Overview

Explore the close connections between crime and the human mind and its effects on behaviour with La Trobe's multidisciplinary Bachelor of Criminology/Bachelor of Psychological Science. Understand crime in its broader social context and how individual and social responses are shaped by gender, race, power and money. Establish a grounding in … For more content click the Read more button below. By completing La Trobe's Bachelor of Criminology/Bachelor of Psychological Science, you will:investigate the complex causes of crime, principles of crime prevention and policy, and how social factors intersect with our criminal justice systemexplore the role of courts, police, prisons and how deviance and crime are understood by different parts of societydevelop valuable expertise in cognitive, developmental, social, abnormal, clinical and health psychologyget on-the-job experience with work placement opportunities at organisations like the Victims of Crime Tribunalhave the flexibility to study online, on campus or a mix of bothgraduate ready to apply for membership of the Australian Psychological Society (APS) and the prerequisites to apply for Honours in psychology, with potential to pursue postgraduate study and registration as a psychologist.

Portfolio

Office of the Provost

Course coordinator

Meribah Rose

Location(s)

Melbourne (Bundoora)

CRICOS code

096350F

Course instance contact

Meribah Rose

Course duration (full time)

4 years

Course duration (part time)

8 years

Study level

Undergraduate

AQF level

Level 7 - Bachelor Degree

Available only as an exit award

No

Study options

Domestic

International onshore

Completion requirements

To qualify for the award of Bachelor of Criminology/Bachelor of Psychological Science, students must complete 480 credit points consisting of:240 core credit points of Criminology subjects180 core credit points of Psychological science subjects60 elective credit points across both disciplines

Course structure
480 credit points

Course intended learning outcomes

On successful completion you will be able to:
1.
Demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of the factors that contribute to offending behaviours
2.
Acquire, assess, and apply a broad and coherent body of knowledge of psychology, with depth of understanding of underlying principles, theories and concepts
3.
Collect, analyse, and evaluate information and ideas and solve problems using a scientific approach driven by an understanding of psychology and Identify, research and formulate evidence-based responses to issues relevant to crime and criminal justice
4.
Demonstrate a capacity to critically analyse theory and research, and to reflect on the legal, social, cultural and political contexts in which criminalisation occurs and in which responses to offending behaviour are formulated
5.
Demonstrate an awareness of cultural differences and show sensitivity to the diversity across people, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, when applying knowledge and skills
6.
Discuss and reflect upon the professional roles, values and ethical responsibilities of the various actors in the criminal justice system and distinguish appropriate values and ethics in psychology
7.
Interpret, utilize, develop and evaluate theoretical propositions, methodologies, conclusions and evidence based professional decisions
8.
Demonstrate an appreciation of the interdisciplinary nature of criminology as a discipline and in the context of professional practice settings, and the varying explanations and strategies it offers for explaining and responding to crime
9.
Analyse and critique theory and research in the disciplines of psychology and criminology and communicate effectively in written and oral formats
10.
Learn and work with autonomy, accountability and professionalism, demonstrating interpersonal skills and teamwork, and adopt a reflective and resilient approach to a student's own capabilities and performance

Course features

Work based learning (placement) requirements

Elective placement opportunities (Work Based Learning)
During this course, you will have the opportunity to participate in a Work Based Learning (WBL) placement experience, designed to allow you to extend your formal academic learning beyond the classroom. The WBL experience will provide the opportunity to bring your learning from the university into a work environment and test out your knowledge in a professional real-world environment. Some courses include compulsory WBL subjects, however, we also offer a range of elective WBL subjects, both cross-discipline and subject-specific. La Trobe University will source placements for some subjects, while others will require you to source your own placement. If you are required to source your own placement, dedicated staff will guide and support you through the process. Elective WBL subjects generally involve an application process and Subject Coordinator approval. The location and number of hours undertaken can vary considerably depending on the activity and the discipline area. Please refer to the individual subject entries for more information. Regional students are eligible to access additional support under the Regional Reward program

Work integrated learning opportunities

Industry informed curriculum, Industry-informed projects, Career development learning, Professional simulations

Other opportunities

Student exchange and overseas short programs offer a unique opportunity for a meaningful learning and educational experience abroad. La Trobe University encourages all students to make the world their campus by participating in an exchange or overseas short program that fits within your degree structure.

Career outcomes

Prepare for a successful career in settings such as policing, corrections, crime prevention and advocacy, forensics, intelligence, juvenile justice, customs and policy development. Possible career options include:

  • criminologist or crime analyst
  • psychologist
  • corrections officer
  • forensic psychologist
  • case manager, justice worker or youth worker
  • specialist police officer*
  • intelligence officer or analyst
  • rehabilitation worker
  • victim advocate
  • court officer, registrar or paralegal.

*Dependent on completing police training and internal promotion.

Professional recognition

The Bachelor of Psychological Science is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC). Professional registration with the Psychology Board of Australia will require an APAC-accredited fourth year and additional or ongoing requirements beyond the completion of the degree as well as an application to the professional body. Please contact the relevant professional body for details.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Psychological Science may apply for membership with the Australian Psychological Society (APS). Membership may be subject to additional or ongoing requirements beyond completion of the degree. Please contact the relevant professional body for details.

Internal course relationships

Related honours

Bachelor of Criminology (Honours)

External pathways

External pathways into this course