Violent Crime Analysis Fellowship

Gain real-world experience analyzing violent crimes

Now Accepting 2026 Applicants

Tiffin University’s Violent Crime Analysis (VCA) Fellowship provides an immersive, four-year experiential learning opportunity for students interested in studying violent criminal behavior. Through hands-on research projects examining real cases and incidents of violent crimes, students will:

• Develop critical analysis skills to advance knowledge in criminology, forensic psychology and related fields
• Work with real data sets and open source information
• Identify factors precipitating violent criminality
• Contribute to evidence-based violence prevention practices
• Build teamwork, communication and leadership capabilities
• Assist law enforcement agencies with researching violent crime as it affects their community

This selective cohort program admits up to 15 new students annually across all majors. Top performing students demonstrating strong interest complete an application process.

Through the VCA Fellowship, students publish original research, network with experts and develop career-readiness skills positioning them for success in criminal justice, psychology and related professions.

VCA fellowship experience

The VCA Fellowship combines coursework, research, travel to conferences and other immersion activities in a scaffolded experience over four years. As they progress, students take on greater responsibilities.

To Apply

Application deadline is February 1.

• Complete the Undergraduate Student Application. When asked if you are interested in the Fellowships, select “yes”.
• GPA requirement: minimum 3.0 high school GPA; maintain a 3.0 college GPA and above to remain in the program
• As part of the admissions process, all applicants will participate in an interview with the program director. Interviews are typically conducted virtually and provide an opportunity to discuss your interests, experiences, and fit for the fellowship.
• Violent Crime Analysis contract — all students accepted into the Violent Crime Analysis Fellowship Program must continue to meet the fellowship GPA requirements, be active and engaged in all fellowship activities, and observe all fellowship policies.

As Vice Provost for Academics, I am thrilled to introduce Tiffin University’s Violent Crime Analysis (VCA) Fellowship—a transformative four-year journey for students passionate about delving into the complexities of violent criminal behavior. Through rigorous research projects and hands-on exploration of real-world cases, students in the VCA Fellowship gain invaluable skills in criminology and forensic psychology. The VCA Fellowship partners with law enforcement agencies in research projects that seek knowledge to help better understand violent crime and its societal impact. This selective program not only fosters academic excellence but also cultivates leadership and collaboration, preparing graduates for impactful careers in criminal justice and beyond. Join us in shaping the future of violent crime research and community safety.

— Dr. Pete Piraino / Vice Provost for Academics and Campus Programs

As Dean of the School of Criminal Justice & Social Sciences, I am incredibly excited to introduce our second fellowship program, Violent Crime Analysis. This program represents TU’s commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders who can contribute to the fields of criminal justice and social sciences in meaningful ways. Our fellows will dive deep into the complex world of violent crime, conducting cutting-edge research that shapes new understanding and informs real-world solutions. They will enjoy exceptional experiences and opportunities by presenting their findings at reputable conferences, publishing in respected journals and collaborating with industry partners to address pressing societal challenges. We are thrilled to be able to offer these unique opportunities for our students, providing them with invaluable skills that will benefit them for a lifetime and allowing them to develop professional networks that will propel their careers forward. We hope you will join us as we embark on this exciting journey!

— Dr. Lacy Ellis / Dean of the School of Criminal Justice & Social Sciences