Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice

Upon successful completion, students should be able to:

• Understand and confidently navigate the criminal justice system
• Explain the operations, roles and functions of the institutions in the criminal justice sector
• Reflect critically on the ethical and processional problems and challenges that inform decision making that concerns the dignity, culture, values, beliefs and rights of people who come into contact or work within the criminal justice sector
• Explain the philosophical and legal principles that inform the criminal justice sector
• Explain the history, social context and social causes and dimensions of criminal behaviour
• Understand and reflect on the history of colonial dispossession in Australia, the trauma that it has caused, and our shared responsibility to seek truth, reconciliation and healing.

Our Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice explores the causes of antisocial behaviour and develops the knowledge and expertise you’ll need to make a valuable contribution in the criminal justice sector. By studying this degree, you’ll understand the complex causes and impact of crime, and the legal and social policies that keep us safe. The course includes studies in forensic psychology, forensic science, cyber crime, border protection and biosecurity, understanding violence and trauma. You’ll graduate prepared for a range of exciting career opportunities in areas such as cyber security, law enforcement, intelligence and investigation, correctional and rehabilitation services, and more.

Recommended study pattern

Students are required to follow the pattern of unit enrolment set out in the relevant Course Enrolment Guide, unless otherwise approved by the Course Coordinator. In all aspects of progress through the course, students will be advised by the Course Coordinator.

Award requirements

To qualify for the degree, a student must complete 240 cp from the Schedule of Unit Offerings.

Choose your subjects

Electives

Students complete 4 units from a list of 10 Criminology Elective units.

Established in 1991 after amalgamating four eastern Australian Catholic tertiary institutes, Australian Catholic University now has seven campuses, from Brisbane to Melbourne and welcomes students of all beliefs. Specialising in arts, business, education, health sciences, law, theology and philosophy, ACU encourages its students to think critically and ethically and bring change to their communities and offer this online through Open Universities Australia.

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QS Ranking 2024:

34

Times Higher Education Ranking 2024:

29

You’ll need to meet the minimum entry requirements and subject prerequisites for your chosen course. 

If you have completed at least two units of AQF-recognised study at bachelor level or above, you’ll be assigned a selection rank based on your study level, duration and grade point average that will be applied during the admission process. 

If your previous study has equipped you with knowledge, skills or experiences that align with the learning outcomes of units in your new course you may be able to apply for recognition of prior learning and you may be able to complete your course sooner. 

Learn more about recognition of prior learning

To be eligible for admission to the course, an applicant must have a minimum 58.5 ATAR (NSW/ACT/VIC) or equivalent OP (QLD) rank and completed the following prerequisites at year 12 level, or equivalent:

New South Wales

English (Standard) (Band 2) or English (EAL) (Band 3)

Queensland

English (3 & 4, C)

Victoria

Units 3 and 4 - a study score of at least 30 in English (EAL) or 25 in any other English

You’ll need to meet the minimum entry requirements and subject prerequisites for your chosen course. 

For current year 12 students 

If you’re a current Year 12 applicant you can be given a selection rank separate from, and in addition to, your ATAR if you’ve completed a competency-based and graded AQF Certificate III or above. 

For non-school leavers 

If you’ve completed, or are completing a competency-based AQF Certificate IV or AQF diploma you will be assigned a selection rank by your local Tertiary Admission Centre (TAC). This is an entry score based on your individual qualifications and achievements. 

ACU has partnerships with TAFEs and many private education providers. If you have completed a qualification with one of these partners, you may be eligible for guaranteed entry and/or credit into a related ACU degree. Please apply through your local TAC and then submit a credit application for your previous study. 

You’ll need to meet the minimum entry requirements and subject prerequisites for your chosen course.

If you have no formal education qualifications you may be eligible for a selection rank based on your work, life or service experience.

If you’ve been in paid employment, relevant to the course you’re applying for, for a minimum of six months full-time (or equivalent), this work may be assessed for your selection rank.

If you’re 21 years or older you can sit the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) through your local TAC.

You can apply for an ACU bridging course. Our bridging courses allow you to transition back into studying and can give you a head start on the relevant undergraduate degree.

If you have served in the defence force, your rank and time in service may contribute to your selection rank.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Overall score of 7.0, Individual score of 6.5 for all tests.

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language – Academic): from an Internet based total of 94, achieve a minimum of 24 in writing, 20 in speaking and listening, 19 in reading.

RPL or credit may be granted according to ACU policies. Applicants are advised to contact the degree administrator.