Forensic and Analytical Science / Criminology combined degrees

This combined degree enables you to follow your interests and aspirations whilst enhancing your career prospects by concurrently undertaking two different but complementary areas of study. You will complete qualifications in both Science (Forensic and Analytical Science) and Criminology with a combined study plan to reduce the overall duration of the degree. The Bachelor of Science (Forensic and Analytical Science) blends forensic science with analytical chemistry, giving you the skills to investigate crime scenes, analyse substances, and interpret complex data. Whereas the Bachelor of Criminology will appeal to applicants who have the goal of gaining a broad understanding of criminological theory and its application in criminal justice contexts and the skill of applying criminological knowledge in educational and professional settings.

Bachelor of Science (Forensic and Analytical Science)

This degree enables students to build a strong foundation in chemistry, biology, and mathematics, and apply this knowledge to forensic and analytical science challenges. Students will develop hands-on laboratory skills, using specialised equipment and techniques in both chemical and biological settings. Students will also learn to communicate scientific information effectively, tailoring to different audiences in both written and spoken formats, and critically analyse and evaluate scientific data, using evidence to solve problems, form hypotheses, and support investigations.

Graduates will be able to demonstrate knowledge of and critically apply the theories, subject content, professional methodologies and research procedures relevant to the discipline of forensic and analytical science and work independently in a chemistry or molecular biology laboratory using appropriate techniques and instrumentation. Potential occupations may include forensic chemist, forensic biologist and forensic toxicologist; potential employers may include Forensic Science SA, AFP and other research facilities.

Bachelor of Criminology

The Bachelor of Criminology equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to truly understand crime and make a real impact in the criminal justice sector and related fields. The core topics give you a strong understanding of the complex forces shaping crime, criminalisation and society's response. Our curriculum is future-focused, exploring innovative ways of promoting community safety. Students learn critical-thinking skills, enabling them to apply evidence and challenge stereotypes about crime, victims, and criminalised people, as well as develop a critical, compassionate and person-centred perspective to become changemakers.

On completion of the Criminology degree students will be able to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of both classic and contemporary criminological theories; and an understanding of the ways that criminal justice systems function to deliver justice both in Australia and abroad. Students will have the ability to apply criminological knowledge in educational and professional settings and an appreciation of the ways that ethical behaviour improves justice outcomes.

Graduates have enjoyed a wide choice of careers and diverse employment trajectories in Australia and overseas. Many move into employment in the criminal and social justice sectors. Potential occupations may include Police Officer, Forensic Investigator, Corrections Officer, Defence/Intelligence Officer.