Bachelor of Laws (Honours), Bachelor of Journalism and Professional Writing
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2025
You're viewing degree information for Australian students
You're considered an Australian student if you are any of the following:
- Australian or New Zealand Citizen
- Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Entry Scores
2025 Guaranteed Entry
Year 12 (ATAR-based): 90.00
Year 12 (Grades-based): A,A,A
TAFE/RTO: AdvDIP
View Guaranteed Entry Info
2024 Cut-Offs
Year 12 (ATAR-based):
- Internal: 90.00
TAFE/RTO: Dip
View full entry requirements
-
View full entry requirements Hide full entry requirements
Entry requirements
Admission criteria
The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.
Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.
Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:
Recent secondary education
Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent
AND- Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
- Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
- Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points
Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.
OR
Higher education study- Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
- Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above
OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)- Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Diploma level or above
OR
Work and life experience- Qualify for Special Entry, or
- Complete a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
- Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past
Essential requirements for admission
Prerequisites
NoneAssumed Knowledge
None
The Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice option is not available to international students studying in Australia on a student visa.
Degree overview
- Complete your Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (GDLP) in your final year of study and graduate industry-ready.
- Study at a university ranked No.1 in SA for quality education in Law1
- Develop an advanced understanding of key legal principles, processes and methods with a professional law honours degree.
- Gain a competitive edge with expertise in two fields and graduate with two degrees in just 5.5 years.
- Study a law degree accredited by the Legal Practitioners Education and Admission Council.
- Participate in our student-run Legal Advice Clinic and provide advice to clients under the supervision of a managing solicitor.
- Undertake a professional placement, a Community Justice project or high-level research in your final year.
- Develop real-world experience as part of your studies through an optional internship or student exchange opportunity.
- Experience our on-campus moot court and learn what it’s like to act as an advocate and present before a judge.
- Gain practical experience by contributing to our online student publication On the Record, or our internet radio station UniCast.
- Learn in our state-of-the-art television and radio stations, located on-campus.
- Study a curriculum informed by world-class research in Law, Creative Arts and Writing, Language, Communication and Culture2.
1ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Law and Paralegal Studies – Overall Quality of Educational Experience Indicator (Undergraduate). Public universities. 22018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
Snapshot
Gain a competitive advantage by combining law with journalism and professional writing, and graduate with two degrees in just 5 years.
A double degree expands your knowledge and opens doors to a broad range of career opportunities.
You will graduate with professional honours, an advanced understanding of legal principles of Australian law and the latest legal concepts in journalism and professional writing. This legal expertise, combined with the knowledge and skills you’ll gain from your specialisation, will set you on track for a leadership career.
In your law studies you can undertake a Community Justice Project, practice advocacy and negotiation, or gain industry experience through participation in our Legal Advice Clinic or a professional placement. You’ll also be involved in mock-trials in our moot court, learning what it’s like to act as an advocate and argue a case before a judge. During the final year of your Law Honours degree, you will also have the opportunity to undertake the Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (GDLP), a compulsory qualification needed to practise as a barrister or solicitor in South Australia. You can use your GDLP qualification towards your law degree study, and shorten your pathway to practice*.
In your journalism and professional writing studies you will develop the skills and knowledge to work as a journalist and writer in mainstream media and the field of communication. The emphasis on professional writing opens doors into professions such as technical writing, tender presentations, and marketing and communication.
* The Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (GDLP) is delivered by arrangement with the College of Law during your final year. Following completion of the GDLP, you can claim 4 course credits towards your law degree, shortening your pathway to practice.
What you'll learn
This degree is made up of 40 courses. You will do 24 courses in law and 12 courses in journalism and professional writing.
Laws (Honours)
As a UniSA Law student, you’ll gain valuable skills from day one, including in reasoning, reporting, analysis, negotiation, communication and advocacy. You will also experience what it's like to argue a case and provide legal advice.
Throughout your degree you will study core courses that teach you the fundamental legal concepts that underpin the Australian legal system. Courses such as torts, contracts, criminal law and constitutional law will give you a good understanding of basic legal principles.
Our Law program also features courses that build your leadership skills, intercultural communication, project management and capacity for community engagement.
You will have the opportunity to complete your GDLP in your final year of study, in addition to practical learning experiences including mooting, negotiation, and witness examination. You will also engage in a Community Justice project, high-level research or an industry placement, ensuring you’ll be prepared for legal practise upon graduation.
Journalism and Professional Writing
You will study courses that provide you with the skills and knowledge to work as a journalist and writer. For example you will:
- learn how to author and edit written and visual texts within news and non-news environments
- develop the production skills required by news and online media, including filming and editing, problem-solving and decision-making
- learn how to use industry-standard hardware and software
- develop research skills
- develop production skills, such as filming and editing
A final year internship at a news or production organisation will synthesise your knowledge and training.
Through your choice of electives you can also expand your knowledge in an area of professional interest such as health law, sports law, family law and human rights law.
You can gain an extra qualification and broaden your career prospects by completing a Diploma in Languages.
You can gain an extra qualification and broaden your career prospects by completing a Diploma in Languages.
Study hours
For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. In addition, you will need to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects and contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). As a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate approximately 12 hours per week for classes and 14 – 28 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
Your studies at UniSA will incorporate both practical, professionally-focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:
- essays and research papers
- assignments and in-class tests
- examinations
- various law moots
- industry-relevant, research-based projects
- practical, team-based projects
Global opportunities
Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.
You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.
Take a look at the global opportunities available.
Research
Our research in the area of law is recognised as world-class1. We are committed to research that changes the profession. Our law researchers make an impact on the content, practice, administration and development of the law and legal education.
UniSA’s high-quality research shapes the thinking of society, government and the legal profession. Our specialists examine both future and emerging legal challenges and topical issues, and have extensive industry connections and experience.. Research areas of focus at UniSA are:
- Corporate and Commercial Law: researching corporate governance, competition and consumer law, and Chinese commercial law
- Environmental and Natural Resources Law: exploring water law, climate change and environmental regulation, and the conservation of scarce resources
- Criminal Law and Sentencing: investigating societal issues including juries and sentencing, policing and security, digital identity and cybercrime
- Public Law and Human Rights: leading the way in research into Indigenous law, constitutional law, judicial power, children’s rights in family law proceedings, and the rights of older people
12018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
Why Bachelor of Laws (Honours), Bachelor of Journalism and Professional Writing
With our law research recognised as world-class1, you’ll be taught by industry experts. Learn from those at the forefront of the legal profession with our teaching staff committed to developing not only your knowledge, but also your confidence.
You will graduate with professional honours and be ready to practise law, having completed your GDLP in your final year of study. You will have an advanced understanding of legal principles and methods from participating in a Community Justice Project, undertaking a professional placement, or participating in our Legal Advice Clinic, solving the legal problems of clients under the guidance of a managing solicitor.
Throughout your journalism studies, you will gain access to our on-campus TV studio that boasts one of South Australia’s largest green screens, and a radio station. This means you will graduate with plenty of hands-on experience. You can even be part of the University’s own radio station UniCast, which is broadcast live on the internet, our TV show that airs on Channel 44, or be published in our online student publication On the Record.
More ways to study
Our study options and extra-curricular opportunities are designed to suit your lifestyle, preferred way of learning and career interests. You can benefit from two study intakes, Summer and Winter School intensive courses, mentoring and networking opportunities, as well as accelerated learning pathways.
You can also join our active student community with the UniSA Law Students Association (USALSA) – an independent body that provides educational and vocational support, and hosts a variety of social and networking events.
12018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
This could be you
At UniSA you'll learn practical, industry-ready skills to future-proof your career. Hear from our graduates Murtaza and Aria and find out where a UniSA law degree could take you.
Your career
Our quality teaching focuses on developing your practical skills and identifying opportunities for you to connect with industry beyond the classroom, which will ensure you graduate career-ready.
You will hold a desirable skillset for a diverse range of careers including:
- Court reporter: attending court sessions and recording proceedings related to evidence, objections and rulings; creating a full record of jury arguments; liaising with lawyers, judges or other officials; taking witness depositions, managing commissions and creating of certificates of proceedings.
- Industry spokesperson: offering an expert industry opinion, view or insight for a specific purpose or use.
- Investigative journalist: researching and writing news and current affairs stories for media publications.
- Legal/political commentator: offering expert commentary on a specific topic or subject of interest to mass media.
- Media adviser: managing the rollout of media and communications campaigns.
- Opinion writer: crafting persuasive editorial pieces on topical issues.
- Solicitor: Commercial Solicitor: focusing on business-specific legal practice such as: corporate, contract, competition, communications, commercial property, finance, employment, intellectual property, transport, sports and media law.
Personal Solicitor: focusing on areas such as personal injury, family and tort law, criminal litigation, succession and inheritance, residential property, taxation and trusts. - Barrister: advocacy, litigation and dispute resolution, preparing matters for trial.
You can also consider other legal careers such as lawyer, judge's associate, mediator and more.
Professional accreditation and recognition
This program covers in a comprehensive way the academic requirements for admission to practice as specified by the national Law Admissions Consultative Committee and applied in South Australia by the Legal Practitioners Education and Admission Council. In addition to the academic requirements of the program, students seeking admission to practice are required to complete an approved practical legal training (PLT) program. Students seeking admission to practice in other Australian jurisdictions should apply to the appropriate admitting authority.
Industry facts
Thinking of studying soon?
2025
Ready to start your studies in 2025? You can apply to the University of Adelaide or UniSA now before continuing on to the new Adelaide University in 2026.
When the time comes to transfer, we’ll be here at every step, ensuring you’re well supported with personalised advice and a detailed study plan.
2026
Planning to start your studies in 2026? You can apply to Adelaide University directly.
Applications are currently open for international students and will open for Australian students in August 2025.
Have any questions? We're here to help! Contact Adelaide University's Future Student Enquiries Team.
Applying to study with us:
- go to the top of this page and make note of the SATAC code, then click Apply
- you will be redirected through to the SATAC website to continue your application
Alternative Pathways
Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree.
- An alternative entry option is available through the Undergraduate Certificate in University Studies (Social Sciences) with UniSA College, subject to Grade Point Average (GPA) requirements.
- You may also be considered for entry through the Diploma in Creative Studies (Communication) or Diploma in Social Sciences (Law) program with UniSA College. A competitive GPA is required.
- You could also consider the Bachelor of Business (Legal Studies).
International
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree. You could consider the Bachelor of Business (Legal Studies).
Deferment
This degree is available for deferment. This option is made available by responding to your offer during the application process via the SATAC website. Applicants who receive an offer into a midyear degree are eligible to defer for six months.
Scholarships
Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.
UniSA Excellence Scholarships
$5,000 scholarship for South Australian students with an ATAR of 99 who enrol to study a UniSA undergraduate degree.
UniSA Outstanding Achievement Scholarship
Up to $10,000 per annum (full time) for South Australian students who obtain an ATAR of 99.95 or IB equivalent and enrol to study at UniSA.
Your study experience and support
Our campuses are home to fantastic facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. But you’ll also discover that your journey at UniSA is about social experiences, healthy living and getting involved. You’ll find student sports and fitness facilities, community clinics, tech zones and chill-out spaces. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and loads more.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.
UniSA law students can join our active UniSA Law Students Association (USALSA) and benefit from a like-minded community while participating in a variety of social and networking events.
Student services
Our student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:
- academic counselling
- personal counselling
- social support services, including family support and nearby childcare
- common rooms
- prayer rooms
- security officers
- career services and mentoring
- Wirringka Student Services, offering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students a supportive place to study
- as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.
When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.
Your program director
The creation of law through judgments handed down by judges over centuries makes law one of the most significant and profound intellectual achievements of our society. Law speaks to the human condition. It cements core values – integrity, loyalty, perseverance and compassion. And it has never been needed as much it is needed today. I believe that this philosophy, which is integral to the law program at UniSA, equips you with the skills, passion and commitment to excel in your future careers – the legal profession, government, business, community enterprise and postgraduate study.
Ask UniSA
-
How do I apply?
The way you apply for UniSA will depend on the undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree you're interested in studying.
The majority of applications are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Check out more information on the SATAC website and follow the appropriate process for your degree of interest.
There are a small number of degrees that you need to apply for through direct application processes. The process you need to follow will be listed on the 'How to Apply' section of the degree homepage, but you'll also be taken to where you need to go if you hit the 'apply' button.
If you are interested in studying one of our 100% online degrees you'll need to apply directly to UniSA Online.
You can find more information about the application processes for UniSA on our How to Apply webpage.
If you're more interested in applying for a postgraduate degree by research, check out and follow the information in our step by step guide to applying. -
Is there a closing date for applications?
Applications for all degrees will close ahead of study commencing, but the timelines may vary for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.
Undergraduate
The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be guaranteed equal consideration is generally in very late November or early December. While you may be able to apply after this date, you are not guaranteed to be considered equally with other applicants and your application may not be assessed in time for the main round of offers. More competitive degrees may not make any offers after the main offer round. Find more information on the Key Dates section of the SATAC website, but you can also call the Future Student Enquiries team for more information on 08 8302 376.
Postgraduate
Many postgraduate by coursework degrees do not have set closing dates. The exceptions are highly competitive degrees, so it is best to check – either on the degree homepage on the SATAC website or by checking with our Future Student Enquiries team.
As most postgraduate applications are assessed as they are submitted and offers are continuous, there are no set closing dates for applications. Degrees can be filled and closed with little notice so it is best to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on a place. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquires team on (08) 8302 2376 or submit an enquiry.
-
What credit can I receive for previous studies?
You may be eligible for credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area and completed within a certain timeframe. Receiving credit or RPL will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree. You can read more about our pre-existing credit agreements through our online Credit Assessor. If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning (RPL) for this experience. Credit and RPL is assessed by the Program Director once you've received an offer, and you apply through UniSA's current student experts, Campus Central.
-
Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?
Future Student Enquiries welcomes the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your study options at UniSA. We can discuss degree information, entry requirements and pathways, applications, general career outcomes and student life, so you have the information to make the best study decision for your future. Head to our Book an Appointment webpage to find a date and time to speak with us, and take your next steps on journey to university study.
What others are saying
In 2013 I had the opportunity to cover and report on the Federal Election, which was an amazing and exhausting experience. An 8 week campaign took a lot of energy and resources from our Bureau, and it was great to travel around the country and experience the diversity of Australia's cities and regions. The combination of journalism and law gave me the strength to take vast amounts of information on complex issues like the election, and distil it into something an audience understands.
Matt Doran
Bachelor of Laws (Honours), Bachelor of Journalism and Professional Writing
Federal Political Reporter | ABC
Law developed my interests in justice and politics, while my journalism studies indulged my curiosity and love of telling people’s stories. My experiences at UniSA helped me develop invaluable skills transferrable to industry and were critical in securing my position with Channel Ten – UniSA has prepared me well for my career.
Phoebe Bowden
Bachelor of Laws (Honours), Bachelor of Journalism and Professional Writing
Journalist | ABC News
