Study at Australia’s largest criminology school
Griffith is home to one of the largest criminology schools in Australia, offering a learning experience shaped by global perspectives and strong industry connections. What makes us unique is our people - national and international leaders who bring expertise and insight to every stage of your study.
At Griffith's School of Criminology and Criminal Justice, you’ll benefit from:
- Learn from the best: World-class academics leading research across Australia and globally
- Think big: A global perspective backed by strong industry connections
- Study your way: Specialist areas, double degrees and flexible options
- Gain real-world experience: Internships, field placements, and industry projects - graduate ready to make an impact.
Start your journey with an undergraduate degree, combine disciplines with a double degree, or begin with a Diploma of Criminology and Criminal Justice.
Ready to advance? Explore postgraduate programs or research degrees (HDR) and work alongside experts on projects that influence policy and practice.
Undergraduate study
Make an impact
Thalia chose Criminology and Criminal Justice to make a difference in society. “I wanted to contribute to making society safer.” Her studies at Griffith introduced her to various career paths and equipped Thalia with specialised knowledge in areas like criminal behaviour, justice systems and victimology. 'This knowledge formed the foundation upon which I built my career.'
Thalia Doherty
Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice
Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice
- Gain a deep understanding of why crime occurs and how justice systems respond
- Explore the social, psychological and legal factors behind criminal behaviour and learn evidence-based strategies for prevention and rehabilitation
- Develop practical skills through internships, industry placements, and real-world project, preparing you for diverse careers in justice, law enforcement, intelligence, policy and crime prevention
Double degrees
Diversify your skill set and career options with a double degree
Research and postgraduate study
Whether you're beginning your research study or continuing at a higher level, our programs allow you to deepen your knowledge, explore specialised areas of criminology and criminal justice and contribute to solutions for real-world challenges.
Higher Degree of Research
Research in our school is often policy-focused and partnered with government and community organisations to improve knowledge and practice. We provide world-class training and opportunities to connect with international leaders in your field.
Contact CCJ HDR Convenors to Identify Supervisors
Griffith Graduate Research School (GGRS)
Honours
The Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice (Honours) program is your chance to build advanced research skills and complete an independent project on a topic of your choice. Highlights include:
- Four small, interactive classes on research methods, design, and translation
- A supervised dissertation with guidance from academic experts
- A strong cohort experience with peers and staff
This one-year (full-time) program builds on your undergraduate degree and is ideal for students considering research careers, policy roles, or further postgraduate study such as a PhD.
Graduate Diploma
The Graduate Diploma of Criminological Research Studies is designed for graduates in criminology and criminal justice who want to strengthen their research skills and prepare for higher degree research or research-focused careers. Program highlights:
- Advanced research training
- Supervised research project
- Flexible study options
- Pathway to HDR
Graduate Certificates
Graduate Certificate in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Learn about contemporary crime issues, research, and policy development in criminology and criminal justice.
Graduate Certificate in Forensic Mental Health
Designed in collaboration with Queensland Health, this program provides postgraduate training for current and future forensic mental health practitioners. Ideal for practitioners in nursing, psychology, social work, and psychiatry, and as an extension to degrees in nursing, applied science, criminology, and psychology.
Masters Programs
Master of Criminology and Criminal Justice
Advance your career with postgraduate study that covers criminological theory, research methods, and the workings of the justice system. Gain insights into policy debates and develop skills to address complex crime and justice issues.
Master of Forensic Mental Health
Designed in collaboration with Queensland Health, this program equips you with specialist skills to work effectively with forensic mental health populations. Focus on four key areas- assessment, intervention, management, and research - through advanced, practical training.
Academy of Financial Crime
Become a sought-after specialist in financial crime investigation and compliance with a Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate. Program highlights:
- Specialist skills for a growing field: Gain expertise in forensic accounting, criminology, cyber security and IT to detect financial crime patterns
- Industry-aligned training: Learn to meet increasing Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF) regulations
- Flexible study options: Study online or at Brisbane South (Nathan)
- Career outcomes: Be equipped for positions in financial crime compliance, forensic accounting, fraud prevention, risk management and regulatory advisory
Student opportunities
Enhance your studies with a wide range of experiences. Access research internships, work placements, mentoring, scholarships, study abroad programs, networking opportunities, events and social activities.
Criminology Student Society
The Criminology Student Society (CSS) is a student-led club that offers opportunities to engage with the field and connect with peers.
CSS organise activities such as prison visits, networking lunches with industry professionals and workplace tours. They also host an array of social events including bowling nights, pub crawls, trivia and an end-of-year ball.
Mentoring
Griffith University offers a number of mentoring programs from first year to help you adjust to university life through to final year industry mentoring programs to help guide you through the transition from study to a highly successful career.
Mentoring programs on offer include:
Work Integrated Learning (WIL)
Work Integrated Learning is embedded throughout your degree to help you connect theory with practice. In Years 1 and 2, you’ll complete Professional Development 1 and Professional Development 2, building essential skills for employment. In Year 3, you’ll participate in the CCJ Clinic, applying your knowledge to a practical project.
Additionally, our Professional Practice course (subject to eligibility) offers hands-on experience within the criminal justice system by placing you in an agency aligned with your interests.
These opportunities ensure you graduate with real-world experience and industry-ready skills.
Common Time
We offer a series of optional core workshops called Common Time. Common Time is a supportive environment designed to help students transition into university life and thrive in criminology programs.
Through a mix of structured and informal sessions, students strengthen key academic and professional skills like essay writing, oral presentations and career development. Guest speakers from across the Criminology and Criminal Justice sector bring real-world insights, helping students connect theory to practice.
For more information, visit our staff page and contact one of the Bachelor Program Directors.
Scholarships
Griffith offers scholarships for academic excellence, equity and access, international students, research degrees, First Peoples and elite athletes.
Applications open 1 July each year and cover all eligible scholarships in one process.
Criminology Research Internship Program
Criminology Undergraduate Research Internship Program (CURIP) offers eligible criminology students the chance to work on cutting-edge research projects under expert supervision. Research internships are available all year and are tailored to student interests - a powerful way to bridge the gap between study and practice.
Visit our staff page to find the CURIP Coordinator (under the key contacts section).
Study Abroad Experience
Take your degree overseas and gain a global perspective. Challenge yourself, expand your cultural horizons, and discover amazing places while forming lifelong memories. Choose from trimester exchanges, short-term programs, internships, or online experiences. Participating in an overseas program is one of the best experiences you can have at university.
Get in touch
Brisbane South (Nathan)
Postal address
School of Criminology and Criminal Justice
Griffith University
Parklands Drive, Southport QLD 4125
Gold Coast
Academic Building 2 (G06) 3.14
Postal address
School of Criminology and Criminal Justice
Griffith University
170 Kessels Road, Nathan QLD 4111