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Bachelor of Laws

Your pathway to legal practice, powered by technology.

  • Prepare yourself for a tech-savvy legal career
  • Take the first step to become a practicing lawyer in Australia
  • Gain exposure to real legal work in Australia and internationally
  • Approved by the Victorian Legal Admissions Board
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100% Online

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Icon Qualification

Undergraduate

Qualification

Icon Duration

3 years full-time

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Icon Start Dates

Mar, Jul, Nov

Start Dates

Icon Units

24

Units

Icon Fees

$2,174*

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Overview
Structure
Entry Criteria
Fees
Career Outcomes
Online Study
Overview
Structure
Entry Criteria
Fees
Career Outcomes
Online Study

OVERVIEW

Embark on a tech-savvy career in the innovative legal sector.

The sweeping uptake of digital technologies in legal professions is revolutionising legal practice, just as it is changing the way we all live and work. Today’s legal professionals need to be not only commercially savvy, but have the adaptability to work with emerging technologies across continually innovating legal landscapes.

Pathway to becoming a lawyer

Swinburne Online’s Bachelor of Laws is approved by the Victorian Legal Admissions Board, with this course fulfilling the first requirement in the pathway to becoming a practicing lawyer.

You’ll develop a nuanced understanding of digital disruption and its legal implications, which will open your legal career for work in criminal, international, commercial, finance law and more. With a digitally informed toolkit at your disposal, you will be able to take advantage of the growing number of technology-focused opportunities in legal fields that govern cyber security, media, branding and advertising.

Like all Swinburne Online courses, practical experience is fundamental. This is why the Bachelor of Laws prioritises work integrated learning through professional placements. By participating you’ll have the opportunity to network and learn directly from experienced legal professionals, while acquiring a practical legal skill set.

Your placement can be at any workplace where legal work is performed, as long as your work experience during the placement is of a legal nature. You can take your placement overseas or in Australia, as long as it’s approved by the Course Director, so you have the opportunity to try different legal work during your practical experience.

Swinburne Online will prepare you to meet the challenges of rapid technological change and upheaval in the legal sector, and set you up to chart a success career in law.

Supervised examinations

Supervised in person examinations are a compulsory component of this course and will be scheduled for a specific date and start time at the end of each teaching period. If you are an Australian citizen, you’ll still be able to sit these exams in-person at most capital cities around the world.

Key Learnings Include

  • Legal Technology & Innovation: Innovative technologies continue to transform legal practice. Investigate the implications of technological change and automation in the legal sector, and ensure the changes are positive, making legal services more accessible than ever before.
  • Legal Theory & Practice: Acquire knowledge in the legal theory that underpins the Rule of Law in Australia and internationally – and informs all legal practice.
  • Ethical & Legal Responsibility: Keep your knowledge of legal ethics and responsibility current, so you can conduct yourself ethically in your role working within the legal system.
  • International Diplomacy: Manage relationships between state and non-state actors in an international legal context, based on an informed understanding of international and jurisdictional law.

Professional accreditations

VLAB logo
Corey-BW

‘The support level has been unmatched. OLAs, student advisors, anyone you contact is always there for you. There is always someone to reach out to, always someone to help, always someone you can lean on.’

Corey, Swinburne Online graduate

20% ▴

As a Lawyer, you’ll have a strong future ahead of you, with a 20% increase expected in the next five years. (SEEK 2026)

Our Law courses have ranked in the Top 250 by THE World Universities Rankings for 2025.

‘The support level has been unmatched. OLAs, student advisors, anyone you contact is always there for you. There is always someone to reach out to, always someone to help, always someone you can lean on.’

Corey, Swinburne Online graduate

20% ▴

As a Lawyer, you’ll have a strong future ahead of you, with a 20% increase expected in the next five years. (SEEK 2026)

Our Law courses have ranked in the Top 250 by THE World Universities Rankings for 2025.

Swinburne Online

Your Pathway to the career of your dreams

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Structure

Your course breakdown:

To be awarded the Bachelor of Laws you must complete 24 units in total made up of:

  • 20 Core Law Units
  • 4 Law Electives
  • You will also complete 3 Professional Experiences in Law

Each year is split into 3 Teaching Periods (13 weeks per Teaching Period). You can choose to study full-time or part-time depending on your preference.

Supervised examinations

Please note that an accreditation requirement for the Bachelor of Laws is that all supervised examinations are only held in-person, in paper format.

Supervised examinations are a compulsory component of the course and will be scheduled for a specific date and start time at the end of each teaching period. If you are an Australian citizen, you’ll still be able to sit these exams in-person at most capital cities around the world.

What you'll study:

These are foundational units in major law study areas:

Introduction to Australian Law & Statutory Interpretation

Contract Law 1

Contract Law 2

Torts 1

Torts 2

Criminal Law & Procedure

Legal Writing

Evidence

Administrative Law

Trade Marks & Related Rights

Federal & State Constitutional Law

Property Law

Land Law

Legal Technology and Innovation

Copyright

Patents & Designs

Equity & Trusts

Company Law

Legal Practice & Professional Conduct

Civil Procedure and Alternative Dispute Resolution

International Commercial Law

Law and the Media

Competition Law & Policy

Advanced Criminal Law and Sentencing

Professional Experience in Law 1

Professional Experience in Law 2

Professional Experience in Law 3

Entry Requirements

Entry Criteria

Applicants are required to meet one of the following minimum entry requirements to gain direct entry into the Bachelor of Laws:

  • Successful completion of the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or its equivalent, such as an interstate or international Year 12 qualification, with a minimum ATAR of 85, and a minimum study score of 25 in any English (except EAL) or 30 in EAL (or equivalent), or
  • Completion, or partial completion of a Bachelor’s degree, or
  • Completion of the Undergraduate Certificate in Law (hyperlinked to UGC in Law course page), meeting the minimum WAM requirements.

This course is not available to international students.

Students who do not meet the standard entry requirements may still qualify for the Bachelor of Laws through an approved alternative entry pathway.

Our alternative pathway is the Undergraduate Certificate in Law, designed to build your foundational legal knowledge and prepare you for the academic expectations of the Bachelor of Laws. This program also provides complementary study options drawn from related undergraduate degrees.

Detailed information about this pathway can be found in the tab below.

Please note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee an offer of admission. For general information about the selection process, refer to Admissions at Swinburne.

You can also explore answers to common questions in our applying and enrolling FAQs. 

Want to discuss your eligibility for the Bachelor of Laws? Get in touch with our course consultant team on 1300 069 765 to discuss more today!

Undergraduate Certificate in Law

The Undergraduate Certificate in Law is a supported pathway for students who are motivated to study and pursue a career in law but don’t yet meet the Bachelor of Laws entry requirements.

Across four introductory units, students will build essential legal thinking, problem solving and academic skills while gaining a real world introduction to areas such as contract law, torts and statutory interpretation. This program also gives students the opportunity to experience university level legal study before committing to a full degree, helping build confidence, capability and readiness for the next step.

This Undergraduate Certificate is typically completed in six months full‑time (or part‑time equivalent), and the Undergraduate Certificate in Law creates a supported and accessible pathway into the Bachelor of Laws, with no loss of credit for completed subjects.

Core units

  • Introduction to Australian Law and Statutory Interpretation
  • Torts 1
  • Contract Law 1

Choose one of the below units:

  • Criminal Law and Procedure
  • Torts 2
  • Legal Writing
  • Contract Law 2

To qualify for entry into the Bachelor of Laws you’ll need to complete all four units with a minimum credit average (60%).

Once you’ve finished, simply contact our course consultant team to transfer into the Bachelor of Laws and continue your study journey without losing any time or credit.

Need more info?

We have plenty of resources to help you! Visit our Applying and Enrolling FAQs or chat with a Course Consultant for advice on your specific situation.

Fees & Scholarship

  • The estimated fee per unit is $2,174*.
  • There are 24 units in this course, each unit is worth 12.5 credit point units.

*Note: Unit fees may change each year.

There are several ways to help manage your course fees:

  • Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP): Available to Australian Citizens and eligible Permanent Residents, and this will help reduce your course fees.
  • HECS – HELP Loans: Available to Australian Citizens, which will help you defer your fees.
  • Learn more about HELP Loans

Please contact our Course Consultant to find out if you’re eligible for financial support.

There are a variety of Swinburne Scholarships to help reduce your costs.

  • University-funded scholarships
  • Government-funded scholarships
  • Private scholarships and prizes

Scholarships are available for both new and current students.

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Student Scholarships

There are a range of scholarships available to support Indigenous students in minimising the costs of study materials, accommodation, relocation and more.

How it works:
1. Check eligibility
2. Gather the relevant documentation
3. Produce a personal statement
4. Obtain your references
5. Apply online here

Please contact our Course Consultant to find out if you’re eligible for Swinburne Scholarships.

Credit for prior study:

  • Good news — if you’re awarded academic credit for prior study, your course fees could be lower! This means a cheaper degree!

Services & amenities fee:

For more details on scholarships and financial support, visit the Swinburne website or speak with our Course Consultant team today!

Career Outcomes

Career Opportunities

$90,000 to $110,000 Average Salary

Provide legal advice to clients in one or more areas of law as solicitors or barristers. While solicitors primarily advise clients and prepare legal documents, barristers specialize in advocacy and court representation.

Provide legal advice to clients in one or more areas of law as solicitors or barristers. While solicitors primarily advise clients and prepare legal documents, barristers specialize in advocacy and court representation.

Your pathway to a successful career in law.

Our graduates work in a range of rewarding roles and industries. The Bachelor of Laws prioritises enhancing your technical literacy so that you can graduate with a future-focused skill set. You will:

  • Undertake professional experience placements that will familiarise you with the legal practice
  • Focus on the technological advancement within the Australian legal system
  • Learn from industry leaders

Commercial Law
Navigate the intricacies of commercial law, which govern commercial transactions within Australia and internationally. Work in specialist areas that include: company law, corporate governance, consumer protection, and environmental law.

Intellectual Property Law
In an era of digital disruption and diversifying media, you can gain expertise in the field of Intellectual Property law. Calling upon your informed understanding of technological change – and the important role that the law plays in encouraging further innovation – while protecting the rights of creators and businesses.

Native Title Law
Consider Native Title laws, in accordance with an informed and culturally sensitive approach to the mediation of the relationship between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, government and local communities.

International Law
Oversee the implementation of international law from an Australia perspective, taking into account the intersection of other jurisdictional legal systems and the complexities that may arise.

Here's how we help you get career-ready:

The Bachelor of Laws will provide you with a future-focused skill set combining traditional legal knowledge with technological literacy, enhancing your employability and ability to adapt to the evolving legal landscape.

  • Placements: The degree includes three professional legal experience placements, offering you practical skills, networking opportunities, and exposure to real-life legal work.
  • Technology: You will study how technological change affects legal practice and learn to ensure legal services become more accessible through innovation.
  • Curriculum: Your studies will cover legal theory, ethics, international diplomacy, and the impact of digital disruption on law.
  • Branches of Law: Graduates will be equipped for a tech-savvy legal career in areas like cyber security, media, branding, and advertising law.

Online Study

An online study experience designed for you

Each degree is thoughtfully designed for online learning, ensuring your experience is fulfilling and supported. At Swinburne Online, we want to ensure that your journey with us is a success. Our team of academic and online experts have developed engaging, media-rich course materials using cutting-edge digital technology and advanced teaching resources.

Your online study journey

 

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Here’s what you can expect

  • Personalise your study journey with full-time or part-time options — 100% online, no travel needed.
  • Start when it suits you with multiple intake dates.
  • Study on your terms, balancing life, family, and work — anytime, anywhere.
  • Stay connected with students and industry experts through discussion boards and virtual classrooms.
  • Get support 7 days a week for general help whenever you need it.
  • Learn with confidence with dedicated online tutors for each unit, ready to answer all your academic questions.

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Your online classroom - Canvas

Canvas is where all your classwork will take place. You’ll experience engaging lectures, tackle assignments, and connect with others on lively discussion boards. All within an easy-to-use platform. Stay on top of your progress, plan your studies with ease, and set your own pace — whether you want to fast-track your degree with up to 12 units a year or take it slow with part-time study. It’s all about balancing your studies with the rest of your life!

FLEXIBLE STUDY AT SWINBURNE ONLINE

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Your Online Campus: The Student Hub

  • The Student Hub is your one-stop online university campus where you’ll have access to course management tools, technical support, library resources, and more!
  • Find everything you need to manage your studies and university services.
  • Stay connected and empowered throughout your learning journey all from one easy to use location.
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Dedicated student support

You are supported at every stage of your journey with Swinburne Online, from enrolment and your first day through to graduation. Our dedicated teams are here to help you stay on track, feel confident, and succeed in your studies.

Support tailored to you:

    • Our Student Advisors are your go to guides, available 7 days a week to support you with course planning, technical support, and other any questions you may have along the way.
    • Our Online Learning Advisors (OLAs) will support you in every unit with unit information, learning materials, assessments, and referencing.
    • Our Student Coaches will help you build motivation, set goals, and develop effective study habits so you can stay focused and succeed.

With ongoing access to support, tools, and resources, you are never studying alone with Swinburne Online.

Indigenous Student Services

Access opportunities. Get tailored support with your studies. Thrive as an Indigenous student with the team at the Moondani Toombadool Centre.

Moondani Toombadool means ‘embracing teaching and learning’ in the Woiwurrung language of the Wurundjeri People. Established in 2018, the Moondani Toombadool Centre (MTC) handles all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander matters at Swinburne. This includes governance, student services, teaching and learning, research, staff, culture and engagement. Student services include but are not limited to:

    • Dedicated student support services
    • Indigenous Academic Support Program (IASP)
    • Cultural and engagement programs
    • Networking opportunities, career support and much more

Learn more about units, fees, entry criteria, career outcomes and more.

Download a course guide

The Swinburne Online-SEEK connection

The suite of Swinburne Online Business degrees provides students with the opportunity to forge connections within the industry. Students hear from industry leaders and work with real-life clients with demonstrated experience within their respective fields, such as SEEK.

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