The Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Criminology is the only double degree of its kind in Victoria. Offering the unique combination of an accredited law degree with a specialised education in the causes of crime (Criminology) and the fallout of crime (Criminal Justice), this course arms you with the advanced skills to solve complex legal problems in an increasingly complex society.

You'll explore all aspects of law, including commercial and intellectual property law, and learn how to communicate with both legal and non-legal audiences. Delve into the differences and similarities between local and global criminality, and discover traditional approaches to crime along with emerging trends.

Work Integrated Learning is a guaranteed part of all our bachelor degrees. In this double degree, you'll complete law-related professional experience placements at organisations in Australia or overseas. You'll also be introduced to the practical aspects of legal practice through moot court scenarios and advocacy exercises. And in Crime, Society and Culture (LAW30025), you’ll team up with other students to work on a problems-based project briefed to you by an industry partner.

On completion, you’ll be able to evaluate the main causes of crime, assess the consequences of crime on victims and the community, critically evaluate situations and their legal ramifications, and demonstrate the skills and knowledge necessary to practice law.

This degree is ideal for those who want to specialise in criminal prosecution, criminal defence or government policy development.

Course learning outcomes

The objective of the Bachelor of Laws/ Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Criminology double degree is to bring together two of Swinburne’s existing degrees, the Bachelor of Laws, with the newly established Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Criminology. The combination creates an impressive course that offers a multidisciplinary education and addresses the gap between demand and availability for double degrees of a high calibre. The pairing of law with existing degrees across different disciplines has the potential to increase the overall merit of the courses and in turn, the reputation of the University. 

The introduction of this double degree additionally has the potential to increase the number of enrolments at Swinburne and in turn, further contribute to the current growth and development of the university. This is due to the multidisciplinary nature of the course having the ability to attract a wider range of students as it caters to individuals who hold multiple areas of interest. It also presents a specialisation opportunity for law students who intend to practice in the field of criminal law or the criminal justice system.

The incorporation of these two popular areas of study will contribute towards stronger connections with industry and the community through enhanced commercialisation capability, connections with major law firms, and pro-bono work for non-profit organisations. In conjunction with the strong level of theoretical education, students will undertake a Practical Skills Program throughout this degree, resulting in graduates that are industry ready, adaptable and able to manage change, and consequently, highly attractive to potential employers.