Criminologist

A Criminologist studies patterns in criminal activity and develops strategies to reduce crime. You might focus on a particular type of criminal activity or on crimes within a particular group or geographic location. Criminologists may also study crime scenes and provide analysis to investigating authorities.

Criminologists should have excellent analytical skills and strong attention to detail. You’ll need to be able to follow correct procedures and work as part of a larger team. Criminologists should be good communicators and may have to adapt their skills to suit a range of circumstances.

Future demand High
Average yearly income $94,900
Skill level Advanced

How do I become a criminologist?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced
Recommended

Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice
Blended, On Campus, Online
3 years
$0 - $102,240
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Court Officer Criminologist Detective
Police Officer Parole Officer Prosecutor Magistrate Crime Analyst
+ 5 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Court Officer Criminologist Detective Police Officer Parole Officer Prosecutor Magistrate Crime Analyst + 5 more

Bachelor of Arts (Criminology)
Blended, On Campus
3 years
$0 - $85,000
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Crime Prevention Officer Criminologist Forensic Specialist
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Crime Prevention Officer Criminologist Forensic Specialist

Bachelor of Arts (Criminology and Criminal Justice)
Blended, On Campus
3 years
$0 - $72,720
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Criminologist Court Officer Detective
Criminal Defence Lawyer Court Support Worker Criminal Investigator
+ 3 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Criminologist Court Officer Detective Criminal Defence Lawyer Court Support Worker Criminal Investigator + 3 more

Master of Criminology
Blended, On Campus, Online
12 - 24 months
$0 - $62,500
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Crime Analyst Criminologist Forensic Psychologist
Detective
+ 1 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Crime Analyst Criminologist Forensic Psychologist Detective + 1 more

Bachelor of Criminology (Honours)
Blended, On Campus
12 months
$0 - $60,224
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Criminologist Prosecutor
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Criminologist Prosecutor

Graduate Diploma in Criminology
On Campus
6 - 12 months
$0 - $25,080
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Criminologist Crime Analyst Probation Officer
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Criminologist Crime Analyst Probation Officer

Bachelor of Criminology and Justice
Blended
3 years
$0 - $49,050
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Criminologist Parole Officer Police Officer
Law Enforcement Officer Prosecutor Chief of Police Forensic Consultant
+ 4 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Criminologist Parole Officer Police Officer Law Enforcement Officer Prosecutor Chief of Police Forensic Consultant + 4 more
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

Related occupations

Community Corrections Officer

Community Corrections Officers aid offenders in rehabilitation and resource education while reporting to authorities to assess parole eligibility.

Avg yearly income $78,988
Skill level Advanced

Prison Officer

A Prison Officer supervises inmates, monitors behaviour, conducts patrols, and ensures security while demonstrating leadership and teamwork skills.

Avg yearly income $79,040
Skill level Advanced

Correctional Officer

Correctional Officers oversee prison operations, supervise inmates, and handle security, requiring fitness, leadership skills, and teamwork.

Avg yearly income $78,000
Skill level Beginner

Common questions

How much does a Criminologist earn?

In Australia, a full time Criminologist generally earns $1,825 per week ($94,900 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

What are the job opportunities for a Criminologist?

It’s expected the number of people employed in this field will grow strongly in coming years. There are currently 2,700 people working in this area in Australia and many of them specialise as a Criminologist. Criminologists may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

How do I become a Criminologist?

A Bachelor of Criminology is an ideal qualification if you’re planning a career as a Criminologist. You’ll cover a range of topics including victimology, terrorism, family violence, forensics, youth justice and international crime. A Bachelor of Criminal Justice may also be appropriate.

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Further reading

Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers

10th November 2023)

How to start a career in counselling

7th September 2020)

Most popular security courses

13th June 2022)

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