Co-operative education
Interested in transitioning to a co-operative degree?
We're giving you the opportunity to get real-world experience (and earn money) while you study.
Please note that paid placements will begin in 2026, so only students who started their degree in 2024 or later are eligible for co-op.
What's co-op?
If you choose to transition to the new Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice co-operative degree, you'll do six major units OR four minor units and two electives. You'll also complete 60 days of paid placement with a justice-related organisation.
Interested?
Watch our Q&A forum to learn more about co-operative degrees and the transition process.
Check out the online forum here >
Ready to tell us if you want to opt in or out of the new co-operative degree?
Who is eligible for co-op?
Paid placements will begin in 2026, so only students who started their degree in 2024 or later are eligible.
What are the key features of the new co-operative degree?
In the second semester of second year, students will complete COOPK2204 Professional Identity (Criminology and Criminal Justice), a 15–credit point unit that will prepare them for placement.
In third year, students will undertake 60 days of paid placement with a justice-related organisation, equivalent to two 30–credit point units: COOPK2205 Cooperative Placement 1 (Criminology and Criminal Justice) and COOPK2206 Cooperative Placement 2 (Criminology and Criminal Justice).
But there’s placement in the current degree. What’s the difference?
In the current degree structure, students complete the pre-placement unit CRJUS 3204 Work Integrated Learning: Professional Knowledge (15 credit points) in the first semester of third year then do CRJUS 3205 Work Integrated Learning: Professional Practice (15 credit points) in the second semester of third year. This placement is shorter (200 hours or about 26 days) and students do not get paid.
Will I have to find my own placement?
No, the University’s Co-operative team will find a placement opportunity for you.
What if I already work in a justice-related organisation?
If you’re already working in a justice-related organisation or have recent experience doing so, you may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning.
Is the co-operative course structure different?
Yes. In the new co-operative degree, students choose either:
- one major consisting of 6 units (Sociology, Community and Human Services, Behavioural Studies, or IT Security)
OR - one minor consisting of 4 units (Indigenous Studies, Sociology, Writing, Community and Human Services, Behavioural Studies or IT Security) plus two elective units.
In the current degree, students choose either: - one major consisting of 8 units (Sociology, Community and Human Services, Behavioural Studies, or IT Security)
OR - two minors consisting of 4 units (Indigenous Studies, Sociology, Writing, Community and Human Services, Behavioural Studies or IT Security).
Do I have to transition to the new co-operative degree?
No. It’s your choice.
How do I opt in or out of the new co-operative degree?
All you need to do is complete the survey.
Who can I talk to if I have other questions?
Please contact the Criminology and Criminal Justice Course Coordinator, Dr Cassie Pedersen, via c.pedersen@federation.edu.au