Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This combined program brings together human rights discipline and criminology/justice studies. Core human rights topics typically include human rights theory and history, international human rights law, transitional justice, social justice and ethics, rights-based approaches to development, and advocacy skills. Criminology and criminal justice components commonly cover criminological theory, criminal law and procedure, policing and law enforcement, corrections and offender rehabilitation, youth and community justice, forensic psychology, and comparative justice systems.

Students also study research methods and statistics for social sciences, qualitative and quantitative research design, policy analysis, and a capstone or major research project that integrates human rights and criminal justice perspectives. Practical learning is emphasised through work-integrated learning, simulated advocacy, criminal justice placements or internships, and negotiated projects with community and government partners.

• Foundations of human rights and social justice
• International human rights law and institutions
• Criminological theory and crime prevention
• Criminal law, procedure and the courts
• Policing, community safety and intelligence
• Corrections, rehabilitation and restorative justice
• Youth justice, child protection and vulnerability
• Research methods, statistics and policy analysis
• Capstone project and professional placement

Entry requirements

Admission is typically based on successful completion of the senior secondary certificate or an equivalent qualification, together with a competitive selection rank. Applicants who have completed recognised tertiary study, vocational qualifications or who have relevant professional experience may be eligible for entry through alternative admission pathways.

Domestic applicants may be assessed on mature‑age entry provisions if they do not hold recent secondary qualifications. International applicants must meet ACU's English language requirements (for example, an approved test score or equivalent university‑level English). Some practical components and placements may require background checks, vaccinations or other clearances—students should allow time to obtain these.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles across government, non‑government and community sectors. Common career pathways include:

• Human rights advocate or officer in NGOs, international agencies and community organisations
• Policy analyst or advisor in government departments dealing with justice, human rights, social policy or multicultural affairs
• Probation and parole officer, corrections practitioner or case manager
• Police and intelligence roles (subject to agency selection processes and additional training)
• Community development worker, victim support or family services practitioner
• Researcher in criminology, justice or human rights, or progression to postgraduate research
• Legal support roles and pathways into legal studies (further study required for legal practice)

Employers value the program's combination of analytical, research and practical skills, and its focus on ethics and rights‑based approaches to justice.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU is known for its values-centred approach to education with emphases on social justice, community engagement and ethical practice—qualities that align closely with human rights and criminology. The university offers small‑group teaching, academically rigorous coursework and opportunities for real‑world experience through placements and partnerships with community, government and justice agencies.

Students benefit from multidisciplinary staff expertise across law, social sciences, psychology and theology, and from campus networks that support professional development and practicums. ACU also provides academic support services, career development assistance and opportunities to participate in research and advocacy projects that deepen practical skills and employability in the human rights and criminal justice sectors.