Bachelor of Criminology / Bachelor of Science

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Murdoch University Australia

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Criminology / Bachelor of Science at Murdoch University Australia prepares students to understand crime, justice systems, and scientific methods used in modern investigations. It is designed for students who want to combine an understanding of criminal behaviour with strong scientific and analytical skills to work in areas such as forensic science, intelligence, and crime prevention.
This program is delivered at Murdoch University’s Perth campus (South Street, Murdoch, Western Australia), offering access to modern laboratories, research facilities, and industry-connected learning environments.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
In the first year, students build a strong foundation in both criminology and science. They typically study introductory units such as Criminology: Crime and Justice, Introduction to Forensic Science, and foundational science units like Biological Sciences or Chemistry Fundamentals. This year focuses on understanding crime, basic scientific principles, and how science is applied in justice contexts.

Year 2:
In the second year, students begin developing more specialised knowledge in both disciplines. Study areas may include Criminal Justice Systems, Forensic Investigation Methods, and Crime and Society, alongside intermediate science units such as analytical biology or chemistry-based laboratory studies. This stage strengthens investigative thinking and scientific analysis skills.

Year 3:
In the third year, students move into advanced criminology theory and applied science practice. Units may include Cybercrime and Digital Forensics, Advanced Criminological Theory, and Forensic Evidence Analysis. Students also begin integrating scientific methods with criminal investigation approaches through applied learning and case-based study.

Year 4:
In the final year, students focus on advanced integration of criminology and science through research and applied projects. Units such as Forensic Science Applications, Crime Research Project, and Contemporary Issues in Criminal Justice help students develop professional-level analytical and research skills, often culminating in a capstone project or dissertation.

Focus areas:

Criminology, forensic science, crime analysis, criminal justice systems, biological and chemical sciences, digital forensics, evidence analysis, and research methods.

Learning outcomes:

Graduates will be able to analyse crime and justice systems using scientific methods, apply forensic and investigative techniques, evaluate criminal behaviour, and contribute to evidence-based decision-making in justice and science-related fields.

Professional alignment (accreditation):

While not a single professionally licensed pathway, the criminology component aligns with national higher education standards, and the science component provides a strong foundation for entry into forensic science, laboratory work, and further specialised postgraduate study.

Reputation (employability rankings):

Murdoch University is recognised in national higher education rankings and is included in global university ranking systems such as QS World University Rankings, with strong emphasis on graduate employability and industry-connected learning outcomes.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Experiential Learning: Students in the Bachelor of Criminology / Bachelor of Science at Murdoch University gain hands-on experience by combining criminology theory with scientific investigation methods, allowing them to understand crime from both a social and scientific perspective. Learning is highly practical, with access to laboratory-based science training, data analysis tools, and real-world case study approaches that reflect modern criminal justice and scientific practice. Students also build professional skills through collaborative projects, applied research tasks, and industry-informed learning experiences that prepare them for careers in both justice and science fields:

Forensic Science Laboratories: Students develop practical skills in laboratory-based science work, including evidence analysis, biological and chemical testing, and experimental procedures used in criminal and scientific investigations.
Science and Research Facilities: Access to modern science teaching laboratories supports learning in biology, chemistry, and data-driven scientific methods relevant to criminology and forensic applications.
Data Analysis & Statistical Software: Students use industry-relevant tools such as statistical analysis software (e.g., SPSS and R) to interpret crime data, conduct research, and support evidence-based decision-making.
Criminology Research Projects: Students engage in supervised research projects exploring crime trends, justice systems, and behavioural analysis, developing strong analytical and academic research skills.
Group-Based Learning & Case Studies: Collaborative assignments and real-world case studies help students analyse criminal behaviour, justice responses, and scientific evidence in practical team environments.
Work-Integrated Learning Opportunities: Students gain exposure to professional environments through internships, industry engagement, and applied learning experiences linked to criminology and science-related organisations.
Library & Digital Research Resources: Access to Murdoch University’s extensive academic library and digital databases supports advanced criminology and science research, report writing, and evidence evaluation.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Criminology / Bachelor of Science at Murdoch University Australia are prepared for careers that combine scientific thinking with a deep understanding of crime, justice systems, and social behaviour. This interdisciplinary degree equips students with analytical, research, and technical skills that are highly valued in fields such as forensic investigation, crime analysis, and public safety. Graduates are well positioned to work across government, scientific, and justice-related organisations where evidence-based decision-making is essential.

Common career pathways include Forensic Scientist, Criminologist, Intelligence Analyst, and Crime Data Analyst, with opportunities across law enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, government departments, and research organisations:

Career Support Services: Murdoch University’s Careers and Employability team provides tailored support including career counselling, CV and interview preparation, employer networking events, mentoring programs, and access to internships and Work-Integrated Learning (WIL). Students also benefit from applied learning opportunities and industry-linked projects that help build practical, job-ready experience.
Employment Statistics & Salary Figures: Graduates in criminology and science-related fields are in steady demand across forensic, justice, and public safety sectors. Early-career salaries typically range from AUD $70,000–$90,000 per year, with a median salary of approximately AUD $78,000, depending on role type, sector, and level of specialisation.
University–Industry Partnerships: Murdoch University maintains strong links with government agencies, forensic and scientific organisations, law enforcement bodies, and community safety services. These partnerships support student placements, research collaboration, and real-world problem-solving experiences that reflect current industry needs.
Long-Term Qualification Value: This double degree provides a strong, future-focused foundation in both scientific methodology and criminological theory. It is designed to remain relevant across evolving industries such as forensic science, data analytics, and criminal justice, ensuring long-term career flexibility and adaptability.
Graduate Outcomes: Graduates are prepared for roles in forensic science, crime analysis, intelligence support, criminal investigation, laboratory analysis, and public safety research. The program builds strong skills in scientific inquiry, data interpretation, critical thinking, and criminal behaviour analysis, enabling graduates to contribute effectively to complex investigative and justice environments.

Further Academic Progression: After completing this degree, graduates can continue their studies through postgraduate pathways such as a Master of Forensic Science, Master of Criminology, Master of Data Science, Master of Cyber Security, Master of Public Policy, or research degrees including Honours, Master of Research, or PhD. These pathways support advancement into specialist forensic roles, scientific research careers, policy leadership positions, and advanced criminal justice practice.