Graduate Diploma Law (JD) Full Time

Graduate Diploma in Law

at Adelaide University · Adelaide, South Australia

CRICOS course code

068883J

CRICOS provider code

00123M

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

1 year

Tuition (whole course)

A$52,300 total

Per year

A$52,300/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Graduate Diploma in Law at Adelaide University is well suited to those wanting to gain an advanced knowledge of legal principles and practice in Australia. The course covers topics like Australian legal systems, contract law, property law, administrative and criminal law. This diploma can be a pathway for those with a non-law degree or an overseas law qualification who are seeking a recognised credential in Australian legal studies.

Structured across two semesters, students usually complete eight units of study, each carrying a set number of credit points. Assessment involves case studies, legal research, written assignments, and sometimes oral presentations. Some units may include simulated practice or professional workshops in legal skills. While this graduate diploma does not typically include work-integrated learning as a compulsory element, students have opportunities to engage with Adelaide’s legal sector for insights and networking.

The skills gained include legal research and writing, interpreting statutes, analysing case law, and professional communication. Students build the ability to critically assess legal problems and offer practical solutions applicable in various industries. The course is suitable for those seeking to transition into the legal field, or professionals whose work requires strong knowledge of Australia’s legal framework, such as business managers, government officers, or compliance analysts.

Graduates planning to work in law should check their eligibility for professional accreditation with the relevant Australian admitting authority, as this diploma alone is not equivalent to a qualifying law degree. International students in this course may be eligible for work rights of 48 hours per fortnight while studying, and the qualification sits on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). For the most current details on course specifics, please visit the official university website.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Legal assistant in law firms or businesses
Compliance officer in corporate or government sectors
Contracts administrator
Policy adviser for public sector agencies
Risk and governance roles in financial services
Legal research roles in advocacy groups and institutes

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Graduate Diploma in Law at Adelaide University?

It typically takes 1 year, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$52,300 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Legal assistant in law firms or businessesCompliance officer in corporate or government sectorsContracts administratorPolicy adviser for public sector agenciesRisk and governance roles in financial servicesLegal research roles in advocacy groups and institutes

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