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Crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) and its potential for campus safety: a qualitative study

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Abstract

Despite growing interest in crime prevention initiatives on college campuses, little is known about the practicality of such approaches. This case study was conducted in a college which had systematically applied crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED), a proactive crime prevention approach. Qualitative methods (semi-structured interviews, a focus group, participant observations, and a review of secondary sources) were utilized to contribute to the evidence base on the application of CPTED in academic settings. Findings suggested the CPTED program can be a promising campus safety initiative due to its cost-efficiency, educational value, and potential diffusion of benefits. Yet, this program may face several challenges in the implementation due to limited interdepartmental collaboration and limitations in funding and human resources.

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Acknowledgements

This work was supported by the Florida International University (FIU) Dissertation Evidence Acquisition (DEA) Fellowship and FIU Morris and Anita Broad Research Award. The author also would like to gratefully acknowledge the cooperation and support of the Colorado College administration and campus safety department which facilitated the completion of this study. However, all findings, interpretations, and conclusions remain the responsibility of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Colorado College or Florida International University.

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  1. Department of Criminology, Law and Society, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive, MS 4F4, Fairfax, VA, 22030, USA

    Auzeen Shariati

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Correspondence to Auzeen Shariati.

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Shariati, A. Crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) and its potential for campus safety: a qualitative study. Secur J 35, 1198–1219 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41284-021-00322-1

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