Master of Investigations

Upon completion of this course, graduates will be able to:

1. Possess specialised knowledge of contemporary investigations studies and practices.
2. Possess knowledge of research principles and methods applicable to investigations policy and practice.
3. Demonstrate mastery of theoretical knowledge in relation to investigations studies and reflect critically on theory, professional practice and scholarship.
4. Demonstrate high order capabilities in analysis and synthesis of complex investigations and related information, problems, concepts, and theories and apply and critique established theories to different bodies of knowledge or practice and public policy domains.
5. Demonstrate capacity to generate and evaluate complex ideas and concepts related to investigations at an abstract level.
6. Demonstrate communication and technical research skills to justify and interpret investigations related theoretical propositions, methodologies, conclusions, and professional decisions to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
7. Demonstrate the application of knowledge and skills with creativity and initiative to new situations in professional practice and/or for further learning.
8. Demonstrate the application of knowledge and skills with high level personal autonomy and accountability.
9. Plan and execute a substantial research based project capstone experience and/or piece of scholarship.

The Master of Investigations is the only course of its kind offered at an Australian university, and it has been developed with extensive industry consultation across law enforcement and investigation practitioners.

Develop new knowledge

The course allows students to complete research-based studies relating to their jurisdictions. You'll be able to identify current issues in the sector and use research to develop best practice policy.

Gain a critical insight

You'll learn how to critically assess current policies and evaluate new and emerging trends in investigative practice.

Broaden your perspective

You'll be engaged in the analysis of practical multi-agency investigative methodology both in Australia and internationally.

Learn from industry experts

All staff involved in teaching the course have extensive professional experience as investigators.

Recommended study pattern

Due to the flexible nature of the program, and intake across all three academic sessions, there is no prescribed enrolment pattern whilst working through the course structures of the articulated set. Students may choose the order in which they study the subjects, taking into account subject availability across the year.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $25,488

The amounts shown here are indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

Charles Sturt University is Australia’s most experienced online uni, and has the country’s highest graduate employment rate. From agriculture, arts, healthcare and IT, to business, law, social work and teaching—you’ll get the latest skills in your field, and learn from academics who are connected to industry. Add in 24/7 IT support, scholarships and a vibrant student community, and you can take your next, or first, career step with confidence.

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QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

34

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

37

Applicants must be employed in an investigations role (police or private sector), and have one of the following: An undergraduate degree in a relevant field Five years or more as a police officer, with associated in service training Five years or more non police investigations experience, with associated professional training.

Standard English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements apply. 

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit for current competencies will be granted to eligible applicants.