Diploma of Laws at Charles Darwin University

Diploma Law (JD) Full Time

Diploma of Laws

at Charles Darwin University · Darwin, Northern Territory

CRICOS course code

089409F

CRICOS provider code

00300K

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$31,733 total

Per year

A$31,733/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Diploma of Laws at Charles Darwin University introduces students to the legal system in Australia and the core principles of law. Over one year of full-time study, students will engage with units of study covering areas such as legal method, legal research, contract law, torts, and ethics. This structure helps students develop skills in legal analysis, critical thinking, and research, forming a solid base for further legal studies or entry-level roles related to law.

Australian diploma courses are designed with a clear structure: students complete a set number of units, each carrying credit points counted toward their award. Students will learn through lectures, tutorials, and assignments rather than workplace placements, as is usual at diploma level. Assessment is commonly through essays, exams, and scenario-based tasks. This course does not lead to admission as a lawyer but can be a stepping stone into a Bachelor of Laws or similar degrees.

Graduates develop strong written and verbal communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and an understanding of legal processes relevant to the Australian context. This course is suitable for those looking to work in legal administration, compliance, or those simply interested in understanding more about how law operates in Australia – whether they are seeking an introduction to the field or a pathway to further study. International students should check the required English language proficiency and ensure their qualifications meet admission standards.

Charles Darwin University connects learning with the local legal community in Darwin and the Northern Territory, giving insight into Indigenous legal issues and the practice of law in northern Australia. International students have options to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, and may become eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) after further studies. For full course and admissions details, check the official university page.

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

Paralegal or legal assistant roles in law firms
Legal administration in corporate or government settings
Compliance or regulatory support positions
Pathway to further studies such as Bachelor of Laws
Support roles in not-for-profits or Indigenous legal services in Australia

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Diploma of Laws at Charles Darwin 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$31,733 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Paralegal or legal assistant roles in law firmsLegal administration in corporate or government settingsCompliance or regulatory support positionsPathway to further studies such as Bachelor of LawsSupport roles in not-for-profits or Indigenous legal services in Australia

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