University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This combined programme blends the core academic and professional curriculum of an honours law degree with a comprehensive sequence in psychology. Law study covers foundational and advanced legal subjects such as Contracts, Torts, Criminal Law, Constitutional and Administrative Law, Property, Evidence, Commercial and Corporations Law, Taxation, Legal Research and Writing, ethics and professional practice. Honours-level components develop independent research skills and a capstone research project.

The psychology component provides training in psychological theory, empirical methods and applied skills. Typical psychology subjects include Introduction to Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Cognitive and Social Psychology, Biological Bases of Behaviour, Abnormal Psychology, Psychological Assessment, Intervention and Clinical Practice modules, plus multiple units in research methods and statistics. Final-year honours in psychology requires a supervised research thesis and advanced coursework in research design, analysis and ethics.

Across the combined degree you will undertake experiential learning such as moot courts, negotiation and advocacy workshops, clinical placements or community programs linked to the law school, and laboratory or field research placements in psychology. The structure permits cross-crediting of certain electives so you can tailor your studies towards areas such as forensic psychology, mental health law, family law, workplace relations or public policy.

Entry requirements

Entry is competitive and based on a combination of secondary school results (or equivalent), prerequisite subjects and other selection criteria. Applicants typically need a strong background in English at senior secondary level. International applicants will need to meet the University of Adelaide's English language requirements and provide equivalent secondary qualifications.

Mature-age applicants and those with relevant tertiary study or professional experience may apply through alternative admissions pathways. Selection may also consider personal statements, portfolios of achievement or interviews where applicable. Prospective students should consult the University’s admissions pages for the specific documentation and evidence required for combined-degree applications.

Career prospects

• Legal practice as a solicitor or barrister (graduates who complete the required practical legal training and admission process).
• Forensic roles that combine legal and psychological expertise, such as working with courts, correctional services, or forensic assessment services (often requiring additional postgraduate training for registered psychologist roles).
• Policy development, legislative advising and government or non‑government advocacy roles where specialist knowledge of law and human behaviour is advantageous.
• Corporate and workplace roles in human resources, dispute resolution, compliance, risk management and organisational consulting.
• Clinical, counselling or research careers in psychology — graduates intending to practise as registered psychologists will typically undertake postgraduate professional training and registration pathways.
• Further academic and research careers, enabled by the honours research training component in psychology and research opportunities within law.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide combines a long-established law school with a psychology programme that emphasises research-led teaching and applied experience. Law students benefit from clinical legal education, mooting, pro bono opportunities and networks with local courts and legal practices in South Australia. Psychology students learn in well-equipped research laboratories and undertake supervised research and placement experiences.

The university supports interdisciplinary study and offers access to supervisors and centres working at the intersection of law, mental health and policy. Small-group tutorials, practical skills programs and a focus on research ethics and evidence-based practice prepare graduates for both professional registration pathways and diverse careers across the public, private and community sectors.