Quick Answer: The best criminology schools in the Philippines based on recent CLE passing rates are Araullo University (92.80% in February 2026), University of Iloilo (96.44% in February 2025), University of Mindanao (90.87% in July 2024), and Tarlac State University (100% in February 2024). The February 2026 CLE set a historic national passing rate of 66%.
Introduction
Criminology is one of the most popular college programs in the Philippines, with tens of thousands of students graduating every year and sitting for the Criminology Licensure Examination (CLE) administered by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). The CLE is the required board exam for aspiring criminologists, and a school's passing rate is the most reliable indicator of its program quality.
The February 2026 CLE made history with 30,320 out of 45,936 examinees (66.00%) passing — the highest national passing rate recorded in modern history. This article ranks the top 15 criminology schools based on actual PRC data from the most recent CLE cycles, helping you choose the best institution for your criminology career.
Top 15 Criminology Schools by CLE Passing Rate
1. Araullo University — Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija
Araullo University leads the pack with a dominant showing in the February 2026 CLE, posting a 92.80% passing rate (348 out of 375 examinees) in the 200+ examinees category. The university also produced the topnotcher — Stephanie Lucquiao Sajor with a rating of 92.40%. Araullo's criminology program combines rigorous academics with practical training, and its consistent top-school placement across multiple CLE cycles cements its position as the premier criminology school in the country.
2. University of Iloilo — Iloilo City
University of Iloilo dominated the February 2025 CLE with a remarkable 96.44% passing rate — 271 out of 281 examinees — in the 200+ category. Based in Iloilo City, the university has built a reputation as a powerhouse in criminology education in the Visayas and across the country. Their program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical application in law enforcement and criminal justice.
3. University of Mindanao — Davao City
University of Mindanao in Davao City topped the July 2024 CLE in the 200+ examinees category with a 90.87% passing rate (189 out of 208). UM is the largest private university in Mindanao and offers one of the most comprehensive criminology programs in the region. The university invests heavily in laboratory facilities, mock crime scene setups, and partnerships with local law enforcement agencies.
4. Tarlac State University — Tarlac City
Tarlac State University achieved a perfect 100% passing rate in the February 2024 CLE, with all 89 examinees passing. As a state university, TSU offers quality criminology education at affordable tuition rates. The College of Criminal Justice Education is known for its dedicated faculty and strong student support systems. This perfect score highlights the university's commitment to academic excellence.
5. Cavite State University — Indang, Cavite
Cavite State University posted an impressive 98.55% passing rate in the February 2024 CLE, with 136 out of 138 examinees passing. Located in Indang, Cavite, CvSU is one of the leading state universities in CALABARZON. Their criminology program benefits from proximity to national government agencies and training facilities, providing students with practical exposure.
6. Holy Angel University — Angeles City, Pampanga
Holy Angel University in Angeles City is known for producing individual topnotchers in the CLE. John Michael Bundalian Amio of HAU topped the February 2025 CLE with a rating of 92.20%. The university's criminology program is one of the strongest in Central Luzon, with well-equipped facilities including a mock courtroom and forensic science laboratory.
7. Colegio de San Antonio de Padua — Pila, Laguna
Colegio de San Antonio de Padua has consistently placed among the top-performing schools in the CLE. Located in the historic town of Pila, Laguna, this private institution punches above its weight with excellent passing rates. Their small class sizes allow for personalized instruction, and the school maintains strong ties with local and regional law enforcement for practicum placements.
8. Kolehiyo ng Lungsod ng Lipa — Lipa City, Batangas
Kolehiyo ng Lungsod ng Lipa produced the second-place topnotcher in the February 2025 CLE — Christopher Pachico with a 91.90% rating. As a local government-funded institution in Batangas, KLL offers affordable criminology education without compromising quality. The school has been consistently improving its CLE performance in recent years.
9. Philippine College of Criminology — Manila
Philippine College of Criminology (PCCr) in Manila is the oldest and most established criminology institution in the country. Founded specifically for criminal justice education, PCCr has the most extensive alumni network in law enforcement, including the Philippine National Police and Bureau of Jail Management and Penology. Their program offerings are the most comprehensive, covering all major and minor subjects in criminology.
10. Lyceum of the Philippines University — Manila
Lyceum of the Philippines University offers a well-rounded criminology program in Manila with a strong emphasis on international criminal justice standards. LPU's main campus in Intramuros provides a historic setting for studying law and justice. The university consistently produces CLE passers and maintains solid passing rates above the national average.
11. University of the Cordilleras — Baguio City
University of the Cordilleras in Baguio City offers a strong criminology program in Northern Luzon. The university benefits from its location near Camp John Hay and military training facilities. UC's criminology graduates are well-represented in law enforcement agencies across the Cordillera Administrative Region.
12. University of Cebu — Cebu City
University of Cebu in Cebu City is one of the leading criminology schools in the Visayas. With multiple campuses across Cebu, UC offers accessible criminology education with modern facilities. Their program includes partnerships with local police offices for hands-on training and field immersion.
13. Jose Rizal University — Mandaluyong City
Jose Rizal University in Mandaluyong offers a competitive criminology program in Metro Manila. JRU's College of Criminology provides a balanced curriculum that covers forensic science, law enforcement administration, and criminal sociology. The university maintains partnerships with government agencies for practicum placements.
14. Polytechnic University of the Philippines — Manila
PUP in Sta. Mesa, Manila is the country's largest state university and offers one of the most affordable criminology programs. Despite the large student population, PUP maintains respectable CLE passing rates. The university's main campus in Manila provides easy access to courthouses, police stations, and government offices essential for practical training.
15. University of Southern Philippines Foundation — Cebu City
University of Southern Philippines Foundation in Cebu City rounds out the list with a solid criminology program that serves students in Central Visayas. USPF has been producing CLE passers for decades and maintains passing rates above the national average.
Comparison Table: Top Criminology Schools by CLE Performance
| School | Location | CLE Passing Rate | Exam Cycle | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Araullo University | Cabanatuan, NE | 92.80% | Feb 2026 | Private |
| University of Iloilo | Iloilo City | 96.44% | Feb 2025 | Private |
| University of Mindanao | Davao City | 90.87% | Jul 2024 | Private |
| Tarlac State University | Tarlac City | 100% | Feb 2024 | State |
| Cavite State University | Indang, Cavite | 98.55% | Feb 2024 | State |
| Holy Angel University | Angeles City | Topnotcher | Feb 2025 | Private |
| Colegio de San Antonio de Padua | Pila, Laguna | Top-performing | Multiple | Private |
| Kolehiyo ng Lungsod ng Lipa | Lipa, Batangas | 2nd Place | Feb 2025 | Local |
| PCCr | Manila | Above national avg | Multiple | Private |
| LPU Manila | Manila | Above national avg | Multiple | Private |
| UC Baguio | Baguio City | Above national avg | Multiple | Private |
| University of Cebu | Cebu City | Above national avg | Multiple | Private |
| JRU | Mandaluyong | Above national avg | Multiple | Private |
| PUP | Manila | Above national avg | Multiple | State |
| USPF | Cebu City | Above national avg | Multiple | Private |
How to Choose a Criminology School
Check Recent CLE Passing Rates
The PRC publishes school performance data after every CLE cycle. Look for schools that consistently appear in the top-performing list, not just one-time performers. Schools like Araullo University and University of Iloilo have shown sustained excellence.
Consider State vs. Private
State universities like Tarlac State University and Cavite State University offer affordable tuition with excellent passing rates. Private schools may offer better facilities and smaller class sizes but at a higher cost.
Evaluate Facilities
Look for schools with mock crime scene laboratories, forensic science equipment, firing ranges (or partnerships for range time), and mock courtrooms. Practical training is essential for CLE preparation.
Review the Curriculum
Ensure the school's curriculum aligns with PRC requirements and covers all major CLE subjects: Criminal Jurisprudence, Criminalistics, Law Enforcement Administration, Crime Detection and Investigation, and Correctional Administration.
Consider Location and Accessibility
Choose a school you can commute to consistently. If you are from Visayas, schools like University of Iloilo and University of Cebu are excellent choices. For Mindanao students, University of Mindanao is the top option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the passing rate for the 2026 CLE? The February 2026 CLE had a 66.00% national passing rate — the highest ever recorded — with 30,320 out of 45,936 examinees passing.
How many years is a criminology degree in the Philippines? BS Criminology is a four-year program. After graduation, you must pass the CLE to become a licensed criminologist (RCrim).
What are the CLE subjects? The CLE covers six subjects: Criminal Jurisprudence and Procedure, Law Enforcement Administration, Crime Detection and Investigation, Criminalistics, Correctional Administration, and Criminal Sociology, Ethics and Human Relations.
Which criminology school has the highest CLE passing rate? University of Iloilo posted the highest recent rate at 96.44% in February 2025, while Tarlac State University achieved 100% in February 2024 with a smaller examinee pool.
Is criminology a good course in the Philippines? Yes, criminology graduates have diverse career paths including the PNP, NBI, BJMP, BFP, PDEA, private security, and forensic science. Licensed criminologists are in demand across government and private sectors.
How much does criminology tuition cost? State universities charge PHP 10,000–25,000 per semester, while private schools range from PHP 25,000–60,000 per semester. Some schools offer scholarships for honor students and financially disadvantaged applicants.
Do I need a review center to pass the CLE? While not strictly required, a review center significantly improves your chances. Centers like CBRC, SLRC, and CEVAS offer dedicated CLE review programs.
When is the next CLE schedule? The PRC typically administers the CLE twice a year — in February and August. Check the PRC website for official 2026 schedules.
Start your search for the perfect criminology school today. Browse all schools offering criminology programs on SchoolFinderPH and compare locations, tuition, and board exam performance to make the right choice for your future in criminal justice.