Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice (CRICOS course code 106767E) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Australian Catholic University Limited over 3 years. This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian quality standards for international students. As a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7), it provides foundational knowledge in criminology and criminal justice, preparing graduates for roles in law enforcement, corrections, policy, and community services. The course is offered across multiple campuses in New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria, giving students flexibility in choosing their study location. With a focus on understanding crime, its causes, and the criminal justice system, this program combines theoretical learning with practical insights. International students benefit from Australia's robust student protections under the ESOS Act and the opportunity to work part-time while studying. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, making it essential to choose a registered course like this one. HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no referral fees, committed to helping you navigate your study options.
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This Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice is a single qualification at AQF Level 7, offered by Australian Catholic University Limited (CRICOS 00004G), a government-owned university. The course is classified under Field of Education 099903 Criminology, within the broader Society and Culture field. Students develop critical analytical skills, an understanding of crime causation, criminal law, policing, corrections, and juvenile justice. Graduates are prepared for careers in criminal justice agencies, social policy, research, and community services. The course does not include a work component or foundation studies, and it is not a dual qualification. With a duration of 156 weeks (3 years full-time), it is designed to provide a comprehensive education in criminology and criminal justice. All delivery locations are approved by CRICOS, ensuring quality and compliance with Australian standards.
The curriculum covers key areas such as theories of crime, the criminal justice system, criminal law, policing, corrections, juvenile justice, research methods, and ethics. Students engage with contemporary issues in criminology, including indigenous justice, cybercrime, and restorative justice. The program emphasizes analytical thinking, evidence-based practice, and communication skills. While the exact syllabus is set by Australian Catholic University, graduates typically gain a broad understanding of how crime is defined, measured, and responded to in Australia. This field of education is classified under Society and Culture, offering insights into human behaviour and social structures. Studying criminology in Australia provides exposure to a diverse legal and social landscape, with opportunities to learn from real-world case studies. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the content meets national quality standards.
The Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice is a 3-year (156-week) full-time program. The language of instruction is English, and the course is offered as a single, stand-alone qualification. Part-time study options may be available, but the CRICOS registration stipulates a standard duration of 156 weeks. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. The course does not include foundation studies or a VET component. Students are expected to attend classes on campus at one of the four delivery locations. The duration aligns with typical Australian bachelor degrees, allowing students to complete their degree within the standard timeframe. For current information on study modes and academic calendars, refer to the provider's website.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$110,400, with non-tuition fees of A$0, resulting in an estimated total of A$110,400. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by Australian Catholic University Limited. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For a single student, OSHC costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year, and living costs in Australia range from A$21,000 to A$27,000 annually depending on the city. For example, Sydney tends to be more expensive than Brisbane or Melbourne. Always confirm current fees with the provider before applying. Course fees shown are indicative only and do not include these additional expenses.
International applicants typically require an IELTS overall score of 6.0 to 6.5, with no band below 5.5 to 6.0 (specific band requirements vary by intake). Additionally, students must have completed Australian Year 12 or an equivalent secondary qualification. Australian Catholic University may also consider foundation studies or pathway programs for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. It is recommended to check the specific entry criteria on the ACU website, as requirements can vary. English language waivers may be available for students from certain countries. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. For visa purposes, students must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and provide evidence of English proficiency.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students are not required to complete an internship, practicum, or work placement as part of the degree. However, the student visa (Subclass 500) allows holders to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This provides an opportunity to gain part-time work experience in related fields, though it is not structured into the curriculum. Students seeking practical exposure may consider extracurricular activities or volunteering. The absence of a compulsory work component means the course focuses entirely on academic learning. Always refer to visa conditions for current work rights.
This course is delivered at four campuses of Australian Catholic University: Blacktown (NSW), Brisbane (QLD), Melbourne (VIC), and North Sydney (NSW). Each campus offers a unique study environment. Blacktown and North Sydney are in Greater Sydney, a city with over 500 CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant international student community. Brisbane, with its subtropical climate and lower cost of living, hosts over 200 providers. Melbourne, known for its culture and diversity, has more than 300 providers. Public transport access varies: North Sydney and Melbourne campuses are near train stations, while Blacktown is a growing suburban centre. Banyo in Brisbane offers a campus setting with bus connections. Students should consider lifestyle preferences, accommodation costs (e.g., weekly rent in Sydney ranges from A$250-400, in Brisbane A$200-350, in Melbourne A$220-380), and proximity to amenities. All locations are CRICOS-registered for this course.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. The visa requires enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Australia's ESOS Act provides legal protections for international students, including tuition fee refunds in certain circumstances. The visa application charge is currently A$710 (may change). After graduation, students may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) to gain work experience. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Criminology is a growing field in Australia, with demand for professionals in law enforcement, corrections, policy, and research. The country has a unique legal system and diverse social landscape, offering rich case studies. However, competition for jobs can be strong, and some roles require further study or specific clearances. Students should consider which city they prefer, as lifestyle and cost of living vary significantly. For example, Sydney offers many opportunities but higher costs, while Brisbane and Melbourne provide a balance. Also, think about the specific focus areas: ACU's program provides a broad foundation, but if you have a particular interest (e.g., cybercrime, forensic psychology), check elective availability. Australian Catholic University is a government-owned institution with a strong reputation in social sciences. HeadStart Academy's free resource can help you compare similar courses across providers.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Australian Catholic University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy or the official CRICOS website to filter courses by level (Bachelor Degree), field (Criminology), and location (NSW, QLD, VIC). Ensure the provider is registered to enrol international students. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Australian Catholic University's website, check the specific entry requirements (English test scores, academic qualifications), and submit your application before the deadline. You may need to provide transcripts, a personal statement, and proof of English proficiency. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once ACU accepts your application, you will receive a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC evidence and financial documents. Processing times vary, so apply early. HeadStart Academy does not process applications but provides guidance on the process.
Ready to start your journey? Visit Australian Catholic University's website to apply directly.
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Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Catholic University Limited. 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.