100% Online

Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice

Undergraduate | 2026

Mode

100% Online

Start date

January, April, June, September

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Program code

XBCCJ

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$27,100

Non-tuition fees

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

Time commitment

10-15 hours per week per course

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) in a higher education award program.

International non-student visa holders

This program is delivered online. It is open to international students who:

are studying online outside of Australia; or
do not require a student visa to undertake this program in Australia.

It is not available to international students wishing to study in Australia on a student visa.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Requirement	Score
Australia	ATAR	65
Bangladesh	Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC)	4.75
China	Gaokao	60%
China	Maple Leaf Education Systems World School Program	60%
Global	International Baccalaureate	24
Hong Kong	Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)	15
India	CBSE and CISCE	65
India	State Board Examinations	75
Indonesia	SMA III	70%
Kenya	Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)	B
Malaysia	Matrikulasi	2.33
Malaysia	Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)	2.33
Malaysia	United Entrance Certificate (UEC)	25
Nepal	National Examinations Board (NEB)	2.61
Philippines	High School Diploma (Grade 12) (Academic Track) K12	85%
Singapore	Singapore GCE Advanced Levels	6
Sri Lanka	GCE A Levels	7
Taiwan	GSAT %	60%
Thailand	Matayom 6	3.00
UK / Global	GCE Advanced Levels	6
UK / Global	NCUK	6
USA / Global	Advanced Placement (AP)	6
USA / Global	America College Test (ACT)	20
USA / Global	Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)	1050
Vietnam	Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thôxwng (Vietnamese Year 12)	7.5

Note:

Applications for 100% online study at Adelaide University will open in July 2025, to commence study in 2026.

Why Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice?

Are you fascinated by true crime stories? Interested in making a difference to your local community and beyond? You can turn your curiosity into real impact with this 100% online degree.

Criminology and criminal justice professionals have a unique opportunity to improve people's lives – and the wellbeing of society. They make a meaningful difference in local communities and on the global stage.

Contribute to a better understanding of crime and criminal behaviour. Help people as they navigate the justice system. Improve outcomes for vulnerable groups through systemic policy change. Advocate for human rights and social justice. Gain a competitive edge for careers in rehabilitation, reintegration, community advocacy or corrections.

Overview

This 100% online degree is designed to respond to increasing industry demand for criminology and criminal justice specialists. We go beyond process and procedure to examine crime and justice through an interdisciplinary lens.

Why do people commit crimes? Does punishment reduce repeat offenses? What role do structural inequalities play?

Informed by the most up-to-date research, current trends, industry experience and digital innovations, this degree provides a holistic understanding of the psychological, sociological and legal factors influencing criminology and criminal justice today.

We equip you with the skills to not just administer or enforce criminal justice, but to understand the causes and effects of crime, why our systems are falling short and how to advocate for a more just society.

You’ll graduate with highly sought after skills and knowledge, ready to step straight into a rewarding career.

Key features

Explore the theoretical underpinnings that explain crime and the inner workings of the criminal justice system.
Study contemporary approaches to youth justice, offender rehabilitation and desistance, human rights, cybercrime, victimology and globalised crime.
Learn industry principles, approaches and assessment techniques.
Apply analytical and research skills to real issues and scenarios.
Gain insights from industry experts and criminal justice specialists.
Benefit from a fully online degree designed specifically for remote learning.

What you'll learn

With our 100% online Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice, you can take full control over your study. You’ll be able to access support seven days a week, plan your study to fit around your life and view learning resources 24/7. You can log in to our interactive online environment anywhere, any time and on any device.

Our experienced academics have brought together strong industry connections and cutting-edge research to deliver an interactive and industry-recognised degree. You’ll develop a contemporary understanding of crime and the criminal justice system, spanning policing investigations and intelligence, human rights and social justice, offender desistance and rehabilitation and justice in practice. You’ll be challenged to apply your learning to timely issues, including cybercrime, the over-representation of minority groups in the justice system, crimes related to gender and sexuality and how policing practices affect Aboriginal Peoples.

Learn from industry experts, including current and former police officers, high-ranking detectives, legal specialists and researchers working in partnership with the Australian Institute of Criminology. Study the same principles, approaches and assessment techniques used across industry. Examine police investigative and intelligence gathering techniques through custom-made feature films. Build critical research and analytical skills and learn how to advocate for human rights principles and social justice.

You’ll study a combination of criminology, law, politics and sociology courses, including:

Psychology concepts
The criminal justice system
Human rights, crime and social justice
Youth justice
Working with community
Policing investigations and intelligence
Cybercrime and digital evidence
Victimology.

You can also tailor your learning to your interests and goals by choosing a minor in psychology, social policy, community health, public health or ageing and disability.

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

114 units for all Core courses, and
30 units for Electives

Complete 114 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name UO The Criminal Justice System	Course code CRIM1005	Units 6
Course name UO Social Problems and the Law	Course code CRIM1006	Units 6
Course name UO Understanding Crime and Criminology	Course code CRIM1007	Units 6
Course name UO Psychology Concepts	Course code PSYC1017	Units 6
Course name UO Sociological Perspectives	Course code SOCI1011	Units 6
Course name UO Corrections: Offender Rehabilitation and Desistance	Course code CRIM2003	Units 6
Course name UO Policing Investigations and Intelligence	Course code CRIM2004	Units 6
Course name UO Youth Justice	Course code CRIM2005	Units 6
Course name UO Aboriginal Australians, Policing and the Criminal Justice System	Course code CRIM2006	Units 6
Course name UO Criminal Law in Context	Course code LAWS2010	Units 6
Course name UO Social Research Methods	Course code SOCI2017	Units 6
Course name UO Human Rights, Crime & Social Justice	Course code SOCI2018	Units 6
Course name UO Working with Community	Course code SOWK2010	Units 6
Course name UO Cybercrime and Digital Evidence	Course code CRIM3004	Units 6
Course name UO The Psychology of Crime and Violence	Course code CRIM3005	Units 6
Course name UO Victimology	Course code CRIM3006	Units 6
Course name UO Crime, Gender and Sexuality	Course code CRIM3007	Units 6
Course name UO Globalised Crime	Course code CRIM3008	Units 6
Course name UO Justice in Practice	Course code CRIM3009	Units 6

Complete 30 units comprising:

6 units from Free electives, and
24 units from Program electives

	Course code	Units
Course name UO Integrated Communication Planning	Course code COMM3003	Units 6
Course name UO The Social World	Course code SOCI1012	Units 6
Course name UO Sociology of Gender and Intimacy	Course code SOCI3017	Units 6
Course name UO Politics and Citizenship in Australia	Course code POLI1013	Units 6
Course name UO Australian Social Policy	Course code POLI2014	Units 6
Course name UO Managing Decision Making	Course code BUSI3031	Units 6
Course name UO International Management Ethics and Values	Course code BUSI3030	Units 6
Course name UO Strategic Management	Course code BUSI3033	Units 6
Course name UO Organisational Leadership	Course code BUSI3032	Units 6
Course name UO Health Psychology	Course code PSYC3027	Units 6
Course name UO Psychology 1A	Course code PSYC1019	Units 6
Course name UO Psychology 1B	Course code PSYC1020	Units 6
Course name UO Social and Community Psychology	Course code PSYC2022	Units 6
Course name UO Aboriginal Australians and Psychology	Course code PSYC1021	Units 6

Career outcomes

Careers in the criminology and criminal justice sector cover a wide range of opportunities and pathways. Here’s just a couple of things you might do:

Work with law enforcement agencies to develop crime prevention strategies and policies.
Analyse and interpret emerging trends in crime, antisocial behaviour and sentencing.
Research issues related to crime and the justice system, including victim impact, offender rehabilitation and social justice.
Examine the causes of criminal behaviour, and the psychological and sociological influences on offenders.

You could work in government agencies, law enforcement, intelligence, social welfare, research, rehabilitation, corrections or not-for-profit organisations. You might get a job at the Australian Institute of Criminology, producing detailed crime statistics. Perhaps you’ll start your own true crime podcast – or go on to complete a master’s or PhD, studying anything from international policing to climate change’s impacts on crime.

You could be a:

Policy advisor
Strategic policy and planning manager
Intelligence and policy analyst
Correctional services officer
Child protection officer
Victim advocate
Crime analyst
Social services coordinator
Court administrator
Intelligence officer
Cybersecurity analyst.

You can also combine your studies with other degrees, majors or minors to pursue a career in psychology, law or forensics or take on further training and become a police officer.

Industry trends

Crime impacts almost every facet of society, from cybercrime costing Australians billions of dollars each year, to violence and vandalism affecting the safety and liveability of communities. Understanding the motivations behind criminal behaviour is integral for professionals on the frontline of the justice system as they work to prevent crime, assist those affected by it, and minimise its impact on society.

People eager to contribute to this field are highly sought after. You’ll graduate from Adelaide University with the essential skills and technical knowledge to make a difference in a complex area, advocating for positive change to improve the lives of individuals and communities.

How to apply

Applications for 100% online study at Adelaide University will open in July 2025, to commence study in 2026.

If you want to start your studies earlier, consider applying to the University of Adelaide or UniSA now, and continue onto Adelaide University in 2026.

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Fit study around your life

From 24/7 access to specialised support, discover the benefits of studying online with Adelaide University.

Learn more

Ask Adelaide University

You’ll access all your learning resources, submit assessments, and engage with your academic team and peers via Adelaide University's unique online learning platform, available 24/7.

You'll learn through a mix of interactive experiences including videos, virtual forums, online discussions and activities, with no need to attend an Adelaide University campus, not even for assessments or exams.

Our degrees are specifically designed for online learning, and you'll be fully supported throughout your studies by our local student support team and our expert academics, available seven days a week. You'll stay engaged with networking opportunities and virtual events, and once you graduate, you're invited to either join us in Adelaide, or celebrate via livestream with your family and friends.

As a general rule, any desktop or laptop computer produced in the last three years will be capable of meeting the online learning requirements. While mobiles and tablets are able to access most of your online content, we recommend using a desktop or laptop computer to make the most of the online learning experience. You'll also require a reliable internet connection, and you may need a webcam.

As an Adelaide University student, you'll have free access to the full Office 365 ProPlus suite, which includes Word, Excel and PowerPoint. If your degree requires specialised software, you'll also be able to download this to your device for free.

You'll have 24/7 access to your learning resources via the online learning platform, and can study when and where it suits you. In some rare instances, assessments or contact with your online academic team may require you to be online at a set time, however these times are generally flexible. You'll be able to discuss your requirements with your academic team or speak to our student support team if you need assistance.

If your course has an exam, you will generally need to sit this at a designated date and time.

Yes, if you have studied at university or completed a VET qualification (Certificate IV or above), or can demonstrate significant and relevant work experience, you could be eligible to receive credit towards your degree.

Your eligibility for credit will be assessed once you have submitted your application, and you will be informed of your credit outcome before your application is approved and you need to enrol. If you don't have the information required to be considered for credit when you apply to study, you will still be able to apply for credit after your application has been approved, with an outcome usually determined within a few days.

No, if you are enrolled in a 100% online Adelaide University program, you are not able to enrol into an on-campus course as part of your degree. However, as an Adelaide University student, you are welcome to visit our Adelaide campuses and participate in student events and clubs, utilise our sporting facilities and libraries, and attend your graduation ceremony in-person.

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Your study experience and support

Studying 100% online with Adelaide University means joining a dynamic community of learners – all supported by dedicated teams committed to your success. From day one to graduation, you’ll have access to comprehensive academic, student and technical support teams to ensure you get the most out of your online learning journey.

Student support services

Need help with enrolments, managing your study load, or setting your academic goals? Our student support team is here to assist. They’re your first point of contact for advice and are available seven days a week, including out-of-hours and on weekends. Get the help you need – when it suits you.

As an online student, you’ll also have access to our specialised on-campus student support services. Whether you’re looking for career advice, health and wellbeing support, international student assistance, accessibility services, or something else, we’ve got you covered. Visit the Support webpage to explore the services available.

Online academic support

From understanding course content to tackling assignments, writing, and referencing, our expert academics are here to guide you. Available seven days a week, they’ll provide personalised support to help you progress through your studies.

Tech support

We’ve got your back when it comes to technology. Our IT support team is available 24/7 to resolve any tech challenges you might face. With fast response times and tailored solutions, we’ll ensure nothing stands in your way. You’ll also enjoy free access to software downloads required for your program.

Study hours

Adelaide University’s 100% online programs offer the flexibility to fit your lifestyle. You can engage with course materials at any time that works for you – there’s no need to log in at set times. To stay on track, we recommend setting aside 10 to 15 hours per week for each course, but you can adapt your schedule and your study load to suit your needs.

Assessment

All assessments, including exams (if required) are conducted 100% online – so you’ll never need to travel to submit an assignment or sit an exam. Depending on your program, your assessments might include:

An industry-relevant project or case study
An online presentation
Essays and reports.