100% Online
100% Online
Learning Mode
Undergraduate
Qualification
3 years full-time
Duration
Mar, Jul, Nov
Start Dates
24
Units
$2,174*
Fees Per Unit
Swinburne Online’s Bachelor of Social Science with a major in Criminology is a 100% online undergraduate degree that equips you with a deep understanding of crime, criminal justice, and the social systems that shape human behaviour.
You’ll study what drives criminal behaviour, how policing and corrections work, and how crime plays out, from local communities to global illicit markets. You’ll also examine these issues through the histories and standpoints of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and how they continue to shape the experience of Indigenous youth in the justice system today.
This course suits career changers and school leavers alike. If you’re curious about what sits behind crime, and you want the skills to provide actionable insights that make a real difference in our society, then the Bachelor of Social Science – Criminology is the right choice for you. You’ll be joining a cohort of graduates from various areas of the criminal justice system.
How You’ll Study
‘The benefit of studying online with Swinburne Online has allowed me to schedule my time efficiently and effectively around [my life]. I have been provided with a world-class education led by industry leaders and professionals.’
Kate, Swinburne Online graduate
Our Social Sciences courses have received a five-star rating for learner engagement and teaching quality, both first nationally, by Good Universities Guide 2026.
Our Social Sciences courses have ranked in the Top 300 by the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026.
Our Social Sciences courses have ranked in the Top 300 by the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026.
To be awarded the Bachelor of Social Science with a major in Criminology you must complete 24 units in total made up of:
Each year is split into three Teaching Periods. You can choose to study full-time or part-time depending on your preference.
You must complete two (2) of the following units:
Complete twelve (12) electives to round out your degree. Tailor your course to suit your strengths, interests, and career goals by choosing elective units. View our list of available Electives.
Here’s what our Swinburne Online academic staff recommend for this course:
Applicants are required to meet one of the following minimum entry requirements:
Want to discuss your eligibility for the Bachelor of Social Science with a major in Criminology? Get in touch with our Course Consultant team on 1300 069 765 to discuss more today!
If you have completed recent prior studies you may be eligible to request course credit or subject exemptions to reduce the duration and cost of your program.
Credit for prior learning evaluates your previous studies related to your chosen subjects.
This is assessed on a case-by-case basis, where every applicant is assessed individually.
To learn more and explore your potential credit for prior learning, get in touch with our Course Consultant team on 1300 069 765 to discuss your options!
We have plenty of resources to help you! Visit our Applying and Enrolling FAQs or chat with a Course Consultant for advice on your specific situation.
Applicants are required to meet one of the following minimum entry requirements:
Want to discuss your eligibility for the Bachelor of Social Science with a major in Criminology? Get in touch with our Course Consultant team on 1300 069 765 to discuss more today!
If you have completed recent prior studies you may be eligible to request course credit or subject exemptions to reduce the duration and cost of your program.
Credit for prior learning evaluates your previous studies related to your chosen subjects.
This is assessed on a case-by-case basis, where every applicant is assessed individually.
To learn more and explore your potential credit for prior learning, get in touch with our Course Consultant team on 1300 069 765 to discuss your options!
We have plenty of resources to help you! Visit our Applying and Enrolling FAQs or chat with a Course Consultant for advice on your specific situation.
*Note: Unit fees may change each year.
There are several ways to help manage your course fees:
Please contact our Course Consultants to find out if you’re eligible for financial support.
There are a variety of Swinburne Scholarships to help reduce your costs.
Scholarships are available for both new and current students.
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Student Scholarships
There is a range of scholarships available to support Indigenous students in minimising the costs of study materials, accommodation, relocation and more.
How it works:
1. Check eligibility
2. Gather the relevant documentation
3. Produce a personal statement
4. Obtain your references
5. Apply online here
Please contact our Course Consultants to find out if you’re eligible for Swinburne Scholarships.
Credit for prior study:
Services & amenities fee:
For more details on scholarships and financial support, speak with our Course Consultant team today!
The Bachelor of Social Science with a major in Criminology prepares you for careers across justice, legal, corrections, and community settings. Here's what you could do – and what you might earn (average annual salaries via SEEK, 2026):
Analyse crime data, understand its causes, and develop strategies to address it, often working in research, policy development, or with law enforcement and community organisations.
Analyse crime data, understand its causes, and develop strategies to address it, often working in research, policy development, or with law enforcement and community organisations.
Gather, analyse and interpret information to support decisions. You'll work across defence, intelligence, and law enforcement to identify threats, assess risks and shape strategy.
Gather, analyse and interpret information to support decisions. You'll work across defence, intelligence, and law enforcement to identify threats, assess risks and shape strategy.
Help individuals meet their court or parole conditions and keep them connected to community services and programs to assist with their rehabilitation. Also be responsible for delivering high quality case management to a caseload of the highest priority individuals who have committed offences under correctional supervision.
Help individuals meet their court or parole conditions and keep them connected to community services and programs to assist with their rehabilitation. Also be responsible for delivering high quality case management to a caseload of the highest priority individuals who have committed offences under correctional supervision.
Work with local communities to identify needs and priorities, and design programs that support community well-being. Collaborate with organisations, service providers, and government agencies to deliver initiatives, strengthen engagement, and improve access to services.
Work with local communities to identify needs and priorities, and design programs that support community well-being. Collaborate with organisations, service providers, and government agencies to deliver initiatives, strengthen engagement, and improve access to services.
Maintain the safety and security of correctional facilities while supporting people in custody throughout their rehabilitation journey. You’ll supervise daily activities, help maintain order, and work with other justice professionals to support positive outcomes for individuals preparing to re-enter society.
Maintain the safety and security of correctional facilities while supporting people in custody throughout their rehabilitation journey. You’ll supervise daily activities, help maintain order, and work with other justice professionals to support positive outcomes for individuals preparing to re-enter society.
Online study makes it possible to build specialist criminology knowledge while balancing work, family, and other commitments.
Each degree is thoughtfully designed for online learning, ensuring your experience is fulfilling and supported. At Swinburne Online, we want to ensure that your journey with us is a success. Our team of academic and online experts have developed engaging, media-rich course materials using cutting-edge digital technology and advanced teaching resources.
What you’ll use Canvas for:
Think of the Student Hub as your online campus, where you will be able to:
You are supported at every stage of your journey with Swinburne Online.
You’ll have access to:
If you’re an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander student, you can access dedicated support through Swinburne’s Moondani Toombadool Centre. Moondani Toombadool means ‘embracing teaching and learning’ in the Woiwurrung language of the Wurundjeri People!
Support available includes:
Learn more about the Moondani Toombadool Centre.
Download a course guide
The suite of Swinburne Online Business degrees provides students with the opportunity to forge connections within the industry. Students hear from industry leaders and work with real-life clients with demonstrated experience within their respective fields, such as SEEK.
