Program Overview

This is the only degree of its kind in Western Australia. Study a Bachelor of Criminology with a Bachelor of Science to gain a unique set of skills and expand your career options.

In your Bachelor of Science coursework, you will learn about a range of forensic disciplines including forensic palynology (the use of pollen grains to connect a suspect with a crime scene), the pathology of asphyxiation, electrocution, gunshot wounds and fatal fire injuries, as well as how to recognise blunt and sharp force injuries and the weapons that cause them.

In Criminology, you’ll learn what’s behind the motivations and patterns of criminal behaviour in Australia, the science that helps solve major crime, and how our justice system works in Australia.

Major: Criminal Behaviour

You’ll learn to challenge common perceptions of crime as you investigate why people commit offences, how to reduce or prevent crime, and how to help both victims and offenders involved in the criminal justice system.

You’ll examine punishment as a solution to crime while also considering the role of treatment as a response to criminal behaviour and the importance of reintegration.

Exploring criminal behaviour from a social, psychological, biological and legal perspective is an integral part of this course and you will consider the criminal behaviour of both adults and children. During your studies you’ll have the opportunity to learn the practical skills and ways of thinking that can help you forge a rewarding career after you graduate.

3 reasons to study Criminal Behaviour at Murdoch

• Learn to make a difference in people’s lives as you explore what can cause criminal behaviour and how it might be prevented.
• Challenge common perceptions of crime with insights into why people commit offences, how to reduce or prevent crime, and how to help both victims and offenders involved in the criminal justice system.
• Learn from respected experts in their field who often appear in the media to share their insights on current events and issues.

What you’ll learn
Build the knowledge and skills you need to meet your career or study goals. Here are some of the things you’ll learn:

• Criminal behaviour
• Psychology and law
• Children and crime
• Policing and crime prevention
• Culture, diversity and crime
• Technology, crime and justice