Law & Legal Studies in Australia
Australia offers 49 programmes in Law & Legal Studies across 20 universities, giving prospective law students an extensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate options. Prestigious institutions including Monash University, University of Sydney, La Trobe University, and Curtin University are among those offering law degrees. Tuition information varies by programme — check individual listings for current fee details.
Australian law degrees are structured around the common law tradition and are taught in English, making them relevant for students who wish to practise in Australia or in other common law jurisdictions. Dual-degree combinations (such as law combined with commerce, arts, or international studies) are widely available. Graduates must complete practical legal training and admission requirements to be admitted as a lawyer in their chosen Australian state or territory.
Associate Degree of Law (Paralegal Studies)
This Associate Degree of Law (Paralegal Studies) is designed to prepare you for a career in the legal sector, equipping you with practical skills and foundational knowledge of the Australian legal system. You will develop expertise in legal research, writing, and core legal principles, with the option to specialize in Conveyancing, which serves as an academic prerequisite for becoming a licensed conveyancer in New South Wales. This degree also offers a pathway to further studies, including a Bachelor of Laws, should you wish to become a practicing lawyer. Graduates are highly valued in various legal settings, including law firms, government departments, law enforcement agencies, and corporate sectors. The program emphasizes an interactive learning approach through the Southern Cross Model, featuring shorter, immersive learning blocks and engaging, discussion-based classes, whether you study on campus or online. You may also have the opportunity to gain practical experience through voluntary legal placements.
Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) - Bachelor of Laws
This double degree program combines a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) with a Bachelor of Laws, offering a unique interdisciplinary approach. You will gain a deep understanding of human behaviour through the scientific study of the mind and its functions, while also acquiring a comprehensive legal education grounded in the law's social and ethical context. This combination provides a strong foundation for careers where understanding both human psychology and legal frameworks is crucial, offering a competitive advantage in the job market.
Bachelor of Criminology and Justice
This Bachelor of Criminology and Justice program explores the complex issues surrounding crime, criminal behaviour, and societal responses. You will delve into the entire criminal justice system, from law creation to the roles of police, courts, and correctional services. The course also critically examines the concept of justice and its various interpretations within society and for different groups. Preparation for employment begins from the start, with opportunities for workplace practicums, industry projects, and integrated learning experiences. The aim is to equip you with current knowledge and opportunities to make a meaningful contribution to the field of criminal justice.
Bachelor of Justice
The Bachelor of Justice is a forward-thinking degree designed to equip you with the skills needed to contribute to safer communities, advocate for social change, or conduct ethical investigations. The program allows for specialization through three distinct majors: Criminology and Violence Prevention; Investigations and Intelligence; and Policy, Politics and Social Reform. This flexible structure enables you to tailor your studies to your specific interests within the broad field of justice, while also developing a comprehensive understanding of the sector. You will learn to approach challenges creatively and bring innovative ideas to future employers.
Bachelor of Laws
Bachelor of Laws
CQU's fully accredited Bachelor of Laws is an innovative, three-year full-time or four-year part-time undergraduate degree designed to prepare you for a career as a legal professional. As a leader in online legal education, this degree offers a flexible and contemporary curriculum. Upon completion of required professional legal training, you will be eligible to practice nationally, with mutual recognition of practising certificates across Australian states and territories. The program emphasizes developing essential legal knowledge alongside practical skills, preparing you for the evolving legal landscape influenced by technology and artificial intelligence. You will gain valuable experience through a variety of hands-on activities, including simulations, legal document drafting, client interviewing, and developing legal apps. A compulsory legal practicum unit allows you to undertake a work placement, a social innovation project, or a workplace simulation, connecting theoretical learning with real-world application. Graduates are prepared for diverse career paths, including solicitor, barrister, in-house counsel, academia, business, public service, and politics. The degree incorporates experiential learning opportunities and focuses on the ethical, social, and practical implications of technological advancements in law.
Bachelor of Laws
Bachelor of Laws
The Bachelor of Laws at James Cook University (JCU) provides a comprehensive legal education designed to equip you with the skills to review contracts, argue cases, negotiate settlements, and understand constitutional law. You'll gain a multidisciplinary and practical understanding of core legal concepts and learn to apply them in various contexts, including contract, criminal, company, and administrative law. The program is accredited by the Legal Practitioners Admission Board for admission to practice law in Queensland. Graduates will need to complete practical legal training to become solicitors or barristers. This 3-year full-time program, with options for part-time study and dual degrees, allows for specialization in chosen areas of law. The curriculum focuses on building a strong legal foundation in the first year, delving into specific areas like property, criminal, and tort law in the second year, and advancing knowledge in administration, equity, trusts, company, and constitutional law in the third year. JCU offers a flexible learning environment with hybrid options, tutorials, workshops, and integrated technology, including e-court facilities on the Cairns campus.
Bachelor of Laws
The Bachelor of Laws at Western Sydney University (WSU) provides you with the professional accreditation needed to practice law in New South Wales. This five-year program is typically undertaken as a double degree, allowing you to combine your law studies with another field of your choice. You will cover the 11 core units required for legal practice in Australia, developing essential legal skills such as advocacy, negotiation, research, and drafting. The degree also offers an Honours program for high-achieving students. WSU offers a wide range of double degree options, including Bachelor of Information Systems, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Business, and Bachelor of Communication, among others. This flexibility allows you to tailor your education to your specific interests and career aspirations. The program emphasizes practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge, preparing graduates for diverse roles within the legal profession and beyond.
Bachelor of Laws
Law is fundamental to how societies function, guiding responses to environmental issues, conflict resolution, privacy, and human rights. In an evolving global landscape, there's a need for professionals who can analyze complex problems, understand competing interests, and develop solutions that balance justice, ethics, and impact. Legal expertise is valuable across many sectors, including business, government, finance, and advocacy, wherever critical thinking and strong reasoning are required. The Bachelor of Laws program at Macquarie University emphasizes practical experience and industry connections. Students have opportunities for internships with leading law firms, potentially leading to graduate employment. The program also offers client-facing experience through a not-for-profit family law firm focused on access to justice, and participation in Social Justice and Strategic Litigation Clinics. Learning takes place in a modern law environment designed to foster collaboration.
Bachelor of Laws
The Bachelor of Laws at Charles Sturt University is a unique, 100% online degree designed to equip you with comprehensive legal skills. It goes beyond traditional law studies by incorporating specialized topics such as resources law, legal issues affecting Australian First Nations people, international law, and regional law. The program also includes cultural competence training, preparing you to make a significant impact in your legal career. The flexible online format allows you to balance your studies with existing commitments, with options to study full-time or part-time. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in criminal law, legal practice, and community advocacy.
Bachelor of Laws (Direct Entry)
Bachelor of Laws (Graduate Entry)
Bachelor of Laws (Honours)
The Bachelor of Laws (Honours) at Griffith University prepares you to become a lawyer ready for the challenges of a modern, globalised society. This program emphasizes progressive, practical legal experience and provides access to networks crucial for shaping your professional future. You will learn to view law as a tool for social justice and change, developing in-depth knowledge of legal principles and practices, including their connections to ethics, Indigenous issues, and international perspectives. The curriculum covers essential legal skills like negotiation, critical analysis, advocacy, and legal writing, along with diverse topics such as crime, contracts, property, corporate law, torts, and legal theories.
Bachelor of Laws (Honours)
The Bachelor of Laws (Honours) at QUT provides a comprehensive legal education designed to prepare graduates for a dynamic and evolving legal landscape. QUT's School of Law is recognized for its practical, ethical, and future-focused approach, ensuring students are well-equipped for modern legal careers. The program offers the complete educational prerequisites for admission to law practice in Queensland, guiding students from undergraduate studies through to Practical Legal Training (PLT). Graduates are known for their readiness to enter the workforce, supported by award-winning work-integrated learning experiences.
Bachelor of Laws (Honours)
This degree provides a comprehensive understanding of law and its intricate relationship with society. You will explore the principles of the legal system, examine crime trends, and analyze the perception of justice. This program lays a strong foundation for a career in criminal justice, policy development, legal research, and other related fields, offering insights into how law and societal changes influence each other.
Bachelor of Laws (Honours) (Direct Entry)
The Bachelor of Laws (Honours) (Direct Entry) is a four-year degree designed to provide a comprehensive legal education with a strong focus on practical skills and the social and ethical context of law. The program ensures graduates have a thorough grounding in legal principles while developing essential practical skills such as legal research, drafting, advocacy, and negotiation through an integrated skills program. It also covers the prescribed knowledge areas required for admission to the legal profession in Australia, with opportunities for specialised electives and international exchange programs.
Bachelor of Laws / Bachelor of Criminology and Justice
This double degree program combines the study of law with criminology and justice, preparing you for a variety of professional roles. You will gain comprehensive knowledge of legal practice, including courtroom skills, alongside a deep understanding of criminology, social justice issues, and the broader justice system. This program is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career in legal practice or in fields related to crime, justice, and social policy.
Bachelor of Legal and Justice Studies
This degree provides a thorough grounding in legal knowledge and a strong understanding of Australian and international politics and society. It's designed for students interested in how the law functions, the reasons behind specific laws, and their impact. The program is ideal for those aspiring to work in policy development, paralegal roles, conveyancing, or the broader justice sector. It can also enhance the knowledge and skills of individuals already working professionally in law and justice. The conveyancing major is accredited by New South Wales Fair Trading, allowing graduates to become licensed conveyancers in NSW.
Criminology
Diploma in Laws
The Diploma in Laws is a one-year program designed to provide you with foundational knowledge in legal problem-solving and practical legal understanding. It's ideal for those looking to explore legal concepts or enhance professional skills across various sectors like business, government, and community services. This diploma offers a pathway to further legal studies, specifically the second year of the Bachelor of Laws - Legal Practice Entry, upon successful completion of its eight topics.
Graduate Certificate in Criminology and Justice
This Graduate Certificate in Criminology and Justice is designed for individuals interested in the fields of criminology and justice, or those whose careers require skills in behavioural management or investigation. It's also suitable for those looking to transition into this field from related backgrounds such as psychology, social science, or youth work. The program will enhance your existing skill set and open doors to new career paths. You will explore diverse topics, including cyber criminology, investigative practices, and the prevention of misconduct and corruption, preparing you for roles in both public and private sectors. Graduates may also be eligible to fast-track their studies into a Master of Criminology and Justice.
Graduate Certificate in Laws
This Graduate Certificate in Laws is designed to equip you with practical legal knowledge and critical thinking skills. In just six months, you can develop a strong understanding of key legal principles and their application in various professional contexts. This program is ideal for those looking to enhance their expertise in areas such as policy, compliance, and advisory roles, or as a pathway to further legal studies.
Graduate Certificate of Misconduct and Corruption Prevention
This Graduate Certificate is designed for professionals working in fields such as HR, mining, finance, and government, or for those involved in oversight bodies and public sector commissions. It is particularly suited for individuals interested in investigative roles focusing on misconduct, corruption, bullying, or inappropriate workplace behaviour. The course equips you with essential skills to understand complex behaviours, develop effective policies and procedures, and manage the prevention, mitigation, regulation, policing, and investigation of misconduct. Graduates will be prepared for roles in both private and public organisations and may have the opportunity to fast-track into a Master of Criminology and Justice. Accredited at AQF Level 8, this program offers a specialised understanding of misconduct and corruption prevention, preparing you for advanced professional practice.
Graduate Diploma in Criminology
This Graduate Diploma focuses on contemporary issues surrounding crime and control, examining them within both theoretical frameworks and policy contexts. It is designed for individuals with a keen interest in crime, punishment, and the broader criminal justice system. The program offers a critical understanding of criminology through a diverse range of interdisciplinary units taught by leading Australian criminologists, drawing on expertise from the Sydney Centre for International Law.
Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice
This Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (GDLP) is designed to provide you with the essential practical legal training required for admission to the legal profession. You can choose to study online or on campus, offering flexibility to fit your schedule. The program includes a practical four-week placement with a law firm, providing real-world experience before you graduate.
Higher Degree Research - Law
Western Sydney University's School of Law offers postgraduate research degrees, including the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Master of Research (MRes). The school fosters a supportive research environment and encourages inquiries regarding supervision. Prospective students are guided through the application process, which involves developing a research proposal, identifying and contacting a potential supervisor, and submitting the application online. Successful applicants are then invited to enroll in the program.
Juris Doctor
La Trobe's Juris Doctor (JD) is an accredited degree designed to equip you with the knowledge and practical skills needed to excel as a legal professional. You will build a strong foundation in legal theory, research, and practice through core subjects, while also developing specialist knowledge through electives developed in collaboration with experienced judges and lawyers. The program emphasizes real-world experience through placements, internships, and the La Trobe Legal Clinic. Graduates will meet the academic requirements for admission to practice law in Victoria upon meeting additional requirements. The JD is offered with flexible, small evening classes at the City Campus, located in Melbourne's business and court district. The degree can be completed in 3 years of full-time study, or accelerated to 2.5 years by starting earlier or completing summer electives. Students may also have the opportunity to complete practical legal training (PLT) by the end of their third year, potentially allowing for both qualifications within three years. This program is recognised within the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) as a Level 9 - Master Degree.
Juris Doctor (JD)
The Juris Doctor (JD) is a graduate-entry law program designed for individuals who hold a bachelor's degree in a field other than law, or for those who have completed a law degree internationally. This program equips you with essential professional skills applicable across various careers, not just within the legal profession. Studying at Australia's top clinical law school, you will benefit from competitive tuition fees and modern learning facilities at NUspace, located in Newcastle's vibrant CBD. Its proximity to the court precinct provides excellent opportunities for networking with legal practitioners. This degree is recognized in Australia and, with further study, can facilitate qualification to practice law in other common law countries like Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
Juris Doctor (JD)
The Juris Doctor (JD) is a postgraduate professional law degree designed for individuals who hold a bachelor's degree in any field or have an overseas law degree, providing a pathway to practice law in Australia. It equips students with essential analytical, research, writing, and advocacy skills, with a strong emphasis on international, comparative, and transnational legal aspects. This program prepares graduates for diverse legal careers, including roles as solicitors, barristers, corporate counsel, government policy advisors, and entrepreneurs.
La Trobe Law School
La Trobe Law School offers a progressive and practical legal education designed to prepare graduates for impactful careers. The school emphasizes academic excellence, access to justice, and employability, aiming to foster leaders who can contribute positively to local and global communities. Students benefit from a learning environment that integrates theoretical knowledge with real-world experience through clinical placements and partnerships with law firms, community legal centers, and non-profit organizations. The curriculum is shaped by research addressing pressing social issues, and students are encouraged to engage with diverse communities and clients.
Law and Legal Studies at Charles Darwin University
Charles Darwin University (CDU) offers a range of law and legal studies courses designed to prepare you for a career in law, government, politics, or business. CDU is known for its flexible study options, allowing you to complete your law degree online or on campus, and full-time or part-time. With over 15 years of experience in delivering online law courses, CDU provides a high-quality education accessible from anywhere. The curriculum includes a unique focus on transnational law, encouraging you to explore legal systems beyond Australia's borders and gain a comprehensive global perspective. CDU also embeds First Nations perspectives into its law programs, reflecting its unique position in the Northern Territory.
Law Degrees
Griffith University offers a range of law programs designed to equip you with the knowledge and practical skills needed for a successful career in the legal field or beyond. You'll gain industry-informed learning, engage in authentic experiences, and build professional networks. The programs emphasize social justice and prepare you to address the challenges of a modern, globalized society. You can choose from undergraduate degrees, including the Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and the Diploma of Legal Studies, which provide a strong foundation in legal principles and practical skills. For those with an undergraduate degree in another discipline, the Juris Doctor offers an alternative pathway into legal practice. Postgraduate options include the Master of International Law and Master of International Law Studies, focusing on global legal issues and cross-cultural legal understanding.
Master of Administrative Law and Policy
The Master of Administrative Law and Policy is a postgraduate program designed for public administrators, lawyers, and policy analysts. It provides an opportunity to study law, government, and social policy together. This course is ideal for individuals working in law, economics, government, social work, or related fields who want to enhance their qualifications for career advancement or academic interest. Administered by Sydney Law School, the program also allows for study through the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences and the School of Education and Social Work, offering a comprehensive legal education and developing critical thinking skills.
Master of Criminology
The Master of Criminology is a postgraduate degree focused on contemporary issues in crime, social control, policy, theory, and practice. It offers a multidisciplinary approach, allowing you to examine crime and criminal justice within Australia and compare it to global contexts. This program is suitable for individuals with an interest in the criminal justice system, including practitioners and students from diverse backgrounds such as social policy, research, advocacy, psychology, public health, history, media, policing, corrections, law, and socio-legal studies. The course emphasizes research, policy, and applied learning, and is delivered by leading Australian experts in various fields of criminology.
Master of Criminology and Justice
The Master of Criminology and Justice is designed for professionals working within the justice system or those with an existing qualification in criminology and justice. This program provides advanced training across various specialisations, including Investigative Practice, Misconduct and Corruption Prevention, and Cyber Criminology. Given the evolving nature of crime and criminal behaviour, the curriculum focuses on developing innovative solutions to contemporary challenges with a global perspective. Graduates will acquire the skills necessary for senior roles in both public and private organisations, enabling them to drive positive transformations in professional practice within the sector.
Master of Health Law
The Master of Health Law (MHL) is a flexible, specialist postgraduate qualification that delves into the complex legal and ethical issues surrounding healthcare and health services. It is designed for both legal and non-legal professionals seeking to deepen their understanding or advance their careers in this field. The program equips students with the ability to identify, analyse, and develop solutions for legal, ethical, and policy challenges within the health sector. Students from diverse backgrounds, including practising lawyers, health professionals, administrators, and government officers, benefit from the program's comprehensive curriculum. You will explore areas such as healthcare law, the impact of new technologies, regulation of health professions, public health law, and global health governance. The University of Sydney's Law School is highly regarded globally, offering students access to leading expertise and a strong academic environment.
Master of International Law
The Master of International Law is a postgraduate degree designed for students interested in the legal principles governing relationships between states and international organizations. It offers an interdisciplinary approach, integrating knowledge of international relations, security studies, politics, and government with legal frameworks. The program aims to equip students with critical knowledge and skills for professional roles or academic research in public international law and policy. You will study core international law units and have the flexibility to choose electives, potentially including units from the Department of Government and International Relations or the Centre for International Security Studies. The degree requires completion of 48 credit points.
Master of Labour Law and Relations
Master of Law and Legal Studies
Master of Laws
The UTS Master of Laws is designed for law graduates seeking to advance their careers with specialised legal expertise. This highly customisable program allows you to tailor your studies to your professional goals. Beyond two core subjects focused on research and analytical skills, you can select electives from various legal fields, including dispute resolution, intellectual property, commercial law, and law and technology. The program offers flexible study modes, including in-person, online, evening, and intensive classes, with the option to adjust your study load between full-time and part-time. You will learn from industry and academic experts, and have opportunities to network with other legal professionals.
Master of Laws
The Master of Laws (LLM) is a postgraduate program designed for students with an undergraduate law degree or a Juris Doctor who wish to specialise and deepen their understanding of the legal field. This program equips you with advanced knowledge, critical thinking skills, and the ability to conduct in-depth, evidence-based analysis, preparing you for success in the competitive global legal landscape. You will learn from leading academics and practitioners, developing your capacity for problem-solving, professional ethics, and sophisticated legal reasoning. The LLM offers flexibility in study areas, allowing you to tailor your education to your specific interests and career goals.
Master of Laws (LLM)
The Master of Laws (LLM) program at the University of Newcastle offers a pathway for legal professionals to specialise in a chosen area of law. With flexible study options, you can tailor the program to your specific career aspirations, focusing on advanced studies and developing critical thinking skills to analyse complex legal issues. The program is delivered in Newcastle's CBD at NUspace, a modern learning environment designed to support academic success. Opportunities for international study experiences and legal externships are also available, providing practical, real-world exposure.
Master of Laws (Research)
The Master of Laws (Research) is designed for graduates who wish to pursue a research-focused pathway in law. This program offers a rigorous academic experience where you will develop advanced research skills and contribute new knowledge to the field of legal studies. You will work closely with experienced academics, engage in independent research, and produce a significant scholarly work.
Monash University Programs
Monash University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. The university is known for its commitment to research, innovation, and providing a high-quality student experience. With multiple campuses in and around Melbourne, Australia, Monash offers diverse learning environments and opportunities for students to engage in academic and extracurricular activities. The university also emphasizes global connections and provides support services tailored for international students.
Security, Intelligence and Criminology
Macquarie University offers undergraduate programs in Security, Intelligence, and Criminology, designed to equip students with practical skills to analyse and address complex global challenges. These fields are interdisciplinary, covering areas such as counter-terrorism, cyber security, intelligence analysis, and the broader study of crime and social control. Taught by experts with extensive government and industry experience, the programs provide a theoretical foundation combined with real-world application. Students can choose to specialise in a single area or combine interests through a double degree, enhancing their skill sets and expanding career prospects.
Study at Monash
Monash University offers a wide range of study options for international students, from undergraduate degrees to postgraduate and research programs. The university is committed to providing a high-quality education with a focus on future career success and a supportive student experience. Monash has multiple campuses across Melbourne, Australia, each with its unique facilities and learning environment. International students can find information in their own language and specific guidance on how to apply.
Study Law at Flinders University
Flinders University offers a comprehensive legal education designed to prepare you for practice as a lawyer. The Bachelor of Laws - Legal Practice Entry allows you to qualify for legal practice in just four years. This program provides a modern curriculum with a focus on technology, health, and social impact, balancing traditional legal training with real-world experience and future-ready skills. You can benefit from intensive study periods to fast-track your progress. The teaching staff are experts in areas like criminal, property, environmental, and international law, with a strong commitment to social justice. Practical experience is integrated through placements, projects, field studies, and simulations, including at the Flinders Legal Centre where students provide community legal advice under supervision.
Frequently asked questions
How many Law & Legal Studies programmes are available in Australia?
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There are 49 programmes in Law & Legal Studies across 20 universities in Australia.
How much does it cost to study Law & Legal Studies in Australia?
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Tuition varies by programme — check each listing for current fee information, as costs differ significantly between institutions and degree levels.
Which universities in Australia offer Law & Legal Studies programmes?
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Universities offering law programmes include Monash University, University of Sydney, La Trobe University, Curtin University, University of Wollongong, and Edith Cowan University, among 20 institutions.
Can international students apply to Law programmes in Australia?
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Yes. International students are welcome to apply to Australian law programmes. Entry requirements typically include strong secondary or undergraduate results and English language proficiency, usually IELTS 7.0 or higher.
What are typical entry requirements for Law & Legal Studies in Australia?
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Undergraduate law programmes require a high school qualification with competitive ATAR (or equivalent), while postgraduate programmes need a completed undergraduate degree. High English language scores are standard given the reading and writing demands of legal study.