Is a masters in criminology worth it?
Deakin University’s Master of Criminology offers more than just advanced knowledge. It opens doors to new career opportunities, professional growth and specialised expertise.
At Deakin, you can explore the evolving world of crime and justice in a digital, globalised landscape. We offer two cutting-edge specialisations, digital criminology and global criminology, designed to equip you with the skills to tackle modern criminal challenges.
Why study criminology at Deakin?
Deakin is the #1 Victorian university for graduate employment. Our criminology programs are:
- industry-shaped
- practical
- flexible
- future-focused.
Associate Professor Diarmaid Harkin explains how Deakin sets you up for success. 'We design our programs with industry – through an active advisory group of experts from law enforcement, security and justice agencies, ensuring our curriculum stays practical, current and connected to industry needs.'
How is Deakin's Master of Criminology structured?
'Our core units equip students with essential skills in policy analysis and justice practice, giving them the ability to understand how change happens and how to make it happen effectively,' says Diarmaid.
'Most of our students are working professionals. We've built in flexibility so they can upskill, specialise and advance their careers without stepping away from them.'
Flexible pathways let you tailor the course to your needs with:
- flexible online study
- electives such as Environmental Crime and Regulation, Global Crime, Prevention and Responses, and Cybercrime: Victims and Offenders that allow you to build expertise around your career goals
- an internship
- a supervised research paper (5,000 words) or a thesis across two trimesters.
Specialisations that reflect the future of crime
You can use your course electives to help form your specialisation. Deakin offers two specialisations that are particularly relevant in modern society.
Digital criminology
You will explore how technology, the internet and emerging digital platforms are changing criminal behaviour and criminal justice responses. Topics include:
- cybercrime
- online victimisation
- the impact of technology on crime and justice.
Global criminology
The focus here is on transnational crime and the global forces that shape criminal activities. Explore areas such as:
- human trafficking
- environmental crime
- cyber terrorism.
You’ll understand how crime crosses borders and how international cooperation is essential for addressing global justice issues. These skills are in demand in every aspect of the industry.
There isn't a corner of the criminal justice system untouched by technology. From AI and body-worn cameras to online crime and virtual courts, every aspect, from working with offenders and victims to shaping policy, is being reshaped by digital developments.
Associate Professor in Criminology, School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Shape ethical responses to global crime
We'll ask you to push the boundaries of the way we currently look at justice and creatively examine three key areas of ongoing and emerging criminological concern:
- the state
- the digital world
- the environment.
You will engage and debate pressing issues of local, national and global concern. Throughout your studies, you'll analyse how corporations have become embedded in security and crime-prevention roles once managed by the state, revealing new balances of power and accountability.
'We're confident Deakin's approach is unique. Few universities take such a broad view of the digital landscape or link global challenges like human trafficking, green crimes and cyber threats, under one criminology framework,' Diarmaid explains.
How will Deakin prepare me for a career in criminology?
At Deakin, we focus on helping you build the skills that lead to success.
Get hands-on experience
Your education should be grounded in real experiences. Our internship opportunities offer you a chance to gain practical experience in the field. Whether you're working with victims, law enforcement, or criminal justice policymakers, you’ll develop valuable skills that set you apart in the job market.
Criminology skills employers value
Employers in criminology-related fields are looking for professionals who can think critically, analyse complex data and contribute to developing crime prevention strategies. You'll develop in-demand skills including:
- critical analysis and problem-solving
- research and investigative skills
- knowledge of digital and global criminology trends
- policy development and criminal justice reform expertise.
Technical tools alone can't solve complex crimes like cyberattacks. You also need people who understand human behaviour, policy frameworks and the ethical issues involved – and that’s where Deakin criminologists stand out.
Taylor McCaw, a Deakin graduate with a Bachelor of Criminology, Bachelor of Arts (Honours) and a PhD in criminology, agrees. She says, 'Deakin is the best choice you can make if you are looking to challenge the status quo and understand the world in a more critical way.'
Seven jobs you can get with a masters in criminology
As a graduate of Deakin's Master of Criminology, you can confidently enter roles such as:
- corrections officer
- case manager/worker
- specialist adviser
- policy analyst
- criminologist
- researcher
- senior adviser.
You can also explore roles in areas such as anti-corruption agencies, banking fraud, NGOs supporting domestic and family violence services, intelligence and law enforcement. There are also roles in public service such as local council community safety teams.
Employment in public administration and safety is projected to grow by almost 10% by 2034,* including:
- 9,900 new jobs for intelligence and policy analysts
- 6,300 new jobs for police
- 3,500 new jobs for social professionals (such as criminologists).
Ready to shape the future of justice?
At Deakin, you don't just study criminology. You engage with world-leading research and develop specialised expertise that prepares you to make a real impact.
Diarmaid concludes, 'every organisation, from government to NGOs, faces security threats. Our students graduate ready to help shape smarter, more ethical responses to these realities.'
Be empowered to make a meaningful impact. Learn more about Deakin’s Master of Criminology.
Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
*Jobs and Skills Australia, National Employment Projections 2024 to 2034.
