Criminal psychology is a fascinating field that leads to numerous meaningful career opportunities, whether you’re interested in becoming a forensic psychologist, counsellor, or law enforcement professional.
The Certificate of Criminal Psychology is a professional development course that explores the psychological factors influencing criminal behaviour.
In this criminal psychology course, you will learn core theories of crime, including biological, psychological, and social models. You’ll also explore the psychology of serial killers, sexual offenders, juvenile crime, and terrorism.
You will learn about cognitive distortions, psychopathy, and the impact of early life trauma. Additionally, you will explore offender profiling and criminal responsibility, as well as strategies for prevention and rehabilitation to reduce recidivism and enhance public safety.
On completion of this course, you will have the knowledge and tools to think critically, assess risk and respond to crime with insight and confidence.
Course Structure
Certificate of Criminal Psychology
Unit 1 – Introduction to Criminal Psychology
- Overview of criminal psychology
- Psychological theories of crime
- The role of forensic psychologists
- Nature vs nurture in criminal behaviour
- Psychosocial impact of crime
Unit 2 – Psychological Theories of Crime
- Overview of psychological theories
- Biological theories of crime
- Psychological theories of crime
- Social theories of crime
- Psychopathy
- Anti-Social Personality Disorder
- Cognitive distortions in offenders
- Mental illness and crime
- Criminal minds – case studies
Unit 3 – Criminal Profiling and Investigative Psychology
- Overview of criminal profiling and investigative psychology
- History and development of offender profiling
- FBI profiling
- Statistical profiling
- Psychological autopsies
- Crime scene analysis
- Behavioural patterns and risk assessments
- Famous criminal cases
Unit 4 – The Psychology of Violent and Sexual Offenders
- Overview of violent and sexual offenders
- Understanding violent behaviour
- Types of violence
- Risk factors
- Triggers and patterns
- Serial killers
- Mass murderers
- Sexual offenders and psychological motivations
- The cycle of abuse
- Criminal escalation
- Rehabilitation and treatment
Unit 5 – Juvenile Delinquency and Youth Crime
- Juvenile delinquency and youth crime
- Psychological factors of youth crime
- Environmental factors of youth crime
- Early warning signs
- The impact of childhood trauma
- Intervention and rehabilitation programs
Unit 6 – Criminal Psychology and the Court System
- The role of Forensic Psychologists in court
- Criminal responsibility
- Mental health assessments
- Eyewitness testimony
- The insanity defence
- False confessions
Unit 7 – Terrorism and Organised Crime Psychology
- Psychological drivers of terrorism
- Terrorism in Australia
- Radicalisation and extremist behaviour
- Youth and radicalisation
- Organised syndicates
- The role of fear and coercion
- Psychological tactics in counter-terrorism
Unit 8 – Rehabilitation, Risk Assessment and Crime Prevention
- Risk assessment tools for predicting recidivism
- Crime prevention strategies
- Violent offenders and rehabilitation
- Community programs
- Ethical challenges in criminal psychology
- Emerging research
Study Hours
Estimated duration 50 hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Approval and Recognition
Australian Online Courses Pty Ltd is an approved and recognised member of IARC. The IARC is an International association that recognises quality and excellence in tertiary education providers.
Testimonials
Click to See What Our Students Say
It was very well structured and enabled me to learn more than what I initially thought I would
C. Miller, Hawthorn, VIC | Certificate of Criminal Psychology
I really enjoyed studying with Australian Online Courses. The information provided covered a great deal of content & I learnt a lot about the area I was studying. Overall a great experience.
T. Denning, Penrith, NSW | Certificate of Criminal Psychology
The assessments were very interesting and allowed me to delve deeper into my interest.
A.Luong, Glen Waverley, VIC | Certificate of Criminal Psychology
I really enjoyed completing the Certificate of Criminal Psychology. It was great to learn about an array of topics in this subject matter in a succinct way.
Kylie | Mickleham, VIC | Certificate of Criminal Psychology
It was amazing to study with Australian online Courses. I have studied paralegal as well as criminal psychology
Hamid | Gross Vale, NSW | Certificate of Criminal Psychology
About Us
Graduation
A Certificate of Attainment and Statement of Results will be issued upon successful completion of this course.
How to Enrol
Enrol Online: Enrol Now
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Enrol via Telephone 1300 76 2221 (Business Hours)
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Enrolling Multiple Staff?
To enrol multiple staff, please complete the Employer Enrolment Form. We’ll be in touch within 60 minutes during business hours!
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and EFT/Direct Deposit. Please allow 1-2 Business days for processing for EFT and BPAY.
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
There are no course or subject pre-requisites for entry into our programs. However, our professional development programs are generally intended for people over the age of 18. In some circumstances, enrolments from younger people may be considered. Please complete the AOC Parent Guardian Consent Form prior to enrolling and submit here.
Are there any computer requirements?
To study online with Australian Online Courses you will need a computer (desktop PC/laptop) running a current/updated operating system with reliable high-speed internet access. You will need to use the Google Chrome browser to access your course.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
How is this course delivered?
This course is delivered online via our easy-to-navigate Learning Management System (LMS), where you will discover interactive online learning/written content, resources and assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our LMS and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email only during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
Professional Development for:
- Security Professionals
- Law Enforcement Professionals
- Social Workers
- Legal Professionals
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