Juris Doctor Graduate Certificate in Professional Legal Practice
Source: https://www.uts.edu.au/courses/juris-doctor-graduate-certificate-in-professional-legal-practice Parent: https://www.uts.edu.au/for-students/law/practical-legal-training
Study Law at UTS
The UTS Juris Doctor (JD) Graduate Certificate in Professional Legal Practice, also known as JD Accelerate, is a groundbreaking postgraduate degree that integrates Practical Legal Training (PLT), meaning you can graduate ready to practise law in NSW in just three years. Like the standard Juris Doctor, this course is an Australian Qualifications Framework Level 9 master’s degree that builds knowledge and experience in fundamental legal theory.
Throughout this program, you’ll be exposed to the latest industry perspectives, build your knowledge of fundamental theory and acquire critical hands-on skills through your practical work placement. As a graduate, you’ll be uniquely qualified and ready to launch a rewarding career as a professional lawyer.
As an Australian student, you have the chance to apply for a Commonwealth Supported Place for this course. Find out if you meet the criteria and learn the steps to apply.
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Juris Doctor Graduate Certificate in Professional Legal Practice
CODE
UTS: C04320 (version 3)
CRICOS: 119889K
DURATION
3 years full time\ 5 years part time
INTAKE question_mark These are dates to consider when applying for your course, including when applications open and close.
Autumn Session 2026\ Spring Session 2026\ Autumn Session 2027\ Spring Session 2027
COURSE FEES question_mark This indicative tuition fee is an estimate for the entire course, based on full-time study each year. Fees are reviewed annually and may change.
Indicative total tuition fee for government-supported domestic students\ $62,881.00
Indicative total tuition fee for domestic students\ $162,764.00
LOCATION question_mark Our classes are held at our City Campus, or specialist off-campus locations. Some of our courses are delivered via online (distance) learning.
City campus
What you’ll study
This flexible, adaptable degree can be completed part or full-time, online, or in-person for the JD component. You’ll build solid foundational knowledge through your JD Core stream, where you’ll learn everything from torts to Constitutional law.
You’ll then specialise your learning through your choice of Options and Legal Theory subjects. Core practical studies, including a 15-day work placement, will see you contextualise your learning in a professional law environment, rounding out your educational journey and preparing you to commence your career as a registered lawyer.
Subjects at a glance
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Core subjects
| Subject Code | Subject Name |
|---|---|
| 70102 | Foundations of Law |
| 70114 | Criminal Law and Procedure |
| 70311 | Torts |
| 70211 | Contracts |
| 70103 | Ethics Law and Justice |
| 70104 | Civil Practice |
| 70327 | Introduction to Property and Commercial Law |
| 70317 | Real Property |
| 71116 | Remedies |
| 70106 | Principles of Public International Law |
| 70109 | Evidence |
| 70517 | Equity and Trusts |
| 70617 | Administrative Law |
| 70107 | Principles of Company Law |
| 70616 | Australian Constitutional Law |
| 75422 | Property and Commercial Practice |
| 75423 | Litigation Practice |
| 75424 | Skills and Wills Practice |
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See all subjects and majors in the UTS Handbook arrow_right_alt
Typical course program
The outline below shows an example program for the Juris Doctor Graduate Certificate in Professional Legal Practice based on a full-time study load. Please note that your program may differ based on your unique circumstances, such as commencement date, subject selections and recognition of prior learning. Optional subjects are regularly offered but may not be available in every session.
- 15 : core JD law subjects
add 2. 5 : JD Options law subjects
add 3. 1 : Legal Theory subject
add 4. 4 : core Practice subjects
add
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First year
You’ll kick-start your accelerated study program by completing a range of core JD subjects. You’ll learn about criminal law, contracts, Constitutional law and ethics, developing a broad foundational knowledge of Australian law and its applications. 2. #### Second year
You’ll continue completing core subjects and start to build specialised legal expertise. You’ll study specific practical areas such as property, international and real estate law and begin focusing your learning through your Options and Legal Theory subjects. 3. #### Third year
Your final year will see you finish any remaining core Options or Legal Theory subjects. You’ll then undertake your core practical subjects, gathering vital professional skills before undertaking your hands-on 13-week work placement.
First year
You’ll kick-start your accelerated study program by completing a range of core JD subjects. You’ll learn about criminal law, contracts, Constitutional law and ethics, developing a broad foundational knowledge of Australian law and its applications.
Second year
You’ll continue completing core subjects and start to build specialised legal expertise. You’ll study specific practical areas such as property, international and real estate law and begin focusing your learning through your Options and Legal Theory subjects.
Third year
Your final year will see you finish any remaining core Options or Legal Theory subjects. You’ll then undertake your core practical subjects, gathering vital professional skills before undertaking your hands-on 13-week work placement.
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See typical course program in the UTS Handbook arrow_forward
Course highlights
This course is designed to help you establish an advanced body of legal knowledge encompassing the Australian legal system, ethical practice and international perspectives. You’ll get the chance to learn to research, evaluate, design and deliver advice and advocacy in a range of settings relevant to the legal profession.
- check_circle Law foundations
- check_circle Ethics and justice
- check_circle Australian Constitutional law
- check_circle Specialised legal knowledge
- check_circle Practical work experience
- check_circle Industry connections
- check_circle Legal research and writing
Industry accreditation
This course is accredited by the Legal Profession Admission Board (LPAB) of the Supreme Court of NSW. The course satisfies both the academic and practical legal training requirements for admission as a lawyer to the Supreme Court of NSW.
Admissions information
Admissions information
Use the buttons to expand or collapse the section.
-
Course description
If you’re aspiring to practise law in NSW and want an accelerated path to your career, our unique JD Accelerate program is tailored for you. It stands out as Sydney’s sole integrated law and Practical Legal Training (PLT) degree, satisfying both the academic and hands-on training requirements for admission as a lawyer in NSW.
Through a combination of rigorous legal theory and immersive practical experience, you’ll learn the essentials of law while also gaining the practical skills needed to excel in the legal profession. Our flexible learning options cater to your lifestyle, offering day and evening classes for core subjects, intensive block study for select topics and online electives.
You’ll apply your learning during a mandatory 15-day full-time (or part-time equivalent) work placement, ensuring you’re job-ready upon graduation. And if you’re eager to jumpstart your career, our Summer sessions allow you to fast-track your studies and complete the degree in just three years.
Students engage with industry-informed, academically rigorous and highly practical courses, choosing from flexible learning options that include day and evening classes (core subjects), block study (selected subjects) and online learning (electives), as well as selected recorded lectures and podcasts. In addition to standard part-time and full-time study modes, students can fast-track their progress by enrolling in Summer sessions to complete the degree in just three years. - ### Important dates
Find out more about application dates relating to this course - ### Scholarships and prizes
Discover our scholarships for undergraduate, postgraduate and research students. Our scholarships celebrate diversity and academic excellence. Use the scholarship search tool to find the right scholarship for you.
Scholarships for domestic students
Scholarships for international students - ### Course duration
The standard course can be completed in three years of full-time or five years of part-time study. There are two intakes a year (in Autumn and Spring sessions). - ### Admission requirements
To be eligible for admission to this course, applicants must meet the following criteria.
Applicants must have one of the following:
- Completed Australian doctorate, or overseas equivalent
OR
- Completed Australian bachelor's degree, Australian bachelor honours degree, or Australian master's degree, or overseas equivalent, with a minimum GPA of 4.5/7
OR
- Completed Australian graduate certificate or Australian graduate diploma, or overseas equivalent, with a minimum GPA of 5/7
OR
- Completed Australian bachelor's degree, Australian bachelor honours degree, or Australian master's degree, or overseas equivalent, with a minimum GPA of 4.1/7 AND Capacity to study the course demonstrated through a minimum of 1 year full-time or equivalent part-time relevant professional work experience
The qualification must be in a field of study other than law or, if the qualification is in a legal field of study, it shall not be an academic qualification for legal practice.
Applicants who do not meet the criteria above should consider applying for C04264 Master of Legal Studies or C11264 Graduate Certificate in Legal Studies.
Supporting documentation to be submitted with the application
For applicants who need to demonstrate capacity to pursue this course:
- Curriculum Vitae AND Statement of service in one of the following formats:
- A 'Statement of Service' provided by the employer
- A completed 'UTS statement of service' signed by the employer
- A statutorydeclarationconfirming professional work experience (for Australian Residents only)
- An official letter from the applicant's accountant or solicitor on their company letterhead confirming the applicant's professional work experience or engagement with the business, duration of operations, and the nature of the business
- A business certificate of registration in original language and English (e.g. provision of ASIC documentation or ABN or similar documentation for Australian Businesses)
- Personal statement outlining relevant professional work experience and reasons to pursue this course
For Applicants seeking credit recognition for core law subjects in overseas legal qualification
- Written assessment from the NSW Legal Profession Admissions Board (LPAB) indicating which subjects need to be completed to meet the requirements for admission as a Legal Practitioner
Eligibility for admission does not guarantee offer of a place.
English language requirements
IELTS Academic: overall 6.5, writing 6.0 TOEFL iBT (0-120): overall 79, writing 21 TOEFL iBT (1-6): overall 4, writing 4.5 UTS College AE5: Pass Pearson PTE: overall 58, writing 50 Cambridge C1A / C2P: overall 176, writing 169 - ### Domestic course fees
2026 Indicative tuition fees for government-supported domestic students
This course offers a limited number of Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP). This means the Australian Government contributes to your education costs, and you pay the remaining tuition fees, known as the student contribution. If eligible, you can defer payment through HECS-HELP, or you can choose to pay your fees upfront each session.
CSP applications are reviewed continuously by the university and offered based on merit, so we recommend applying early to be considered. Learn more about applying for a CSP, eligibility and key dates.
2026 Tuition Fees
- Indicative first-year tuition fee: $17,399.00
- Indicative Total tuition fee: $62,881.00
Tuition fees are reviewed annually, with any new rates effective from the beginning of each calendar year. The total indicative tuition fee includes estimated annual increases over the duration of the course.
Additional Costs
Your tuition fees do not include:
- The Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF), which supports student services and activities. If eligible, you can defer this fee using SA-HELP.
- Textbooks, materials, and other course-related costs.
- Any applicable payment processing fees (e.g., credit card surcharges).
Important Information
- Fees are shown in Australian Dollars (AUD).
- The indicative tuition fees above are based on full-time study (1 year = 48 credit points).
- Your actual fees depend on the year you enrol, your study load and the subjects you choose. Some subjects fall into different student contribution bands.
- You can calculate your student contribution based on the amounts listed in the student contribution table.
Alumni Advantage Program
As a UTS graduate, you can enjoy a 10% discount on your course fees. Just apply for the course you're interested in, and if you're accepted, the discount will automatically be applied to your enrolment invoice. Learn more about the Alumni Advantage Program.
If you have any questions about course fees, please feel free to make an enquiry.
Information for Masters by Research students: Government-funded scholarship places available
As a recipient of the Australian Government’s Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset Scholarship, you do not have to pay tuition fees for up to the maximum period of candidature. However, even with this scholarship, you should expect ongoing costs that aren’t covered, like travel, training, and professional development. These costs can vary for each person, so it’s important to plan accordingly. Additionally, scholarships are available to help with your living expenses.
Important details: The RTP Fees Offset Scholarship covers your tuition fees, but please note that it doesn’t include additional costs related to studying or conducting research. Additional fees for domestic students. For more information visit Research student fees.
2026 Indicative tuition fees for domestic students
As a postgraduate student, you'll be responsible for covering your own tuition fees.
2026 Tuition Fee
- Indicative first-year tuition fee: $43,900.00
- Indicative total tuition fee: $162,764.00
You can choose to pay your fees upfront per session, or if you’re eligible, you can defer them using a government FEE-HELP loan. This loan helps you cover all or part of your tuition fees. Keep in mind that applications for this loan are specific to each course.
Additional Costs
Your tuition fees do not include:
- The Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF), which supports student services and activities. If eligible, you can defer this fee using SA-HELP.
- Textbooks, materials, and other course-related costs.
- Any applicable payment processing fees (e.g., credit card surcharges).
Important Information
- Fees are shown in Australian Dollars (AUD).
- The indicative tuition fees above are based on full-time study (1 year = 48 credit points).
- Your actual fees depend on the year you enrol, your study load and the subjects you choose. Some subjects fall into different student contribution bands.
- You can calculate your student contribution based on the amounts listed in the student contribution table
Alumni Advantage Program
As a UTS graduate, you can enjoy a 10% discount on your course fees. Just apply for the course you're interested in, and if you're accepted, the discount will automatically be applied to your enrolment invoice. Learn more about the Alumni Advantage Program.
If you have any questions about course fees, please feel free to make an enquiry.
Information for Masters by Research students: Government-funded scholarship places available
As a recipient of the Australian Government’s Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset Scholarship, you do not have to pay tuition fees for up to the maximum period of candidature. However, even with this scholarship, you should expect ongoing costs that aren’t covered, like travel, training, and professional development. These costs can vary for each person, so it’s important to plan accordingly. Additionally, scholarships are available to help with your living expenses.
Important details: The RTP Fees Offset Scholarship covers your tuition fees, but please note that it doesn’t include additional costs related to studying or conducting research. Additional fees for domestic students. For more information visit Research student fees. - ### Inherent requirements
Inherent requirements are academic and non-academic requirements that are essential for successfully completing a course at UTS. You can find the inherent requirements for your course via the inherent requirements directory. - ### Professional recognition
This course is accredited by the Legal Profession Admission Board (LPAB) of the Supreme Court of NSW. The course satisfies both the academic and practical legal training requirements for admission as a lawyer to the Supreme Court of NSW. - ### Recognition of prior learning
General and course-specific recognition of prior learning information regarding the JD Accelerate (Juris Doctor Graduate Certificate in Professional Legal Practice) is available in postgraduate course information. - ### Important notes
Commonwealth Supported Places
There are a limited number of Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) available in this course, which are competitive and awarded based on merit. To be considered for a CSP, applicants must:
- Indicate their interest in a CSP on their application.
- Have attained a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5.5 out of 7 in their previous studies (note that applicants with a GPA between 5.0 and 5.49 may be assessed for a CSP place depending on availability).
- Apply on time in line with CSP deadlines (it is recommended applicants apply early as applications are assessed progressively).
Eligible applicants must accept their offer by the lapse date to retain their place. For application deadlines and information, please refer to Postgraduate courses with Commonwealth Supported Places.
Find more Law courses
Entry schemes and pathways
### Recognition of prior learning (RPL)
At UTS, we understand the dedication it takes to reach your current position – forging a path through prior study, work, and diverse learning experiences.
### Jumbunna Admission Program
If you're Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, Jumbunna is an alternative application process for our courses that emphasises diverse pathways to success.
### Changing from another postgraduate course
You can apply for our courses using your previous study. You may even be eligible for recognition of prior learning, so you won’t need to repeat subjects.
Careers
Your future career
As a UTS Juris Doctor Graduate Certificate in Professional Legal Practice graduate, you’ll have the required academic and hands-on experience you need to become a practising lawyer in NSW. You’ll be equipped with a comprehensive and up-to-date knowledge of Australian law theory and practice and the skills required to apply these in real legal settings. \ \ With the experience and expertise you foster through your specialised studies, you’ll be a well-rounded law professional ready to launch your future career in your chosen area of expertise.
Career options
- check_circle Criminal Lawyer
- check_circle Family Lawyer
- check_circle Human Rights Lawyer
- check_circle Business or Corporate Lawyer
- check_circle Copyright or Patent Lawyer
- check_circle Employment or Labour Lawyer
- check_circle Environmental Lawyer
- check_circle Civil Rights Lawyer
- check_circle Government Lawyer
“From the first year of the Juris Doctor I was inspired by my lecturers and tutors to think differently about everyday issues impacting society, through to complex legal problems. The JD at UTS is practical, pragmatic and industry-focused and that’s what I was really looking for.”
Jock Steel
Senior Legal Counsel
“UTS is the perfect place to study and get to know Sydney better. Being in the city would bring me closer to work opportunities, with many top-tier law firms located in the city.”
Thomas Boban
Juris Doctor
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Where you’ll study
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Hone your advocacy skills and legal acumen at our meticulously designed Moot Court, designed to mirror the real-life courtroom experience of the NSW Supreme and District Courts.
Access state-of-the-art learning spaces, such as our exclusive Postgraduate Study Lounge designed for knowledge sharing, collaboration and focused study.
Enjoy city views from our semi-enclosed and naturally ventilated Winter Garden balconies with feature planting.
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Why UTS?
Why study Law at UTS
With a Law degree at UTS you'll gain work-ready skills and learn how to ethically use law and new technologies to create positive social change.
Employers value our graduates for their problem-solving, collaborative skills and lateral thinking. Our degrees are flexible, with content developed in consultation with industry. We offer practical learning opportunities, including in-house legal counsel, legal centres and firms, and summer clerkship programs.
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Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026
#7
in Australia for law & legal studies.
QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025
#7
in Australia for most employable graduates.
Times Higher Education graduate employability rankings 2025
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