Law

The Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) at Macquarie University offers students a comprehensive and rigorous program designed to equip them with a strong foundation in legal principles, critical thinking skills, and practical legal applications. This program is ideal for those aspiring to pursue a career in law, whether in advocacy, corporate legal services, public policy, or further academic research. Throughout the course, students explore a wide range of subjects including Australian law, international law, human rights, environmental law, commercial law, and intellectual property law, gaining a thorough understanding of how legal systems operate and interact within society. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, offering opportunities for internships, moot courts, and legal research projects to develop real-world experience. Students learn to analyze complex legal issues, craft persuasive arguments, and understand ethical responsibilities, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of legal practice. Macquarie University emphasizes a collaborative learning environment, supported by expert faculty who are active practitioners and researchers in their fields. The program also encourages interdisciplinarity, allowing students to take electives in related areas such as business, politics, and international relations to broaden their perspective. Upon graduation, students are eligible to undertake practical legal training and pursue admission to practice as a solicitor or barrister in Australia. The LL.B. at Macquarie University is recognized for its academic excellence, innovative teaching methods, and strong industry connections, making it a suitable choice for those committed to making a meaningful impact through the law.

Students undertaking this course can choose from the following Bachelor of Laws majors:

• Corporate and Commercial Law
• Criminology
• Environmental Law and Management
• International Law and Global Governance
• Media, Technology and the Law
• Public Policy, Law and Governance
• Social Justice

General requirements

• Minimum number of credit points for the degree 96 ECTS
• Minimum number of credit points at 300 level or above 24 ECTS
• Minimum number of credit points from units with a LAW, LAWS or LAWZ prefix 72 ECTS
• Completion of a qualifying major for the Bachelor of Laws
• Completion of a designated People unit 
• Completion of a designated Planet unit 
• Completion of a designated PACE unit with a LAW or LAWS or LAWZ prefix
• Completion of other specific minimum requirements as set out below 

To be eligible to apply to Macquarie University for an undergraduate program, you must have one of the following:

• A recognised secondary (high school) qualification
• A recognised University Foundation course
• A recognised two or three year Diploma
• At least one year of a university degree from a recognised institution

English language requirements

IELTS of 7.0 overall with minimum 6.5 in each band, or equivalent

All applicants for undergraduate or postgraduate coursework studies at Macquarie University are required to provide evidence of proficiency in English.

You may satisfy the English language requirements if you have completed: senior secondary studies equivalent to the NSW HSC one year of Australian or comparable tertiary study in a country of qualification.

The university offers scholarships to students to address financial need or hardship, academic excellence, sporting achievement and in recognition of outstanding character. It can also provide financial assistance with loans and grants to students who have difficulty with basic living expenses and help with fees. Each year Macquarie University awards around $2.5 million in scholarships, most of which are given on the basis of financial need or other hardship. 

The Bachelor of Laws (LLB) at Macquarie University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in the legal profession and related fields. The program provides students with a solid foundation in legal principles, legislation, and the functioning of the Australian legal system, while also emphasizing critical thinking, analytical skills, and ethical understanding. Students studying law at Macquarie University benefit from a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, preparing them for both legal practice and roles in government, business, and non-government sectors.

The curriculum covers core areas of law such as contract law, criminal law, constitutional law, administrative law, property law, and tort law. In addition, students have the opportunity to explore specialized areas including environmental law, human rights law, commercial law, and international law. Throughout their studies, students develop skills in legal research, writing, advocacy, and problem-solving, which are essential for effective legal practice. The program also emphasizes contemporary legal issues and the role of law in society, encouraging students to consider ethical dilemmas and social justice issues.

Throughout their degree, students are encouraged to undertake internships, clerkships, and placement opportunities to gain real-world experience and build professional networks. Macquarie University’s Law School collaborates with various legal firms, courts, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to facilitate practical training opportunities. The program often incorporates simulated legal activities, moot courts, and negotiation exercises, providing students with a taste of actual legal proceedings and advocacy work.

The academic staff comprises experienced legal practitioners and scholars who are actively engaged in research and legal developments, ensuring that course content is current and relevant. Students also have access to extensive legal resources, libraries, and research facilities to support their studies. The faculty emphasizes critical engagement with legal theories, methodologies, and debates, encouraging students to develop their own informed understandings of the law.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Laws at Macquarie University often go on to work as solicitors, legal advisors, policy analysts, or pursue further study such as the Juris Doctor (JD) or postgraduate research. The program is accredited by the Australian Law Accreditation Board, enabling graduates to meet the academic requirements for admission to legal practice in Australia, subject to completing required practical legal training. The university’s strong connections with the legal community and its focus on practical skills ensure that students are well-prepared for the complex and evolving landscape of law.

Overall, the Law program at Macquarie University aims to produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable in legal theory but also competent, ethical, and prepared to meet the demands of the legal profession and contribute meaningfully to society.