Bachelor of Laws/ Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Criminology

The Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Criminology is the only double degree of its kind in Victoria. It uniquely combines an accredited law degree with a specialised education in the causes of crime (Criminology) and the fallout of crime (Criminal Justice), making it ideal for those wanting to specialise in criminal prosecution, criminal defence, or government policy development.

Yes — Swinburne law students are the only students in Victoria eligible to be admitted to legal practice on the day they graduate. In the final year of the Bachelor of Laws, you can enrol in a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice through Leo Cussen Centre for Law as part of a dual award program, which provides the requisite training to practise law and cuts months off the time it takes to become a lawyer.

Work Integrated Learning is a guaranteed part of this double degree. Students complete law-related professional experience placements at organisations in Australia or overseas, are introduced to practical legal practice through moot court scenarios and advocacy exercises, and in Crime, Society and Culture (LAW30025) work on a problems-based project briefed by an industry partner. There is also an optional professional work placement component worth 100 credit points.

For domestic students enrolled in a Commonwealth Supported Place, the yearly tuition fee is $17,399.00 AUD with a total estimated course fee of $82,645.00 AUD. For international students, the total estimated fee is $44,970.00 AUD. The Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) is capped at $373.00 for 2026. All fees are estimates and subject to change.

Successful completion of the Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Criminology requires students to complete units of study to the value of 475 credit points, with all units valued at 12.5 credit points unless otherwise stated. The course takes 5 years full-time or equivalent part-time to complete.