University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This double degree mixes the core professional legal curriculum with international relations theory, comparative politics and global policy studies. Law components cover foundational subjects such as contract, tort, criminal law, constitutional and administrative law, property, evidence and civil procedure, together with professional skills units (legal research and writing, client interviewing, negotiation and ethics). The Honours element in the law component requires a higher academic standard and typically involves an advanced research project or thesis.

• Core legal subjects: foundations of common law, statutory interpretation, commercial law, criminal justice and procedure.
• Professional skills: legal research, advocacy, clinical placements and ethics.
• International relations subjects: IR theory, international organisations, diplomacy and foreign policy analysis.
• Regional and thematic studies: Asia–Pacific politics, international security, international political economy and human rights.
• Research and capstone work: research methods in the social sciences and an honours research dissertation or equivalent in law.

The degree is delivered through a combination of lectures, small-group tutorials, seminars, workshops and workplace-integrated learning such as internships or placements. Students can usually tailor their program with elective options in related areas such as international law, trade law, migration law, development studies or languages. Exchange opportunities with partner universities provide international exposure and comparative study options.

Entry requirements

Entry is competitive and based on academic achievement. Domestic applicants are typically assessed by their senior secondary qualification (or recognised equivalent); applicants who do not meet direct entry thresholds may be considered through alternative pathways such as recognised tertiary study or admissions schemes for mature-age students. International applicants must meet the University's English language requirements and provide certified academic records from prior studies.

Meeting minimum academic criteria does not guarantee a place; selection may take into account the strength of prior results and, for some applicants, supplementary information such as a personal statement or academic references. Prospective students should consult the University's official admissions advice for details about recognised qualifications, pathways and required documentation.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for admission to legal practice (subject to meeting the professional admission requirements of the relevant admitting authority) and for a broad range of careers that bridge law and international affairs. Common career pathways include:

• Private legal practice as a solicitor or, after further accreditation where required, a barrister.
• Government and public administration roles in foreign affairs, immigration, defence or regulatory agencies.
• Diplomacy and international organisations, including work with the United Nations or regional bodies.
• Policy and advocacy positions in think tanks, non-government organisations and international development agencies.
• Corporate roles in compliance, trade policy, international business and in-house legal departments.
• Further study and research careers, including postgraduate law programs, specialist international relations masters degrees and doctoral research.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide combines a long-established law school with active research and teaching in global politics and international studies. Students benefit from practical learning opportunities such as clinical legal services, mooting competitions and industry placements, plus access to research centres and seminars that connect legal and international policy issues. The University's partnerships with government, industry and overseas institutions support internships, exchange study and career networking. Studying in Adelaide also offers a supportive campus environment with focused small-group teaching in professional disciplines and pathways to professional accreditation.