A criminology degree can lead to diverse and meaningful careers in criminal justice, public policy, victim advocacy, social research, law enforcement and more.
Whether you’re interested in investigating crime, shaping social policy or supporting rehabilitation, studying criminology at ACAP University College equips you with the practical expertise needed to make lasting change in the justice system and beyond.
Today, we’ll answer one of your most frequently asked questions: “What can you do with a criminology degree?”.
Keep reading to discover what a criminology degree involves, what you’ll learn during your studies, and the variety of criminology careers available to you as a graduate.
What CAN YOU DO WITH A CRIMINOLOGY DEGREE?
Let’s dive into the wide range of criminology careers that await you as a graduate.
CRIME PREVENTION OFFICER
Crime prevention officers work to reduce crime in communities by identifying risks and developing practical strategies to address them. These roles often involve community engagement, education programs and collaboration with local police or councils.
This is a great entry-level position for graduates looking to make a difference on the frontlines, improving safety and wellbeing in local communities.
POLICY ANALYST OR RESEARCH ASSISTANT
Criminology graduates with strong analytical skills are well-suited to roles in research and policy development. You might find yourself working for government departments or universities, helping to shape evidence-based solutions to complex social issues such as drug use, youth offending or prison reform.
With experience, you could progress to senior research roles or contribute to national crime prevention strategies.
INVESTIGATIVE AND LAW ENFORCEMENT ROLES
Interested in getting closer to the action? Criminology graduates can pursue careers in law enforcement, including roles within the Australian Federal Police or state-based police services. You might work in investigations, intelligence analysis or operational planning.
Criminologists in law enforcement help to apply research and behavioural insights to improve practices, reduce crime and support community policing initiatives.
COURT AND LEGAL SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL
Knowledge of the criminal justice system is invaluable in a range of legal support roles, including working as a court officer or court reporter. These professionals support the daily operations of the justice system and often act as the bridge between legal professionals and the public.
These roles provide a front-row view of how the legal system operates and can be a stepping stone to further study in law and justice.
VICTIM SUPPORT AND REHABILITATION SPECIALIST
Criminology graduates often pursue careers that support individuals affected by crime, including both victims and offenders. You might work with non-profit organisations or community programs that offer trauma-informed support, restorative justice initiatives or rehabilitation services.
This area of work focuses on helping people rebuild their lives, making it a powerful way to promote justice and healing in the community.
FORENSIC AND BEHAVIOURAL SPECIALIST
For those with an interest in psychology, combining criminology with further study in forensic or psychological science can lead to specialist roles in offender profiling, behavioural analysis or forensic investigation.
These professionals work closely with law enforcement and legal teams to better understand criminal behaviour and support investigations.
RISK MANAGEMENT AND SECURITY CONSULTING
In the private sector, criminology graduates are valued for their ability to assess risk, analyse behaviour and advise on safety. You could work as a security consultant, corporate investigator or risk analyst, helping businesses prevent fraud, ensure compliance or protect people and property.
These roles are especially in demand across sectors like finance, retail and cyber security.
WHAT CRIMINOLOGY DEGREES ARE ON OFFER AT ACAP?
Now that we’ve answered the question, “What can you do with a criminology degree?”, let’s explore your study options for criminology and what a criminology degree entails.
A criminology degree explores the social, psychological and legal aspects of crime. When you study criminology, you’ll gain insight into criminal behaviour, justice institutions (like the police force, court system and correctional facilities), and the broader impact of crime on individuals and communities.
As a student, you’ll explore topics such as criminal law, youth justice, forensic psychology, organised crime and Indigenous justice. You’ll also develop essential skills in research, analysis and communication, preparing you for a wide range of dynamic and exciting roles in the justice sector.
However, not all criminology courses are the same – let’s break down the criminology online courses available at ACAP and the difference between each of them:
BACHELOR OF PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE AND CRIMINOLOGY
If you’re eager to learn more about human behaviour in general – and criminal behaviour in particular – our Bachelor of Psychological Science and Criminology could be the perfect fit.
This three-year degree blends study units from psychology and criminology to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of why we think and act the way we do. It equips you with the skills you need to enact positive behavioural change and make a lasting difference within the community.
You’ll explore how psychology and criminology are intertwined, completing units like individual differences and assessment, social and community psychology, forensic psychology, abnormal psychology and intervention, and much more.
Our Bachelor of Psychological Science and Criminology is professionally accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC), providing a clear pathway to further studies in psychology and the potential to become a registered psychologist in Australia.
BACHELOR OF CRIMINOLOGY AND JUSTICE
Our Bachelor of Criminology and Justice is the second of ACAP’s three-year degree programs specialising in criminology. While there is some overlap between the study units of these two degrees, our Bachelor of Criminology and Justice has a much stronger focus on the foundations of justice, and crime prevention.
You’ll have the opportunity to explore criminology on a deeper level, completing core units such as innovative justice, transnational crime, and mental health and criminal justice, and elective units including youth justice, cybercrime and policing.
ASSOCIATE DEGREE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
ACAP’s Associate Degree of Criminal Justice comprises two of the three trimesters included in the Bachelor of Criminology and Justice degree and can be completed within just two years, allowing you to enter the workforce sooner.
This degree covers most core units from our bachelors degree, providing a detailed overview of the Australian criminal justice system and related theories and concepts.
Want more detailed information on how to become a criminologist in Australia? Check out our dedicated blog post on the topic.
READY TO STUDY CRIMINOLOGY?
Whether you want to work in research, crime prevention, law enforcement or victim support, studying one of ACAP’s criminology online courses will prepare you for a career where you can make a lasting impact in society and the lives of others.
Still wondering, “What can you do with a criminology degree?”. Our Course Advisors are here to guide you. Book a call with a Course Advisor to chat about your study options, criminology careers and how you can get started in the world of criminology.