University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This dual-degree programme brings together the core curriculum of an honours-level law degree with practical and theoretical journalism studies. Law components cover foundational and advanced topics such as contracts, torts, criminal law, constitutional and administrative law, property, evidence, legal research and writing, professional responsibility, and electives in areas such as corporate law, family law, international law and human rights. Honours requirements typically include a greater depth of study through advanced coursework or a substantial research project/thesis.

Journalism components focus on news gathering and storytelling across platforms: reporting and newswriting, media law and ethics, investigative journalism, feature writing, broadcast and multimedia production, data journalism, digital publishing, and audience engagement. Practical elements commonly include newsroom-style projects, industry placements or internships, and portfolio-building units that prepare students for professional practice.

The degree structure balances compulsory law subjects required for legal accreditation with journalism majors and electives; students should expect a multi-year full-time enrolment with a combination of lectures, tutorials, workshops, clinics and workplace learning. Opportunities exist to undertake clinical legal programs, moot court advocacy and newsroom practica to develop professional skills.

Entry requirements

Entry to the combined programme normally requires a strong secondary-school academic record or an approved equivalent. Typical entry conditions include a competitive ATAR or recognised alternative qualifications, satisfactory completion of required English assumptions, and evidence of communication skills. Applicants who have completed tertiary study, vocational qualifications or relevant professional experience may be eligible for admission through alternative pathways.

Because the programme combines professional law study with practical journalism training, selection may also consider a personal statement, writing samples or a record of relevant extracurricular experience — for example involvement in student media, volunteering, internships or community activities. International applicants must meet the University’s English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of this combined degree are equipped for a broad range of careers that draw on legal knowledge and high-level communication skills. Common pathways include:

• Legal practice — working as a solicitor or barrister after completing any required practical legal training and admission processes.
• Media and journalism — roles such as reporter, feature writer, investigative journalist, multimedia producer or editor in print, broadcast and online newsrooms.
• Media law and communications — specialist roles advising media organisations on defamation, privacy, intellectual property and regulatory compliance, or working in-house in corporate communications and public affairs.
• Policy, government and NGOs — positions in public policy, advocacy, regulatory bodies or community legal centres where legal expertise and clear public communication are essential.
• Corporate and commercial roles — compliance, risk management, corporate affairs and stakeholder engagement roles that value legal literacy and high-quality writing.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide combines a long-established law school with practical, industry-connected media teaching. Law students benefit from rigorous academic training, clinical legal education opportunities and connections to the South Australian legal community, including courts and professional organisations. Journalism students gain hands-on experience through newsroom-style units, multimedia labs and industry placements that build professional portfolios.

Studying in Adelaide offers proximity to government, courts and cultural institutions, fostering opportunities for internships and networking. The University emphasises experiential learning, research-informed teaching and cross-disciplinary study, which is particularly valuable for students pursuing careers at the interface of law, media and public life.