Bachelor of Laws(Honours)/Bachelor of Criminology

The Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Criminology at Victoria University offers an integrated approach to understanding legal systems and the causes and consequences of crime, especially as they apply within Australia. Students gain a strong grasp of legal principles, statutes, and case law, while also analysing criminal behaviour and impacts on society. The curriculum explores topics such as criminal law, criminological theory, justice policy, and legal ethics, preparing graduates to interpret and apply the law as well as understand criminal justice responses.

This double degree is normally structured over eight and a half years of full-time study. Students complete core and elective units of study in both law and criminology, accumulating credit points as they progress. The Honours component involves deeper research and more advanced legal analysis, usually requiring a thesis or substantial research project in the final phase. Practical legal training is integrated, and work-integrated learning is a key feature, students may have the opportunity to participate in internships or placements with courts, legal firms, or community organisations in Melbourne.

Australian law degrees are highly structured, with units that meet the requirements for admission as a barrister and solicitor in Victoria (subject to further practical training and accreditation by Australian authorities). Criminology complements this by focusing on justice systems, policing, correctional services, and policy development. Skills developed include legal research, critical thinking, ethical judgement, effective communication, and policy analysis. Graduates will be ready to work in multidisciplinary settings where both legal knowledge and criminological insight are valued.

This course suits students with strong analytical skills who are interested in both the legal reasons for, and responses to, crime, and who want a career in legal practice, policy, or crime prevention. Victoria University’s location in Melbourne offers access to courts, government agencies, and active links to professional bodies and employers. Students may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during semester under standard Australian student visa rules, and may be eligible for post-study work rights via the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). It’s important to confirm all course and visa details on the official university website.

• Barrister or solicitor (after completing required practical training and accreditation)
• Policy adviser in criminal justice or legal settings
• Criminologist or crime analyst
• Community corrections or probation officer
• Legal research officer
• Roles in public sector agencies such as police, courts, and regulatory bodies
• Positions in non-government organisations focused on law reform, justice, or victims' advocacy