Postgraduate study in Criminology

What can you study in Criminology?

Criminology considers various perspectives and responses in criminology and criminal justice both within New Zealand and internationally.

You can undertake postgraduate courses and your own research in areas such as:

  • Criminological theory
  • Penology
  • State crime
  • Law and human rights
  • Social deviance
  • Youth and crime
  • Cybercrime

Entry requirements

Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Criminology

A BA or Bachelor of Global Studies with a major in Criminology or else approval from the Head of School or nominee. You must have a Grade Point Average of 5.0 or higher in 45 points above Stage II in your major.

The following subjects may be considered for entry: Film and TV (excluding Communication and Screen Production), Media, Sociology.

Master of Arts in Criminology

120-point (one-year) MA

A BA(Hons) or PGDipArts in Criminology with a Grade Point Average of 5.0 or higher. There are higher requirements for some research options.

The following subjects may be considered for entry: Film and TV (excluding Communication and Screen Production), Media, Sociology.

180-point (18-month) MA

A BA with a major in Criminology or else approval from the Head of School or nominee. You must have a Grade Point Average of 5.0 or higher in 75 points above Stage II including at least 45 points in your major.

The following subjects may be considered for entry: Film and TV (excluding Communication and Screen Production), Media, Sociology.

Structuring your specialisation in Criminology

Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Criminology

Consult the BA(Hons) schedule for guidance in structuring your study and for the courses you may take.

2024 BA(Hons) schedule for Criminology

Master of Arts in Criminology

Consult the MA schedule for guidnace in structuring your study and for the courses you may take.

2024 MA schedule for Criminology

Scholarships and awards

Major postgraduate scholarships

Help and advice

For help with planning your degree and enrolling in your courses, please contact a Student Hub.

If you would like to find out more about studying Criminology, you can contact a Postgraduate Adviser.