Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This double-degree combines core business studies with a comprehensive law curriculum and an honours research component in law. Business modules typically cover foundational topics such as accounting, finance, economics, marketing, management, organisational behaviour, human resource management and strategic planning. You will also study applied business subjects, including business law, corporate governance, ethics and entrepreneurship.

The law component follows the standard substantive areas required for a qualifying law degree: constitutional and administrative law, contract law, torts, property, criminal law, equity and trusts, evidence and civil procedure. Advanced and elective law subjects commonly include commercial and corporate law, taxation, family law, employment law, dispute resolution and public law. The honours year requires a substantial supervised research project or thesis and advanced legal subjects to develop research, writing and analytical skills at a higher level.

Practical learning is emphasised across both degrees. Students can expect skills-based classes, legal research and writing, mooting and negotiation exercises, and opportunities for clinical placements or internships with industry, government or community legal centres. Cross-disciplinary projects link business and legal perspectives, preparing graduates to work in regulatory, compliance and corporate environments.

Entry requirements

Entry is competitive and based on secondary school results (such as ATAR) or equivalent recognised prior learning for mature-age applicants. Applicants must meet ACU's general English-language requirements and any course-specific academic standards. Selection may also take into account personal statements, references or interviews where specified by the university. International applicants should demonstrate equivalent qualification and meet English proficiency requirements.

Applicants with diploma or university-level study, or relevant professional experience, may be eligible for advanced standing or credit transfer subject to ACU's policies. The honours component usually requires students to achieve a specified academic standard in the law subjects during earlier years to progress to the honours year.

Career prospects

Graduates emerge with skills valued across legal and commercial sectors. Typical career pathways include admission to legal practice as a solicitor (subject to completion of required practical legal training and local admission rules) and, with further steps, practice as a barrister. Many graduates work in-house for corporations or not-for-profits in roles such as legal counsel, compliance officer or contracts manager.

Business-focused careers include managerial and consulting roles in finance, marketing, human resources and operations. The combined degree is also suitable for careers in government, policy development, regulatory agencies, banking and risk management. The honours law year provides a strong basis for postgraduate study, including research degrees or specialised postgraduate legal qualifications.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU emphasises values-driven education and professional practice, with a focus on small-group teaching and student support. The law programme offers practical learning through clinical legal services, mooting and externships that connect students with legal practice and community organisations. Business teaching is applied and industry-relevant, with opportunities for internships and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

The combined degree benefits students seeking a career bridging business and law by delivering both technical knowledge and practical experience. ACU's supportive campus environment, student services and professional networks help students prepare for accreditation, admission to practice and employment in a range of public and private sector roles.