Become a criminologist
Understand why crimes are committed and how they impact society with a Bachelor of Social Science With a Major in Criminology. With a strong focus on psychology, law and society, this industry-recognised criminology degree gives you an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those affected by crime.
By examining the motivations behind criminal activity, you will learn how to analyse trends, formulate policies and create systems to help prevent it. And when you graduate, you’ll have the skills to work in all corners of the justice system, from victim support to corrections programs.
Career opportunities
Community Development Officer
Foster social change and improve the quality of life within communities.
Policy and Project Officer
Lead specialist project activities and manage the development of policies.
Corrections Officer
Monitor and supervise offenders, and help integrate them back into the community.
Immigration Officer
Work to maintain effective immigration control based on the country’s immigration laws.
Learning at Swinburne Online
An industry-recognised qualification
The Bachelor of Social Science (Criminology) is an accredited degree from a university ranked among the top 3% in the world. Taught by leading academics, it is recognised by the industry’s government, private and non-profit sectors. And once you graduate, you’ll be in a great position to apply for further study, graduate programs or employment in a related field.
A community of critical thinkers
At Swinburne Online, you will be part of an online community of critical thinkers with an interest in crime. Like you, each person will bring a unique perspective to discussions. When studying your criminology course online, you will work with others on a range of activities, and collaborate with industry professionals on real-life case studies. You’ll be supported by experienced tutors, and form valuable networks with those working in the industry.
A unique learning experience
You shouldn’t have to put your life on hold to study, so we have created a criminology course that can fit around it. Working to your own schedule, you’ll learn in an interactive environment, where you will discuss research topics and analyse real situations with other like-minded students. Our study groups and discussion boards allow you to share your ideas at any time of the day or night.
What you will learn
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Forensic Psychology
Get an introduction to the criminal justice system and the methodologies involved in forensic work.
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Criminology
Explore the detection, understanding and prevention of crime.
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Forensic Science
Learn more about the techniques forensic scientists use to assist the judicial system.
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The Modern World
Examine a variety of cultural and institutional practices around the globe.
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Policing
Gain an understanding of policing issues within criminology including training, selection and offender profiling.
Support and assistance
Everyone has questions from time to time. That’s why we have a dedicated team of tutors and support staff on-call to help you, seven days a week. So whether you need help with an assignment or have a technical issue, there’s always someone you can talk to.
Course units
- COM10003 Learning and Communicating Online
- CRI10001 Criminology: Theory and Practice
- CRI20001 Policing: Systems and Practice
- CRI30001: Capstone Unit: Advanced Topics in Criminology
- CRI30002 Corrections: Systems and Practice
- FOR10001 Introduction to Forensic Psychology
- POL10001 Australian Politics
- POL20011 Conflict Resolution
- PSY10005: Introduction to Research Methods
- SOC10004: Sociological Foundations
- SOC20020 Deviance Difference & Conformity
- SOC30011 Social Research Design: Principles and Methods
- Electives 12 elective units
Entry criteria
Non-Year 12 entry
Completion or partial completion of an approved tertiary qualification (including diplomas, advanced diplomas, associate degrees and degrees). Additional performance criteria and prerequisite requirements may also apply.
Students admitted to the course with prior tertiary studies that satisfy part of the academic requirements of this course may be eligible for academic credit.
Applicants without a formal qualification but with significant and relevant work experience and appropriate English language skills will be considered if they can demonstrate that they can undertake the course with a reasonable prospect of success.
The University may determine selection criteria and restrictions in respect of courses to apply in addition to these entry requirements.
Year 12 entry
Successful completion of the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or its equivalent, such as an interstate or international Year 12 qualification.
VCE Pre-requisites
- Applicants must meet the associated minimum ATAR score
- Units 3 and 4 – a study score of at least 30 in English (EAL) or at least 25 in English other than EAL
