Bachelor of Laws (Honours), Bachelor of Journalism and Professional Writing
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2024
You're viewing degree information for International students
You're considered an International student if you are:
- NOT an Australian or New Zealand citizen
- NOT an Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Program Code
DHLD
Prerequisites
None
Assumed Knowledge
None
Fees
AUD$ 36,100 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2024
Admissions
Student Profile
English Language Requirements
- IELTS total [7.0]
- IELTS reading [7.0]
- IELTS writing [7.0]
- IELTS speaking [7.0]
- IELTS listening [7.0]
International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements
CRICOS Code
089102C
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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
NoneEnglish language entry requirements
In addition to meeting academic entry requirements, international students who speak English as a second or additional language must also meet the University's English language entry requirements. The minimum language requirements for this program are:English language testPlease access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements: English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)- IELTS total [7.0]
- IELTS reading [7.0]
- IELTS writing [7.0]
- IELTS speaking [7.0]
- IELTS listening [7.0]
Admission Requirements by Country
Nepal NEB 3.21 Bangladesh HSC 5 Canada High School (OSSD) 85 Eynesbury FSP 410 German Abitur 2.5 Kenya KCSE (average) A Malaysia STPM (best 3) 12 Malaysia UEC 22 Norway GPA 5 Pakistan HSSC 90 Sri Lanka A Levels (best 3) 12 Sweden GPA 17.5 UK Board GCE A Levels/HK Board 12 Vietnam 9.5 Australia 90 IB (best 6) 33 USA SAT (1600) 1420 India (best 4) State Board 90 India (best 4) Central Board 80 HKDSE 19
The Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice option is not available to international students studying in Australia on a student visa.
Degree overview
- Study at a university ranked No.1 in SA for graduate careers 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.
- Experience our law campus facilities and resources, ranked No. 1 in South Australia3.
1ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2020-22, Law and Paralegal Studies – Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate). SA public universities. 22018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 3ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2020-21, Law and Paralegal Studies – Learning Resources Indicator (Undergraduate). Public universities. 4ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2020-21, Law and Paralegal Studies (Undergraduate). Public universities.
Snapshot
Gain a competitive advantage by combining law with journalism and professional writing, and graduate with two degrees in just 5.5 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.
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.
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 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.
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 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
How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.
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 Social Sciences 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).
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.
Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship
Recipients can get a 50% reduction on tuition fees for up to four years of full-time study for selected degrees.
International Merit Scholarship
Recipients can get a 15% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of their chosen degree.
Your study experience and support
As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.
Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. 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 lots 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 international 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:
- career advice and mentoring
- help with student visas and health cover
- personal counselling
- academic counselling
- fees and finance help
- common rooms
- prayer rooms
- security officers
- accommodation services
- as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.
We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. 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.
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How to apply?
There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.
You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.
Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.
If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.
Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees. -
Is there a closing date for applications?
There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.
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What credit can I receive for previous studies?
You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.
The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.
The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.
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Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?
UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.
Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.
We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.
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
