Bachelor of Criminology at Deakin University
The Bachelor of Criminology at Deakin University is Australia’s most established criminology course, with industry input and online study.
Title: Bachelor of Criminology
Provider: Deakin University
Campus location(s): Burwood (Melbourne), Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Online
About
Deakin University’s Bachelor of Criminology explores criminal behaviour and how it can be addressed within the justice system. The 3-year degree covers topics from the reasons behind criminal activity to the societal impacts of crime.
The program has received input from professional bodies including Victoria Police, the Department of Justice and Community Safety Victoria, and the Australian Institute of Professional Intelligence Officers. Work-integrated learning opportunities further allow students to apply their knowledge in criminology and justice roles.
Provider
Deakin University presents this degree as industry-informed, with curriculum developed alongside professional bodies. The official course page also points to work-integrated learning opportunities through elective units.
Key Takeaways
- Develop understanding of criminal justice and criminological theories.
- Skills in addressing and analysing criminal behaviour.
- Opportunities for hands-on experience through work-integrated learning.
- Online lowest selection rank is unpublished; Deakin lists a Guaranteed ATAR of 55 for Online.
- Access to industry connections including Victoria Police, the Department of Justice and Community Safety Victoria, and the Australian Institute of Professional Intelligence Officers.
Course Structure

The Bachelor of Criminology requires the completion of 24 credit points, plus the compulsory 0-credit-point Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin unit in the first study period. The 24 credit points include 6 core units, 6 criminology course elective units, and 12 open elective units.
The curriculum includes foundational criminology units like Introducing Crime and Criminology, Explaining Crime, and International and Comparative Criminal Justice.
Elective options allow students to specialise in areas such as crime prevention, justice, and security. Students must also meet level rules across the degree, including limits on level 1 units and minimum requirements at higher levels. At least six credit points must come from designated criminology units.
Why This Degree Is Worthwhile

The Bachelor of Criminology at Deakin University stands out as Australia’s most established criminology course. The degree offers a deep dive into the workings of the criminal justice system, backed by criminology research and direct industry input.
Students not only learn about crime but also how to implement effective solutions that improve community safety and justice outcomes.
Graduates leave with a portfolio that demonstrates their ability to tackle criminal justice issues with empathy and insight. The degree’s emphasis on practical experience, coupled with strong industry connections, prepares students for a successful career in the criminology field.