Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Social Science | UNSW
US University of New South Wales logo
Bachelor's Degree Law (JD) Full Time

Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Social Science

at University of New South Wales · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

078550C

CRICOS provider code

00098G

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

5.5 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$321,500 total

Per year

A$56,864/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Social Science at the University of New South Wales is a comprehensive double degree blending legal studies with a nuanced understanding of society, behaviour, and policy-making. Over 5.5 years, this program covers fundamental and advanced areas of Australian law, ranging from constitutional to criminal and contract law, alongside in-depth exploration of the social sciences, including sociology, political science, and social policy. Through this interdisciplinary approach, students develop critical analytical skills, legal reasoning, research abilities, and a broader understanding of social justice and social change.

Australian bachelor double degrees are typically structured into semesters, with students enrolling in a set number of units of study each session. Each unit carries designated credit points contributing toward the total needed for graduation. The Law component prepares students for legal practice through a sequential progression of core and elective units, culminating in a capstone experience, which may include advanced research projects or practical legal training. The Social Science component enhances competencies in research methods, ethics, and the application of social theory to real-world issues.

Practical and professional experience is a key program feature. Law students benefit from mooting, simulated negotiation, and potential clinical placements, connecting with the vibrant legal industry centred in Sydney. The double degree is ideal for those seeking careers that require both legal expertise and a profound grasp of the social and policy contexts within Australian society. Graduates emerge equipped not only for legal practice but for influential roles in government, policy analysis, advocacy, and community services.

International students are welcomed and must demonstrate English proficiency, with higher standards applying to law degrees. During their studies, eligible international students may work up to 48 hours per fortnight, and upon completion, may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. For the latest details on program structure, entry requirements, and professional pathways, visit 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

  • Solicitor or Barrister (subject to completion of practical legal training and admission requirements)
  • Policy Analyst within government agencies or think tanks
  • Community Legal Centre advocate
  • Social Policy Advisor in the public or not-for-profit sectors
  • Legal Researcher in academia or research organisations
  • Compliance or Human Rights Officer
  • Roles in family services, advocacy groups, or social justice organisations

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Social Science at University of New South Wales?

It typically takes 5.5 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$321,500 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Solicitor or Barrister (subject to completion of practical legal training and admission requirements)Policy Analyst within government agencies or think tanksCommunity Legal Centre advocateSocial Policy Advisor in the public or not-for-profit sectorsLegal Researcher in academia or...

Guides for this subject and the application

All guides →

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