Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice majoring in Politics

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Adelaide

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice majoring in Politics at The University of Adelaide gives you a unique blend of insights into crime, justice, and politics. It’s perfect for students who are passionate about social justice, public safety, and understanding how law and political decisions shape communities, while developing strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In your first year, you’ll get a solid foundation in crime, justice, and politics. Core courses like Criminal Justice Systems, Explaining Crime and Deviance, and political units such as Introduction to Global Politics and Introduction to Australian Politics help you understand how governments operate and how societies respond to crime. You’ll also start building research, writing, and critical thinking skills that are essential for both fields.

Year 2
Your second year dives deeper into the real-world issues of crime and policy. You might study Policing and Crime Control, Victimology, and The Politics of Crime and Justice, analysing how political decisions influence policing, sentencing, and rehabilitation. This year also focuses on developing practical skills in analysis, research, and connecting theory to real-life practices.

Year 3
In your final year, you’ll tackle advanced topics like Cybercrime and Digital Evidence and Penology and Corrections, while also engaging in a work-integrated learning experience or internship with community or industry partners. This hands-on approach allows you to apply your knowledge in professional settings, preparing you for a smooth transition into your career.

Focus areas: Crime and justice systems, political institutions, public policy analysis, policing and crime control, victimology, cybercrime, corrections, social justice

Learning outcomes: Understand the causes and impacts of crime, analyse criminal justice institutions and political systems, conduct research and think critically, evaluate public policy, and develop evidence-based solutions

Professional alignment (accreditation): This AQF Level 7 bachelor’s degree is recognised in Australia and internationally, providing a qualification respected in government, community services, law enforcement, policy analysis, and related fields.

Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Adelaide is known for high-quality teaching and producing graduates who are well-prepared for careers in public sector, justice, research, and advocacy roles.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Studying the Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice majoring in Politics at The University of Adelaide goes far beyond lectures — you’ll gain hands-on experience that helps you develop the skills needed for careers in policy, justice, research, and public service. You’ll get practical exposure through internships, group projects, and industry events, while enjoying access to modern campus facilities like libraries, tech-enabled study spaces, and digital learning tools:

Work Integrated Learning – Internship (CRIM3003): Complete around 105 hours in professional settings with organisations in criminology and criminal justice, applying your classroom learning to real-world projects while building communication and research skills.
Collaborative projects & assessments: Many subjects include case studies, group work, and simulations, giving you the chance to tackle real justice and political issues alongside your peers and strengthen teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Guest speakers & industry events: Hear directly from policymakers, justice professionals, and community leaders through workshops and seminars, gaining valuable insights and networking opportunities.
Campus facilities & support: Take advantage of Adelaide’s libraries, collaborative study spaces, digital tools, and online platforms to support your research, projects, and learning throughout your degree.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice majoring in Politics from The University of Adelaide equips you with practical skills in research, analysis, and communication that employers highly value. This degree opens doors to careers such as policy analyst, community safety officer, criminal justice advisor, or public affairs consultant, where you can make a real impact on public safety, policy, and community well-being. The university also offers excellent support to guide you smoothly from study to career:

Career support services: Through CareerHub and the Careers Service, you’ll get personalised guidance, job listings, internship opportunities, CV and interview workshops, and networking events with employers — helping you plan and launch your career from day one.
Graduate outcomes: Adelaide graduates enjoy strong employment prospects, with many securing work soon after graduation, reflecting the real-world skills and experience you’ll gain during the degree. Graduates could expect to earn between AUD 60,000 and 80,000 per annum.
Industry connections: You’ll engage with professionals, policymakers, justice organisations, and community agencies via internships, seminars, guest lectures, and industry events, building valuable networks while you study.
Long-term qualification value: This AQF Level 7 bachelor’s degree is recognised nationally and internationally, giving you a credential respected across criminal justice, policy, research, and public service roles.
Versatile career paths: Graduates move into a wide range of fields including government, law enforcement support, community services, policy research, and advocacy, showing how adaptable and practical your degree is.

Further Academic Progression:
If you want to continue learning after your bachelor’s, this degree provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study. You could pursue a master’s in criminology, public policy, social research, or law, or even a PhD if you’re interested in research or academic leadership. Postgraduate study can open doors to senior roles in government, justice research, or high-level advisory positions.