Researcher in a lab coat reviewing evidence on her computer screen in a dimly lit office.

Bachelor of Criminology

Get the knowledge to pursue a career in criminal justice or forensic science on this 100% online degree.

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Time investment: 3 years part-time, Up to 10 years part-time

Location: Online

Cost: AUD 31,104

Language: English

lab technician wearing a white coat and blue gloves uses a pipette to transfer liquid into a conical tube at a laboratory workbench filled with scientific equipment.

Investigate crime from all angles

Whodunit shows and murder mystery podcasts might spark your curiosity, but getting a bachelor’s degree in criminology can take your curiosity deeper.

Explore what drives criminal behaviour, how justice systems respond, and what it takes to prevent harm in modern society—on a fully online degree from UNE, a leader in distance education for over 75 years.

You’ll dive into topics like forensic science, victimology, rural crime, and youth justice while sharpening your skills in analysis, problem-solving, and research.

Crack cases, not just books

Get hands-on learning that goes beyond the classroom. Through case studies, simulated crime scene investigations, and UNE’s unique WorkReady programme, you’ll apply criminological theory to authentic challenges.

Work directly with industry partners, like the NSW Police Force, to tackle real problems, build professional skills, and gain confidence collaborating in justice settings.

This practical approach ensures you graduate ready to make a real difference.

Two investigators wearing badges stand over a desk, examining and assessing evidence during an investigation.

Close-up of hands pinning a crime scene photo to a bulletin board, suggesting investigative work in progress.

Step on the scene with confidence

Whether you’re drawn to forensic science, rural crime, or social justice, UNE’s flexible majors and minors let you design a degree that fits your interests and ambitions.

Choose from specialisations like Crime Science or Crime, Justice and Society, and explore minors in Criminal Justice Processes, Psychology, or Justice and Indigenous Peoples.

Study fully online or on campus, balancing your education with work and life commitments—all supported by UNE’s 5-star student experience and expert faculty who are leaders in criminology research worldwide.

Where you’ll be studying

Study online with the University of New England (UNE)

UNE is a pioneer in distance education, delivering flexible, high-quality learning for over 70 years.

With a strong reputation for academic excellence and student support, UNE’s online programmes are designed to fit around your life, wherever you are.

Learn from expert academics in an inclusive digital environment and graduate with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to advance your career on your terms.

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Learning outcomes

Make sense of crime

Explore causes, consequences, and patterns through theory, case studies, and real-world scenarios.

Think like a criminologist

Apply key frameworks to analyse and respond to today’s justice challenges.

Delve into forensic data

Use research methods and analytics to investigate crime trends and policy impacts.

Understand systems of justice

Critically evaluate Australia’s justice institutions and their effects on marginalised communities.

Read between the lines

Analyse criminological texts to support ethical, evidence-based decisions.

Connect the dots across disciplines

Draw on sociology, psychology, law, and forensics to deepen your understanding of criminal behaviour.

Find out more about this degree

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Additional information

To apply for this degree, you’ll need to have completed Australian Year 12, an equivalent overseas qualification, or a relevant diploma.

If you’re partway through a diploma and have relevant work experience, you’re still encouraged to apply. You’ll just need to show that you’ve completed at least a high school qualification or equivalent.

All UNE programmes are delivered in English, so you’ll need to demonstrate one of the following qualifications for eligibility:

IELTS 6.5 (no element under 5.5)
PTE 57
TOEFLiBT 79
Or any equivalent academic study in English

UNE’s online degrees give you the freedom to shape your learning through a flexible mix of core modules, major-specific units, and electives.

Core modules build essential business skills and knowledge to set you up for success.
Major-specific units let you dive deeper into your chosen area of business.
Electives give you the chance to explore topics outside your major and expand your perspective.

This modular approach helps you gain a strong foundation while tailoring your degree to suit your goals.

As of 2024, demand for criminologists is expected to grow by 18% (Australian Government’s Labour Market Information Portal). Go where the criminology jobs are growing by pursuing roles in: