Master of Combined Studies in Laws / Criminology (CRICOS course code 099567J) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 2 years. This unique interdisciplinary program blends legal studies with criminological theory, preparing graduates for advanced roles across the legal system, criminal justice, and policy development. As a CRICOS-registered course at a government university, international students benefit from Australia's world-class education framework and ESOS Act protections. Located at Macquarie's Wallumattagal Campus in North Ryde, Sydney, the program offers access to a vibrant student community of over 44,000, with excellent public transport links and proximity to Sydney's legal and justice hubs. Whether you aim to practice law, work in corrections, or influence policy, this degree provides the academic foundation and practical insights needed.
Master of Combined Studies in Laws / Criminology (CRICOS course code 099567J) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 2 years. This program sits within the broad field of Mixed Field Programmes (12), specifically Other Mixed Field Programmes (1299) and Mixed Field Programmes, n.e.c. (129999). As an AQF Level 9 qualification, it is designed for students who have already completed an undergraduate degree and wish to deepen their expertise across two interconnected disciplines. Macquarie University, CRICOS provider code 00002J, is a public institution consistently ranked among the top universities in Australia. The course is delivered entirely in English and does not include a foundation studies component or a dual qualification. With no mandatory work component, the program focuses on academic coursework and may include optional industry projects. All data is sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy for prospective international students.
Graduates of this combined program gain a comprehensive understanding of both legal principles and criminological frameworks. In the law component, students explore areas such as constitutional law, criminal law, contract law, and legal research methods. The criminology component covers theories of crime, criminal behaviour, social responses to crime, and the operation of the criminal justice system. This interdisciplinary approach enables graduates to analyse complex legal issues through a criminological lens, and vice versa. While specific syllabi vary, typical learning outcomes include advanced critical thinking, legal reasoning, policy analysis, and research skills applicable to careers in legal practice, judiciary, law enforcement, corrections, and academia. Students engage with contemporary debates on crime prevention, restorative justice, human rights, and legal reform. The course's structure encourages independent research and collaborative learning, preparing students for leadership roles in Australia and internationally.
The Master of Combined Studies in Laws / Criminology is registered on CRICOS as a 2-year program (104 weeks). This is a full-time study commitment, and international students are expected to maintain full-time enrollment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include a foundation studies pathway. Students who require additional English language preparation or academic bridging may explore pathway options offered by Macquarie University, but these are separate from this course. The duration is fixed and includes scheduled breaks, during which students may work unlimited hours (subject to visa conditions). Applicants should plan their finances and accommodation accordingly for the full 2-year period.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Combined Studies in Laws / Criminology is A$93,800 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities) amount to A$746, bringing the estimated total to A$94,546. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the institution. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600) are not included. In Sydney, indicative living costs for a single student are approximately A$500–700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Always confirm current fees with Macquarie University at www.mq.edu.au before applying. HeadStart Academy provides indicative data only and does not set fees.
Applicants must meet the English language proficiency requirements set by Macquarie University, typically an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (or equivalent) with no band below 6.0. As a Masters Degree (Coursework), candidates are expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification. Some prior study in law or criminology may be advantageous but is not always mandatory. Macquarie may consider relevant work experience in lieu of formal qualifications in some cases. No foundation or pathway program is included in this course; however, the university offers English language courses and preparatory programs for students who need to meet entry criteria. International students must also satisfy Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity. For precise entry requirements, consult the provider directly or a registered migration agent.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. The Master of Combined Studies in Laws / Criminology is a coursework-based program with no compulsory internship, placement, or industry experience. However, students may choose to undertake optional work-integrated learning or internships if offered by Macquarie University. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This flexibility allows students to gain practical experience in legal or criminological settings on a voluntary basis. Always check visa conditions and consult with the university's career services for work opportunities.
This course is delivered at Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde, NSW, 2109. The campus is located in the Macquarie Park innovation district, approximately 12 km northwest of the Sydney central business district. Sydney is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a student population exceeding 300,000. The campus is accessible via the Macquarie University railway station (on the Sydney Metro) and multiple bus routes. Living in Sydney offers diverse cultural experiences but comes with higher costs: average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$550–700, groceries A$80–120, and a public transport weekly ticket A$50–70. The campus features modern facilities, libraries, and student support services tailored to international students.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Macquarie University, proof of English proficiency, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the visa duration, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, and evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition fees, living costs, and travel. As of 2026, the visa application charge is A$1,600 (subject to change). Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during holidays. Australia's ESOS Act protects international students, including tuition fee refund requirements and access to complaints processes. While HeadStart Academy provides guidance, we recommend consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Combined Studies in Laws / Criminology at Macquarie University (Macquarie): 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Filter by course level (Masters Degree Coursework), field (Mixed Field Programmes), and city (Sydney). Compare entry requirements and fees using HeadStart Academy's free database. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application to Macquarie University via their online portal. Prepare academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and any other required documents. Note application deadlines and any prerequisite checks. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Macquarie will issue your CoE. Use it to apply for your visa, including OSHC cover. Consult a MARA agent if needed.
Ready to begin your journey? Research similar courses on HeadStart Academy or apply directly to Macquarie University.
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Master of Combined Studies in Laws / Criminology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Macquarie University (Macquarie). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.