The University of South Florida, based in Tampa, FL offers a fully funded PhD in Criminology. The Ph.D. is a research degree granted in recognition of high achievement in criminology. This achievement requires accomplishments beyond the completion of coursework that demonstrate the ability to work independently and contribute to criminological knowledge. The department has funds to support selected graduate students. A Graduate Assistantship provides a $25,800 annual stipend, tuition waiver, and health insurance. Students receiving these assistantships work 20 hours per week. These are awarded on a competitive basis and all applicants are considered.