University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This programme builds a foundation in criminological theory, criminal law and justice institutions while integrating intensive study of gender and sexuality from social science and humanities perspectives. You will study core topics such as criminological theory, research methods, criminal law and procedure, policing, corrections and youth justice alongside units that examine feminist theory, queer theory, gendered violence, sexuality and the law, and intersectionality.

• Core criminology and criminal justice topics: Criminological theory, comparative criminal justice systems, criminal law fundamentals, policing and community safety, corrections and rehabilitation, juvenile justice, and research methods in criminology.
• Gender and sexuality studies topics: Gender and feminist theory, queer and sexuality studies, gender-based and sexual violence, sexuality and the law, health and sexuality policy, and intersectionality in criminal justice contexts.
• Research and practical skills: Qualitative and quantitative research methods, ethics in research with vulnerable populations, policy analysis, case study work and opportunities for supervised projects or a capstone research project examining a gendered or sexuality-focused justice issue.
• Interdisciplinary and contextual learning: Units draw on sociology, law, public policy, social work and health to place criminal justice issues in broader social, cultural and legal contexts, and include Indigenous perspectives on justice and community responses.

The degree typically allows flexibility to choose elective units that deepen specialisation (for example family violence policy, sexual health policy, restorative justice or human rights) and may offer opportunities for fieldwork, internships or placements with community organisations, government agencies or advocacy groups.

Entry requirements

Admission is competitive and based on meeting the University of Adelaide's undergraduate entry criteria. Domestic applicants typically require a successful secondary school qualification (such as SACE) or completion of recognised alternative pathways; mature-age applicants and those with previous tertiary study are considered through alternative entry routes. International applicants must meet the University's academic and English language requirements.

There are no mandatory subject prerequisites for all applicants, but background in English, humanities, social sciences or legal studies can be advantageous. Applicants who do not meet direct entry requirements may be offered pathway or bridging programs.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers across the criminal justice and community sectors where understanding of gender and sexuality is essential. Typical roles include positions in policy and advocacy organisations, government agencies, victim and sexual assault support services, community and youth services, probation and parole support, restorative justice programs and non‑profit organisations focused on gender equity and LGBTQ+ rights.

Other career pathways include research and evaluation roles in universities, think tanks and government departments, policy analysis, community engagement and education roles, and pathways into legal or social work postgraduate professional qualifications for those seeking clinical or legal practice careers.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers a research-informed and interdisciplinary approach to criminology and gender studies, drawing on strengths in social sciences, law and health. Students benefit from academic staff who research gendered dimensions of crime, violence and justice, and from partnerships with local and national agencies for placement and engagement opportunities.

Being located in a capital city provides access to courts, policy bodies and community services for experiential learning. The University also provides student support services, skills workshops and pathways to further study for those pursuing specialist professional careers or research in criminology, gender studies and criminal justice policy.