Skip to content
unisa logo

With predicted demand for more than 53,000 new roles in the public administration and safety sector over the next three years1, now is the perfect time to advance your skills or launch a new career in the rewarding field of criminology and criminal justice. UniSA Online’s criminology and criminal justice degree combines contemporary research with the applied technical skills you’ll need to succeed in this diverse industry. You’ll graduate with a holistic understanding of criminology and the criminal justice system, spanning policing investigations, victim advocacy, social justice, and globalised crime.

1Australian Labour Market Insights, 2023.

 

Top skills employers look for in criminology and criminal justice professionals

  1. A broad knowledge of the criminal justice system, and the causes and effects of criminal behaviour.
  2. An understanding of new and emerging digital innovations and applied technology used in the field.
  3. Advanced research, investigative and analytical abilities.
  4. Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  5. Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills, with a passion for helping others.

Get your Criminology and Criminal Justice Career Guide

Discover career opportunities, the essential skills criminology and criminal justice professionals need to succeed, and current industry trends in your free 20-page career guide.

Privacy

Criminal Justice Jobs

Careers in the criminology and criminal justice sector cover a diverse range of opportunities to positively impact communities, contribute to the rehabilitation of offenders and prevention of crime, and advocate for a more just society. While many roles are found in government agencies, including law enforcement, intelligence, social welfare and correctional services, there are also opportunities to work in the private sector or not-for-profit organisations.

write-form-fill

Criminologist

Criminologists play an important role in the criminal justice system by contributing knowledge and advice to aid crime prevention, social justice and rehabilitation. Often working alongside law enforcement agencies, criminologists guide crime prevention strategies and policies through research and data analysis.

police-badge

Police officer

Police officers are vital to maintaining public order and safety, by investigating crime and responding to community concerns, attending critical incidents and emergencies, gathering evidence, assisting victims, and making arrests.

thinking-mind-strategy

Strategic policy and planning manager

Strategic policy and planning managers develop and review processes which guide how the criminal justice system works.  Strategic policy and planning managers also inform the community about changes to legislation and reform.

data-presentation

Intelligence and policy analyst

Intelligence and policy analysts gather, analyse and evaluate information from a variety of sources, determining the significance and reliability of incoming information. Intelligence and policy analysts interpret complex intelligence data and report on findings to guide organisational strategies.

person-generic

Correctional services officer

Correctional services officers undertake a frontline role in the prison system, and are responsible for a wide range of duties relating to the safety, security and welfare of prisoners. Correctional services officers assess and counsel offenders with matters affecting their welfare, security, behaviour and routine.

student-support

Child protection officer

Child protection officers respond to the concerns regarding the safety and wellbeing of children and families, and strengthen guardians’ capacity to provide care for children and other family members.

Looking to change your career?

It’s never too late to pursue your passion. If you’re looking for a new career, UniSA Online’s Criminology and Criminal Justice degree is a great place to start. This 100% online degree will provide the knowledge and skills that employers are looking for, while giving you the flexibility to continue working while you study.

Want to move up in your current role?

Do you have experience in social work, counselling, welfare support, law enforcement or social justice and human rights advocacy, and want to enhance your career prospects? This degree will complement your work experience, giving you a competitive edge to take the next step in your career.

People interested in studying criminology and criminal justice can come from a range of roles, including:

  • Social or welfare support workers
  • Counsellors
  • Law enforcement, security or correctional officers
  • Mental health support workers
  • Youth support officers
  • Public service roles, including social or human services
  • Legal assistants

Whatever your goals may be, studying online is a great option for people looking to upskill or launch their new career. Our 100% online Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice will equip you with the skills that employers are looking for, and help you put your best foot forward in this growing industry.

Study Criminology and Criminal Justice 100% online

Explore the inner workings of the criminal justice system, the skills required to advocate for social justice, and the causes and effects of criminal behaviour. Informed by current research and techniques, you’ll learn about innovative fields like cybercrime, victimology, offender rehabilitation and youth justice.

Learn more
australia

Top 10 in Australia for employability

Ranked #7, ComparED (QILT) Employer Satisfaction Survey 2021-23. SA public universities.

university-building-school

#1 young university in Australia for industry collaborations

2023 THE Young University Rankings – Industry Income Indicator

trophy

Ranked one of the world’s top young universities

Ranked #43, 2024 THE Young University Rankings.