Legal and Dispute Studies

The Bachelor of Legal and Dispute Studies at RMIT University offers students a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental principles of law, dispute resolution, and the legal system. This innovative program is designed to equip students with the critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills necessary to understand and navigate complex legal issues across various contexts. Throughout the course, students explore areas such as contract law, criminal law, tort law, and administrative law, gaining a solid foundation in legal theory and practice. The curriculum also emphasizes dispute resolution methods, including negotiation, mediation, and arbitration, preparing graduates for careers in legal advisory roles, dispute management, and related fields. With a strong focus on practical skills, students engage in case studies, simulations, and internships that provide real-world experience and foster a deeper understanding of how legal processes operate within different industries and communities. RMIT’s approach combines rigorous academic coursework with opportunities for experiential learning, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for further legal studies or entry into the legal profession. The program not only develops technical legal knowledge but also promotes ethical considerations, cultural awareness, and an understanding of social justice issues integral to the Australian legal landscape. Graduates of this program are equipped to work in a variety of roles, including legal clerks, compliance officers, dispute resolution specialists, and policy advisors. The Bachelor of Legal and Dispute Studies at RMIT is ideal for students interested in pursuing a legal career or contributing to public policy, community justice, and dispute resolution sectors. With accessibility and flexibility in mind, RMIT offers options for on-campus and online learning, accommodating diverse student needs and schedules. Upon completion, students will have gained a broad legal perspective, practical dispute management skills, and the confidence to continue their legal education or enter the workforce committed to justice and legal excellence.

Year 1

You will acquire a comprehensive understanding of the sociology of law and an introduction to important areas such as family law, criminal law, torts and alternative dispute resolution.

Year 2

You will develop a solid legal grounding in welfare law, information law, mediation and international human rights. You will study critical debates relating to how society responds to social issues including substance abuse, criminality and imprisonment.

Year 3

You will develop a solid legal grounding in civil procedure, legal and justice issues of relevance to young people and engage in the practice of mediation. You will acquire the knowledge and skills to perform paralegal duties and understand policy processes in the legal and justice system.

You will also gain organisational skills and undertake work experience

Selection tasks for international students

You must have successfully completed an Australian Year 12 or equivalent senior secondary school qualification with a minimum 70% average (check calculator below).  

Equivalent qualifications may also include completion of the RMIT Foundation Studies program or a recognised post-secondary diploma in the relevant discipline with the required grades.

Meeting the minimum academic requirements does not guarantee entry. Your application will still need to be assessed and accepted. 

Selection tasks

Statement: If you are a non-year 12 applicant, you must submit a statement as part of your application explaining your reasons for wanting to study the course and include details of any relevant work or other experience.

The Bachelor of Laws and Dispute Studies program at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for various careers within the legal and dispute resolution fields. Regarding the financing of this degree, students have multiple options to fund their education, reflecting the institution’s commitment to accessible higher education. Domestic students may be eligible for government support through the Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) scheme, which subsidizes part of the tuition fees, reducing financial burden. Additionally, students can access government loans, such as the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP), which allows students to defer payment of their tuition fees until their income reaches a certain threshold after graduation. International students are required to pay full tuition fees upfront or through installment plans, which are regulated by the university's financial policies. RMIT also provides a range of scholarships and financial aid options for eligible students, including academic excellence scholarships, equity scholarships, and specific programs aimed at supporting students from diverse backgrounds. These scholarships can significantly offset the costs associated with the program. Moreover, students are advised to explore external funding sources, such as private grants and sponsorships, which may be available based on merit or need. The university’s financial services office offers tailored advice and assistance with payment plans and scholarship applications to help students manage their finances effectively. Overall, the program's financing structure is designed to accommodate both domestic and international students, ensuring access to quality legal education while providing flexible funding opportunities.

The Bachelor of Laws (Honours) in Legal and Dispute Studies at RMIT University offers students a comprehensive education in the legal system, dispute resolution, and related fields. The program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills to understand and engage with legal processes, develop critical thinking, and apply legal principles to real-world issues. Emphasizing practical experience, the curriculum includes a combination of core law subjects, elective courses, and opportunities for internships or practical placements. Students explore areas such as contracts, torts, criminal law, administrative law, and dispute resolution methodologies, preparing them for a variety of careers within the legal sector, government agencies, or corporate environments. The program aims to produce graduates who are proficient in legal analysis, research, and communication, with an emphasis on ethical practice and professionalism. Additional modules may focus on international law, human rights, and alternative dispute resolution methods, reflecting contemporary challenges and global perspectives. RMIT's strong industry links and on-campus resources support practical learning through moot courts, legal clinics, and workshops. Graduates of the program are well-positioned for roles such as legal advisors, mediators, policy analysts, or further academic pursuits, including postgraduate studies in law or dispute resolution. The program duration typically spans three years of full-time study, with part-time options available for different student needs. Entry requirements generally include completion of secondary education with relevant academic performance, and international students must meet English language proficiency standards. Overall, the Bachelor of Laws (Honours) in Legal and Dispute Studies at RMIT prepares students for dynamic careers in the legal and dispute resolution fields by blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills and ethical considerations.