Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This dual degree combines core business studies with a full curriculum in Australian law. Business modules cover accounting and financial reporting, micro- and macroeconomics, management and organisational behaviour, marketing, finance, strategic management, human resources and entrepreneurship. Quantitative methods, business analytics and professional communication are embedded to develop practical decision-making skills.

The law component provides the doctrinal and practical foundations required for legal practice in Australia. Typical law subjects include foundations of law, contract law, torts, criminal law, property law, constitutional and administrative law, evidence, civil procedure, commercial and corporate law, family law, and taxation law. Legal research and writing, ethics and professional responsibility, and practical skills such as advocacy and client interviewing are emphasised through coursework and clinical programs.

The program structure stages subjects to build from introductory concepts to advanced, integrative units. Students undertake core units in both streams and may choose electives or majors within the business degree such as finance, marketing or human resource management. Work-integrated learning, internships and legal clinic placements are commonly offered to provide real-world experience and professional networking opportunities.

Entry requirements

Entry is normally based on completion of secondary school (Year 12) with a competitive selection rank or equivalent qualifications. Meeting university English requirements is essential, as law and business demand high proficiency in written and oral communication. Applicants with vocational education and training (VET) qualifications, recognised prior learning, or relevant work experience may be considered through alternative or pathway admission schemes. Mature-age applicants may apply through special entrance pathways or an interview process where available.

Domestic applicants typically apply via the relevant state tertiary admissions centre; international applicants must meet ACU's international entry and English language requirements. Successful progression through the combined degree requires meeting progression rules for both the business and law components, including satisfactory academic standing in core professional units.

Career prospects

Graduates are well placed for a range of careers at the intersection of law and business. Common pathways include roles as solicitors (with the additional completion of practical legal training and admission requirements), corporate counsel or in-house legal advisers, compliance and risk officers, policy advisers, and commercial negotiators. The business qualifications also open opportunities in management, consulting, finance, banking, human resources, and entrepreneurship.

Graduates aiming for advocacy may proceed to practical legal training and admission to practice; others move into specialist corporate roles where legal knowledge is an advantage, such as mergers and acquisitions support, regulatory compliance, contracts management and governance. The combination of business and legal skills is valued in private practice, industry, government and not-for-profit sectors.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU offers a student-centred learning environment with a focus on ethical practice, social justice and community engagement. The university provides practical legal learning through clinical placements, pro bono programs and partnerships with courts and legal services, helping students develop practical skills and professional networks. Small-group tutorials, accessible staff and embedded professional skills units help students transition from theory to practice.

ACU also supports work-integrated learning across the business stream, with opportunities for internships, industry projects and international exchange. The combined degree is designed to meet professional standards for legal education while delivering a broad commercial foundation, preparing graduates for careers that require both business acumen and legal expertise.