Annotation

Objective. Justification of the feasibility of developing and implementing a professional standard for "criminologist specialist" as a necessary element of the institutionalization of criminological activity in modern socio-economic conditions, as well as determining the place and role of a criminologist in the system of crime prevention and national security. Methodology: are made up of general scientific and special methods of cognition: analysis and synthesis, systemic and structural-functional approaches, formal-legal and comparative-legal methods, as well as methods of criminological analysis, statistical generalization and expert assessment. Scientific and practical significance. The scientific aspect of this paper is to develop concepts of criminology as an integrative science and to substantiate the need for professionalization of criminological activity through the mechanism of professional standards. The practical aspect is expressed in the possibility of using the author's conclusions and proposals in developing a professional standard for "criminology specialist," shaping educational programs, improving crime prevention systems, and formulating evidence-based management decisions in the field of criminal policy. Conclusions: The lack of a professional standard for criminologists negatively impacts the quality of crime prevention, training, and the institutionalization of criminological expertise. The development and implementation of a professional standard for "criminological specialist" will consolidate uniform requirements for the qualifications and work functions of criminologists, improve the scientific validity of criminal policy and the effectiveness of crime prevention, and ensure the connection between education, science, and practice.