The establishment of the Centre for Criminology is an indication of the University's commitment to the development of Criminology, by providing a home for coordinated and indigenous studies of crime and criminal justice in Hong Kong. It also provides a forum for academics and practitioners in the criminal justice system to share their knowledge and to engage in multi-disciplinary applied research.

While the problem of crime in Hong Kong and the region is increasingly sophisticated, the Centre plays an active role in the development of effective strategies. Having a worldwide network with international Centres and Institutes, it can benefit from their participation in the affairs of the Centre and contribute to the development of criminology at the local, regional and international level.