Contemporary science has been shaped by two processes, institutionalization and the professionalization of research. Institutionalization requires at least some adaptation of norms to regulate the functioning of social systems. Professionalization involves the process by which reseearch becomes formalized and available to many individuals and organizations. Scientific research has progressed in Germany, due in part to reforms at German universities, and the professionalization of research has changed the nature of scientific work. Criminology is an empirical science because of the way in which it explains social phenomena. Cognitive and practical tasks of empirical science are described, the availability of criminological research conducted at German universities is considered, and the concept of state criminology as a legal basis for police-related criminological and criminal investigations is discussed. The practical usefulness of criminological studies and controversies associated with criminological concepts are examined. Suggestions for future criminological research in Germany are offered that focus on close cooperation between academic centers and government agencies. 63 footnotes