Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice Co-op

How is the co-op different?

If you choose to transition to the new Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice co-operative degree, your course structure is slightly different to the current Bachelor. Plus, you'll also complete 60 days of paid placement with a justice-related organisation rather than 26  days unpaid work experience in the current degree.

Am I eligible?

Paid placements will begin in 2026, so only students who started their degree in 2024 or later are eligible.

More information

Please watch this short video for detailed information about the new co-op degree and how it differs to the existing course.


Next steps

Let us know if you want to opt in or out of the co-op degree by completing this short form.

If you have questions, you can read the FAQs below or email Dr Cassie Pedersen, the Criminology and Criminal Justice Course Coordinator.

Who is eligible for co-op?
Paid placements will begin in 2026, so only students who started their degree in 2024 or later are eligible.

What are the key features of the new co-operative degree?
In the second semester of second year, students will complete COOPK2204 Professional Identity (Criminology and Criminal Justice), a 15–credit point unit that will prepare them for placement.

In third year, students will undertake 60 days of paid placement with a justice-related organisation, equivalent to two 30–credit point units: COOPK2205 Cooperative Placement 1 (Criminology and Criminal Justice) and COOPK2206 Cooperative Placement 2 (Criminology and Criminal Justice).

But there’s placement in the current degree. What’s the difference?
In the current degree structure, students complete the pre-placement unit CRJUS 3204 Work Integrated Learning: Professional Knowledge (15 credit points) in the first semester of third year then do CRJUS 3205 Work Integrated Learning: Professional Practice (15 credit points) in the second semester of third year. This placement is shorter (200 hours or about 26 days) and students do not get paid.

Will I have to find my own placement?
No, the University’s Co-operative team will find a placement opportunity for you.

What if I already work in a justice-related organisation?
If you’re already working in a justice-related organisation or have recent experience doing so, you may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning.

Is the co-operative course structure different?
Yes. In the new co-operative degree, students choose either:

  • one major consisting of 6 units (Sociology, Community and Human Services, Behavioural Studies, or IT Security)
    OR
  • one minor consisting of 4 units (Indigenous Studies, Sociology, Writing, Community and Human Services, Behavioural Studies or IT Security) plus two elective units.
    In the current degree, students choose either:
  • one major consisting of 8 units (Sociology, Community and Human Services, Behavioural Studies, or IT Security)
    OR
  • two minors consisting of 4 units (Indigenous Studies, Sociology, Writing, Community and Human Services, Behavioural Studies or IT Security).

Do I have to transition to the new co-operative degree?
No. It’s your choice.