Bachelor of Arts (Politics) and Criminology

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Monash University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts (Politics) and Bachelor of Criminology at Monash University is a four-year double degree that combines the study of political systems with the analysis of crime, justice, and social policy. It is designed for students who are curious about how governments, laws, and institutions shape society, while also exploring the causes of crime and how criminal justice systems respond.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In the first year, students establish a solid foundation in both politics and criminology. Units such as Introduction to Politics, Australian Politics, and Introduction to Criminology introduce the basics of governance, political institutions, crime, and justice systems. This year helps students develop an understanding of how social and political structures influence everyday life.

Year 2
The second year allows students to delve deeper into political theory, comparative politics, and criminology perspectives. Units such as Political Theory, Comparative Politics, and Crime, Justice and Social Policy encourage students to analyse how policies are formed, how political systems differ, and how societies respond to crime. Research and analytical skills become more central, preparing students to examine real-world issues critically.

Year 3
In the third year, students explore advanced and specialised topics. Units such as International Security, Politics of Public Policy, and Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice provide insights into global political dynamics and contemporary approaches to crime prevention. Students refine their critical thinking, policy analysis, and problem-solving skills while exploring areas of personal interest.

Year 4
The final year focuses on professional application and research. Students complete advanced criminology units and undertake projects that allow them to apply their knowledge in practical settings. These projects often involve research or policy analysis, equipping graduates with the skills needed for careers in government, justice agencies, and research organisations.

Focus Areas

Politics and governance, criminology and criminal justice, crime prevention, public policy analysis, political theory, international security and global politics.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to critically analyse political systems and criminal justice institutions, conduct research and evaluate policies, assess crime trends and justice responses, and communicate effectively to support evidence-based decision-making.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program provides opportunities for industry experience and internships, allowing students to gain practical exposure to policy, justice, and government sectors during their studies.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Monash University is recognised globally for its academic excellence, consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide, giving graduates a highly regarded qualification in humanities and social sciences.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Monash, the Bachelor of Arts (Politics) and Criminology goes beyond lectures and textbooks, giving students plenty of opportunities to apply what they learn in real-world settings. You’ll gain hands-on experience through internships, community projects, and professional placements that connect you directly with government, justice, and social policy organisations. There are also opportunities to study internationally through Monash’s Global Immersion Guarantee, where you spend time overseas learning about different political systems and justice practices. Combined with volunteering programs, research initiatives, and collaborative projects, the program ensures you graduate with practical skills, confidence, and a professional network.

These experiences include:

Industry internships and professional placements that let you work with policy, justice, or community organisations while earning academic credit.
Global Immersion Guarantee study experiences, providing short-term international programs to develop global perspectives and connections.
Volunteering in Practice units, giving you credit for community service while building project management, leadership, and reflection skills.
Student clubs and societies related to politics and criminology, offering workshops, seminars, and networking opportunities with peers and industry professionals.
Access to research opportunities within Monash’s School of Social Sciences, where you can contribute to real-world social and policy research projects.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts (Politics) and Criminology leave Monash with a strong mix of analytical, research, and communication skills that are highly valued across government, justice, and community sectors. They are equipped to understand complex social issues and influence policy, making an impact in public service, law enforcement, and social advocacy. Typical roles alumni move into include policy analyst, criminologist or crime prevention officer, government advisor, and community justice advocate.

Your career journey is supported throughout your studies and beyond:

Career support services: Monash’s Professional Futures program and Monash Connect provide guidance on career planning, resume building, interview preparation, and connecting with industry networks.
Employment outcomes: About 9 in 10 Humanities, Culture and Social Sciences graduates from Monash secure full-time employment within three years, reflecting strong demand for skills in policy, research, and communication. Graduates could expect to earn between AUD 55,000 and 70,000 per annum.
Industry partnerships and internships: Students gain real-world experience through placements with government departments, community legal centres, and justice organisations, helping you build a professional network while you study.
Global recognition and accreditation: Monash is ranked among the top 1% of universities worldwide, giving your degree international credibility and long-term value.
Graduate opportunities: Alumni work across public service, legal and justice fields, NGOs, media, and research organisations, showcasing the flexibility of the degree and the range of sectors you can enter.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, many students continue their studies to specialise further. Options include a Master of Public Policy or Master of International Relations for careers in government or diplomacy, a Master of Criminology or Criminal Justice for advanced roles in law enforcement or research, or professional qualifications in law or social research. These pathways can also lead to doctoral study, opening doors to senior policy, academic, or research positions.