on its way!

Code sent on

Resend OTP (30s)

Your Handbook Is Waiting on WhatsApp!

Please have a look, and always feel free to reach out for any detailed guidance

Click here to download

Meanwhile check out your dashboard to access various tools to help you in your study abroad journey

Related Blogs

3 Event Manager Personal Statement Samples

How to write a Graduate Medicine Personal Statement?

How To Write a Film and Media Studies Personal Statement 

Find your Dream school now⭐️

Welcome! Let's Land Your Dream Admit.

Let us make sure you get into the best!

• 2024 Winter
• 2024 Spring
• 2024 Summer

Enter verification code

Code was sent to

• Our Experts

Connect with us on our social media

• Prices/Payment
• Standard Service US$199.00
• VIP/Rush Service US$299.00
• Masters Personal Statement Help
• Dr. Robert Edinger
• Autobiographical
• Cover Letter
• Disadvantaged Status
• Dual Degrees
• Letter of Appeal
• Letter of Recommendation
• Scholarship
• Summer School
• Undergraduate
• Mission/Service
• Privacy/Guarantee

#header_text h2#site_subheading a, #header_text h2#site_subheading{ color:#000000 } @media (min-width: 650px) { #header_text h2#site_subheading a, #header_text h2#site_subheading{ } }

Masters in criminal justice criminology.

 The opportunity and challenge of UXX’s MACJA program will allow me to bring my career goals, in truth my dreams, to fruition.  What is more, my academic foundation in Criminology piqued and developed my intense interest in the more theoretical aspects of how the science relates to particular classes of people and the related crimes thereof.  More specifically, I have seen a distinct need for quality research into the areas of criminological theory, and the causal relationships between different sub-classes of people within society, as well as testing causation in Criminological research, and how social relations affect criminality.

 Post-graduation, I envision building my exposure in the field whilst pursuing a Ph.D., in order to teach as well as conduct further research.  For this, I will first need to increase my depth of understanding of the psychological aspects associated with the criminal minds of criminal offenders.  Turning to UXX and the MACJA program is therefore more than just a logical choice, but also a natural choice given my profound passion for these topics.  What better way to bring Criminology to life for my future students than to bring practical, contemporary research and examples into the classroom?  Furthermore, my professional work to date has not allowed for giving back to the community in terms of volunteerism, a fact that I have wrestled with for some time, a fact that I am intent upon changing.

 I bring with me to the student body and graduate program an excellent grounding in Criminal Justice coupled with formal IT education.  The role of IT in the field of Criminology and research has become requisite for all involved, and I feel I have proven my ability.  What is more, I am a mature student, one who is certain of his future, ability and proven capability to succeed in an academic program as well as the responsibilities of professional work, serving the needs of large-scale companies.

 For my part, I strongly feel that research in Criminology – its future – remains firmly in its ability to discover ways of predicting and predetermining, based on the conjunction of sociological and other pertinent factors a person’s propensity for falling into socially deviant behaviors.  The ideal would be to responsibly use these methods for helping at-risk persons from falling into despair and then crime, a preventative measure, rather than a curative. 

 In the past, and in frustratingly clear hindsight, we lament those that have fallen through societal cracks, and held up precious few examples of those we have helped.  Through my research, I aim to equip law enforcement with new skills, and abilities.  Just as our officers are supplied with the equipment they need to enforce the law, the researcher, through their contributions give insights, skills and abilities that are equally indispensable.  No other role could ever bring me a greater sense of personal or professional fulfillment.

 Thank you for your time and consideration.

Most Recently Edited Statement Samples

• Real Estate Master’s, Tibetan, New York City
• Master’s in Real Estate Development, Chinese
• General Practice Dental Residency, GPR, Egyptian
• Real Estate Development, Employment Position
• International Affairs Masters, Diplomacy, Africa
• Letter of Appeal, International Dentist Program
• Endeavour Scholarship Australia, Filipina
• MBA, Accounting Background, Saudi Woman
• MS in Business Analytics, Mgmt., Programming
• MS Project Management, Oil & Gas, Iranian
• PHD Environmental Sciences, Canada
• PHD IT, Pathologist Assistant Faculty

View older posts »

Let's Get Started!

Testimonials

Free Resources

PrepScholar GRE Prep

Gre prep online guides and tips, 3 successful graduate school personal statement examples.

Looking for grad school personal statement examples? Look no further! In this total guide to graduate school personal statement examples, we’ll discuss why you need a personal statement for grad school and what makes a good one. Then we’ll provide three graduate school personal statement samples from our grad school experts. After that, we’ll do a deep dive on one of our personal statement for graduate school examples. Finally, we’ll wrap up with a list of other grad school personal statements you can find online.

Why Do You Need a Personal Statement?

A personal statement is a chance for admissions committees to get to know you: your goals and passions, what you’ll bring to the program, and what you’re hoping to get out of the program.  You need to sell the admissions committee on what makes you a worthwhile applicant. The personal statement is a good chance to highlight significant things about you that don’t appear elsewhere on your application.

A personal statement is slightly different from a statement of purpose (also known as a letter of intent). A statement of purpose/letter of intent tends to be more tightly focused on your academic or professional credentials and your future research and/or professional interests.

While a personal statement also addresses your academic experiences and goals, you have more leeway to be a little more, well, personal. In a personal statement, it’s often appropriate to include information on significant life experiences or challenges that aren’t necessarily directly relevant to your field of interest.

Some programs ask for both a personal statement and a statement of purpose/letter of intent. In this case, the personal statement is likely to be much more tightly focused on your life experience and personality assets while the statement of purpose will focus in much more on your academic/research experiences and goals.

However, there’s not always a hard-and-fast demarcation between a personal statement and a statement of purpose. The two statement types should address a lot of the same themes, especially as relates to your future goals and the valuable assets you bring to the program. Some programs will ask for a personal statement but the prompt will be focused primarily on your research and professional experiences and interests. Some will ask for a statement of purpose but the prompt will be more focused on your general life experiences.

When in doubt, give the program what they are asking for in the prompt and don’t get too hung up on whether they call it a personal statement or statement of purpose. You can always call the admissions office to get more clarification on what they want you to address in your admissions essay.

Quick side note: we've created the world's leading online GRE prep program that adapts to you and your strengths and weaknesses. Not sure what to study? Confused by how to improve your score? We give you minute by minute guide.

You don't NEED a prep program to get a great GRE score. But we believe PrepScholar is the best GRE prep program available right now , especially if you find it hard to organize your study schedule and don't know what to study .

Click here to learn how you can improve your GRE score by 7 points, guaranteed .

What Makes a Good Grad School Personal Statement?

A great graduate school personal statement can come in many forms and styles. However, strong grad school personal statement examples all share the same following elements:

A Clear Narrative

Above all, a good personal statement communicates clear messages about what makes you a strong applicant who is likely to have success in graduate school. So to that extent, think about a couple of key points that you want to communicate about yourself and then drill down on how you can best communicate those points. (Your key points should of course be related to what you can bring to the field and to the program specifically).

You can also decide whether to address things like setbacks or gaps in your application as part of your narrative. Have a low GPA for a couple semesters due to a health issue? Been out of a job for a while taking care of a family member? If you do decide to explain an issue like this, make sure that the overall arc is more about demonstrating positive qualities like resilience and diligence than about providing excuses.

Specific Examples

A great statement of purpose uses specific examples to illustrate its key messages. This can include anecdotes that demonstrate particular traits or even references to scholars and works that have influenced your academic trajectory to show that you are familiar and insightful about the relevant literature in your field.

Just saying “I love plants,” is pretty vague. Describing how you worked in a plant lab during undergrad and then went home and carefully cultivated your own greenhouse where you cross-bred new flower colors by hand is much more specific and vivid, which makes for better evidence.

A strong personal statement will describe why you are a good fit for the program, and why the program is a good fit for you. It’s important to identify specific things about the program that appeal to you, and how you’ll take advantage of those opportunities. It’s also a good idea to talk about specific professors you might be interested in working with. This shows that you are informed about and genuinely invested in the program.

Strong Writing

Even quantitative and science disciplines typically require some writing, so it’s important that your personal statement shows strong writing skills. Make sure that you are communicating clearly and that you don’t have any grammar and spelling errors. It’s helpful to get other people to read your statement and provide feedback. Plan on going through multiple drafts.

Another important thing here is to avoid cliches and gimmicks. Don’t deploy overused phrases and openings like “ever since I was a child.” Don’t structure your statement in a gimmicky way (i.e., writing a faux legal brief about yourself for a law school statement of purpose). The first will make your writing banal; the second is likely to make you stand out in a bad way.

Appropriate Boundaries

While you can be more personal in a personal statement than in a statement of purpose, it’s important to maintain appropriate boundaries in your writing. Don’t overshare anything too personal about relationships, bodily functions, or illegal activities. Similarly, don’t share anything that makes it seem like you may be out of control, unstable, or an otherwise risky investment. The personal statement is not a confessional booth. If you share inappropriately, you may seem like you have bad judgment, which is a huge red flag to admissions committees.

You should also be careful with how you deploy humor and jokes. Your statement doesn’t have to be totally joyless and serious, but bear in mind that the person reading the statement may not have the same sense of humor as you do. When in doubt, err towards the side of being as inoffensive as possible.

Just as being too intimate in your statement can hurt you, it’s also important not to be overly formal or staid. You should be professional, but conversational.

Graduate School Personal Statement Examples

Our graduate school experts have been kind enough to provide some successful grad school personal statement examples. We’ll provide three examples here, along with brief analysis of what makes each one successful.

Sample Personal Statement for Graduate School 1

PDF of Sample Personal Statement 1 – Japanese Studies

For this Japanese Studies master’s degree, the applicant had to provide a statement of purpose outlining her academic goals and experience with Japanese and a separate personal statement describing her personal relationship with Japanese Studies and what led her to pursue a master’s degree.

Here’s what’s successful about this personal statement:

• An attention-grabbing beginning: The applicant begins with the statement that Japanese has never come easily to her and that it’s a brutal language to learn. Seeing as how this is an application for a Japanese Studies program, this is an intriguing beginning that makes the reader want to keep going.
• A compelling narrative: From this attention-grabbing beginning, the applicant builds a well-structured and dramatic narrative tracking her engagement with the Japanese language over time. The clear turning point is her experience studying abroad, leading to a resolution in which she has clarity about her plans. Seeing as how the applicant wants to be a translator of Japanese literature, the tight narrative structure here is a great way to show her writing skills.
• Specific examples that show important traits: The applicant clearly communicates both a deep passion for Japanese through examples of her continued engagement with Japanese and her determination and work ethic by highlighting the challenges she’s faced (and overcome) in her study of the language. This gives the impression that she is an engaged and dedicated student.

Overall, this is a very strong statement both in terms of style and content. It flows well, is memorable, and communicates that the applicant would make the most of the graduate school experience.

Sample Personal Statement for Graduate School 2

PDF of Sample Graduate School Personal Statement 2 – Musical Composition

This personal statement for a Music Composition master’s degree discusses the factors that motivate the applicant to pursue graduate study.

Here’s what works well in this statement:

• The applicant provides two clear reasons motivating the student to pursue graduate study: her experiences with music growing up, and her family’s musical history. She then supports those two reasons with examples and analysis.
• The description of her ancestors’ engagement with music is very compelling and memorable. The applicant paints her own involvement with music as almost inevitable based on her family’s long history with musical pursuits.
• The applicant gives thoughtful analysis of the advantages she has been afforded that have allowed her to study music so extensively. We get the sense that she is insightful and empathetic—qualities that would add greatly to any academic community.

This is a strong, serviceable personal statement. And in truth, given that this for a masters in music composition, other elements of the application (like work samples) are probably the most important.  However, here are two small changes I would make to improve it:

• I would probably to split the massive second paragraph into 2-3 separate paragraphs. I might use one paragraph to orient the reader to the family’s musical history, one paragraph to discuss Giacomo and Antonio, and one paragraph to discuss how the family has influenced the applicant. As it stands, it’s a little unwieldy and the second paragraph doesn’t have a super-clear focus even though it’s all loosely related to the applicant’s family history with music.
• I would also slightly shorten the anecdote about the applicant’s ancestors and expand more on how this family history has motivated the applicant’s interest in music. In what specific ways has her ancestors’ perseverance inspired her? Did she think about them during hard practice sessions? Is she interested in composing music in a style they might have played? More specific examples here would lend greater depth and clarity to the statement.

Sample Personal Statement for Graduate School 3

PDF of Sample Graduate School Personal Statement 3 – Public Health

This is my successful personal statement for Columbia’s Master’s program in Public Health. We’ll do a deep dive on this statement paragraph-by-paragraph in the next section, but I’ll highlight a couple of things that work in this statement here:

Want to improve your GRE score by 7 points?  We have the industry's leading GRE prep program. Built by world-class instructors with 99th percentile GRE scores , the program learns your strengths and weaknesses through machine learning data science, then customizes your prep program to you so you get the most effective prep possible.

Try our 5-day full access trial for free:

• This statement is clearly organized. Almost every paragraph has a distinct focus and message, and when I move on to a new idea, I move on to a new paragraph with a logical transitions.
• This statement covers a lot of ground in a pretty short space. I discuss my family history, my goals, my educational background, and my professional background. But because the paragraphs are organized and I use specific examples, it doesn’t feel too vague or scattered.
• In addition to including information about my personal motivations, like my family, I also include some analysis about tailoring health interventions with my example of the Zande. This is a good way to show off what kinds of insights I might bring to the program based on my academic background.

Grad School Personal Statement Example: Deep Dive

Now let’s do a deep dive, paragraph-by-paragraph, on one of these sample graduate school personal statements. We’ll use my personal statement that I used when I applied to Columbia’s public health program.

Paragraph One: For twenty-three years, my grandmother (a Veterinarian and an Epidemiologist) ran the Communicable Disease Department of a mid-sized urban public health department. The stories of Grandma Betty doggedly tracking down the named sexual partners of the infected are part of our family lore. Grandma Betty would persuade people to be tested for sexually transmitted diseases, encourage safer sexual practices, document the spread of infection and strive to contain and prevent it. Indeed, due to the large gay population in the city where she worked, Grandma Betty was at the forefront of the AIDS crises, and her analysis contributed greatly towards understanding how the disease was contracted and spread. My grandmother has always been a huge inspiration to me, and the reason why a career in public health was always on my radar.

This is an attention-grabbing opening anecdote that avoids most of the usual cliches about childhood dreams and proclivities. This story also subtly shows that I have a sense of public health history, given the significance of the AIDs crisis for public health as a field.

It’s good that I connect this family history to my own interests. However, if I were to revise this paragraph again, I might cut down on some of the detail because when it comes down to it, this story isn’t really about me. It’s important that even (sparingly used) anecdotes about other people ultimately reveal something about you in a personal statement.

Paragraph Two: Recent years have cemented that interest. In January 2012, my parents adopted my little brother Fred from China. Doctors in America subsequently diagnosed Fred with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). My parents were told that if Fred’s condition had been discovered in China, the (very poor) orphanage in which he spent the first 8+ years of his life would have recognized his DMD as a death sentence and denied him sustenance to hasten his demise.

Here’s another compelling anecdote to help explain my interest in public health. This is an appropriately personal detail for a personal statement—it’s a serious thing about my immediate family, but it doesn’t disclose anything that the admissions committee might find concerning or inappropriate.

If I were to take another pass through this paragraph, the main thing I would change is the last phrase. “Denied him sustenance to hasten his demise” is a little flowery. “Denied him food to hasten his death” is actually more powerful because it’s clearer and more direct.

Paragraph Three: It is not right that some people have access to the best doctors and treatment while others have no medical care. I want to pursue an MPH in Sociomedical Sciences at Columbia because studying social factors in health, with a particular focus on socio-health inequities, will prepare me to address these inequities. The interdisciplinary approach of the program appeals to me greatly as I believe interdisciplinary approaches are the most effective way to develop meaningful solutions to complex problems.

In this paragraph I make a neat and clear transition from discussing what sparked my interest in public health and health equity to what I am interested in about Columbia specifically: the interdisciplinary focus of the program, and how that focus will prepare me to solve complex health problems. This paragraph also serves as a good pivot point to start discussing my academic and professional background.

Paragraph Four: My undergraduate education has prepared me well for my chosen career. Understanding the underlying structure of a group’s culture is essential to successfully communicating with the group. In studying folklore and mythology, I’ve learned how to parse the unspoken structures of folk groups, and how those structures can be used to build bridges of understanding. For example, in a culture where most illnesses are believed to be caused by witchcraft, as is the case for the Zande people of central Africa, any successful health intervention or education program would of necessity take into account their very real belief in witchcraft.

In this paragraph, I link my undergraduate education and the skills I learned there to public health. The (very brief) analysis of tailoring health interventions to the Zande is a good way to show insight and show off the competencies I would bring to the program.

Paragraph Five: I now work in the healthcare industry for one of the largest providers of health benefits in the world. In addition to reigniting my passion for data and quantitative analytics, working for this company has immersed me in the business side of healthcare, a critical component of public health.

This brief paragraph highlights my relevant work experience in the healthcare industry. It also allows me to mention my work with data and quantitative analytics, which isn’t necessarily obvious from my academic background, which was primarily based in the social sciences.

Paragraph Six: I intend to pursue a PhD in order to become an expert in how social factors affect health, particularly as related to gender and sexuality. I intend to pursue a certificate in Sexuality, Sexual Health, and Reproduction. Working together with other experts to create effective interventions across cultures and societies, I want to help transform health landscapes both in America and abroad.

This final paragraph is about my future plans and intentions. Unfortunately, it’s a little disjointed, primarily because I discuss goals of pursuing a PhD before I talk about what certificate I want to pursue within the MPH program! Switching those two sentences and discussing my certificate goals within the MPH and then mentioning my PhD plans would make a lot more sense.

I also start two sentences in a row with “I intend,” which is repetitive.

The final sentence is a little bit generic; I might tailor it to specifically discuss a gender and sexual health issue, since that is the primary area of interest I’ve identified.

This was a successful personal statement; I got into (and attended!) the program. It has strong examples, clear organization, and outlines what interests me about the program (its interdisciplinary focus) and what competencies I would bring (a background in cultural analysis and experience with the business side of healthcare). However, a few slight tweaks would elevate this statement to the next level.

Graduate School Personal Statement Examples You Can Find Online

So you need more samples for your personal statement for graduate school? Examples are everywhere on the internet, but they aren’t all of equal quality.

Most of examples are posted as part of writing guides published online by educational institutions. We’ve rounded up some of the best ones here if you are looking for more personal statement examples for graduate school.

Penn State Personal Statement Examples for Graduate School

This selection of ten short personal statements for graduate school and fellowship programs offers an interesting mix of approaches. Some focus more on personal adversity while others focus more closely on professional work within the field.

The writing in some of these statements is a little dry, and most deploy at least a few cliches. However, these are generally strong, serviceable statements that communicate clearly why the student is interested in the field, their skills and competencies, and what about the specific program appeals to them.

Cal State Sample Graduate School Personal Statements

These are good examples of personal statements for graduate school where students deploy lots of very vivid imagery and illustrative anecdotes of life experiences. There are also helpful comments about what works in each of these essays.

Want to improve your GRE score by 7+ points?

Check out our best-in-class online GRE prep program . We guarantee your money back if you don't improve your GRE score by 7 points or more.

PrepScholar GRE is entirely online, and it customizes your prep program to your strengths and weaknesses . We also feature 2,000 practice questions , official practice tests, 150 hours of interactive lessons, and 1-on-1 scoring and feedback on your AWA essays.

Check out our 5-day free trial now:

However, all of these statements are definitely pushing the boundaries of acceptable length, as all are above 1000 and one is almost 1500 words! Many programs limit you to 500 words; if you don’t have a limit, you should try to keep it to two single-spaced pages at most (which is about 1000 words).

University of Chicago Personal Statement for Graduate School Examples

These examples of successful essays to the University of Chicago law school cover a wide range of life experiences and topics. The writing in all is very vivid, and all communicate clear messages about the students’ strengths and competencies.

Note, however, that these are all essays that specifically worked for University of Chicago law school. That does not mean that they would work everywhere. In fact, one major thing to note is that many of these responses, while well-written and vivid, barely address the students’ interest in law school at all! This is something that might not work well for most graduate programs.

Wheaton College Personal Statement for Graduate School Sample 10

This successful essay for law school from a Wheaton College undergraduate does a great job tracking the student’s interest in the law in a compelling and personal way. Wheaton offers other graduate school personal statement examples, but this one offers the most persuasive case for the students’ competencies. The student accomplishes this by using clear, well-elaborated examples, showing strong and vivid writing, and highlighting positive qualities like an interest in justice and empathy without seeming grandiose or out of touch.

Wheaton College Personal Statement for Graduate School Sample 1

Based on the background information provided at the bottom of the essay, this essay was apparently successful for this applicant. However, I’ve actually included this essay because it demonstrates an extremely risky approach. While this personal statement is strikingly written and the story is very memorable, it could definitely communicate the wrong message to some admissions committees. The student’s decision not to report the drill sergeant may read incredibly poorly to some admissions committees. They may wonder if the student’s failure to report the sergeant’s violence will ultimately expose more soldiers-in-training to the same kinds of abuses. This incident perhaps reads especially poorly in light of the fact that the military has such a notable problem with violence against women being covered up and otherwise mishandled

It’s actually hard to get a complete picture of the student’s true motivations from this essay, and what we have might raise real questions about the student’s character to some admissions committees. This student took a risk and it paid off, but it could have just as easily backfired spectacularly.

Key Takeaways: Graduate School Personal Statement Examples

In this guide, we discussed why you need a personal statement and how it differs from a statement of purpose. (It’s more personal!)

We also discussed what you’ll find in a strong sample personal statement for graduate school:

• A clear narrative about the applicant and why they are qualified for graduate study.
• Specific examples to support that narrative.
• Compelling reasons why the applicant and the program are a good fit for each other.
• Strong writing, including clear organization and error-free, cliche-free language.
• Appropriate boundaries—sharing without over-sharing.

Then, we provided three strong graduate school personal statement examples for different fields, along with analysis. We did a deep-dive on the third statement.

Finally, we provided a list of other sample grad school personal statements online.

What’s Next?

Want more advice on writing a personal statement ? See our guide.

Writing a graduate school statement of purpose? See our statement of purpose samples  and a nine-step process for writing the best statement of purpose possible .

If you’re writing a graduate school CV or resume, see our how-to guide to writing a CV , a how-to guide to writing a resume , our list of sample resumes and CVs , resume and CV templates , and a special guide for writing resume objectives .

Need stellar graduate school recommendation letters ? See our guide.

See our 29 tips for successfully applying to graduate school .

Ready to improve your GRE score by 7 points?

Author: Ellen McCammon

Ellen is a public health graduate student and education expert. She has extensive experience mentoring students of all ages to reach their goals and in-depth knowledge on a variety of health topics. View all posts by Ellen McCammon

• Applying to Uni
• Apprenticeships
• Health & Relationships
• Money & Finance

Personal Statements

• Postgraduate
• U.S Universities

University Interviews

• Vocational Qualifications
• Accommodation
• ​​​​​​​Budgeting, Money & Finance
• ​​​​​​​Health & Relationships
• ​​​​​​​Jobs & Careers
• ​​​​​​​Socialising

Studying Abroad

• ​​​​​​​Studying & Revision
• ​​​​​​​Technology
• ​​​​​​​University & College Admissions

Guide to GCSE Results Day

Finding a job after school or college

Retaking GCSEs

In this section

Choosing GCSE Subjects

Post-GCSE Options

GCSE Work Experience

GCSE Revision Tips

Why take an Apprenticeship?

Applying for an Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships Interviews

Apprenticeship Wage

Engineering Apprenticeships

What is an Apprenticeship?

Choosing an Apprenticeship

Real Life Apprentices

Degree Apprenticeships

Higher Apprenticeships

A Level Results Day 2024

AS Levels 2024

Clearing Guide 2024

Applying to University

SQA Results Day Guide 2024

BTEC Results Day Guide

Vocational Qualifications Guide

Sixth Form or College

International Baccalaureate

Post 18 options

Finding a Job

Should I take a Gap Year?

Travel Planning

Volunteering

Gap Year Blogs

Applying to Oxbridge

Applying to US Universities

Choosing a Degree

Choosing a University or College

Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Clearing Guide

Guide to Freshers' Week

Student Guides

Student Cooking

Student Blogs

Top Rated Personal Statements

Personal Statement Examples

Writing Your Personal Statement

Postgraduate Personal Statements

International Student Personal Statements

Gap Year Personal Statements

Personal Statement Length Checker

Personal Statement Examples By University

Personal Statement Changes 2025

Personal Statement Template

Job Interviews

Types of Postgraduate Course

Writing a Postgraduate Personal Statement

Postgraduate Funding

Postgraduate Study

Internships

Choosing A College

Ivy League Universities

Common App Essay Examples

Universal College Application Guide

How To Write A College Admissions Essay

College Rankings

Admissions Tests

Fees & Funding

Scholarships

Budgeting For College

Online Degree

Platinum Express Editing and Review Service

Gold Editing and Review Service

Silver Express Editing and Review Service

UCAS Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Oxbridge Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Postgraduate Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

You are here

Criminology and forensic studies personal statement example.

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 crimes for years, “When Girls Kill” and “The Cheshire Murders” are among the many that interest me. I have a strong desire to learn about the behaviour of criminals because of my interest in psychology. I’ve taken psychology as an A level, and this allowed me to develop further knowledge for Criminology. For example, I’ve learned about affectionless psychopaths and how they are developed through nurture and why this leads to them committing a crime.

My love of science began when I started GCSE science, a good teacher and interesting course content soon made me fall in love. Courses on YouTube like “Crash Course Biology” really helped me understand the subject and deepened my fascination further. My main interest is in Biology, more specifically, human Biology because the complexity of each individual is truly beautiful to me. The background knowledge I’ve developed from A-level Biology through practical’s has made me feel more confident with experiments and has sparked an interest in forensics.

I work well in a team and always have something positive to offer a group. I have developed my teamwork skills from the expeditions I took part in for my Duke of Edinburgh Award. Working in a team was essential for success because in order to navigate successfully we had to work together. It was challenging and required a lot of work but I loved every minute of the experience. The sense of achievement I felt after the hike was something I’ll remember for the rest of my life. This experience has made me comfortable with working with others; this would help me to work well in a group during classes at university.

I’ve proved myself to be a responsible individual because I was a school prefect and I had many responsibilities in order to ensure that the school was a happy and safe environment. I would take turns with my fellow prefects to patrol the lunch hall and prevent disruptive behaviour, while doing so I had to set a good example for the younger students. As a prefect I also learnt how to communicate with people in a positive way because I led school tours for visitors; this meant I had to have a good speaking voice and feel confident with talking to new people. These experiences as a perfect boosted my confidence and organisational skills which is incredibly important for any university course; you need to be organised in order to stay on top of assignments.

I volunteer to tutor year 10 students in Biology. I believe the knowledge that I still have from my GCSE will be beneficial to them and I can give them strong advice that will coach them through their GCSE’s. This helps me to develop confidence in speaking to a wide variety of people and acts as an amazing way for me to revise some core subjects in biology which will help me achieve a good grade in my A level.

In my spare time, I love to do all things creative; you’ll most likely find me drawing or painting. I recently painted a picture of my friend for her birthday and I’m constantly filling up sketch books. I believe having a creative mind, as well as an academic mind, helps me see things from several points of view. My ability for this makes problem-solving easier. Seeing things from a number of perspectives will help me on a criminology or forensics course because in order to perform investigations you have to have an open and changing mind, therefore having a creative mind is a positive asset.

I am a highly motivated individual who has the enthusiasm and skills to make a valuable contribution to the course, therefore I hope you’ll accept my application.

Profile info

There is no profile associated with this personal statement, as the writer has requested to remain anonymous.

Author's Comments

Universities just want to know about you, so write about you and your interests. Don't use the word 'passionate' because almost everyone uses it. If your teachers are trying to change it so much that the personal statement doesn't represent who you are, then don't listen to your teachers. Only allow them to guide you on spelling and grammar. While it is important, your personal statement isn't everything, the university wants you to have good grades more than anything, so don't stress over your personal statement too much, worry about your grades more (if you're currently studying).

This personal statement is unrated

Related Personal Statements

Add new comment.

Criminology BSc (Hons) Personal Statement Example

• Reading time: 3 minutes
• Price: Free download
• Published: 6th July 2023
• Word count: 677 words
• File format: Text

Criminology, with its profound exploration of the causes, consequences, and prevention of crime, has always captivated my interest. The intricacies of criminal behavior and the underlying social factors that contribute to it have fueled my curiosity and desire to make a meaningful impact in the field. It is with great enthusiasm and a genuine passion for understanding and addressing crime that I apply for the BSc (Hons) Criminology degree.

My decision to pursue Criminology stems from a deep-rooted desire to contribute to society’s well-being by tackling the complexities of crime and its consequences. I have always been fascinated by the interplay between individuals, communities, and the criminal justice system. The opportunity to study the theories, research methodologies, and practical applications of Criminology excites me immensely, as it will provide me with the knowledge and skills necessary to comprehend the multifaceted nature of crime and devise effective strategies for prevention and intervention.

Throughout my academic journey, I have cultivated a strong academic background in relevant subjects including A-Levels in sociology , psychology , and law . These disciplines have equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, social structures, and legal frameworks. By delving deeper into Criminology, I aim to integrate and apply this knowledge to analyze criminal behavior, evaluate policy effectiveness, and contribute to the development of evidence-based solutions to address crime in our society.

To complement my academic pursuits, I have actively sought practical experiences that enhance my understanding of the criminal justice system and its dynamics. Last summer, I had the privilege to intern at a local probation office, where I worked closely with probation officers to support individuals transitioning from incarceration to society. This hands-on experience exposed me to the challenges faced by offenders and the various interventions aimed at reducing recidivism rates. Witnessing the transformative power of rehabilitation and restorative justice solidified my commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of those affected by crime.

One particular achievement I am proud of is my involvement in a community-based project focused on reducing youth crime. As part of a multidisciplinary team, I collaborated with local authorities, schools, and community organizations to develop and implement crime prevention initiatives tailored to the needs of at-risk youth. Through mentorship programs, workshops on conflict resolution, and engaging recreational activities, we successfully empowered young individuals with the skills and resources to make positive choices and steer clear of criminal involvement. This project underscored the significance of proactive approaches in crime prevention and fueled my passion for promoting social justice.

In addition to my academic and practical experiences, I possess essential skills that make me well-suited for this degree. I am adept at critical thinking, with the ability to analyze complex issues, evaluate evidence, and develop well-reasoned arguments. Moreover, my research and analytical skills enable me to explore and interpret data effectively, facilitating the understanding of crime patterns and trends. I am also proficient in utilizing statistical analysis software, such as SPSS, which further enhances my ability to conduct rigorous research in the field.

Looking ahead, I am driven by ambitious plans and ambitions for my future career. With this  degree, I aim to pursue postgraduate studies, focusing on specialized areas such as criminal profiling or victimology. Ultimately, I aspire to work within law enforcement agencies, research institutes, or non-profit organizations, where I can contribute to policy development, crime prevention strategies, and the promotion of restorative justice practices. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, I am confident that I can make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals affected by crime and contribute to the overall improvement of our criminal justice system.

In conclusion, my unwavering passion for Criminology, my academic foundation, practical experiences, and transferable skills make me an ideal candidate for studying this degree at [University]. I am eager to immerse myself in the comprehensive study of crime, explore its underlying causes, and contribute to the development of effective strategies that promote social justice and crime prevention. I am committed to utilizing my knowledge, skills, and empathy to create a safer and more equitable society.

Related personal statements:

• Criminology and Forensic Science BSc Personal Statement
• Law degree personal statement example (9)
• Social and Political Sciences BA (Hons) Personal Statement Example
• Law personal statement (8)
• Law personal statement (7)
• Law personal statement example (6)
• Politics personal statement (1)
• Politics personal statement example (2)
• Law (International) personal statement (5)
• Law personal statement (4)

Review this personal statement:

Latest reviews:.

I had complete writer’s block and this was so helpful in preparing my personal statement. I’ve used my A levels and academic projects to make the same points as the statement. Your site is an absolute godsend. Thank you.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Privacy Overview