Combining psychology, justice & community welfare

Case manager Anna-Lena Reiber shares how studying criminal justice and psychology at VU opened the door to a rewarding career in community services, working in the fields of housing, mental health, disability and family violence.

“I have always had an interest in both criminology and psychology. Funnily enough, the first time I remember this interest being sparked was while I was watching Criminal Minds.

“I quickly found out that criminal profiling wasn’t a realistic profession for me, but from there my interest only grew and I started looking into actual career options related to the field.

“When searching for a course and university, I finally settled on studying the Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Psychological Studies at Victoria University as it combined both my passion for psychology and the criminal justice system.

“The course particularly interested me as it was so openly structured and covered many different fields. I thought that upon completing this degree, it would leave me with a wide range of career choices.”

Practical experience & making connections

“I decided on VU as the university has a very practical focus, with many lecturers having actively worked in the field, and real-life experience was a priority for me.

“VU offered me plenty of opportunities to gather real-life experience through placements, seminars and interaction with lecturers who were actively working in the industry.

“I had the opportunity to become involved in leadership events and student groups as well as to gain valuable industry connections."

Work placements that open doors

“During my course I completed 200 hours of placement with the Department of Justice and Community Safety. I was connected with this opportunity through Victoria University's student placement team.

Throughout my internship I got the opportunity to gain great insight into working with clients involved in the justice system, and gained valuable experience and skills which have since opened the door to many career opportunities for me.

“Since graduating VU I’ve worked in several case management roles throughout the community sector. This includes work within the fields of housing, mental health, disability and most recently family violence.

“All these fields offered their own insights and have given me the opportunity to expand my skill set.

“Going forward I am hoping to return to studying to gain my masters, ideally in forensic mental health. Long term, this is the field that interests me the most and I am hoping to be able to work in it eventually.” 

Interested in a career in justice or community welfare?

Prepare for a fascinating career in the justice system or community services at VU.

Discover the Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Psychological Studies now.