Frequently Asked Questions
- When can I start?
- What will I study?
- How does this program differ to its competitors?
- Which campus will I study at?
- What are the entry requirements?
- Are there any prerequisites?
- Will students from other programs be able to transfer across to the Bachelor of Laws?
- Will I receive credit for any previous study?
- Will I receive credit for any previous study at a Higher Education Institution?
- Will I receive credit for any previous study at TAFE?
- What are the expected contact hours?
- Are classes offered externally, part-time or online?
- Is the UniSA Bachelor of Laws program accredited in South Australia?
- After I graduate with a Bachelor of Laws, what will I need to do to practice law?
When can I start?
The Bachelor of Laws and Laws Double Degree programs are offered in 3 standard trimesters commencing in February, June and September subject to demand. Students may apply for entry into Study Period 2, 4, or 6.
Applications dates for Study Period 6 will be listed on the School of Law homepage once they are confirmed. Students accepted into this intake will commence their studies on September 22, 2008.
What will I study?
This program will cover fundamental principles and concepts of Australian law. Students will gain a deep understanding of the strengths and limitations of the common law system of justice. They will come to appreciate the systemic and evolutionary nature of law as a body of rules and principles with a variable content, requiring ongoing study. Students will be able to identify legal issues arising from complex facts, and have the capacity to provide effective legal advice, taking account of cultural and ethical issues. Students will develop practical legal research, writing and advocacy skills.
How does this program differ to its competitors?
The Bachelor of Laws at UniSA provides flexibility and recognises the diverse needs of our students. The program is offered in 3 trimesters commencing in February, June and September. The program is equivalent to a 4 year degree but can be completed in 3 calendar years. Some students may choose to study over 4 years, but given the unique trimester delivery method, students can complete the degree well ahead of their contemporaries at other law schools.
All core courses will be taught in each of these study periods:
- February – Study period 2
- June – Study period 4
- September – Study period 6
Each year will consist of three 10 week study periods.
The UniSA School of Law will also be teaching courses in new and development areas of law.
Which campus will I study at?
The Law program is be based at UniSA’s City West Campus. The Law School will be located in a heritage-listed building on the corner of George and Hindley Streets.
The law library collection will be held within the City West library. View further details of Library resources for Law students.
What are the entry requirements?
The entry requirements for study period 2, 2008 were:
Tertiary Entrance Rank (TER): 91.2
Grade Point Average (GPA): 4.5
These should only be used as a guide and are subject to demand.
Are there any prerequisites?
No. However, if you intend to enrol in a double degree, prerequisites may exist depending on the combination. View double degree information.
Will students from other programs be able to transfer across to the Bachelor of Laws?
Yes. Students will need a competitive GPA. Some credit may apply.
Will I receive credit for any previous study?
Credit will be closely assessed on a case by case basis. Applications for credit can be made once a student is accepted into the program.
Will I receive credit for any previous study at a Higher Education Institution?
Credit will be closely assessed on case by case basis.
Students entering the Bachelor of Laws program from a non law discipline may receive credit up to four non law electives.
Students entering the Law Double Degree may be eligible for additional credit in the second degree.
Will I receive credit for any previous study at TAFE?
Students entering the Bachelor of Laws program may receive credit for 1-3 non law electives (maximum credit of 3 courses for Advanced Diploma Holders), depending on level of study achieved at TAFE. Credit will be closely assessed on case by case basis.
Students entering the Law Double Degree may be eligible for additional credit in the second degree.
What are the expected contact hours?
Each standard course will involve 40 hours of contact teaching time (4 hours per week in 10 week teaching blocks). Full-time students will take 4 courses per trimester/semester, equivalent to 16 hours contact time per week.
Are classes offered externally, part-time or online?
The Bachelor of Laws degree will be offered internally only. Students will be able to choose to study full time or part-time and core courses will be repeated in each study period.
Is the UniSA Bachelor of Laws program accredited in South Australia?
The Bachelor of Laws degree has been approved by the relevant statutory body chaired by the Chief Justice of South Australia, John Doyle.
After I graduate with a Bachelor of Laws, what will I need to do to practice law?
Graduates who wish to practice law are required to complete a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice. Further information about the Diploma may be obtained from the relevant service provider, for example, The Law Society of South Australia.