Bachelor of Laws (Honours)

Curtin University's Bachelor of Laws (Honours) is an additional one-year qualification designed for high-achieving students who have already completed a Bachelor of Laws. The honours year involves advanced coursework in specialised legal topics and a significant research component, usually in the form of an honours thesis. Supervised by academic staff, students explore complex legal questions and refine legal research skills relevant to Australian and international contexts.

The course structure typically includes a series of advanced units of study and a required thesis, with each unit contributing to the total credit points necessary for completion. Curtin aligns with the Australian Qualifications Framework, so the honours degree sits at a higher level than the base bachelor’s degree and is recognised by Australian employers and legal institutions.

Throughout the honours year, students gain experience in critical analytical thinking, high-level legal research, written and oral advocacy, and project management. The qualifications are well suited to those who want to pursue roles in academia, legal research, policy, or who wish to boost their prospects for entry into competitive graduate training roles or further postgraduate study, such as a Master of Laws or a PhD.

Applicants must demonstrate a strong undergraduate academic record, and international applicants should evidence advanced English proficiency (usually IELTS Academic 7.0 or equivalent), as specified for law degrees in Australia. Curtin University is based in Perth, providing students with opportunities to engage with Western Australia’s legal profession and industry through guest lectures, research partnerships, or volunteering.

• Legal researcher with government agencies or law reform bodies
• Policy adviser in Australian public service or NGOs
• Academic research assistant or pathway to PhD study
• Junior solicitor or law graduate (with further admission requirements)
• Legal and compliance roles in corporations or consultancies

Graduates are sought across Australian law firms, government departments, legal policy organisations, think-tanks, and universities. Eligible graduates may access the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, and can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during their studies. Honours is valued by employers for its emphasis on research and analytical skills.