The Advanced Certificate in Criminal Psychology and Forensic Science offers a deep, practical understanding of the criminal mind and the science that supports justice. Whether you’re looking to enter the field or build on your current skills, this course combines psychological insight with forensic technique to prepare you for real-world impact. You’ll explore why people commit crimes, how professionals investigate and analyse crime scenes, and how psychological evidence is used in courtrooms.
In the Criminal Psychology unit you’ll examine key theories behind criminal behaviour, including biological, psychological, and social models. You’ll study the minds of offenders—from serial killers to juvenile delinquents—and understand patterns, triggers, and risk factors. Topics like criminal profiling, the psychology of violent crime, and the role of mental illness in criminal acts are taught using real case studies, giving you context and clarity.
You’ll also cover specialised areas such as terrorism and organised crime, youth crime, and the cycle of abuse. Learn how offenders escalate over time, how radicalisation takes root, and how experts assess risk and plan rehabilitation. You’ll also explore the ethical challenges faced by psychologists working in high-stakes legal environments.
The Forensic Science unit takes you from the crime scene to the courtroom. You’ll gain knowledge of evidence collection, DNA analysis, fingerprinting, toxicology, and digital forensics. This part of the course teaches you how to preserve, analyse, and present forensic evidence—skills essential for both lab and fieldwork.
You’ll finish with a strong understanding of how psychology and forensic science intersect in the legal system. From expert testimony to courtroom procedures, you’ll see how both fields contribute to fair trials and public safety. This course is ideal for anyone in law enforcement, social work, law, mental health, or those planning to enter criminal justice careers with a sharper, science-backed perspective.
Course Structure
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
Forensic Science
Unit 1 – Introduction to Forensic Science
- Introduction to forensic science
- What is Forensic Science?
- Key roles in forensic science
- History of forensic science
- Crime scene to courtroom
- Ethics and legal frameworks
Unit 2 – Crime Scene Investigation
- Crime scene investigation
- Crime scene preservation and safety
- Evidence recognition and documentation
- Photography, sketching and notes
- Crime scene protocols
- Forensics and technology
Unit 3 – Physical Evidence and Trace Analysis
- Physical evidence and trace analysis
- Types of physical evidence
- Collection and packaging
- Laboratory techniques
- Contamination risk and minimisation
Unit 4 – Biological and DNA Evidence
- Biological and DNA evidence
- Blood, saliva, semen and tissue analysis
- DNA profiling basics
- Matching samples to suspects
- National DNA Database
- Forensic science DNA case studies
Unit 5 – Fingerprints and Impressions
- Fingerprints and impressions
- Fingerprint collection methods
- Pattern types and identification
- Shoeprints, type marks and toolmarks
- Comparative analysis
- Limitations and error risks
Unit 6 – Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis
- Forensic toxicology and drug analysis
- Understanding toxicology
- Common substances tested
- Sample collection and analysis
- Interpretation of results
- Sample types: blood, urine and hair
- Screening and confirmatory tests
- Role in deaths, DUI and workplace cases
Unit 7 – Digital and Cyber Forensics
- Digital and Cyber Forensics
- Basics of digital evidence
- Devices and data storage
- Recovery, analysis and reporting
- Internet and social media investigations
- Legal and privacy considerations
- Digital forensic case studies
Unit 8 – Forensic Science in the Legal System
- Forensic Science in the Legal System
- Expert witnesses and courtroom procedures
- Reporting findings
- Admissibility of evidence
- Challenges and controversies in forensic science
- Case studies
Study Hours
Estimated duration 100 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
Loved the content. It made sense and followed a logical learning pathway and assignment questions were relevant and also allowed for personal investigation which I enjoyed.
A.O’Brien, Boneo, VIC | Advanced Certificate of Criminal Psychology and Forensic Science
Very good experience. Easy to log in and work with the course.
L. Lu, Chatswood, NSW | Advanced Certificate of Criminal Psychology and Forensic Science
Amazing, best place to study through, due to the access to all resourceful help you can access. And the best experience by being able to manage work and study by having everything online.
Z. Walker, Bombala, NSW | Advanced Certificate of Criminal Psychology and Forensic Science
It was a great experience learning the course content virtually and conducting the assignments that enhanced my understanding on the field.
K. Singh, Athelstone, SA | Advanced Certificate of Criminal Psychology and Forensic Science
My experience studying in the Australian Online Courses was very interesting, I learned a lot of new things very relevant for my career. I love the flexibility regarding time that the course offered, I live in Ecuador which implies a huge time zone difference with Australia so having the material and the assessments available all the time was great.
Carla | Ecuador | Advanced Certificate of Criminal Psychology and Forensic Science
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
Enrol via Live Chat (Business Hours)
Enrol via Telephone 1300 76 2221 (Business Hours)
Enrol via Purchase Order/Tax Invoice
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:-
- Correctional Officers/Personnel
- Police Officers
- Criminal Justice Personnel
Related Blogs
