Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Arts
80.0
Choose your major
Climate and Social Justice
Be ready to make your mark on a greener, more equitable future by developing a critical understanding of the social impacts of climate change.
Criminology and Social Change
Explore crime, its causes, policing, global issues, cybercrime, and policy-making to analyse trends and prevent criminal behaviour.
Ethics and Technology
Examine the use of data-harvesting by private corporations and governments and the plethora of resulting ethical issues – from privacy and surveillance to human rights, equity and security.
Indigenous Studies
Delve into Indigenous ways of being and doing, which are increasingly appreciated not only their historical value, but also for their place in contemporary society.
Literature and Creative Writing
Learn to harness the power of words to tell compelling stories that inform and inspire the world. Explore the traditional and latest methods to hone your writing practice.
Perspectives on Globalisation
Learn how globalisation has transformed our society. Understand international relations. Develop cultural competency skills and open your mind to world cultures.
Politics, Power and Technology
Question political structures and how new media technology has created opportunities for democratic mobilisation and participation, while opening up new ways to corrupt democratic processes.
Screen Studies and Popular Culture
Chart the history of screen technologies and use your creativity and initiative to anticipate what the future of entertainment will be.
Overview
Prepare for a dynamic future-ready legal career with a Bachelor of Laws / Bachelor of Arts. Build a strong foundation in critical thinking and problem solving to prepare you for the world of tomorrow! You’ll explore artificial intelligence, big data, cybersecurity and more, plus gain a solid grounding in constitutional, contract and criminal law.
Swinburne Open Day 2026
Stop by our Hawthorn campus on Sunday 26 July for Open Day – the stop where everything starts. Got everything you need? Apply for midyear now and get on your way in Semester 2.
Your industry experience
Work Integrated Learning is a guaranteed part of all our bachelor degrees. In this double degree, you'll complete law-related professional experience placements and gain practical legal experience through moot court scenarios and advocacy exercises.In the arts unit, you'll collaborate with fellow students and industry partners to create campaigns for social change.
Skills you’ll learn
- Australian law
- Analyse legal issues
- Persuasive communication
- Conceptual understanding
- Critical and creative reasoning
- Communication
Your career opportunities
- Solicitor
- Legal counsel
- Lawyer
- Community development officer
- Government relations coordinator
- Political correspondent
Key codes
International student visa
International students in Australia who hold student visas are required to study full-time and on campus. Courses that are taught entirely online are only available to international students studying outside Australia or those in Australia who are not on a student visa. Online courses are not available to international students in Australia who hold a student visa.
Professional accreditations
Why Swinburne?
Ranked Top 200 in Law
Times Higher Education World University Ranking by Subject 2023Ranked Top 150 in Law
ARWU Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 202280.6% of UG graduates found employment within 4 months of completing their course
79.8% of UG students were satisfied with the teaching practices
Qualifications
One of the following:
- successful completion of the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or its equivalent, such as an interstate or international Year 12 qualification
- completion or partial completion of a degree.
Guaranteed Entry ATAR
80.0
You’ll be guaranteed a place in this course if you meet or exceed the ATAR Guaranteed Entry Score, provided you meet the course prerequisites.
If your ATAR is below the guaranteed entry score, you can still be offered a place as your ATAR may be adjusted based on subject adjustments, equity schemes or other factors.
Subject adjustments:
- A study score of 25 in any Business, any Humanities, Politics or any LOTE equals 2 aggregate points per study.
- A study score of 30 in any Business, any Humanities, Politics or any LOTE equals 3 aggregate points per study.
Overall maximum of 12 points. Subject adjustment points are applied to the aggregate, not the ATAR.
Students admitted to the course with prior tertiary studies that satisfy part of the academic requirements of this course may be eligible for academic credit.
Successful completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas qualification.
This will be assessed at the time of your application. To check your eligibility for this course, visit our entry requirements for international students page.
Course prerequisites
- VCE Units 3 and 4: a minimum study score of 25 in any English (except EAL) or 30 in English as Alternate Language (EAL) or equivalent
- VCE Units 3 and 4: a minimum study score of 25 in any English (except EAL) or 30 in English as Alternate Language (EAL) or equivalent
Admission requirements
Meeting the minimum entry requirements for the course does not guarantee an offer of a place. See admission requirements for general information about the admission process.
Informed Choices
Informed Choices is how Swinburne supports you through course selection, navigating university experiences and accessing the right support services at the right times, along with ensuring you can successfully complete your course, and are equipped with the information you need to make the right career decision for you.
Informed Choices covers five areas of course requirements and capability:
Sensory
Mobility and movement
Legal, duty of care and professional
Learning and knowledge creation; and
Interpersonal.
Adaptable components
The following sensory components are required in this course. Reasonable adjustments can likely be supported.
| Component | Definition |
|---|---|
| Sight | See and interpret visual information, including colour and/or facial cues, to maintain safety and make accurate assessments. |
| Sound | Hear and respond to vocal cues and differentiate sounds and tone, to maintain safety and make accurate assessments. |
Adaptable components
The following mobility and movement components are required in this course. Reasonable adjustments can likely be supported.
| Component | Definition |
|---|---|
| Endurance | Sustain physical effort and concentration over extended periods without experiencing excessive fatigue. |
| Stamina | Perform short-term, high intensity physical tasks while maintaining control and energy. |
| Dexterity | Use fine and coordinated movements of the hands and limbs to complete tasks that require precision and control. |
| Fine motor skills | Execute small, precise movements efficiently, such as manipulating tools, equipment, or controls. |
| Gross motor skills | Coordinate whole body movements such as lifting, walking, standing, or maintaining posture or balance. |
Required components
Required components are essential functions and attributes that are encountered in different learning and assessment contexts throughout the course.
The examples below show how these components appear in practice, which can guide your approach to learning and participation throughout the course.
Activities in this course where required components are applicable will be observed and assessed during compulsory placements against professional standards overseen by the Victorian Legal Admissions Board (VLAB). Admission to legal practice in Australia involves providing evidence of ethical character and fulfilling these professional responsibilities to the courts, clients, the legal profession, and the administration of justice.
Codes of conduct
Students in the Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts will follow professional rules, standards, and ethical guidelines provided by professional association(s).
Some activities are core to safety and professional practice. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustments in activities such as:
Applying professional conduct rules during simulated client interviews and legal advice sessions
Following ethical requirements in mooting (formal, simulated court proceeding), advocacy, complaints and disciplinary procedures and courtroom simulations
Applying the requirements and operation of trust account rules
Undertaking placement or law clinic experiences require adherence to legal profession standards and workplace policies
Duty of Care
Students in the Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts will act in ways that support personal safety and the safety of others.
Some activities are core to safety and professional practice. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustments in activities such as:
Handling confidential client information, follow disclosure requirements, and avoid conflicts of interest during simulated or real legal environments
Providing considered legal advice to act in the best interest of a client in clinic or simulation settings to ensure accuracy and care
Managing legal documents and evidence responsibly
Delivering legal services with integrity and professional independence, as appropriate to course stage will be observed and assessed through mandatory placements
Engaging in ethical decision-making tasks where actions may affect client outcomes or legal rights
Cultural sensitivity (including equity awareness)
Students in the Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts will respect diverse cultures, identities, and perspectives by acting in inclusive, fair, and nonjudgemental ways.
Some activities are core to safety and professional practice. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustments in activities such as:
Engaging with legal scenarios involving clients from diverse cultures and backgrounds
Participating in discussions and assessments addressing equity, access to justice, and systemic disadvantage
Applying inclusive and respectful language in written and verbal legal communication
Engage Effectively
Students in the Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts will interact with others honestly, respectfully, and responsibly to build trust and professional relationships.
Some activities are core to safety and professional practice. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustments in activities such as:
Participating in mooting (formal, simulated court proceeding), negotiation, and mediation exercises requiring clear and respectful interaction
Collaborating in group legal research, problem‑solving, and case preparation tasks
Conducting client interviews as appropriate to course stage
Professional reflection
Students in the Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts will develop skills to review their learning and performance and identify areas for improvement.
Some activities are core to safety and professional practice. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustments in activities such as:
Demonstrating reflection on current skills, knowledge, attitudes, and integrity as appropriate to course stage will be observed and assessed through mandatory placements
Required components
Required components are essential functions and attributes that are encountered in different learning and assessment contexts throughout the course.
The examples below show how these components appear in practice, which can guide your approach to learning and participation throughout the course.
Activities in this course where required components are applicable may be observed and assessed during compulsory placements against professional standards overseen by the Victorian Legal Admissions Board (VLAB). Admission to legal practice in Australia involves providing evidence of the ability to apply legal principles and rules, evaluate and interpret legislation and case law, and exercise professional judgement to analyse and resolve legal issues in an ‘appropriate and defensible way’.
Understand and apply information
Students in the Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts will use and interpret information by following instructions, making decisions, solving problems and applying knowledge.
Some activities are core to safety and professional practice. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustments in activities such as:
Using legal knowledge to advise clients
Critical thinking and analysis
Students in the Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts will develop and use skills in analysing and evaluating information objectively to form well-reasoned conclusions.
Some activities are core to safety and professional practice. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustments in activities such as:
Evaluating competing legal arguments
Communicating persuasive legal arguments to legal and non-legal audiences
Analysing evidence and identify strengths, weaknesses, and legal relevance
Adaptable components
The following learning and knowledge components are required in this course. Reasonable adjustments can likely be supported.
| Component | Definition |
|---|---|
| Cognition | Apply thinking skills such as attention, memory, language, and perception to focus, learn, and complete tasks over a continued period of time. |
| Digital literacy | Use digital tools and technologies effectively to access, create, and apply knowledge. |
Required components
Required components are essential functions and attributes that are encountered in different learning and assessment contexts throughout the course.
The examples below show how these components appear in practice, which can guide your approach to learning and participation throughout the course.
Activities in this course where required components are applicable may be observed and assessed during compulsory placements against professional standards overseen by the Victorian Legal Admissions Board (VLAB). Admission to legal practice in Australia involves providing evidence of the ability to work collaboratively with clients and legal professionals, negotiate and resolve disputes, represent clients effectively, and manage professional responsibilities in a timely, responsive, and cost-effective manner.
Collaboration & teamwork
Students in the Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts will develop and use skills in working with others to build trust, contribute to shared goals, and maintain positive team dynamics.
Some activities are core to safety and professional practice. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustments in activities such as:
Collaborating on group legal research projects and written submissions
Working in teams to prepare and deliver mooting (formal, simulated court proceeding), or advocacy cases
Participating in group problem solving on legal strategy
Conflict resolution
Students in the Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts will develop and use skills to address disagreements calmly and respectfully to reach beneficial outcomes.
Some activities are core to safety and professional practice. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustments in activities such as:
Facilitating and participating in negotiation and mediation sessions
Managing differing legal perspectives during group discussions
Addressing competing interests in client or dispute resolution discussions
Emotional regulation
Students in the Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts will develop and use skills to take part in interactions with others in a way that supports respectful and productive communication.
Some activities are core to safety and professional practice. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustments in activities such as:
Engaging respectfully in discussions and presenting legal arguments involving complex or contentious topics
Engaging with materials that contain details of harm to others, including sexual crimes and family violence, that may have a triggering effect on individuals
Meeting deadlines set by supervisors, opposing counsel, and courts or tribunals
Managing reliability, patience, and resilience is assessed through undertaking substantial reading and learning tasks, attending placement settings and sitting timed invigilated exams under strict conditions
Adaptability
Students in the Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts will develop and use skills in responding to change through adjusting plans and managing different tasks as situations change.
Some activities are core to safety and professional practice. Therefore, there may be limited flexibility for adjustments in activities such as:
Adjusting legal arguments in response to new facts, evidence, or opposing submissions
Adapting to different legal contexts across placements
Managing competing deadlines and shifting priorities for the efficient administration of justice
Managing deadlines is assessed through undertaking substantial reading and learning tasks, attending placement settings and sitting timed invigilated exams under strict conditions
Adaptable components
The following interpersonal components are required in this course. Reasonable adjustments can likely be supported.
| Component | Definition |
|---|---|
| Verbal communication | Express ideas clearly through spoken language, supported by tone and body language, to support understanding and feedback. |
| Social cues | Notice and respond to unspoken communication such as body language, facial expression, gestures and pace of conversations. |
| Written communication | Express information through written formats including via software, print or handwriting. |
| Numeracy | Use numbers and data to make decisions in everyday and professional situations. |
English language requirements
Satisfactory completion of one of the following:
- IELTS overall band of 6.5 (Academic Module) with no individual band below 6.0
- Swinburne’s English for Academic Purposes (EAP 5 Advanced level) with overall 70%, all skills 65% or above
- or equivalent measures available at English language requirements.
Need to undertake an English assessment for entry?
A prerequisite for many courses, the Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) can now be done at our Hawthorn campus.
Credit transfer
Credit is granted in recognition of previous study and/or experience and allows students to gain advanced standing towards their course. Applicants are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Recognition of prior learning
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) allows students to gain credit (advanced standing) towards their course in recognition of skills and knowledge gained through work experience, life experience and/or formal training. Applicants are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Apply for a pathway course
Pathways allow students to progress from one qualification to another where the first course is recognised as an entry requirement and/or provides credit (advanced standing) to the second.
Add your major
Add your major for a more personalised experience.
How credit points work
Successful completion of the Bachelor of Laws / Bachelor of Arts requires students to complete units of study to the value of 450 credit points. All units of study are valued at 12.5 credit points unless otherwise stated.
What your course could look like
This is the indicative sequence for Semester 1, 2026 only. You are advised to use the study plan template available via your student portal in conjunction with your course planner to plan your studies. Sequence may also vary depending on advanced standing and exemptions. The unit offering information is correct at the time of publication, however changes may occur.
| Units of study | Unit code |
|---|---|
| Core units | |
|
Introduction to Australian Law and Statutory Interpretation
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW10010 |
|
Torts 1
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW10014 |
|
Criminal Law and Procedure
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW10015 |
|
Torts 2
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW10025 |
|
Legal Writing
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW10026 |
|
Contract Law 1
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW10028 |
|
Contract Law 2
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW10029 |
|
Evidence
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW20009 |
|
Administrative Law
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW20010 |
|
Trade Marks and Related Rights
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW20011 |
|
Federal and State Constitutional Law
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW20012 |
|
Property Law
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW20013 |
|
Land Law
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW20014 |
|
Legal Technology and Innovation
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW20040 |
|
Copyright
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW20043 |
|
Patents and Designs
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW30011 |
|
Equity and Trusts
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW30012 |
|
Company Law
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW30013 |
|
Legal Practice and Professional Conduct
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW30015 |
|
Civil Procedure and Alternative Dispute Resolution
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
LAW30029 |
|
Professional Experience in Law 1
Core unit , 150 hours placement |
LAW10016 |
|
Professional Experience in Law 2
Core unit , 150 hours placement |
LAW20018 |
|
Professional Experience in Law 3
Core unit , 150 hours placement |
LAW30016 |
| Units of study | Unit code |
|---|---|
| Core units | |
|
Technology and Society
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
ART10002 |
|
Skills and Strategies for Social Change
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
ART20003 |
|
Changemakers in Action
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
ART30004 |
|
BA Professional Practice
Core unit , 12.5 credit points |
ART30005 |
Want to see the full range of electives?
Learn about all the electives you can take in the course handbook.
| Units of study | Unit code |
|---|---|
| Option 1 | |
|
Work Experience in Industry A
Practical unit, 25.0 credit points |
WEI20001 |
|
Integrated Professional Placement A - Humanities
Academic unit, 25.0 credit points |
SOC20018 |
|
Work Experience in Industry B
Practical unit, 25.0 credit points |
WEI20002 |
|
Integrated Professional Placement B - Humanities
Academic unit, 25.0 credit points |
SOC20019 |
2026 tuition fees
Yearly fee* ($AUD)
$17,399.00
Total fee* ($AUD)
$78,295.00
2026 tuition fees
Yearly fee* ($AUD)
$44,970.00
Fees are estimates only
Published student tuition fees for 2026 unit enrolments in HE Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) and Undergraduate Full Fee Paying (FFP) are subject to change based on individual circumstances at enrolment. Fees may vary for units studied in future years, with part-time fees being proportionally lower depending on the number of units taken per semester. Enrolled students will receive reasonable notice of any fee changes before payment is due.
Fees are estimates only
The indicative course fees shown apply to international students for the relevant year, based on a standard study load per year. Fees are assessed according to actual study load each semester, with variations to study load resulting in tuition fee adjustments. These fees generally include the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) and are subject to annual review. Enrolled students will receive reasonable notice of any fee changes before payment is due.
How do I pay my fees?
HECS-HELP is a loan and discount scheme available to you if you are eligible and enrolled in a Commonwealth supported place. A HECS-HELP loan can cover all or part of your contribution amount. You can also choose to pay your fees up front.
International students need to pay tuition fees up-front by the relevant due date. You can find the due dates on your Statement of Account.
To pay your fees:
- log in to My Finances
- check your Australian bank account details are correct
- check your Statement of Account to see how much you owe
- pay using your preferred payment method.
Eligibility for HECS-HELP
You are eligible for a HECS-HELP loan if you have been offered a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) for an undergraduate degree at Swinburne or a UniLink course, and you:
- are an Australian citizen and doing at least one unit of your course in Australia; or
- hold a permanent humanitarian visa and will be living in Australia for the duration of your course; or
- hold a New Zealand Special Category visa and meet the special eligibility requirements for New Zealand citizens.
Student services and amenities fee
This funding serves to improve the student experience at Swinburne. You may use many or just some of the services and amenities that the fee provides.
The fee shown in the capped amount for 2026.
This funding serves to improve the student experience at Swinburne. You may use many or just some of the services and amenities that the fee provides.
This amenities fee is included within your annual tuition fee listed above. The fee shown is the capped amount for 2026.
Please refer to the Student Services Amenities Fee page for more information.
SSAF fee* ($AUD)
$373.00
SSAF fee* ($AUD)
$373.00
Scholarships
Scholarship applications for 2026 are open. Scholarships at Swinburne are about providing opportunity, promoting equity and recognising excellence and achievement. We want you to reach your potential and achieve your life and career goals.
Our handy guide will assist you to gather documents for your application.
When you apply for a Swinburne course, we automatically consider you for an international scholarship of up to 20 per cent off your course fees – no separate application required! Just apply for your Swinburne course of choice and when we review your course application, we will also assess you for an international scholarship.
Professional placement fees
Students who participate in a six- or 12-month professional placement will be subject to an increase in total course fees.
Apply through an agent
Most international students use an education agent to help them through the application process. Swinburne has agents all over the world that can help you with your application to study. Search for a Swinburne representative in your country. If your country is not listed, please contact us.
Apply directly
Ready to take on a new challenge and reach your academic goals? If you already know which course you want to study and understand the entry requirements, what are you waiting for? Apply online! Remember, you cannot apply direct if you have an active VTAC application.
Apply through VTAC
International students currently studying Year 12 in Australia must apply through VTAC. VTAC is the central office that administers the application processes for places in tertiary courses, scholarships and the Special Entry Access Scheme at universities, TAFEs and independent tertiary colleges in Victoria.
VTAC is the central office that administers the application processes for places in tertiary courses, scholarships and the Special Entry Access Scheme at universities, TAFEs and independent tertiary colleges in Victoria.
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I am a proud Jaara, Wemba Wemba and Yorta Yorta woman. I chose Swinburne law as I wanted to involve myself in the discourse that surrounds Indigenous people, to empower community and make positive changes. Currently, I am an Associate to Judge Purcell at the County Court. I plan to write a dissertation on Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property.
Neane , Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Arts (majoring in Politics and International Relations, minoring in Philosophy)