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Bachelor of Forensic Studies/Bachelor of Laws (194JA.3)
Selection rank | Delivery mode | Location | Duration |
---|---|---|---|
87 | Bruce, Canberra |
5.0 years | |
Faculty | Discipline(s) | Available teaching periods | UAC code |
Faculty of Business, Government & Law | Canberra Law School Academic Program Area - Science |
368047 | |
Fees | English language requirements | AQF level | |
|
View requirements | 7 |
English language requirements
There are non-standard English language requirements for this course. To be eligible you must have an academic IELTS or equivalent of 6.5, with no band score below 6.0. Students who have undertaken all of their education in an English speaking country (as defined on UC website) are deemed to have met our English language proficiency requirements.
Delivery mode
Blended: Mixture of online and on campus units are available.
On campus: Units are delivered on campus.
Online: All units are online.
Online Plus: Units are available online, except where attendance at a physical location is required for placement or professional accreditation.
Location
All course material is developed and delivered via the location listed. Online units do not require on campus attendance.
Selection rank
The selection rank is the minimum ATAR plus adjustment factors required for admission to the program in the previous year. This is an indicative guide only as ranks change each year depending on demand.
Fees disclaimer
Annual fee rates
The fees shown are the annual fee rates for the course. The annual rate is the fee that applies to standard full-time enrolment, which is 24 credit points. The final fee charged is based on the proportion of 24 credit points in which a student enrols. Students enrolled in a Commonwealth Support Place (CSP) are required to make a contribution towards the cost of their education, which is set by the Commonwealth Government. Information on Commonwealth Supported Places, HECS-HELP and how fees are calculated can be found here.
Please note: Course fees are assessed annually and are subject to change.
AQF Level
University of Canberra qualifications are recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).
- Level 5 - Diploma
- Level 6 - Associate Degree
- Level 7 - Bachelor Degree
- Level 8 - Bachelor Honours Degree OR Graduate Certificate OR Graduate Diploma
- Level 9 - Masters Degree
- Level 10 - Doctoral Degree
Academic entry requirements | Delivery mode | Location | Duration |
---|---|---|---|
Bruce, Canberra |
5.0 years | ||
Faculty | Discipline(s) | Available teaching periods | CRICOS code |
Faculty of Business, Government & Law | Canberra Law School Academic Program Area - Science |
074936F | |
Fees | English language requirements | AQF level | |
|
View requirements | 7 |
Fees disclaimer
Annual fee rates
The fees shown are the annual fee rates for the course. The annual rate is the fee that applies to standard full-time enrolment, which is 24 credit points. The final fee charged is based on the proportion of 24 credit points in which a student enrols. Information on how fees are calculated can be found here.
Please note: Course fees are assessed annually and are subject to change.
Delivery mode
Blended: Mixture of online and on campus units are available.
On campus: Units are delivered on campus.
Online: All units are online.
Online Plus: Units are available online, except where attendance at a physical location is required for placement or professional accreditation.
English language requirements
There are non-standard English language requirements for this course. To be eligible you must have an academic IELTS or equivalent of 6.5, with no band score below 6.0. Students who have undertaken all of their education in an English speaking country (as defined on UC website) are deemed to have met our English language proficiency requirements.
Location
All course material is developed and delivered via the location listed. Online units do not require on campus attendance.
Academic entry requirements
To study at UC, you’ll need to meet our academic entry requirements and any admission requirements specific to your course. Please read your course admission requirements below. To find out whether you meet UC’s academic entry requirements, visit our academic entry requirements page.
AQF level
University of Canberra qualifications are recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).
- Level 5 - Diploma
- Level 6 - Associate Degree
- Level 7 - Bachelor Degree
- Level 8 - Bachelor Honours Degree OR Graduate Certificate OR Graduate Diploma
- Level 9 - Masters Degree
- Level 10 - Doctoral Degree
Super-charge your law degree with a bit of forensic insight
Be a formidable force in the courtroom by focusing your talent for law on the compelling area of forensics, where you’ll be able to apply your scientific knowledge in the areas of crime investigation and the analytical preparation of evidence.
This course will help you achieve a fully accredited Law Degree (preparing you for work as a solicitor or barrister) which is recognised by the Supreme Courts of the ACT and NSW, and will give you articulation pathways that may lead to your admission on a career-smashing overseas assignment.
You will be able to demonstrate broad theoretical and technical knowledge in the application of science in legal matters, cross-examine witnesses, transmit knowledge to judges and juries and master forensic biology and chemistry.
Career paths? How about state and federal law enforcement agencies, DNA testing labs, quarantine services or in medical and research services? Insightful, indeed!
Combine a Bachelor of Forensic Studies / Bachelor of Laws at UC and you will:
- qualify as a practising lawyer
- be able to demonstrate a broad and coherent theoretical and technical knowledge in forensic science or in the application of science to legal matters
- be able to cross-examine expert witnesses across a range of forensic disciplines
- be able to transmit knowledge, skills and ideas to those involved in the legal system including judges and juries
- master forensic biology and chemistry for criminal investigations
- learn analytical techniques for collecting and examining trace evidence.
Work-integrated learning
In this course, you can undertake a workplace internship as part of the Faculty of Education, Science, Technology & Maths’ commitment to supporting work-integrated learning, which will enhance your employability and ensure you’re armed with the right mix of skills and knowledge to take a super-confident leap into your future career.
Career opportunities
Opportunities exist for Bachelor of Forensic Studies / Bachelor of Laws graduates in a range of sectors, including in:
- The Police Force
- State and Federal Law Enforcement Agencies
- Government and Private Forensic and Drug Detection Labs
- DNA Testing Labs
- Customs and Quarantine Services
- Environmental Protection Agencies
- Pharmaceutical, Chemical and Analytical Industries
- Medical Diagnostic Labs
- Hospitals and Corporate Business that provide Forensic, Medical or Research Services
Course specific information
Applicants must meet normal university requirements for admission to an undergraduate course.
Professional accreditation
This program is recognised by the Supreme Court of the Australian Capital Territory and the State of New South Wales. Through mutual recognition, UC's degree may serve as the basis for admission in all Australian jurisdictions.
Through a program offered in conjunction with the College of Law, students may (in their final year of the Bachelor of Laws at UC) begin their Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice course that qualifies for them for admission. Arrangements exist for students to articulate into programs leading to admission in the UK and the United States.
Normal requirements for admission to an undergraduate degree.
Additional admission requirements
None.
Assumed knowledge
For the Bachelor of Laws, please refer to the individual course. For the Bachelor of Forensic Studies, assumed knowledge is ACT: Biology and/or Chemistry major(s), plus Mathematical Methods major. NSW; Biology and/or Chemistry, plus Mathematics.
Periods course is open for new admissions
This course is not open for new admissions.
Credit arrangements
There are currently no formal credit transfer arrangements for entry to this course. Any previous study or work experience will only be considered as part of the application process in accordance with current course rules and university policy.
Bachelor of Forensic Studies/Bachelor of Laws (194JA) | 120 credit points
- 21 credit points major is restricted to students enrolled in double degrees.
- Honours: Eligible students will enrol in 9804 Law Honours (6cp) in place of two Law Electives in their last year.
- Unit Availability: In any semester and year only a selection of these units are available.
In addition to course requirements, in order to successfully complete your course you must meet the inherent requirements. Please refer to the inherent requirements statement applicable to your course
UC - Canberra, Bruce
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
Year 5
Semester 1
Law Elective
MJ0083 Restricted Choice Unit
7019 Advanced Legal Research and Writing OR 8358 Advanced Legal Research and Writing (Honours)
Course duration
Standard ten semesters full-time or equivalent. Maximum twenty-four semesters.
Learning outcomes
Learning outcomes | Related graduate attributes |
---|---|
Graduates will be able to demonstrate a broad and coherent theoretical and technical knowledge with depth in forensic science or the application of science to legal matters. AQF: Knowledge | Graduates will have developed the following skills and attributes: 1. The ability to present knowledge, ideas and opinions effectively to the legal community and communicate within and across professional and cultural boundaries. 2. The ability to gather scientific information, and to analyse and evaluate that information in a systematic way. 3. The ability to apply problem-solving processes in novel situations; to identify and analyse problems then formulate and implement solutions. 4. The ability to plan their own work, be self-directed, and use interpersonal skills and attitudes to work collaboratively. 5. The capacity and intention to use professional knowledge and skills ethically and responsibly, for the benefit of the legal community and for the administration of justice. |
Graduates will have well-developed cognitive, technical and communication skills to select and apply methods and technologies to: - analyse and evaluate information to complete a range of activities in the field of forensic science - analyse, generate and transmit scientific solutions to unpredictable and sometimes complex legal problems - transmit knowledge, skills and ideas to those involved in the legal system including judges and juries AQF: Knowledge, Skills and Application of knowledge and skills |
As above |
Graduates will be able to apply knowledge and skills to demonstrate autonomy, well-developed judgement of knowledge and responsibility: - for problem solving and decision making in professional practice - in contexts that are unfamiliar and require self-directed work and learning - to provide specialist scientific advice with respect to legal matters AQF: Application of knowledge and skills |
As above |
Knowledge: 1. Graduates will have a broad and coherent theoretical and technical knowledge of the discipline of law, suitable for entering the legal profession or undertaking other careers involving legal work. The course will provide students with a program of study and learning to satisfy the academic requirements for admission to legal practice. 2. Students will also undertake an in depth study of selected areas of law, including the Priestly 11 units, and in chosen law electives, with an emphasis on commercial law and/or justice studies. 3. In addition to the above, students graduating with Honours will have developed the ability to independently identify and provide solutions to complex legal problems. |
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Skills 1. Communication The ability to present knowledge, ideas and opinions effectively and communicate within and across professional and cultural boundaries - Communicate, both orally and in writing, in ways that are effective, appropriate and persuasive for legal and non-legal audiences - Ability to communicate in plain English - Ability to engage with culturally diverse audiences - Appreciation and adaptability to the communication context, including genre and audience 2. Analysis and inquiry The ability to gather information, and to analyse and evaluate information and situations in a systematic, creative and insightful way - Develop intellectual and practice skills to identify, research, evaluate and synthesise relevant factual, legal and policy issues, drawing on a range of sources - Legal referencing skills and ethical academic practice - Engage in critical analysis and make a reasoned choice among alternatives 3. Problem Solving The ability to apply problem-solving processes in novel situations; to identify and analyse problems, then formulate and implement solutions - Identify and articulate legal issues in a text or scenario - Apply legal reasoning and research to generate appropriate responses to legal issues - Think creatively in approaching legal issues and solutions, including both adversarial and non-adversarial options 4. Working independently and with others The ability to plan their own work, be self-directed, and use interpersonal skills and attitudes to work collaboratively - Use interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively in teams - Learn and work independently, including directing aspects of learning and effective management of times and workload - Reflect on capabilities and performance and develop self-awareness - Make use of feedback to support personal and professional development 5. Professionalism The capacity and intention to use professional knowledge and skills ethically and responsibly, for the benefit of others and the environment - Appreciate the principles and values of justice and ethical practice in legal professional roles - Understand and be able to apply ethical approaches to decision-making - Recognise and reflect upon ethical issues likely to arise in professional contexts - Recognise and reflect upon the professional responsibilities of lawyers in promoting justice and in service to the community |
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Application of Knowledge and Skills: Graduates will have applied their knowledge and skills to analyse and solve legal problems, both in writing and orally (through presentations and mooting programs). They will have undertaken complex legal research tasks, made suggestions for law reform, and reflected upon ethical issues. Graduates who have completed with Honours will have developed a research proposal and written a thesis. |
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Majors
- Major in Forensic Chemistry (MJ0042)
- Major in Legal Practice (Restricted) (MJ0083)
- Major in Law Foundation (MJ0082)
- Major in Forensic Biology (MJ0043)
Awards
Award | Official abbreviation |
---|---|
Bachelor of Laws | LLB |
Bachelor of Forensic Studies | B ForSt |
Honours
The degree of Bachelor of Laws may be awarded with first or second class honours. Requirements are specified in the Determination of Course Particulars for the Bachelor of Laws.
(i) To be eligible to undertake studies at honours level, a student must achieve at least a credit average in all law units undertaken at the University of Canberra, this being determined by averaging their scores in all eligible subjects.
Eligible Units: Eligible Units are those which count towards the Entry GPA and Honours GPA. Eligible Units are:
- Any Law unit done which counts towards your LLB (i.e., not the subjects going only towards the non-law degree if you are enrolled in a double degree. If you are enrolled in a straight LLB, your open electives are not counted).
- This includes Units for which you receive Advanced Standing, whether done at UC or elsewhere.
- Where you have done extra subjects which may count, e.g. more than the required amount of law electives, your best results will be counted.
(ii) Law Honours has 12 credit points of research-related units. These are made up of:
- Legal Methods and Skills (3cp)
- Advanced Legal Research and Writing (Honours) (3cp)
- Law Honours (6cp)
(iii) The degree of Bachelor of Laws may be awarded with first or second class honours. Following submission of an Honours thesis as part of the unit Law Honours, students must show a Good performance by receiving a minimum of a Credit in the 6 credit point restricted choice unit Law Honours.
Calculating the final class of honours:
Law degrees with Honours are awarded in the following classes depending on the Honours GPA obtained and the standard of the Honours Thesis.
First Class: Showing an exceptional performance by both an Honours GPA of at least 6 and a mark of 80 and above in the honours component of your assessment
Second Class - Division I: Showing a Very Good performance by both an Honours GPA of at least 5.5 and a mark of 73 and above in the honours component of your assessment
Second Class - Division II: Showing a Good performance by both an Honours GPA of at least 5 and a mark of 65 and above in the Honours component of your assessment
Calculating the Honours GPA
GPAs are calculated by using the University¿s system. The Unit Law Honours will be weighted as 30% for the purposes of calculating the Honours GPA. Units used in the Honours GPA are as described in ¿Eligible units¿ above for entry to the Honours component of the course.
Note that marks are not automatically rounded up for purposes of Honours. Thus 4.99 does not become 5.00. Where your final mark is within two marks of the next level of honours, or of achieving honours at all (e.g. a 4.8 is rounded up to 5.0), you can apply in writing to have your honours result upgraded. This will be determined by the Law Program Manager and the Law Honours Unit Convener, taking into account your academic record and any mitigating circumstances which may have affected your academic performance.
Alternative exits
Diploma of Justice Studies, Associate Degree of Justice Studies.
Enquiries
Student category | Contact details |
---|---|
Current and Commencing Students | In person, Student Centre Building 1 (take a BGL Faculty course advice ticket) or Email bglstudent@canberra.edu.au |
Prospective International Students | Email international@canberra.edu.au or Phone +61 2 6201 5342 |
Prospective Domestic Students | Email study@canberra.edu.au or Phone 1800 UNI CAN (1800 864 226) |
