Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This combined program brings together criminology and criminal justice subjects with a comprehensive legal curriculum. You will study foundational criminological theory, research methods, and the social contexts of crime alongside compulsory law subjects such as criminal law, evidence, constitutional law, contract and tort. Core criminology topics typically include policing and policing studies, penology and corrections, youth justice, crime prevention, victims and victimology, and forensic approaches to investigation.

The law component develops legal reasoning, statutory and case law analysis, advocacy and legal writing. Typical law units cover legal method and reasoning, obligations (contracts and torts), property, administrative law, civil and criminal procedure, evidence, and professional ethics. The degree also emphasises research and professional skills through legal research and writing, advocacy/mooting, negotiation and client interview simulations.

Across the program you can expect semester-length subjects, elective options that allow specialisation (for example in cybercrime, human rights or white-collar crime), and a capstone or internship unit. The course normally includes work-integrated learning opportunities such as placements with criminal justice agencies, supervised practical legal experiences or industry projects arranged through the university.

Entry requirements

Entry to the combined Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice / Bachelor of Laws normally requires completion of a recognised senior secondary qualification or an equivalent pathway (such as a tertiary preparation course, diploma or recognised work experience). Applicants are assessed on academic background and suitability for tertiary study.

Domestic applicants may gain admission via standard university selection methods or through alternative entry pathways, including recognised diplomas and college transfer. International applicants must meet ACU's English language requirements and provide evidence of academic qualifications equivalent to Australian year 12. Some professional placement components may require a satisfactory police check, working with children check, or immunisation documentation prior to placement.

Career prospects

Graduates of this combined degree are well positioned for a range of careers across legal and criminal justice sectors. Typical pathways include:

• Legal practice (solicitor, barrister) following completion of postgraduate practical legal training and admission requirements;
• Roles in policing, corrections, probation and parole services;
• Positions in criminal investigations, compliance, risk and corporate investigations;
• Policy development and research roles in government, non-government organisations and think tanks focusing on justice, crime prevention and community safety;
• Victims services, youth justice and community-based offender rehabilitation and diversion programs;
• Careers in regulatory bodies, legal advising within industry, and advocacy organisations.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

Australian Catholic University offers a student-centred learning environment with an emphasis on ethical practice, social justice and community engagement. The university integrates practical, work-ready skills with theoretical and research-led teaching, providing opportunities for clinical-style legal learning, mooting, placements and industry connections that help bridge study and professional practice.

ACU’s smaller class sizes support personalised feedback from academics with professional and research experience in law and criminology. The university’s campuses and partner networks create local placement opportunities with courts, legal centres, police and community agencies, helping students build professional networks while they study.

Graduates leave prepared to work across legal, justice and community contexts with a strong grounding in both the legal system and the social dimensions of crime, making this combined degree suitable for those aiming for careers that require interdisciplinary skills and ethical leadership.