Graduate Diploma in Legal Studies
Source: https://www.uts.edu.au/courses/graduate-diploma-in-legal-studies Parent: https://www.uts.edu.au/courses/juris-doctor-graduate-certificate-in-professional-legal-practice
Study Legal Studies
Looking for a way to enhance your career opportunities? The UTS Graduate Diploma in Legal Studies is the perfect choice. Designed for non-law graduates, this program has been created to help you succeed in any sector or organisation by advancing your understanding of the Australian legal system and how it intersects with your industry.
Benefit from our leading teaching team, comprised of experts and academics at the top of their fields, and enjoy flexible delivery and a range of subjects to suit any interest and goal. This program also offers you a pathway to further studies in either the Master of Legal Studies or the Juris Doctor.
With UTS’ focus on hands-on learning through practical assessment tasks and state-of-the-art facilities, you’ll be sure to get the applied, job-ready insight and competencies you need to grow your career.
Part of the Faculty of Law.
Share
share
link
Link copied
EXPLORE
Graduate Diploma in Legal Studies
CODE
UTS: C07122 (version 1)
CRICOS: 080597C
DURATION
1 year full time\ 2 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 domestic students\ $43,900.00
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 program is designed for non-law graduates and can be completed in as little as one year. In this degree, you’ll undertake three core subjects, building your essential knowledge of the Australian legal system.
Then, you’ll have the opportunity to curate your study experience to best meet your interests and goals, with your choice of Legal Studies options subjects. Topics include discrimination law, corporate governance, deceptive trade practices, public health and more, allowing you to focus your studies on the areas of most interest and relevance to you.
Subjects at a glance
-
Core subjects
| Subject Code | Subject Name |
|---|---|
| 70102 | Foundations of Law |
| 70211 | Contracts |
| 70616 | Australian Constitutional Law |
See all subjects and majors in the UTS Handbook arrow_right_alt
Typical course program
The outline below shows an example program for the Graduate Diploma of Legal Studies based on a full-time study load. Please note that your exact program may differ based on your unique circumstances, such as your commencement date, subject selections and recognition of prior learning.
Course structure
- 3 : core Legal Studies subjects
add 2. 4 : Legal Studies options subjects
add
-
First year
You’ll commence your learning with core units, where you’ll establish your foundational knowledge of Australian law in the areas that best align with your interests and goals. You’ll then get to specialise your knowledge with your choice of optional subjects.
First year
You’ll commence your learning with core units, where you’ll establish your foundational knowledge of Australian law in the areas that best align with your interests and goals. You’ll then get to specialise your knowledge with your choice of optional subjects.
arrow_back
arrow_back
arrow_forward
See typical course program in the UTS Handbook arrow_forward
Course highlights
This program is designed to equip you with knowledge of Australian law, enhanced by your choice of core studies in areas like contracts, property, torts, constitutional law and more. You’ll curate your degree with optional studies and develop vital professional attributes such as analytical thinking, cultural awareness and advanced reasoning.
- check_circle Ethics and professional responsibility
- check_circle Cultural awareness and Indigenous perspectives
- check_circle Critical, strategic and creative thinking
- check_circle Professional communication
- check_circle Reasoning, research and analysis
Admissions information
Admissions information
Use the buttons to expand or collapse the section.
-
Course description
The Graduate Diploma of Legal Studies is for non-law graduates who require a solid grasp of legal and regulatory frameworks to excel in their career.
This course is particularly useful if you work in professions such as human resources, accounting, auditing and compliance, business development, financial advising or property development.
You will gain invaluable insights into how the law impacts your field, equipping you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and manage legal risks.
You will study three core subjects across core areas of the Australian legal system, including Foundations of law, contract law and constitutional law. You will then choose additional elective subjects, allowing you to specialise in areas of law that are relevant to your field of work or your interests. If you want to qualify as a lawyer, you can apply to transfer into the Juris Doctor program at UTS Law upon completion of three core subjects, and completed subjects will be applied towards the Juris Doctor.
You will learn from experienced academics, practitioners and industry experts. You will enjoy a flexible learning environment that allows you to balance work or other commitments with subjects offered in a variety of delivery modes, including collaborative face-to-face seminars, online, evening classes and intensives. As a valued member of our postgraduate community, you will have access to a range of facilities, including our exclusive UTS Law postgraduate student lounge that provides a dedicated study and relaxation space for our postgraduate students.
The Graduate Diploma in Legal Studies will complement your current professional capabilities with legal knowledge that will empower you to make informed decisions and provide a competitive edge in your field.
Students can also use their elective choices to build specialist legal expertise in areas such as compliance and intellectual property law. - ### 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 course can be completed in a minimum of one year of full-time or two years of part-time study. Subjects may also be available in Summer session, allowing accelerated progression.
The course is offered in a variety of attendance patterns, including intensive block attendance and weekly on-campus evening classes. - ### Admission requirements
To be eligible for admission to this course, applicants must meet the following criteria.
Applicants must have the following:
- Completed Australian bachelor's degree, or higher qualification, or overseas equivalent
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 C11264 Graduate Certificate in Legal Studies.
Supporting documentation to be submitted with the application
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: overall 79, writing 21 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 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: $43,900.00
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. - ### Recognition of prior learning
General and course-specific recognition of prior learning information regarding the Graduate Diploma in Legal Studies is available at postgraduate course information. - ### Transfer between UTS courses
Subjects undertaken within the Graduate Diploma in Legal Studies are recognised within the Master of Legal Studies (C04264). Students enrolled in the graduate diploma may apply to internally transfer to the master's. Candidates are not awarded the graduate diploma but subjects undertaken are applied towards the master's.
Subjects undertaken within the Juris Doctor (C04236) are recognised within the Graduate Diploma in Legal Studies. Students enrolled in the Juris Doctor may apply to internally transfer to the graduate diploma. Candidates are not awarded the Juris Doctor but subjects undertaken are applied towards the graduate diploma.
Students who successfully complete three core subjects in the Graduate Diploma in Legal Studies may apply to internally transfer to the Juris Doctor (C04236). Candidates are not awarded the graduate diploma, but completed subjects are applied towards the Juris Doctor (C04236). - ### Important notes
The Graduate Diploma in Legal Studies is not a professional legal qualification. Students seeking admission to practise as a lawyer should consider the Juris Doctor (C04236) or the Bachelor of Laws (C10124). Some subjects in the Graduate Diploma in Legal Studies may be credited towards these degrees.
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 graduate of the UTS Graduate Diploma of Legal Studies, you’ll possess a honed, in-demand, job-ready set of legal knowledge and skills. Blending this with your professional competencies, you’ll be ready to accelerate your existing career, using your capabilities to strategise on legal issues pertaining to your sector, organisation and industry.
Alternatively, you’ll have everything you need to pursue further learning with the UTS Master of Legal Studies or Juris Doctor.
Career options
- check_circle Accountant
- check_circle Business Development Manager
- check_circle Compliance Manager
- check_circle Engineer
- check_circle Financial Advisor
- check_circle IT Manager
- check_circle Law Enforcement Officer
- check_circle Paralegal
- check_circle Policy Officer
“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
Where you’ll study
Our world-class facilities support your future-focused learning and high-impact research. They enable effective partnerships with industry and provide services to our community.
See more facilities arrow_forward
See more facilities arrow_forward
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.
arrow_back
arrow_back
arrow_forward
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.
Top 10
7 university in Australia.
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
Upcoming events
calendar_today
On-demand
location_on
Online
attach_money
Free admission
### Postgraduate Law on-demand videos
calendar_today
On-demand
location_on
Online
attach_money
Free admission
calendar_today
On-demand
attach_money
Free admission
### Master of Laws & Graduate Certificate in Laws info session
calendar_today
On-demand
location_on
Online
attach_money
Free admission
calendar_today
On-demand
location_on
Online
attach_money
Free admission
### Postgraduate Law on-demand videos
calendar_today
On-demand
location_on
Online
attach_money
Free admission
calendar_today
On-demand
attach_money
Free admission
### Master of Laws & Graduate Certificate in Laws info session
calendar_today
On-demand
location_on
Online
attach_money
Free admission
arrow_back
arrow_back
arrow_forward
Make an enquiry
Considering studying at UTS? Connect with our team to explore your study options, the application process, and discuss any other questions you may have.
Are you a domestic or international student?\
Domestic studentInternational student
If you are an international student, get in touch by completing the
international student enquiry form.
The information you provide in this form will be used to respond to your enquiry. Your information may also be used to provide you with general information about the university. Please refer to our privacy policies for details.
Fields marked with an asterisk (*) are required.
What level of study are you interested in?\
Please select... Undergraduate Postgraduate
First name\
Last name\
Email\
Mobile\
What course area are you interested in?\
Please select... Non Faculty Specific Architecture Building Business Communication Design Education Engineering Health Information Technology International Studies Law Public Policy and Governance Science and Mathematics Transdisciplinary Innovation
What is your enquiry about?\
Course enquiryFees/ScholarshipsAdmissionsRecognition of Prior LearningOffer and enrolmentsOther
Let us know how we can help?\
If you know your UTS Student number or Application Number please include it in your enquiry
Please upload any supporting files by clicking on the button below\
I would like to receive more information about UTS courses and events from UTS\
Yes, send me more information
Terms and Conditions\
Yes, I agree with the UTS Marketing Privacy Notice.
Valid Email\
CorrectInCorrect
resultState\
utm_url
\
/courses/graduate-diploma-in-legal-studies
utm_campaign
\
utm_source\
utm_medium\
utm_content\
course_code\
\
Related courses
### Graduate Diploma in Intellectual Property
location_on
City campus
schedule
1 year full time 1.5 years part time
### Graduate Diploma in Migration Law and Practice
location_on
City campus
schedule
1 year full time 2 years part time
location_on
City campus
schedule
3 years full time 5.5 years part time
### Juris Doctor Graduate Certificate in Professional Legal Practice
location_on
City campus
schedule
3 years full time 5 years part time
### Graduate Diploma in Intellectual Property
location_on
City campus
schedule
1 year full time 1.5 years part time
### Graduate Diploma in Migration Law and Practice
location_on
City campus
schedule
1 year full time 2 years part time
location_on
City campus
schedule
3 years full time 5.5 years part time
### Juris Doctor Graduate Certificate in Professional Legal Practice
location_on
City campus
schedule
3 years full time 5 years part time
arrow_back
arrow_back
arrow_forward