Start date
February
July

Duration
5 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
DHLD

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Fees
AUD$ 36,100 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2024

English Language Requirements
  • IELTS total [7.0]
  • IELTS reading [7.0]
  • IELTS writing [7.0]
  • IELTS speaking [7.0]
  • IELTS listening [7.0]
Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
089108G

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 graduate careers in Lawand graduate skills in psychology2.
  • Gain a competitive edge with expertise in two fields and graduate with two degrees in just 5 years.
  • Study a law degree accredited by the Legal Practitioners Education and Admission Council.
  • Develop an advanced understanding of key legal principles, processes and methods with a professional law honours degree.
  • 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.
  • Participate in our student-run Legal Advice Clinic and provide advice to clients under the supervision of a managing solicitor.
  • Study a curriculum informed by world-class research in law, and well above world-class research in psychology3.
  • Gain a well-respected qualification accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council.
  • Experience a university ranked in the Top 5 in Australia for law facilities4 and resources5.

1ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2019-20 – Skills Development Indicator (Undergraduate). Public universities only. 2ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2020-21, Skills Development Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities. 32018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 4Ranked #4, ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2020-21, Law and Paralegal Studies – Learning Resources Indicator (Undergraduate). Public universities. 5Ranked #4, ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2020-21, Law and Paralegal Studies (Undergraduate). Public universities.

Snapshot

Snapshot

Gain a competitive edge by combining law with psychology, 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 psychology. 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 psychology studies you will develop an in-depth understanding of human behaviour, social interactions and why people think the way they do. Courses are taught by world-class researchers1 in the field of psychology – in fact, the curriculum is informed by the research of our academics.

12018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).

What you'll learn

This degree is made up of 40 courses. You will do 24 courses in law and 12 courses in psychology.P7240096-2_1.jpg

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 have practical learning experiences including mooting, negotiation, and witness examination; ensuring you’ll be prepared for legal practice upon graduation.

Psychology

In your psychology studies, you will develop a strong theoretical knowledge in the field as well as practical skills such as problem-solving, planning, judgement and decision-making. 

Through your choice of electives you can expand your knowledge in areas 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.

Degree structure

Course name Area and cat no. Units Reference  
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Law, Governance and Citizenship LAWS 1030 4.5
Torts LAWS 1032 4.5
Psychology 1A BEHL 1003 4.5
Common Law in Context LAWS 1027 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Legal Policy, Lawmaking and Justice LAWS 1020 4.5
Psychology 1B BEHL 1004 4.5
Contracts LAWS 1029 4.5
Intercultural Communication, Interviewing and Negotiation LAWS 1025 4.5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Criminal Law and Procedure LAWS 2030 4.5
Constitutional Law LAWS 2008 4.5
Lawyering and Leadership LAWS 1031 4.5
Developmental Psychology BEHL 3011 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Administrative Law LAWS 3006 4.5
International Law and Environmental Justice LAWS 2040 4.5
Community Justice Project LAWS 1028 4.5
Introductory Research Methods BEHL 2005 4.5
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Cognitive Psychology BEHL 3002 4.5
Personality Psychology BEHL 3024 4.5
Property Law LAWS 2038 4.5
Law Elective 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Legal Analytics and Research LAWS 2041 4.5
Social and Community Psychology BEHL 2006 4.5
Biological and Learning Psychology BEHL 2012 4.5
Clinical and Abnormal Psychology BEHL 3004 4.5
FOURTH YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Specialist Psychology Course 1 4.5 Note(s): 4
Specialist Psychology Course 2 4.5 Note(s): 4
Corporate Law LAWS 4022 4.5 Note(s): 3
Lawyers, Ethics and Society LAWS 4006 4.5 Note(s): 3
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Evidence LAWS 4003 4.5 Note(s): 3
Equity and Trusts LAWS 3084 4.5 Note(s): 3
Law Elective 4.5 Note(s): 3
Law Elective 4.5 Note(s): 3
FIFTH YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Civil Dispute Resolution LAWS 3087 4.5
Specialist Psychology Course 3 4.5 Note(s): 4
Capstone Law Elective 9 Note(s): 3
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice 18 Rule(s): 5,6
OR
Research Methodologies and Methods SOCU 4006 9 Rule(s): 4
Honours Thesis 1 LANG 4010 9 Rule(s): 4

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

UniSA_Law-23 copy.jpgYour 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.

Global opportunities

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 Psychology

0001_Michael.Mullan_7.11.13.jpg

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.

Your psychology courses are taught by world-class researchers2 in the field of psychology – in fact, the curriculum is informed by the research of our academics.


You will develop an in-depth understanding of human behaviour, social interactions and why people think the way they do, as well as gain practical skills such as problem solving, planning, judgement and decision-making. 

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.

12020 THE Subject Rankings. 22018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).

Real-world connections

Become a global citizen with our overseas exchange program. We have more than 60 partner universities worldwide, and study options that range from two weeks to one year. We collaborate with over 2,500 companies worldwide to bring our students placement, project, research and work opportunities. You can also choose to incorporate local or national internships and clerkships into your degree.

We also host regular University-wide employee master classes and employment expos, and alumni events in Australia and overseas.

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.

UniSA Video

Career outcomes

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:

  • Arbitrator/Mediator: facilitating negotiation and settlement between disputing parties by providing direction and encouragement; working collaboratively with the parties and finding creative ways to reach a mutual solution.
  • Crime prevention specialist: working closely with/within government departments and agencies to reduce crime, enforce the law and maintain criminal justice.
  • Forensic psychologist (with further study): collecting and reporting evidence of a psychological nature for use in legal and criminal justice proceedings; undertaking psychological assessments, diagnoses and interventions; evaluating programs and conducting interviews.
  • Human resources manager: designing, organising and implementing human resources strategies, policies and programs; overseeing recruitment, performance management, and learning and development.
  • Learning and development officer: liaising with managers and interviewing employees to identify and assess training and development needs; delivering and overseeing training; monitoring progress made through training programs; designing training programs.
  • Policy analyst: analysing policies and their effects to provide advice and guidance to governments and organisations; offering strategic policy and planning advice on programs and operations; reviewing, developing, and implementing policies and strategies.
  • Project manager: ensuring projects are delivered on time and according to project plans; managing project team resources; scheduling, preparation and resource forecasting; managing vendors and suppliers; managing budgets.
  • 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, in-house counsel and more, or undertake further study towards becoming a registered psychologist or research psychologist. 

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.

This program is accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council.

Industry facts

column-chart-growth

Employment for Solicitors is expected to increase by 21 per cent by November 20261.

1Australian Government National Skills Commission Labour Markets Insight, Employment Projections 2021

chart-people

Opportunities for legal professionals are becoming more diverse, with a 61% increase in the number of lawyers working in corporate and government sectors.

Urbis, National Profile of Solicitors Report 2018.

job-listings

The legal profession in Australia is growing, with practising solicitors increasing by 33% over the past seven years.

Urbis, National Profile of Solicitors Report 2018.

How to apply

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.

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.

More scholarships

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

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 campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Location This degree is delivered at the following campus.

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.

Mr Matthew Atkinson

Program Director

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Portrait image for Mr Matthew Atkinson
Portrait image for Mr Matthew Atkinson

Mr Matthew Atkinson

Program Director

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What others are saying

I was intrigued by how practical the law degree was. In almost every subject there was a public speaking component. Not only has my degree provided me with the requisite knowledge I need to enter into the legal profession, I have also been able to improve my advocacy skills to be able to apply this knowledge. I aspire to practice in the area of Family Law, and I also consider having a background in Psychology being an advantage to help me better assist clients in the future.

Courtney Dolphin

Bachelor of Laws (Honours), Bachelor of Psychological Science
Deputy Associate | Federal Circuit Court of Australia

PA190891 - Copy.jpg

Courtney Dolphin

Bachelor of Laws (Honours), Bachelor of Psychological Science
Deputy Associate | Federal Circuit Court of Australia

I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in law but I think having an additional degree is a way to differentiate yourself from other law graduates. It also provides flexibility if you decide to change your mind about the career path you want to take. I’ve developed strong advocacy and research skills in my law degree. I believe these skills, in combination with my psychology degree, will enable me to consult with clients and find solutions for them.

Ella Cameron

UniSA Laws and Psychology graduate
Solicitor | Resolve Divorce

PA190975 - Copy_1.jpg

Ella Cameron

UniSA Laws and Psychology graduate
Solicitor | Resolve Divorce