Legal Practice

The Bachelor of Laws (Legal Practice) at the University of Adelaide is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a successful career in the legal profession. This program combines rigorous academic learning with practical skills development to ensure graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the legal industry. Throughout the course, students will engage in a variety of learning experiences, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, and simulated court exercises, which foster critical thinking, legal reasoning, and effective communication. The curriculum covers a broad range of core legal subjects such as contract law, criminal law, property law, constitutional law, contractual obligations, and administrative law, providing a solid foundation in legal principles and frameworks. In addition to foundational legal knowledge, students will develop essential practical skills, including legal research, drafting, negotiation, advocacy, and ethical practice, which are vital for a successful legal career. The program also emphasizes professionalism and ethical standards, preparing students to uphold the integrity and responsibilities of the legal profession. Students will have opportunities to participate in internships, clinic placements, and mooting competitions, allowing them to gain real-world experience and apply their knowledge in practical settings. The close connection with legal practitioners and industry experts ensures that the curriculum remains relevant and aligned with current legal practices and emerging trends. Graduates of the Bachelor of Laws (Legal Practice) are well-positioned to pursue careers in various legal sectors, including private practice, government, corporate law, and community legal services. Furthermore, the program provides a strong pathway for those interested in further legal studies or specializations. With a focus on academic excellence, practical skills, and ethical practice, the University of Adelaide’s Legal Practice program aims to foster competent, confident, and ethical legal professionals ready to contribute effectively to society and the legal system.

When you have successfully passed the GDLP, then you are able to apply for direct admission to practise as a barrister and attorney in South Australia. Once declared in South Australia you are able to make an application for mutual recognition from the admitting power of this Australian nation or land that you would like to practise in.

• Domestic students - A completed Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or equivalent program from within Australia. Applicants in their final term of a Bachelor of Laws will be considered. To be able to be permitted to commence the GDLP, applicants must have completed all of Priestley 1 1 issues required for entrance. Applicants with overseas qualifications will be considered on a case by case basis
• International pupils - Bachelor of Laws or equivalent

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Adelaide offers various financial assistance options for students enrolled in the Legal Practice program. Students may access scholarships, bursaries, and grants designed to support their academic journey. Scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as leadership, community involvement, or indigenous status. The university encourages prospective and current students to explore the scholarship opportunities available through its Scholarships Office, which provides detailed information on eligibility, application processes, and deadlines. In addition to scholarships, students may benefit from government loan schemes, such as the Australian Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) and fee-help arrangements, which allow eligible students to defer tuition fees and repay them through their income after graduation. The university also offers private loan options through financial institutions, though students are advised to carefully review the terms and interest rates before committing. International students enrolled in the Legal Practice program should explore specific scholarship and financial assistance options available to them, including relevant government aid and institutional grants. The university provides financial counseling services to help students plan their finances effectively and manage living costs during their studies. Furthermore, part-time work opportunities are available on and off-campus, enabling students to supplement their income while gaining relevant experience. Students are encouraged to consider all financial planning options prior to commencing their studies to ensure a manageable and successful academic experience. Overall, the University of Adelaide strives to make legal education accessible and affordable through a comprehensive range of financial support measures tailored to diverse student needs.

The Bachelor of Laws (Honours) with Practical Legal Training (PLT) at the University of Adelaide provides students with a comprehensive pathway to becoming qualified legal practitioners in Australia. This program is designed to combine rigorous academic legal education with practical skills development necessary for legal practice. The curriculum covers core areas of law such as contract law, criminal law, constitutional law, tort law, property law, and administrative law, ensuring students gain a solid foundational understanding of legal principles.

In addition to academic coursework, the program emphasizes practical experience through integrated components and electives that may include clinical legal education, mooting, negotiations, and drafting exercises. These experiential learning opportunities allow students to develop essential skills such as legal research, oral advocacy, negotiation, and client interviewing, which are critical for effective legal practice.

The program includes a compulsory Practical Legal Training (PLT) component, which prepares students for the ethical, practical, and professional obligations of legal practitioners. The PLT is usually undertaken through an approved provider and involves in-office training, simulated exercises, and assessments that mirror real-world legal scenarios. This component ensures graduates are workplace-ready and able to meet professional standards established by the Legal Profession Conduct Rules and the Law Society.

Students enrolled in this program benefit from faculty expertise, access to university resources, and connections with legal practitioners, facilitating networking and employment opportunities upon graduation. The program's structure allows graduates to apply for admission to legal practice in South Australia and interstate jurisdictions, provided they meet all other requirements set by the admitting authorities.

The University of Adelaide’s legal program maintains a focus on contemporary issues in law, including human rights, environmental law, and commercial law, reflecting ongoing developments in legal practice and policy. The program also aims to instill a strong sense of ethics, social responsibility, and commitment to public service. Upon completion, graduates are equipped not only with a legal qualification but also with the skills, professionalism, and confidence necessary to serve diverse legal needs in a dynamic legal landscape.

Overall, the Bachelor of Laws (Honours) with Practical Legal Training at the University of Adelaide offers a balanced blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for successful careers in the legal profession or further postgraduate legal studies. The program’s comprehensive approach ensures that graduates meet the educational and professional standards required for admission to legal practice, both nationally and internationally, depending on further specialization or accreditation requirements.