Legal Studies

The post-graduate law application is intended for students that have completed or are near completing a bachelor's degree in another subject. It's going to allow professionals who have completed a degree in another discipline to attempt post-secondary legal documents and also will let them transition into the Juris Doctor.

The Bachelor of Legal Studies at the University of Canberra offers students a comprehensive foundation in the principles and practices of the law, equipping graduates with essential legal knowledge and critical thinking skills applicable across various professional contexts. The program is designed for individuals seeking to understand the legal system, its functioning, and its impact on society, without necessarily pursuing a career as a practicing lawyer. Throughout the course, students explore a wide range of topics including Australian constitutional law, criminal law, contract law, tort law, administrative law, and legal research methods. The curriculum emphasizes the development of analytical skills, logical reasoning, and effective communication, enabling graduates to interpret legal information, advise clients, and participate effectively in legal and policy debates.

Students have opportunities to engage in practical learning through case studies, legal drafting exercises, and simulations of real-world legal scenarios. The program fosters a multidisciplinary approach, encouraging understanding of the social, political, and economic factors that influence law and governance. In addition, students gain insight into legal ethics and professional responsibility, preparing them for diverse roles in government, business, consulting, policy development, and non-governmental organizations. The program also includes options for elective subjects, allowing students to tailor their studies to particular interests such as environmental law, human rights, or international law.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Legal Studies will be well-prepared for further study in law or related fields, as well as for careers that require a strong understanding of legal frameworks. The University of Canberra’s strong industry connections and emphasis on practical skills ensure that students graduate with a competitive edge and readiness to contribute effectively to their chosen fields. By completing this program, students will gain a solid grounding in legal principles, improve their problem-solving abilities, and develop a nuanced understanding of how law shapes and is shaped by various societal forces.

Program Requirements for Bachelor of Laws (LLB) at the University of Canberra

The Bachelor of Laws (LLB) program at the University of Canberra is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of Australian legal principles, practices, and systems. To successfully complete this degree, students must fulfill both core coursework and elective requirements.

Students are required to complete a total of 144 credit points over the duration of the program. The curriculum typically includes foundational units such as Introduction to Law, Australian Legal System, Contract Law, Torts, Criminal Law, Property Law, and Constitutional Law. These core units establish a strong groundwork in legal principles and serve as a basis for advanced study.

In addition to core subjects, students choose from a range of electives that may include areas such as Environmental Law, Family Law, Business Law, International Law, and Human Rights Law. Electives allow students to specialize or broaden their legal knowledge in specific areas of interest, preparing them for diverse career paths within the legal field.

Practical legal skills are emphasized throughout the program through participation in moot courts, internships, and clinical legal education. These experiential learning components are designed to equip students with practical skills in legal research, writing, advocacy, and client communication.

To be awarded the degree, students must also meet the University’s academic progression standards, maintaining a minimum grade point average (GPA) specified by the university, and successfully complete all required assessments, including examinations, essays, group projects, and practical exercises.

Some students may need to undertake twice the normal workload if enrolling part-time, and they are advised to plan their studies accordingly. Mandatory attendance at seminars, workshops, and other learning activities is often required to ensure a comprehensive educational experience.

International students must demonstrate English language proficiency, typically through recognized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL, with minimum scores set by the university for admission and progression.

In summary, the program requirements for the Bachelor of Laws at the University of Canberra involve completing 144 credit points comprising core units and electives, participating in practical learning experiences, adhering to academic standards, and fulfilling language proficiency criteria as necessary.

The University of Canberra offers a range of study options and financial support mechanisms for students enrolled in the Legal Studies program. Domestic students can access various scholarships and grants designed to offset the costs of tuition and associated expenses. These include merit-based scholarships, equity scholarships, and specific awards for students demonstrating financial need. International students are also eligible for scholarships and might benefit from external funding opportunities or financial aid programs, although their options are typically more limited compared to domestic students.

Tuition fees for the Legal Studies program vary depending on the mode of study and the student’s residency status. Domestic students enrolled full-time pay a fee set by the Australian Government's Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP), which significantly reduces the cost per annum compared to international students, who are billed at full fee-paying rates. The university provides detailed fee schedules each year, allowing students to plan financially for their studies.

In addition to tuition fees, students should consider other expenses such as textbooks, study materials, accommodation, transportation, and personal costs. The university offers financial advice and planning resources to help students budget effectively, and some students may qualify for government financial assistance programs like HECS-HELP for domestic students or FEE-HELP for eligible students to defer tuition payments.

Part-time employment opportunities are available both within the university and in the broader Canberra community, facilitating students’ ability to earn income and support their studies. The university’s Career Development Service connects students with internships, part-time roles, and volunteer opportunities that can provide relevant experience in the legal sector while supplementing finances.

Students enrolled in the Legal Studies program are encouraged to explore the university’s dedicated financial aid office to identify all available funding options, application procedures, and eligibility criteria. International students should consult their specific visa and immigration regulations regarding work rights and financial sponsorship opportunities. Overall, the university strives to make Legal Studies accessible through a combination of competitive tuition rates, scholarship offerings, and student support services designed to ease the financial burden and enable students to focus on their academic and career ambitions.

The Bachelor of Laws (Legal Studies) at the University of Canberra provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the legal system, legal principles, and practical skills necessary for a career in law or related fields. The program is designed to equip students with critical thinking, analytical abilities, and an in-depth knowledge of Australian law, legal institutions, and processes. Throughout the course, students explore various areas including constitutional law, criminal law, contract law, administrative law, and ethical issues in legal practice. The curriculum combines theoretical learning with practical experience, often including work placements, internships, and opportunities to engage with legal professionals.

The program is structured to cater to students interested in pursuing further legal qualifications or careers in government, judiciary, law enforcement, corporate sector, or non-governmental organizations. It aims to develop not only legal knowledge but also transferable skills such as communication, research, negotiation, and problem-solving. The University of Canberra emphasizes a student-centered approach, offering small class sizes, experienced faculty, and modern facilities to foster an engaging learning environment.

Students enrolled in this program benefit from the university’s strong connections with the legal community, providing networking opportunities, industry events, and access to legal clinics. The degree complies with Australian legal education standards, ensuring graduates meet the requirements for admission to practice law if they choose to pursue postgraduate legal qualifications, such as the Juris Doctor or Bachelor of Laws (Graduate Entry). The program is suitable for international students as well, with supportive services available to assist with their academic and professional integration. Overall, the Bachelor of Laws (Legal Studies) at the University of Canberra is aimed at preparing students for successful legal careers or related sectors by delivering high-quality education rooted in practical application and scholarly rigor.