Bachelor of Cybersecurity/Bachelor of Criminology

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

La Trobe University

Program Overview

future-focused double degree designed for students who want to understand both digital security threats and criminal behaviour. It is ideal for those interested in cybercrime investigation, intelligence analysis, law enforcement, and protecting organisations in an increasingly digital world.
This program is delivered at La Trobe University’s Bundoora (Melbourne) campus, giving students access to modern labs, industry-standard cybersecurity tools, and strong connections to Australia’s security and justice sectors.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1:
In the first year, students build foundational knowledge in both computing and criminology. You will study introductory areas such as Cybersecurity Foundations, Introduction to Criminology, and Networks and Information Systems, helping you understand how crime operates in both physical and digital environments. This year focuses on core skills in critical thinking, digital literacy, and understanding crime and justice systems.

Year 2:
The second year develops intermediate technical and analytical capabilities. Students typically explore areas such as Cybercrime and Digital Investigation, Criminal Justice Systems, and Database and Network Security. This stage connects theory with real-world cyber threats and introduces students to investigative methods used in modern policing and cybersecurity operations.

Year 3:
In Year 3, students deepen their expertise in advanced cybersecurity and criminology concepts. Studies may include Digital Forensics, Security Risk Management, and Criminological Theory and Practice. At this stage, students begin applying knowledge to real case studies involving cybercrime, intelligence analysis, and justice policy development.

Year 4:
The final year focuses on professional application and industry readiness. Students undertake advanced subjects such as Advanced Cybersecurity Strategies, Crime Prevention and Policy, and a Capstone Project or Industry-Based Research Project, where they solve real-world problems in cybersecurity and criminal justice.

Focus Areas: Cybercrime investigation, digital forensics, cybersecurity systems, intelligence analysis, criminal behaviour, justice policy, risk management, and digital threat prevention.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates will be able to analyse and prevent cyber threats, investigate digital crimes, apply criminological theories to real-world cases, and develop security strategies for government and private organisations. They will also gain strong skills in research, problem-solving, data analysis, and ethical decision-making.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program aligns with industry expectations in cybersecurity and criminal justice, preparing graduates for roles in government security agencies, law enforcement, intelligence organisations, and private cybersecurity firms.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): La Trobe University is recognised for strong graduate employability outcomes and industry-connected learning, with a focus on preparing students for high-demand careers in cybersecurity and criminal justice sectors.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Experiential learning in the Bachelor of Cybersecurity/Bachelor of Criminology at La Trobe University is designed to give students hands-on experience in both digital investigation and criminal justice practice. Students develop real-world technical and analytical skills through practical learning environments that reflect current industry needs in cyber security, policing, and intelligence. Learning is strongly applied, meaning students don’t just study theory—they actively work with tools, scenarios, and case-based projects that mirror real cybercrime and justice challenges:

Cyber Security Labs: access to specialist computing environments used for network defence, digital investigation, and cyber threat analysis within La Trobe’s technology learning spaces
Digital Forensics Training: practical experience in investigating cyber incidents, analysing digital evidence, and understanding cybercrime behaviour using industry-relevant investigative approaches
Industry-Based Projects (WIL): real-world learning opportunities where students work on criminology and cyber security problems in collaboration with industry partners and community organisations
Simulation-Based Learning: scenario-driven exercises that replicate cyber attacks, criminal investigations, and justice system responses to develop decision-making under real conditions
Software & Analytical Tools: training in industry-standard cyber security and data analysis tools used in cyber defence, intelligence gathering, and crime analysis
Group Collaboration Projects: teamwork-based assessments that mirror professional cyber security and justice environments, building communication and investigative coordination skills
University Library & Research Support: access to La Trobe’s extensive digital library resources, criminology research databases, and cyber security journals to support evidence-based learning
Work Placement Opportunities: structured opportunities to engage with justice agencies, cyber security organisations, and community safety programs through La Trobe’s industry connections

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Cybersecurity/Bachelor of Criminology at La Trobe University are prepared to operate at the intersection of digital security and criminal justice, addressing modern threats such as cybercrime, digital fraud, and data breaches. This interdisciplinary degree develops strong technical and analytical skills, enabling graduates to work in roles that protect organisations, investigate cyber threats, and support justice and law enforcement systems. Graduates are well-positioned for a rapidly growing global industry where cybersecurity expertise is in high demand.

Common career pathways include Cyber Security Analyst, Cyber Crime Investigator, Digital Forensics Specialist, and Intelligence Analyst, with opportunities across government agencies, law enforcement, and private sector organisations:

Career Support Services: La Trobe University’s Career Ready Advantage program provides personalised career coaching, resume and interview preparation, employer networking events, mentoring opportunities, and access to internships and Work-Integrated Learning (WIL). Students gain practical, industry-connected experience that strengthens employability in both cybersecurity and justice-related fields.
Employment Statistics & Salary Figures: Cybersecurity and criminology graduates benefit from strong labour market demand due to increasing cyber threats and digital transformation. Early-career salaries typically range from AUD $75,000–$100,000 per year, with a median salary of approximately AUD $85,000, depending on role, sector, and technical expertise.
University–Industry Partnerships: La Trobe maintains strong links with government departments, cybersecurity organisations, law enforcement agencies, and technology industry partners. These collaborations support internships, applied learning projects, guest lectures, and real-world cybercrime and digital security case studies.
Long-Term Qualification Value: This double degree provides a highly future-focused qualification combining technical cybersecurity skills with criminological understanding. It is aligned with industry needs and national higher education standards, ensuring strong long-term employability across both public and private sectors.
Graduate Outcomes: Graduates are prepared for roles in cybercrime investigation, digital forensics, security operations, intelligence analysis, risk assessment, and law enforcement support. The program builds expertise in cybersecurity tools, threat analysis, criminal behaviour, and investigative methods, making graduates valuable across multiple high-growth industries.

Further Academic Progression: After completing this degree, graduates can continue their studies through postgraduate pathways such as a Master of Cyber Security, Master of Information Technology, Master of Criminology, Master of Security and Intelligence, Master of Data Science, or research degrees including Honours, Master of Research, or PhD. These pathways support advanced technical specialisation, leadership roles, and research careers in cybersecurity and criminal justice.