RESEARCH • DATA • TECHNOLOGY • PUBLIC SAFETY
Institute for Predictive and Analytical Policing Science
Advancing evidence-based research at the intersection of crime, place, human behavior and emerging technology.
OUR MISSION
Advancing the Science of Crime Analysis
The Institute advances education and evidence-based research in predictive and analytical policing science, with an emphasis on rigorous quantitative, spatial and technological approaches to understanding crime and public safety.
We connect faculty, students, researchers and law enforcement partners to develop analytical knowledge, provide professional training and translate research into actionable intelligence and evidence-informed practice.
UNDERSTANDING THE FIELD
What Is Predictive Policing?
Predictive policing uses data, crime analysis, statistical methods and geospatial technologies to identify patterns and estimate where or under what conditions crime and public-safety problems may be more likely to occur.
Rather than relying only on information about what has already happened, analysts use historical and current data to develop forward-looking assessments that can support prevention, investigation, planning and resource allocation.
Prediction does not mean certainty. Analytical models provide evidence that can inform decisions; they do not replace professional judgment, sound research design or evaluation of outcomes.
FROM DATA TO DECISION
How Predictive Analysis Works
01
Data
Crime, place, mobility and other relevant information.
02
Analysis
Statistical, spatial and computational methods reveal patterns.
03
Prediction
Models estimate patterns, concentrations and potential risk.
04
Action
Evidence supports prevention, investigation and planning.
IMPORTANT DISTINCTION
Prediction ≠ Certainty
Predictive policing does not mean that a computer “knows” where crime will occur. It uses evidence to estimate risk and inform forward-looking decisions that should be interpreted, evaluated and used alongside professional expertise.
CURRENT RESEARCH
Research Initiatives
Explore our interdisciplinary research examining crime through movement, advanced data science and emerging geospatial technologies.
MOBILITY • GIS • ENVIRONMENTAL CRIMINOLOGY
Human Mobility & Crime
Using mobile-device geotracking and spatiotemporal population measures to examine how residents, visitors and ambient populations influence crime opportunities, guardianship and victimization.
AI • SYNTHETIC DATA • DIGITAL TWIN
Synthetic Spatial Crime Data
Developing high-fidelity synthetic crime data and digital environments for reproducible research, simulation, theory testing and evaluation while addressing barriers associated with sensitive criminal justice data.
DRONES • SATELLITES • REMOTE SENSING
Drone & Satellite Imagery and Crime
Combining high-resolution drone and satellite imagery with GIS and machine learning to identify built-environment characteristics and examine how physical places relate to crime and community safety.
OUR TEAM
Research Is a Team Effort
The Institute brings together faculty, graduate and undergraduate researchers, analytical specialists and interdisciplinary collaborators who share an interest in spatial criminology, crime analysis, technology and data-informed public safety.
EDUCATION & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Choose Your Crime Analysis Pathway
Tarleton offers multiple ways to build expertise in crime analysis, mapping, research and data-informed public safety decision-making.
GRADUATE CERTIFICATE
Graduate Certificate in Crime Analysis
Build advanced graduate-level expertise in crime analysis, GIS, data interpretation and applied research.
12
CREDIT HOURS
100%
ONLINE
Best for: Graduate students and professionals seeking advanced analytical skills. Certificate coursework can also support the Master of Criminal Justice pathway.
UNDERGRADUATE CERTIFICATE
Undergraduate Certificate in Crime Analysis
Develop practical skills in crime analysis, mapping, statistics, research and data-informed decision-making.
15
CREDIT HOURS
ALL
MAJORS WELCOME
Best for: Undergraduate students who want career-relevant analytical skills that complement criminal justice, GIS, public administration and other majors.
EXTENDED EDUCATION
Crime Analysis Certificate Programs
Access crime-analysis education through Tarleton Extended Education and Workforce Development with flexible online pathways for working professionals.
100%
ONLINE
2
CERTIFICATE LEVELS
Best for: Working professionals and non-degree learners seeking flexible access to undergraduate- or graduate-level crime analysis training.
Built in Partnership With the Crime Analysis Profession
Tarleton’s crime analysis programs were developed in partnership with the Texas Law Enforcement Analyst Network (TXLEAN), connecting academic preparation with skills relevant to contemporary crime analysis practice.
Crime Analysis • GIS • Research • Data
PAST RESEARCH
Previous Institute Projects
NIJ-SUPPORTED RESEARCH • NORTH TEXAS
Illegal Marijuana and Drug-Related Violent Crime in North Texas
A mixed-methods research partnership examining illegal marijuana markets, drug-related violence, spatial patterns and investigative approaches in North Texas.
RESEARCH • TRAINING • PARTNERSHIPS
Work With the Institute
We welcome collaboration with researchers, students, crime analysts, law enforcement agencies and community partners interested in data-driven approaches to crime and public safety.