Learn Key Principles in Criminal Psychology and Forensic Science

Criminal Psychology Short Course

4.9/5 from 773 Google Reviews

Online, Self-paced Teacher-led training

12 Weeks

Job Search Assistance

Nationally Recognised Training Provider - RTO 45162

Pay Up-front or with Interest Free Payments from $28 p/w

– Now accepting enrolments!

Why Study with the Hader Institute of Education?

We believe in a future where everyone feels included, connected, valued and belongs. We’re in business to empower people to help each other on their paths to discovery and transformation.

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Structured Online Learning at your own pace

Learn anywhere, at any time, and at your pace with our online courses and personalised support from our trainers and student support staff.

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Study Now, Pay Later

Affordable, simple, interest free solutions & payment plan for your online course.

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Accreditation

Receive a statement of attainment recognising the units of competency completed.

Hear from our students

What our students have to say

"The learning environment is both supportive and informative. Compared to other institutions I’ve studied at, I can honestly say I’ve never felt so comfortable, accepted, and encouraged in an educational setting. The sense of being valued as a student makes a huge difference."
Maria Blackwood
"I think it’s tough for any adult to go back to studying after so long. Even though it was a big challenge, the Hader Institute supported me all the way. They guided me, kept me on track, and made me feel like I was part of something. But the real difference for me was Viki Hannah. Her kindness, patience, and encouragement really helped me move forward."
Dani Carpenter
"The best staff and study experience. Really positive environment and helping nature of everyone listening to the queries and everything. I am glad I made the right decision. My trainer Viki is the most supportive and emotionally intelligent woman. She is someone you can always rely upon."
Jasmeet Mann
"Cayan was an absolute pleasure to deal with as a teacher. He's very passionate about his role and it shows when you have a one on one with him.
He is very supportive and knowledgeable when it comes to tough topics you may be dealing with. I appreciate his guidance and responses and I would recommend him."
Ben Macgeorge
"I wanted to share how impressed I am with Hader Institute of education. I commenced certificate 4 in community services a couple of months ago and because of the brilliant support and the fabulous trainers I am excelling."
Lisa Claussen

About the Criminal Psychology Short Course Online

  • The Criminal Psychology Short Course is a non-accredited, 12-week, self-paced online program designed for learners who are curious about understanding criminal psychology
  • Builds confidence in ethical thinking, analysis, and practical skills
  • Apply key psychological theories to interpret trauma, environment, personality, aggression, and mental illness
  • Follow industry protocols for crime scene management, evidence collection and protection, and evidence analysis within legal frameworks.
Is this course right for you?
  • Are you looking for a career change or are an early-career professional seeking entry-level positions in justice and social services?
  • Looking for career progression in community services or law enforcement and looking to formalise knowledge and build professional development credentials?
  • Are curious about understanding criminal behaviour and forensic investigation?

Then this course if for you!

What are your career outcomes?

Graduates of this course will create employment pathways toward roles such as:

  • Youth Justice Support Worker
  • Behavioural Support Officer
  • Client Liaison or Advocacy Assistant
  • Community Outreach or Social Services Officer
  • Forensic or Legal Administrative Support
How will you learn with us?

This online course offers a flexible, self-paced learning environment, allowing you to balance study with other commitments.

How will you be assessed?

The learning program includes:

  • Scenario-based activities and assignments.
  • Written tasks, quizzes, and multiple-choice questions.
  • Real-world case study applications.
How much does it cost?

Study online from as little as $28, interest free, per week.

For more information on the different payment options that suit your budget please call 03 9917 3472.

What will you learn?

Get introduced to the key principles and practices in both criminal psychology and forensic science. Explore psychological theories behind criminal behaviour, behavioural profiling, mental illness and crime, and scientific techniques used in forensic investigations.

Module 1: Foundations of Criminal Psychology

Course Units
Unit 1 – Your First Window To Criminal Psychology
Unit 2 – Theoretical Explanations of Crime
Unit 3 – Aggression & Crime
Unit 4 – Understanding Gender & Crime
Unit 5 – Youth Victims & Offenders
Unit 6 – Mental Illness & Crime
Unit 7 – Using Psychology in Policing
Unit 8 – Courtroom Psychology
Unit 9 – Understanding Punishments

Module 2: Forensic Science

Course Units
Unit 1 – Introduction to Forensics
Unit 2 – Branches of Forensic Science
Unit 3 – Scientific Principles Crime and Evidence
Unit 4 – Working the Scene: Evidence Collection & Protection
Unit 5 – Evidence Analysis
Unit 6 – Criminal Behaviour and Mental Health
Unit 7 – Understanding Criminology
Unit 8 – Criminal Profiling, Intelligence and Surveillance
Unit 9 – Guide to Presenting Evidence in Court
Unit 10 – Ethical Concerns

Our team

Our highly experienced trainers and staff will support you throughout your learning journey. Hear what they have to say about working at Hader Insitute of Education.

Hear from our teachers
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Charlotte Kendrick
Trainer & Operations Manager

Leading with Heart, Driving with Purpose

Jesse Lucchesi
Student Recruitment Manager

Champion of Learner Engagement and Personalised Educational Pathways.

Marcus Sellen
CEO

A Beacon of Innovation and Excellence in Vocational Education; Voted Online Education CEO of the Year 2024 (Australia) by APAC Insiders.

What our students say about us

Google Reviews
4.9
773
reviews
"Shira who is a Student Recruiter working at Hader Institute of Education was extremely helpful in assisting me pick the right course that I could see myself completing and starting my carer in Youth Work. Great experience, I highly recommend Hader Institute of Education."

Steven Dodman

"Trish has been a fantastic resource and support so far in my learning journey, always offering help when needed. She is very detailed and clear with explaining topics and is very much appreciated."

Kara Galea

"I was in two minds whether to go with TAFE or Hader Institute for my cert IV in youth work and after talking with Eric it was a very easy decision to choose Hader."

Kimmi Ryan

"It was a pleasure to enrol at Hader today. Thankyou Bernard for making the process pleasant and easy.! Excited to start my studies ☺️."

Beebree Shilling

"Very professional experience so far. Great communication and a nice friendly approach is refreshing and helps put you at ease when making such a big decision and change."

Kayleen Clayton

"The course has been thorough and very informative. I encourage all people looking to study youth work to consider the shader Institute."

Daine Spencer

"I love all my teachers but you were so engaging and really catered to my learning style. Thank you!!!"

Tide martino

"They were welcoming from get go, great customer service, very aware and understanding, straight forward with guidance, reassurance and polite with all of the above. I felt no pressure at all, all my questions were answered with optional paths."

RAINA. T

FAQs

What are the most frequently asked questions about the Criminal Psychology Short Course?

What is the Criminology short course?

The course comprises of 8 nationally recognised units from the CHC40421 Certificate IV in Youth Work and is ideal for beginners looking to enter the youth work sector or those aiming for a pathway into further education, such as a Certificate IV or Diploma in Youth Work or related field.

What are the entry requirements for the short course?
  • To ensure that learners can fully participate in the course and meet all requirements, the following entry conditions apply:
    • Be at least 18 years of age
    • Be an Australian Citizen or permanent resident or hold a visa which offers full work & study rights.
    • Have completed their education to a level which is equivalent to an Australian Senior High School Year 12 or successful completion of a Level 3 literacy & numeracy assessment or has completed an AQF Certificate III level qualification or higher.
    • Successfully complete an ACSF LLN test at the required level (in reading, writing, and numeracy)
    • Have sound computer skills, including:
      • Ability to navigate software systems
      • Intermediate use of Microsoft Word (formatting, tables, editing) to complete assessments
    • Have access to a laptop or desktop computer with a reliable internet connection to complete online modules.
    • These entry requirements will be confirmed through information collected on the enrolment form and during the enrolment interview.
How long will it take to complete the short course?

The short course can be completed in 12 weeks (180 hours), depending on your study schedule.

What qualification or recognition will I receive?

Upon completion, learners will receive a Certificate of Completion for the Short Course in Criminal Psychology.

This course is recognised and accredited by the International Approval and Registration Centre (IARC). It is an industry-recognised professional development program, suitable for personal enrichment or preparatory study.

Note: It is not a formal qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) but may support Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for further studies.

What are you waiting for?

Contact us today!

In the spirit of reconciliation, Hader Institute of Education acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the first inhabitants of this nation and the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work, live and study. We express our gratitude for the sharing of this land, our sorrow for the personal, spiritual and cultural costs of that sharing and hope that we may move forward together in harmony and in the spirit of healing. We pay our respect to all First Nation people and acknowledge Elders past, present and emerging.

© 2025 Hader Institute of Education RTO 45162. All rights reserved.

Start Your Career in Criminology Today!

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