University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This degree develops an understanding of crime, criminal justice agencies and the social forces that shape policy responses, with a strong emphasis on social research methods and policy analysis. Core topics typically include criminological theory, criminal justice institutions (policing, courts, corrections), and the social determinants of offending and victimisation.

• Research methods: quantitative and qualitative methods, statistics for social research, research design and ethics.
• Policy analysis: policy development, program evaluation, cost–benefit considerations and evidence translation for policy makers.
• Applied criminology: offending pathways, juvenile justice, community corrections, restorative justice and victimology.
• Specialist topics: forensic psychology, cybercrime and intelligence analysis, Indigenous and cultural perspectives on justice, and contemporary issues in policing.
• Capstone experience: a research project or practicum placement that applies social research and policy skills to a real-world problem.

Students combine theoretical study with hands-on training in research techniques, data analysis software and professional communication, preparing them to produce evidence-based policy advice and research reports.

Entry requirements

Admission is ordinarily based on completion of a recognised secondary qualification or an equivalent preparatory program, assessed through the University’s selection rank. Applicants are expected to demonstrate proficiency in English.

• Domestic applicants: a competitive selection rank from secondary school studies or completion of a recognised pathway, such as a foundation or diploma program; mature-age applicants may be considered on the basis of work and life experience.
• International applicants: equivalent secondary school completion and demonstrated English language proficiency via recognised tests or qualifications.
• Alternative entry: applicants with relevant vocational qualifications or recent tertiary study may be eligible for credit or admission through special entry schemes.

Specific prerequisites, selection ranks and English requirements are published by the University and should be checked on the official admissions pages prior to application.

Career prospects

Graduates can pursue careers across government, non-government and private sectors where evidence, evaluation and policy design are required. Common roles include:

• Policy analyst or adviser in state or federal criminal justice and social policy agencies.
• Social researcher or research assistant in universities, independent research institutes and consultancy firms.
• Program evaluator for community organisations, corrections and rehabilitation programs.
• Intelligence and data analyst roles supporting policing, emergency services and public safety initiatives.
• Positions in victim support, offender rehabilitation, probation and community services, and advocacy organisations.

Graduates may also continue to Honours or postgraduate study in criminology, public policy, law, social research methods or related fields to progress into senior research, academic or specialist practitioner roles.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers a criminology program integrated with strong social research training and connections to law and social policy expertise. Students benefit from teaching informed by active researchers and access to multidisciplinary collaboration across social sciences and law.

• Research-led teaching that emphasises rigorous methods and applied policy work.
• Opportunities for industry engagement, including research projects and placements with government agencies and community organisations in South Australia and beyond.
• Support services for research skills development, including statistical training and ethics guidance, and pathways to postgraduate research.

The program is designed for students who want to influence policy and practice in the criminal justice system through robust social research and evidence-based analysis.