What can I do with a degree in Criminology?

Drive meaningful change in a society with a degree in criminology by tackling real-world challenges in law enforcement, policy development, and community support.

Criminology is the study of crime, criminal behaviour, and the justice system, informed by principles of sociology and other non-legal fields, such as psychology and economics, social services, and policy. If you've ever been intrigued by the inner workings of the criminal justice system, or if you're passionate about making a difference in society, then a career in criminology could be the perfect fit for you.

Career options for a criminology degree

Graduates of a criminology degree are well equipped to work in a variety of professional environments within the public and criminal justice sectors, using a range of social perspectives and disciplines to advance principles of social justice.

Field careers

Field-based careers in criminology allow graduates to apply their knowledge directly within communities, engaging with real-world challenges to promote safety and justice. These roles involve addressing criminal activities and working on the front lines to ensure public safety

Specific careers in this area include:

police officer
protective services officer
detective
private investigator
corrections officer
customs and immigration officer
correctional case officer
parole officer.

Support careers

Support worker careers in criminology focus on helping individuals navigate the challenges associated with crime and the justice system, providing essential services and advocacy. Professionals in this field work directly with those affected by crime to promote rehabilitation, recovery, and reintegration.

Specific careers in this area include:

victim support officer
drug and alcohol support services worker
indigenous services liaison
community safety officer
family violence support worker
advocacy case worker
youth justice worker
parliamentary liaison officer
law clerk.

Research careers

Research careers in criminology focus on analysing data and exploring the underlying causes of criminal behaviour to inform policies and practices. These roles are instrumental in developing evidence-based strategies to prevent crime and improve the justice system.

Specific careers in this area include:

policy analyst/writer
research analyst
social researcher
crime analyst
security analyst
criminology researcher
legal researcher
crime prevention advisor.

Do I need further study to speacialise?

The qualifications required vary depending on the specific career. Many field careers do not require further study, while support and research careers may require an undergraduate or postgraduate qualification.

How to become a criminologist

Undergraduate study options

3 RMIT criminology students work together to solve a case in class.

Bachelor of Criminal Justice

With close links with criminal justice agencies built into this degree, you’ll explore how criminal justice systems work to serve individuals and the community through law enforcement, policy, practice, and reform.

A pin board tracking and connecting all the evidence of a crime.

Bachelor of Justice and Criminology (Honours)

Engage with the academic world of criminal justice by designing and developing a research project and completing a scholarly thesis

Two law students working in a library on-campus

Bachelor of Criminology and Psychology

In this degree you will develop an understanding of the psychology of crime, be able to conduct forensic interviews and provide case management for offenders, victims, and clients with complex needs.

Postgraduate study options

Graduate Certificate in Justice and Criminology

Designed by leading academics and industry professionals, the Graduate Certificate in Justice and Criminology reflects the latest debates, issues and approaches to global, national and local justice activities and processes.

Master of Justice and Criminology

With a strong vocational focus, this master’s degree provides you with the advanced skills and knowledge to effectively perform as a justice professional.

Master of Public Policy

With the Master of Public Policy, you will learn how you can contribute to positive policy outcomes, and participate in debates regarding power, politics and complexity.

Explore RMIT's justice courses

Where do criminologists work?

Criminologists have a wide range of roles. You may work in the legal sector, helping to shape policies that can prevent and reduce crime. You could be in a research institution, digging into the causes of crime and finding ways to predict and prevent it, or you might work in a community organisation or not-for-profit, working directly with people to help them steer clear of crime. You could also work for a government body like the police or courts, or a private organisation like a bank or insurance firm as a consultant.

RMIT graduates have worked with institutions such as:

Australian Federal Police
Victoria Police
Customs and Border Protection
Victorian Gaming Commission
Department of Justice
Department of Health and Human Services.

While studying the Bachelor of Criminology and Psychology you can gain real-world experience by undertaking a professional internship elective. Past students have completed placements with:

Victoria Police
welfare and victim support services
Corrections Victoria
youth justice services
Magistrate's, Children’s and Supreme Courts.

Learn more about your criminology study options

RMIT has spent more than 30 years in justice training and provides a comprehensive and industry-focused education that can help you succeed as a criminologist in Australia.

Explore RMIT's justice courses

Have more questions?

Our friendly staff at Study@RMIT are available five days a week to assist you.

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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