by Vicki Urquhart

In reality, campus murders are relatively rare; yet, from Harvard to Oxford to the University of New Mexico, there is no shortage of murder mysteries set on college or university campuses. Nor is any field of study excluded from the academic mystery genre. The broad range includes the most likely candidates—criminology and sociology, and some less likely ones such as, genetics, music, and even theology.

A key factor contributing to the huge popularity of academic mysteries is that campus settings belie their tranquil appearances. Campuses are cloister-like environments, whose landscapes are often dotted with stately old trees that cast long shadows, serene lakes that provide convenient disposal for a dead body, a commons where a murderer can disappear among the throngs, and footpaths that lead to looming neo-classical buildings. These warren-like buildings themselves provide plenty of gothic appeal with their grand staircases, towers, basements, and darkened halls.

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