Bachelors of Political Science and International Relations / Criminology and Criminal Justice

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Griffith University Gold Coast Campus

Program Overview

This double degree is perfect if you’re curious about why crime happens and how societies respond, while also exploring the forces that shape governments and global politics. You’ll gain practical and analytical skills in criminal justice, law enforcement, public policy, and international relations — ideal if you’re aiming for a career that makes a real difference in communities, governments, or international organisations.

Curriculum structure

Year 1

In your first year, you’ll build a solid foundation in both criminology and political science. Core units like Introduction to Criminology and Criminal Justice, Police, Courts and Corrections, and Introduction to Political Science & International Relations help you understand criminal behaviour, justice systems, and how governments operate. This year is all about asking big questions while laying the groundwork for your future studies.

Year 2

Year two takes your learning deeper. Units like Mental Health, Psychology and the Criminal Justice System and Comparative Political Institutions show you how human behaviour, policy, and political structures intersect. You’ll start to connect the dots between criminal justice frameworks and the broader political environment.

Year 3

In your third year, you’ll explore more advanced topics such as Crime Prevention and Intervention and Foreign Policy and Globalisation. This is where you learn to analyse complex issues and see how law, policy, and political systems interact on both local and global levels.

Year 4

In your final year, you’ll consolidate your knowledge with specialised electives such as youth justice, corrections, victimology, or international law. You’ll also complete a capstone or major research project, giving you the opportunity to apply everything you’ve learned and tailor your studies to your career interests.

Focus areas

criminology, criminal justice systems, police and courts, political institutions, public policy, international relations, crime prevention, psychology of crime, comparative governance

Learning outcomes

Graduates will be able to analyse the causes of crime, evaluate justice and political systems, develop and critique policy, solve problems using multidisciplinary approaches, and communicate effectively in legal, policy, and political contexts.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

This degree equips you with skills recognised in government, justice agencies, law enforcement, community organisations, research, and public policy roles. It’s highly regarded for combining political insight with deep knowledge of criminal justice.

Reputation (employability rankings)

Griffith University is known for excellence in social sciences, criminology, and political science, and graduates often go on to roles in law enforcement, youth justice, intelligence, crime analysis, policy research, and community advocacy — both in Australia and internationally.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Griffith Gold Coast, this double degree is designed so you learn by doing, not just by sitting in lectures. You’ll get hands-on experience through real-world projects, internships, field trips, and research opportunities that connect criminology, criminal justice, and international politics. Along the way, you’ll have access to modern libraries, collaborative study spaces, digital research tools, and expert faculty mentors — all supporting you to develop practical skills and professional confidence:

Here’s how your experiential learning comes to life:

Work Integrated Learning (WIL): Gain on-the-job experience through placements with police, corrections, or community service organisations, applying what you learn in real professional settings.
Research Internships (CURIP): Work alongside academic experts on cutting-edge criminology research, contributing to meaningful projects that can shape policy and practice.
Criminology Student Society: Participate in activities like prison visits, workplace tours, networking events, and social gatherings, giving you insights into the industry while building connections.
Mentoring & Industry Programs: Receive guidance from peer mentors and industry professionals to support your transition into the workforce.
Global Experiences: Take part in study abroad, short-term international programs, or overseas internships to gain cross-cultural understanding and broaden your perspective.
Practical Projects: Many courses include group projects and real-world assignments that challenge you to research, analyse, and present solutions for issues in justice, policy, and global affairs.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from this double degree gives you a unique combination of analytical, policy, and criminal justice skills that are highly valued in the workforce. Many graduates move into roles like Policy Analyst, Intelligence Analyst, Community Safety Officer, or Youth Justice Case Worker, where they can influence decisions, improve systems, and make a tangible difference in communities both locally and globally. With this mix of political insight and understanding of justice systems, you’re well prepared for a career in government, law enforcement, community services, or international organisations:

Tailored career support: Griffith’s CareerHub and Career Services provide personalised guidance, including one-on-one career coaching, résumé and interview assistance, career fairs, and LinkedIn networking, all designed to help you land your ideal role.
Employment prospects and earnings: Graduates with skills in policy, political science, and criminal justice enjoy strong job demand, with roles such as policy managers or intelligence analysts earning AU $93K–$120K+, and opportunities expected to grow steadily.
Industry connections: You’ll get hands-on access to professionals through networking events, panels, and collaborations with law enforcement, government agencies, justice services, and policy organisations.
Accreditation and long-term value: This degree equips you with skills in research, analysis, communication, and critical thinking that are recognised and respected across multiple sectors.
Graduate outcomes: Alumni work in government departments, justice services, courts and tribunals, research and policy institutes, community safety roles, and international organisations, making an impact on policy, law, and public safety.

Further Academic Progression:
If you want to continue your studies, there are excellent postgraduate options. Graduates often pursue a Master of Public Policy, Master of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Master of International Relations, or even a PhD, which opens doors to leadership roles, research positions, international diplomacy, and academic careers.