Key facts
UNE unit code: CRIM100
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
In every society there are acts or omissions that constitute crimes and it is crucial that we understand the nature and consequences of crime.
In this introductory unit you will learn about a range of issues, including the problematic nature of defining crime and the impact of the media when it comes to explaining criminal behaviour.
You will explore how knowledge of crime is developed and the role of theory in explaining crime. You will also investigate forensic science and the criminal justice system.
You will explore different types of crimes that are impacting upon our society, including crimes against morality; cyber, corporate and white-collar crime; violent and property crime; and youth crime.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate a coherent knowledge of crime and the criminalisation process within a social context, including characteristics of victims and offenders, with an ability to communicate this knowledge effectively to others;
- synthesise basic information about how different criminological theories and the media can be used to explain criminal behaviour;
- analyse and explain the use of forensics in the criminal justice system and the problems with existing crime statistics and independently assess how these topics can impact upon law and order issues and combatting future crime;
- critically analyse the differing nature of crime and criminalisation with respect to issues such as gender and geographical differences with the ability to use judgement to formulate reasons for this; and
- 5. competently apply a range of basic research skills, analysis, and communication skills that contribute to life-long application in a professional career.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Supervised Exam. This online exam will be supervised via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. Students must pass the Assurance Task in order to pass the unit. No. Words: 2000 |
| Oral Presentation | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Oral Presentation, ten-minutes (approx.) No. Words: 1000 (equivalent) |
| Written Assessment | Yes | 30% | All offerings | No. Words: 1500 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Crime and Justice: A Guide to Criminology
ISBN: 9780455248851
Ben Livings, Katherine McLachlan, Nerida Chazal, Rick Sarre, Thomson Reuters 7th ed. 2025
Text refers to: All offerings
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026
Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?
UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2026 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.
