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Faculty of Law
The Law School at the University of Melbourne was founded in 1857. Since its inception it has been highly regarded for its scholarship and research. The Faculty continues to be dedicated to providing the highest standard of legal education and scholarship in a challenging intellectual environment. The Law School is proud of its contribution, through its many successful graduates, to the legal profession and to Australian society.
About 1700 students are enrolled in the LLB program. Most students at Melbourne choose to study for two degrees simultaneously, thus graduating with a degree in law and one in arts, commerce, engineering, geomatics or science. Such combined degree programs are designed to equip students better to meet the challenges of a complex and changing world and to pursue a wide range of rewarding careers.
The Law School also offers a wide range of graduate and continuing education programs, with opportunities for specialisation in several areas of law. Enrolment in graduate diploma, masters, doctoral and Community Access Program courses now exceeds 750 students.
A special feature of the Melbourne Law School is its interest in the legal systems of other countries, pursued through the Asian Law Centre and the Centre for Comparative Constitutional Studies. As well, the Faculty has established the Centre for Corporate Law and Securities Regulation, the Centre for Employment and Labour Relations Law, the Centre for Energy and Resources Law and the Centre for Media, Communications and Information Technology Law.
The Law Library is the central teaching and research tool of the Faculty. It contains about 150,000 printed volumes of legal materials, the equivalent of about 30,000 volumes of microfiche or microfilm and an extensive collection of electronic databases. These include Australian and international law reports, legislation, journals, and a book collection which is both current and historic.
The law library makes every effort to ensure that information needs are met, and personal assistance is available to new students wishing to learn about the library's various services and the organisation of the legal material.
Another important facility in the Law School is the computer network and laboratory. All students receive basic training in computer skills to enable them to explore the rapidly growing legal materials to be found on the Internet and on databases. Later year options afford opportunities to develop these skills further.
Opportunities also exist for later year students to enrol in exchange programs with overseas law schools in Asia, Europe and North America.
The general objectives of the Faculty of Law are to:
For further information on graduate diplomas or degrees, contact the Research and Graduate Studies Office in the Law School, telephone +61 3 9344 6190.
The Law School Undergraduate Studies Office houses the Manager, Undergraduate Studies, who is responsible for the administration of the LLB course and combined LLB courses within the Faculty, under the academic direction of the Associate Dean, Undergraduate Studies. The Manager is responsible for enrolment, re-enrolment, deferments and withdrawals, credit transfers, complementary enrolments, community access program enrolments and cross-institutional enrolments. The Manager also provides advice on course requirements, course planning, full and part-time study, leave of absence, exchange programs and HECS.
All matters regarding assessment are dealt with by the Manager, Undergraduate Studies, including extensions for assignments, special arrangements for examinations, special consideration applications, consideration for students from a non-English speaking background, supplementary examinations and additional assessment. The Manager will also assist students experiencing general study problems by referring them to appropriate support groups and learning programs, for example, the Learning Skills Unit. Students in the Faculty who have been admitted under the Targeted Access Program, Koori students, students with disabilities, and students from overseas are particularly invited to introduce themselves to the Manager to discuss any special concerns they may have, or their progress.
In addition to the Manager, Undergraduate Studies, the Faculty has appointed members of academic staff as Liaison Officers to meet the needs of particular groups of students: Kooris, students with disabilities, those who have come in under the special entry scheme and international students. If you are a student from one of these groups and have any concerns or need information, the liaison officers are a good place to start.
Koori students have been part of the Law Faculty for nearly 20 years. There are currently around 20 Koori students enrolled at all levels of the LLB. course. In 1993 the Law Faculty appointed a Koori Liaison Officer to provide assistance to these students. Among other things, the Koori Students' Liaison Officers:
Students wishing to contact the Koori Liaison Officers may do so through the Undergraduate Studies Office, telephone 9344 6164.
At least 20 per cent of law students are from overseas or have English as a Second Language (ESL). Many of these students have particular educational needs, such as understanding the legal language used in texts, Australian teaching methods, and Australian historical or social events which other students may take for granted. The International and ESL Liaison Officer is the member of the academic staff to whom such students may come for assistance and advice in their studies. His or her role includes: acting as a mentor for overseas and ESL students; liaising with the ESL Centre to provide language assistance and with the International Office; assisting students to make applications for special consideration or to the Progress Committee; giving feedback from international and non-English speaking background students to academic staff, especially in relation to teaching and curriculum content; liaising between the Law Faculty and the Overseas Law Students Society. Students wishing to contact the International and Non-English Speaking Background Students' Liaison Officer may do so through the Undergraduate Studies Office, telephone 9344 6164.
The faculty comprises many queer students and staff. The appointment of two academic members of staff as Gay and Lesbian Liaison Officers is a recognition of the special interests and needs of queer law students. The primary role of the Officers is to provide the gay and lesbian student body with assistance and support in academic and academic related matters. This includes acting as mentors to the lesbian and gay law students and members of academic staff. The Officers also assist in the organisation of queer law research interest group sessions led by staff, students and guest speakers, as well as organising more social occasions.
The Lesbian and Gay Liaison Officers for 1998 will be appointed in the latter part of 1997.
Each year, approximately 35-40 students are admitted to the Faculty of Law through one of the Faculty or University Targeted Access and Mature Entry Programs. Broadly speaking, students accepted under these schemes have suffered a disadvantage of a social, economic or like nature, and include students from schools under-represented at the University of Melbourne. The program also provides for the admission of mature age students who have not completed VCE.
In 1993, the Law Faculty appointed a Targeted Access Liaison Officer to assist these students with their study and related needs. One of the Officer's most important responsibilities is to direct students to appropriate University services, ranging from the Learning Skills Unit to the English as a Second Language Program. The Officer is intended to act as mentor to special entry students, liaise between them and members of academic staff, assist them in making applications for special consideration (if necessary), and help establish a network of special entry students.
The Liaison Officer's responsibilities are to all Targeted Access students, not just those admitted to first year.
Students wishing to contact the Targeted Access Liaison Officer may do so through the Undergraduate Studies Office, telephone 9344 6164.
Admission to the first year of the LLB program is governed by the General and Special Principles of Selection for Entry, to which applicants should refer for detailed information. Selection is based primarily on academic merit. For most applicants, academic merit is judged on results obtained in the VCE examination and represented as a Tertiary Entrance Rank (TER) score, following the formula used by the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) and the special rules published by the Faculty. A committee of faculty identifies and ranks in order of merit those applicants who are likely to complete the LLB course successfully. Places are offered to applicants in the order of ranking until the places available are filled. There is strong competition for admission to the Melbourne Law School. In 1997 candidates required a TER score of 98.75 to be admitted. It is not possible to predict what the TER cut-off score will be in 1998.
The minimum requirement for admission to the LLB course is that the applicant have a VCE English minimum grade score of B.
Students who have graduated in another discipline, or who have not yet completed their studies in another course, may also apply for admission to the Law School. Intending applicants should refer to the special requirements listed in the current VTAC guide.
Generally, the likelihood of an applicant succeeding in the LLB course is judged by reference to his or her academic record but in certain cases the General and Special Principles for Entry allow additional factors to be taken into account on a discretionary basis. The University's general principles of selection provide that, in appropriate cases, and provided the applicant meets the ordinary requirements for admission, the selection committee may take the following circumstances into account when assessing an applicants likelihood of successfully completing a course:
When applying through VTAC for admission, applicants should bring any such relevant special circumstances to the attention of course selection authorities, following the instructions in the VTAC guide and the VTAC application form.
The Law School reserves a limited number of places for applicants whose academic record has been adversely affected by disadvantage of a social, economic or like nature. Mature age applicants may also apply under the scheme if they have not satisfied the minimum entry requirements for tertiary study (that is, VCE or the TAFE equivalent). Applicants must be over 25 years of age and have not attended a secondary school as a full-time student during the 10 years immediately preceding the year for which selection is sought. The scheme has the objective of ensuring that applicants from groups which may be under-represented among undergraduates are selected in greater numbers, while ensuring that high academic standards are maintained.
For further information about targeted access, including eligibility, application procedures and application forms, contact the University's Information Centre, telephone (03) 9344 6543. The targeted access schemes are advertised in the Melbourne Age and Herald-Sun in late August and early September.
All targeted access applications should be returned to the Information Centre, but an application for entry to the LLB must also be made through VTAC.
Applicants who do not meet ordinary admission requirements
Special admission may be granted under Statute 11.1.5 to applicants who lack the ordinary requirements for admission. The Academic Board has declared certain disadvantaged applicants, particularly Koori students, to be eligible for selection under this provision. Prospective Koori applicants should contact the Koori Student and Liaison Unit before making application to the Registrar.
Applicants who have completed the equivalent of the first-year law subject Torts and the Process of Law in a law degree course at another university may apply for admission as a later year entrant.
Later year applicants should apply for admission by writing to the Selection Officer (Law) requesting admission and the granting of credit for subjects previously completed. It should be noted that the Faculty will not grant credit transfers to students from another institution for more than half of the subjects required for a University of Melbourne law degree. Successful later year applicants may not defer taking up the offer of a place. If an offer is declined by an applicant who wishes to be considered for entry in a subsequent year, it will be necessary to reapply and be re-selected in competition with all other later year applicants for that year.
The Law School welcomes applications from international students. A certain number of places are available for full fee-paying students from overseas. The tuition fee payable by overseas students in 1998 will be $15000 for the LLB, BA/LLB, and BCom/LLB, $16500 for the BSc/LLB and BEng/LLB and $15500 for the BInfoSyst/LLB (part of the Science degree). Accommodation and living expenses are not included in this fee. Students who wish to apply for admission under this scheme must have obtained academic results at least equal to the VCE cut-off score currently applying in the Law School. Results will be assessed on application to the Law School. It will be an advantage if applicants have studied subjects which are the equivalent of those prescribed for VCE students (see under Admission to the LLB program above).
Candidates are also required to demonstrate proficiency in English. This requirement can be satisfied by obtaining a minimum International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.5, or Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 580.
The Australian Government provides scholarships to international students who wish to undertake studies in Australia. These scholarships are generally available to students from developing countries. Current information and application forms can be obtained from your nearest Diplomatic Mission.
International students should make initial enquiries and lodge applications for admission to the Law School with the International Office at the University of Melbourne before the end of December. International students who are residents of Australia should apply through VTAC for admission.
The Faculty may, in accordance with the powers granted by Statute 11 of the University, grant such credit as it thinks fit to a candidate who enrols in the course for the Degree of Bachelor of Laws and who has passed such subjects in another institution which, in the opinion of the faculty, are equivalent to subjects prescribed in the course for the degree of Bachelor of Laws; provided that no candidate may be granted credit for more than 150 law points in an LLB course; and provided that credit transfers shall be granted in accordance with the guidelines approved by the faculty from time to time for that purpose.
A candidate for the degree of Bachelor of Laws who holds a degree from a recognised tertiary institution but not in the study of law may be exempted from the requirement of obtaining 100 non-Law points. The Faculty may also determine that a candidate for the degree of Bachelor of Laws who does not have a tertiary qualification may be exempted from some or all of the 100 non-Law points normally required of each candidates. Details of the application procedure, and of the criteria employed in determining such applications, may be obtained from the Manager, Undergraduate Studies.
Candidates who enrol in an LLB course may be granted credit for any non-law subjects previously completed by that candidate while enrolled in another faculty, to the extent that such subjects are the equivalent of non-law subjects prescribed for the LLB.
Students enrolled in the LLB course who participate in an approved exchange program and who obtain credit in the other institution for any approved subject in that institution's LLB curriculum will be given equivalent credit towards his or her University of Melbourne LLB degree. Scales of equivalent credits will be determined in advance for specific exchange programs.
The LLB degree may be awarded with honours to students whose performance in final assessment is of the required standard. The Faculty publishes the regulations governing the award of honours in a separate brochure.
Honours points for exchange students will be calculated primarily by reference to law subjects undertaken at The University of Melbourne. Thus, actual honours points will not be attributed to subjects undertaken at the other institution by an exchange student. Instead, that student's honours points will be calculated in accordance with the formula laid down for the award of the Bachelor of Laws with Honours for candidates who qualify for the degree having passed in scoring subjects which carry a total of credit points other than 300, i.e.
(Honours points x 300) / n
where n = the number of credit points in scoring subjects passed by the candidate. However, the Honours Board shall have a discretionary power to take account of the performance of a student in an exchange program for the purposes of ranking that student and making an honours award.
If you enrol in a combined degree, you can obtain honours in the other discipline by taking an extra honours year. This adds an extra year of study to the combined degree.
It is possible for LLB students to undertake their studies on a part-time basis. Because part-time students take longer to complete all the subjects required for admission to the degree, it can take a long time, especially in the case of combined degrees. Many part-time students endeavour to do at least one or two years of full-time study.
If you are contemplating part-time study, you should discuss your intended program with the Manager, Undergraduate Studies. Part-time students should be able to attend scheduled day-time classes as there are generally no evening classes. Although the Law School attempts to schedule classes conveniently, and has from 1997 offered intensively taught subjects during January and February, it is not always possible to devise a timetable which suits individual part-time students.
A number of subjects will be offered in January and February 1998. They will include Civil Procedure, Evidence, Professional Conduct (including Trust Accounts), Insurance Law, Remedies and Restitution. These subjects may be taken as part of the LLB degree. Where the subjects are not taken as part of the LLB degree, a Community Access Program fee will be payable in respect of each subject taken. A timetable for the summer program may be obtained from the Undergraduate Studies Office. Further information on the summer program may be obtained from the Manager, Undergraduate Studies.
The Faculty has resolved that:
Applications for leave of absence must be made in writing to the Manager, Undergraduate Studies.
It is possible to enrol as a Community Access Program student in single subjects offered by the Law School if you satisfy the subject prerequisites. Special rules apply. Interested students should apply for information about undergraduate and graduate subjects to the Manager, Undergraduate Studies, and the Program Manager, Research and Graduate Studies, respectively. Overseas practitioners seeking admission to practise in Victoria are permitted to enrol on a Community Access Program basis in those subjects required by the Council of Legal Education.
National policy encourages multi-lingual professionals in Australia and there is an increasing demand for law graduates with language skills. The Law School strongly encourages the development of language skills among its students. Combined Arts/Law degrees with language majors have been established for over 20 years, but less well known are the opportunities to use foreign languages in the LLB curriculum itself.
Among the optional subjects offered in the LLB are some exciting comparative law subjects covering Europe and Asia. Students may do written research assignments as part of their assessment in these (and other) subjects and students with the necessary language skills are encouraged to work with the primary sources of law. Advanced Legal Research is a subject in the curriculum which also provides an opportunity to work on topics drawn from Europe or Asia, with the assistance of specialist Law School Staff. If you have, or are developing, skills in a European or Asian language, please ask about opportunities to use those skills in your course.
The Law School is continuing to develop opportunities for student exchanges in Europe, North America and Asia. At present, exchange schemes operating include those with the University of British Columbia and McGill University in Canada, the University of Texas at Austin and Duke University in the USA, Amsterdam University in the Netherlands, Universite Jean Moulin - Lyon III in France, University College in Ireland and Leuven University in Belgium. The Asian Law Centre can advise you about the many opportunities in Asia. Credit for The University of Melbourne degree can be obtained for subjects completed during an approved exchange visit. A leaflet on exchange programs is available from the Undergraduate Studies Office. Students interested in participating in an exchange program should see the International Programs Officer, who will, where appropriate, refer them to academic staff qualified to advise on legal study in other countries.
The admission of barristers and solicitors in Victoria is regulated by the rules of the Council of Legal Education administered by a board of examiners appointed by the Supreme Court. Students proposing to seek admission should make themselves familiar with them in due course.
The academic requirements for admission are satisfied by passing the compulsory subjects of the degree, and the following: Corporations Law, Evidence, Civil Procedure and Professional Conduct, or the subject Dispute Resolution and Legal Ethics incorporating Civil Procedure and Professional Conduct.
A candidate who has obtained the degree of Bachelor of Laws is required to serve for one year in articles or complete the legal practice course at the Leo Cussen Institute.
The Council of Legal Education introduced revised requirements for admission to practice law in Victoria from 1994. The following are required areas of knowledge for admission from 1994.
After completing an LLB degree, and before applying for admission to practise, certain practical training is required. You can either serve a 12-month period as an articled clerk in a solicitors office, or do a full-time practical training course at the Leo Cussen Institute from March to October.
Students should be aware of their rights and obligations while at the University. Essential information on matters such as enrolment, assessment, special consideration in the event of illness or other difficulties etc., is contained in the Student Diary, issued to every student on enrolment.
All law students are automatically members of the Law Students' Society, an incorporated student association which provides important services, publications and events for students. The officers and committee members of the Society are elected annually, and include representatives from all year levels. The Law Students' Society is generously sponsored by law firms and other employers of law students, and also receives some funding from the Law Faculty and the Melbourne University Student Union Inc. The Law Students' Society has four sub-committees: Education, Careers, Activities and Equality. These committees meet regularly to discuss issues of concern to students, and to organise the provision of services and events. These initiatives include educational services such as the Taped Lecture Service and the Student Tutorial Program, guest speakers and debates, Careers Fair, Work Experience Program and a vast range of publications which are free to students. The hectic social calendar includes an Orientation Week Program, Law Camp, Law Ball, Law Revue, Valedictory Dinner and lunchtime BBQs. The mooting, witness examination, client interview and letter writing competitions are run by the Law Students' Society and are a valuable practical complement to the LLB curriculum. Through these competitions students are able to acquire and enhance their oral presentation skills. Teams of competitors are sent to the Annual ALSA Conference each July, to compete with law students from throughout Australasia.
LSS representatives also play an important role in liaising with the Law Faculty. The executive meets regularly with the Dean and staff on matters of immediate concern to students and elected students sit on the Faculty and each of its sub-committees. The Society thus represents student interests on matters such as curriculum, study conditions, assessment, course design and library facilities. The Society also maintains links with the legal profession and the wider community. It provides career information to students, and represents student interests to the profession on matters such as articles guidelines and professional admissions requirements. For further information about the Law Students' Society, or for assistance on any matter from the LSS representatives, contact the LSS office, room G-12, telephone 9344 6179.
The Australasian Law Students' Association (ALSA) is the peak body of law students in Australia, New Zealand and Asia. Currently, law students at 33 law schools are ALSA members. Through membership of the LSS, all University of Melbourne law students are members of ALSA. ALSA is best known for its Annual Conference, featuring Australasian Championships in mooting, witness examination and paper presentation, and its publications, the ALSA Reporter and the ALSA Careers Journal. All students are encouraged to involve themselves in ALSA activities. In 1993, the Australasian President for ALSA was located at the University of Melbourne. The LSS has two ALSA Council Representatives.
The Overseas Law Students' Society (OLSS) is an affiliated body of the Law Students' Society. It was established to promote and assist the welfare, status, social, educational and cultural activities of international students, foster a common bond among them and assist the interaction of international students and Australians. The Society has an active program of social and educational activities. A student mentor program assists new students adapt to the Law School, the University and Australia. All international students are automatically members of the Society. However, the OLSS accepts as members any other students who show an interest in our goals and activities.
The University of Melbourne Law School offers graduate and continuing education programs designed to meet the particular needs of both busy practitioners and those pursuing more scholarly traditions.
Graduates may obtain a masters degree (LLM) by writing a thesis on a research topic, by completing a specified number of postgraduate subjects or by completing a lesser number of postgraduate subjects and a minor thesis. The Master of Taxation by coursework is also available.
Alternatively, specialist graduate diplomas are available in Asian Law, Corporations and Securities Law, Dispute Resolution and Judicial Administration, Finance Law, Government Law, Health and Medical Law, Intellectual Property Law, International Law, Labour Relations Law, Media, Communications and Information Technology Law, Natural Resources Law and Transnational Law.
Higher degrees include the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), based on submission of a major thesis prepared under close supervision, and the Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD), based on coursework subjects and a major thesis. The degree of Doctor of Laws (LLD) may be conferred on someone who submits a particularly distinguished or important piece of writing which makes a significant contribution to the field of law.
For further information on graduate diplomas or degrees, contact the Program Manager, Research and Graduate Studies, in the Law School.
Law is a versatile qualification which provides an excellent basis for a wide range of careers. For those students combining law with another degree, options are expanded. Career outcomes will be dependent on particular interests as well as opportunities available at the time. For instance, students combining law with studies in economics and commerce may find that they are more interested in pursuing a career in business than in the law. In this case studies of law and legal principle will provide an excellent background and basis for engaging in commercial transactions.
Practising lawyers: Once admitted to practise law, you are both a barrister and solicitor, although most choose to practise as one or the other.
Solicitors work directly with clients, such as members of the public, companies and banks. Some firms specialise in the work they do, while others maintain general practices. They offer advice on legal matters; negotiate and represent clients in criminal prosecutions and civil actions; and prepare and process contracts, agreements and other documents relating to companies, land transactions, and a wide variety of business and family matters. Solicitors assist people with divorce or adoption or with immigration or social security problems. They also draw up wills; handle people's estates; and prepare and administer trust deeds; or work with companies on commercial or tax matters.
Barristers, on the other hand, are engaged by solicitors and do not deal directly with clients. They usually write opinions for solicitors on doubtful points of law or procedure; draft documents involving difficult legal issues or the pleadings which prepare a case for trial; and appear in court in criminal prosecutions or civil trials.
Government lawyers: Many opportunities exist in government service. You can draft Acts of Parliament in the Parliamentary Counsel's Office; give advice to government departments in the Victorian Government Solicitor's Office; and prepare criminal cases for trial and prosecute them in court in the Director of Public Prosecution's Office. You could work on environmental protection problems in the Environment Protection Authority; help the Guardianship and Administration Board look after the interests of people in institutions; work on occupational health and safety problems; or help administer the Family Court.
Community lawyers: Many lawyers now look for ways of using their special skills to help less privileged people in the community. In the 1970s a number of community legal services sprang up to offer free legal advice and practical help to people in trouble with the police, their landlords, their employers, their families, etc. These services now often have full-time lawyers. Many lawyers also work with the Legal Aid Commission, providing legal services to those who cannot afford to meet the full cost. You will find opportunities in immigration advisory services, citizens advisory services, adoption and foster care agencies, consumer credit services and the Council of Social Services.
Corporate lawyers: Most major banks and companies have their own legal departments. If you work for an oil company, you may be called on to do anything from negotiating major joint ventures for exploration to buying service stations and writing leases for their operation. If you work for a bank, you could put together large international financial deals or draft standard overdraft or mortgage documents. Invariably such lawyers eventually find themselves involved in developing policy and often move into management positions.
Policy formulation: Policy analysis and planning are developing areas of independent study. There are more opportunities for lawyers with these skills and interests than there are trained people to fill them. Opportunities exist in Law Reform Commissions, as Ministerial advisers, as consultants to or employees of government, in universities, and in industry or commercial lobby groups.
Research and teaching: Good graduates often look forward to doing postgraduate work overseas. Melbourne law graduates have great success in obtaining scholarships (most recently two Rhodes Scholars in 1996!) and are highly regarded in Britain and North America. Law graduates are also highly sought after in secondary schools because of the popularity of commercial and legal studies subjects. There are always opportunities for qualified researchers in the University of Melbourne Law School and the Faculty is also keen to involve good graduates in its teaching program, at both the undergraduate and postgraduate level, either as full or part-time teachers.
Other careers: Law graduates have successfully developed careers in areas such as merchant baking, accounting, management consultancy, industrial relations, the media, and editing and publishing. Many diplomats have law degrees. Some corporations recruit law graduates and give them specialist training. The same is true of statutory authorities and public services.
The Careers and Employer Liaison Unit at the University offers a career information and counselling service to students. Information on part-time and vacation employment, clerkships and career information for law students is available from the Unit. The Unit's extensive library provides information on legal firms and relevant government bodies as well as suggestions for alternative careers for law graduates. Regular workshops are also offered, and students looking for graduate work can submit their resumes to GradMatch, a new computerised matching service offered by the Unit. The Careers and Employer Liaison Unit is located on the first floor of the Baldwin Spencer Building, telephone (03) 9344 6686.
The Faculty of Law teaches a number of subjects offered by the Faculty of Economics and Commerce. For more information see Business Law
The Faculty of Law teaches a number of subjects offered by the Faculty of Arts. For more information see Legal Studies (Arts).
The Law School offers students a wide range of law subjects. Students who enrol in an LLB course must complete the compulsory subjects and a specified number of optional subjects. The subjects you choose depend on your own interests and on what you hope to do when you have completed your degree. If you want to become a legal practitioner, certain optional subjects must be chosen; otherwise you will not be eligible for admission to practise. The length of time it takes to complete a degree depends on the structure of the degree course. Basically, there are two courses leading to an LLB degree: the (five or six year) combined degree, and the four year LLB degree.
A feature of the law course at Melbourne is the seminar format of teaching in first-year subjects. Students are taught in small groups, which allows the maximum degree of student-teacher and student-student interaction.
The University has approved a change in the points structure for all degree courses to standardise workloads across faculties. From 1999 the standard year will be 100 points divided into semester units of 12.5 points. The Law School has resolved to implement this change from 1998, commencing with the adjustment of points in the first four year-long subjects in the compulsory program from 20 to 25 points each. This will involve a change in the sequence of the compulsory subjects in all law undergraduate courses from 1998 as indicated in the following table
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There will be no retrospective changes to points already earned for completed subjects prior to 1998. Please consult the Manager, Undergraduate Studies, if you have any queries about the sequence you should follow in 1998.
This course has as its objectives that graduates:
If you do not wish to do a combined degree, you can enrol in a four year LLB course. You will need to study the same compulsory and optional law subjects as in a combined degree. In addition to these law subjects, you must complete a specified number of approved non-law subjects. On completing the required subjects successfully you are admitted to the LLB degree.
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* points to be confirmed
If you already have other tertiary qualifications or have completed at least one year of full time tertiary studies you may complete the degree in three years. You are required to complete the same law subjects as in the four-year degree but you are not required to complete any non-law subjects.
Five and six-year combined degrees
The majority of our students choose to study law in combination with another degree. Combined degrees can be completed after five or six years of study. Students normally study a combination of subjects from both faculties during the first four years. During this initial period you will complete the compulsory law subjects, some optional law subjects and most, if not all, of your non-law subjects. During the last year of the course, you complete the remaining number of optional law subjects. When you have completed all the required subjects you are admitted to the two degrees.
The objectives of this combined course can be gleaned by referring to the objectives for both the LLB and the other degree forming part of the combined course. For the objectives of the LLB see LLB course objectives. For the objectives of the BA.
Refer to Arts Faculty entry see The Arts/Law degree.
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* points to be confirmed
The objectives of this combined course can be gleaned by referring to the objectives for both the LLB and the other degree forming part of the combined course. For the objectives of the LLB see LLB course objectives. For the objectives of the BCom see Course objectives.
As a consequence of the changes to the standard year and points outlined under "Changes to Points", the Faculties of Law and Economics and Commerce have agreed to changes in the first two years of the combined degree from 1998 to remove the need for students to overload in order to complete the required subjects for admission to the Honours degree in Commerce by the end of their third year.
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* points to be confirmed
The BCom/LLB courses can be combined over five years of full-time study. Students already enrolled in the Commerce course may apply for entry to the combined course and should consult the General Manager (Law) for complete details. As well as the prescribed Law subjects, students must pass at least 200 points of approved Economics and Commerce subjects.
Note: Combined Commerce/Law students do not take any of the Business Law subjects taught within the Faculty of Economics and Commerce.
This combined course has as its objectives that graduates will:
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* points to be confirmed
(Engineering will convert its points to the new system from 1999, so these tables will be recalculated from 1999.)
The program set out hereunder is a sample program only. Units are not necessarily taken in the order shown, but may be altered to accommodate timetable requirements. Prerequisite requirements should be consulted.
| First year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Year long subjects | Points | |
| 730-104 Torts and the Process of Law | 25.0 | |
| 730-105 History and Philosophy of Law | 25.0 | |
| Semester one | ||
| 411-102 Chemical Process Analysis 1 | 7.1 | |
| 610-141 Chemistry | 14.2 | |
| 620-171 Mathematics 1P | 14.2 | |
| or | ||
| 620-181 Mathematics 1R | 14.2 | |
| Semester two | ||
| 411-103 Chemical Process Analysis 2 | 7.1 | |
| 610-142 Chemistry | 14.2 | |
| 620-172 Mathematics 1Q | 14.2 | |
| or | ||
| 620-182 Mathematics 1S | 14.2 | |
| Second year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Semester one | Points | |
| 411-201 Transport Phenomena 1 | 7.1 | |
| 411-203 Biochemical and Environmental Engineering 1 | 7.1 | |
| 411-204 Process Engineering Management 1 | 7.1 | |
| 421-203 Mathematics for Engineers Unit 2.1A (Advanced) 1 or elective | 7.1 | |
| or | ||
| 421-204 Mathematics for Engineers Unit 2.1B (Basic) 1 | 7.1 | |
| 610-023 Chemistry 2A (Chemical Engineering) | 7.1 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Semester two | ||
| 411-205 Fluid Mechanics 1 | 7.1 | |
| 411-207 Process Equipment and Design 1 | 7.1 | |
| 411-208 Chemical Engineering Projects 1 | 7.1 | |
| 421-205 Mathematics for Engineers Unit 2.2 | 7.1 | |
| 610-024 Chemistry 2B (Chemical Engineering) | 14.2 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Third year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Semester one | Points | |
| 411-202 Process Engineering 2 | 7.1 | |
| 421-303 Mathematics for Engineers Unit 3.1 | 7.1 | |
| 610-033 Chemistry 3 (Chemical Engineering) | 7.1 | |
| 620-001 Statistics for Engineers | ||
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Semester two | ||
| 411-206 Reactor Engineering 1 | 7.1 | |
| 411-308 Process Engineering 3 | 7.1 | |
| 411-309 Process Equipment and Design 2 | 7.1 | |
| 411-307 Process Dynamics and Control 1 | 7.1 | |
| Electives | ||
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Fourth year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Semester one | Points | |
| 411-301 Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics | 7.1 | |
| 411-302 Transport Phenomena 2 | 7.1 | |
| 411-303 Fluids/Solids Processing | 7.1 | |
| 411-304 Mineral and Process Engineering 1 | 7.1 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Semester two | ||
| 411-305 Heat Transfer | 7.1 | |
| 411-306 Separation Processes 1 | 7.1 | |
| 411-310 Chemical Engineering Projects 2 | 7.1 | |
| 411-311 Biochemical and Environmental Engineering 2 2 | 7.1 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Fifth year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Year long | Points | |
| 411-444 Vacation Work (Practical Experience - Chemical) | 0.0 | |
| Semester one | ||
| 411-401 Separation Processes 2 | 7.1 | |
| 411-402 Process Dynamics and Control 2 | 7.1 | |
| 411-403 Reactor Engineering 2 | 7.1 | |
| 411-404 Process Engineering 4 | 7.1 | |
| 411-405 Process Engineering Management 2 | 7.1 | |
| 411-406 Process Engineering Management 3 | 7.1 | |
| 411-407 Biochemical and Environmental Engineering 3 | 7.1 | |
| Semester two | ||
| 411-408 Chemical Engineering Projects 3 | 21.4 | |
| 411-409 Design Project | 21.4 | |
| 411-410 Mineral Process Engineering 2 | 7.1 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Sixth year | |
|---|---|
| Law subjects as approved | |
| First year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Year long | Points | |
| 730-104 Torts and the Process of Law | 25.0 | |
| 730-105 History and Philosophy of Law | 25.0 | |
| Semester one | ||
| 620-171 Mathematics 1P | 14.2 | |
| or | ||
| 620-181 Mathematics 1R | 14.2 | |
| 421-103 Engineering Statics | 7.1 | |
| 421-150 Introduction to Engineering Management | 7.1 | |
| 433-161 Introduction to Programming A | 7.1 | |
| Semester two | ||
| 620-172 Mathematics 1Q | 14.2 | |
| or | ||
| 620-182 Mathematics 1S | 14.2 | |
| 421-101 Project Engineering | 7.1 | |
| Second year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Semester one | Points | |
| 421-203 Mathematics for Engineers Unit 2.1A (Advanced) 3 | 7.1 | |
| or | ||
| 421-204 Mathematics for Engineers Unit 2.1B (Basic) 3 | 7.1 | |
| 421-230 Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer | 7.1 | |
| 421-250 Management for Engineers 1 | 7.1 | |
| 421-276 Mechanics of Solids 1 | 7.1 | |
| 421-105 Design of Infrastructure | 7.1 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Semester two | ||
| 421-205 Mathematics for Engineers Unit 2.2 | 7.1 | |
| 421-231 Fluid Mechanics | 7.1 | |
| 421-279 Design Philosophy and Applications | 7.1 | |
| 421-280 Geomechanics 1 | 7.1 | |
| 421-281 Mechanics of Solids 2 | 7.1 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Third year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Semester one | Points | |
| 421-277 Computer Applications and Numerical Analysis | 7.1 | |
| 421-278 Materials | 7.1 | |
| 421-303 Mathematics for Engineers Unit 3.1 | 7.1 | |
| 421-310 Structural Analysis 1 | 7.1 | |
| 421-350 Management For Engineers 2 | 7.1 | |
| 421-380 Geomechanics 2 | 7.1 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Semester two | ||
| 421-260 Economics for Engineers | 7.1 | |
| 421-311 Structural Analysis 2 | 7.1 | |
| 421-340 Transport Engineering | 7.1 | |
| 451-216 Surveying (Eng Cse) | 7.1 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Fourth year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Semester one | Points | |
| 421-313 Concrete Theory and Design | 7.1 | |
| 421-320 Applied Hydraulics | 7.1 | |
| 421-321 Engineering Hydrology | 7.1 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Semester two | ||
| 421-312 Structural Steel Theory and Design | 7.1 | |
| 421-352 Construction Engineering | 7.1 | |
| 620-001 Statistics for Engineers | 7.1 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Fifth year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Semester One | Points | |
| 421-411 Concrete Theory and Design | 7.1 | |
| 421-420 Hydraulic Engineering Design | 7.1 | |
| 421-450 Management For Engineers 3 | 7.1 | |
| Elective chosen from those offered by the Department | ||
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Semester Two | ||
| 421-410 Structural Steel Theory and Design 2 | 7.1 | |
| 421-430 Geotechnical Design | 7.1 | |
| 421-440 Transport Infrastructure Design | 7.1 | |
| 421-444 Vacation Work (Practical Experience - Civil) | 0.0 | |
| 421-460 Research Project | 14.2 | |
| Elective chosen from those offered by the Department | ||
| Law subjects as approved | ||
Sixth Year
Law subjects as approved
The combined BE/LLB course in Electrical, Computer or Software Engineering and Law must satisfy the following requirements:
The structure of the combined course is flexible, depending on the Law subjects chosen. A representative example of a course structure is shown below. The engineering subjects listed are those prescribed for the standard BE in Electrical, Computer or Software Engineering. Timetabling may impose restrictions which require different combinations of subjects than those shown.
| BE (Electrical, Computer, Software)/LLB | ||
|---|---|---|
| First year | Points | |
| Law subjects - Torts & the Process of | ||
| Law, History & Philosophy of Law | ||
| BE first year subjects - Mathematics, Computer Science, Electrical & Computer Engineering | ||
| Sub total | 107.1 | |
| Second year | ||
| Law subjects - Criminal Law & Procedure, Constitutional & Admin Law | ||
| Remaining BE first year subjects - Physics | ||
| BE second year subjects - Computer Science, Mathematics for Engineers4 | ||
| Sub total | 107.2 | |
| Third year | ||
| Law subjects - Contracts, Property | ||
| Remaining BE second year subjects excluding Physics | ||
| Sub total | 114.3 | |
| Fourth year | ||
| Law subjects - Equity, Law options | ||
| BE third year subjects - Mathematics for Engineers, Statistics, BE third year options | ||
| Sub total | 105.9 | |
| Fifth year | ||
| Law options | ||
| Remaining BE third year subjects | ||
| Sub total | 103.6 | |
| Sixth year | ||
| Law options | ||
| BE fourth year subjects | ||
| Sub total | 103.5 | |
| First year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Year long | Points | |
| 730-104 Torts and the Process of Law | 25.0 | |
| 730-105 History and Philosophy of Law | 25.0 | |
| Semester one | ||
| 620-171 Mathematics 1P | 14.2 | |
| or | ||
| 620-181 Mathematics 1R | 14.2 | |
| 421-103 Engineering Statics | 7.1 | |
| 433-161 Introduction to Programming A | 7.1 | |
| 610-141 Chemistry | 14.2 | |
| or | ||
| 610-161 Chemistry | 14.2 | |
| Semester two | ||
| 620-172 Mathematics 1Q | 14.2 | |
| or | ||
| 620-182 Mathematics 1S | 14.2 | |
| 421-150 Introduction to Engineering Management | 7.1 | |
| 610-142 Chemistry | 12.5 | |
| or | ||
| 610-162 Chemistry | 12.5 | |
| Second year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Semester one | Points | |
| 421-105 Design of Infrastructure | 7.1 | |
| 421-203 Mathematics for Engineers Unit 2.1A (Advanced) 5 | 7.1 | |
| or | ||
| 421-204 Mathematics for Engineers Unit 2.1B (Basic) 5 | 7.1 | |
| 421-230 Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer | 7.1 | |
| 421-250 Management for Engineers 1 | 7.1 | |
| 421-277 Computer Applications and Numerical Analysis | 7.1 | |
| 421-276 Mechanics of Solids 1 | 7.1 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Semester two | ||
| 421-205 Mathematics for Engineers Unit 2.2 | 7.1 | |
| 421-231 Fluid Mechanics | 7.1 | |
| 421-271 Environmental Geomorphology | 7.1 | |
| 421-270 Environmental Engineering | 7.1 | |
| 421-380 Geomechanics 2 | 7.1 | |
| 451-216 Surveying (Eng Cse) | 7.1 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
* Up to 5 of the first or second semester engineering subjects may be postponed till third year to suit timetabling and maximum workload requirements. Students should take into account prerequisites for the following subjects in making these decisions.
| Third year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Semester one | Points | |
| 421-303 Mathematics for Engineers Unit 3.1 | 7.1 | |
| 421-320 Applied Hydraulics | 7.1 | |
| 421-350 Management For Engineers 2 | 7.1 | |
| 421-371 Structural Design | 7.1 | |
| 620-001 Statistics for Engineers | 7.1 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Semester two | ||
| 421-260 Economics for Engineers | 7.1 | |
| 421-373 Physical Hydrology | 7.1 | |
| 421-374 Techniques in Field Investigation | 7.1 | |
| 421-376 Environmental Engineering Design 1 | 7.1 | |
| 431-375 Applied Data Acquisition | 7.1 | |
| 610-280 Environmental Chemistry | 6.25 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Fourth year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| 121-219/319 | ||
| Any core Engineering subjects deferred from previous years. | ||
| Fifth year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Semester one | ||
| 421-456 Management for Engineers 3E | 7.1 | |
| 421-471 Applied Hydrology | 7.1 | |
| 421-472 Irrigation and Drainage Management | 7.1 | |
| 421-473 Groundwater and Contaminant Management | 7.1 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Semester two | ||
| 421-423 Water Quality and River Management | 7.1 | |
| 421-445 Vacation Work (Practical Experience - Environmental) | 0.0 | |
| 421-453 Engineering Systems Management | 7.1 | |
| 421-470 Land Degradation and Management | 7.1 | |
| 421-476 Environmental Engineering Design 2 6 | 7.1 | |
| 421-477 Research Project 6 | 14.2 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Sixth year | |
|---|---|
| Law subjects as approved | |
Details of this course structure are available from either the Faculty of Law or the Faculty of Engineering.
| First year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Year long | Points | |
| 730-104 Torts and the Process of Law | 25.0 | |
| 730-105 History and Philosophy of Law | 25.0 | |
| Semester one | ||
| 433-161 Introduction to Programming A | 7.1 | |
| 436-103 Engineering Mechanics | 7.1 | |
| 436-105 Engineering Communications | 7.1 | |
| 620-171 Mathematics 1P | 14.2 | |
| or | ||
| 620-172 Mathematics 1Q | 14.2 | |
| Semester two | ||
| 431-102 Computer Engineering 1 | 7.1 | |
| 431-103 Electrical Engineering 1 | 7.1 | |
| 620-181 Mathematics 1R | 14.2 | |
| or | ||
| 620-182 Mathematics 1S | 14.2 | |
| Second year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Semester one | Points | |
| 433-161 Introduction to Programming A | 7.1 | |
| 436-241 Introduction to Manufacturing Processes | 7.1 | |
| 620-001 Statistics for Engineers | 7.1 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Semester two | ||
| 436-205 Computational Mechanics and Programming | 7.1 | |
| 436-204 Engineering Economics and Statistical Applications | 7.1 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Fourth year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Semester one | Points | |
| 421-303 Mathematics for Engineers Unit 3.1 | 7.1 | |
| 436-301 Control Systems | 7.1 | |
| 436-302 Mechanics of Rigid and Deformable Bodies | 7.1 | |
| 436-303 Fluid and Thermal Sciences | 7.1 | |
| 436-320 Engineering Design 2A | 7.1 | |
| 436-324 Metal and Ceramic Forming Processes | 7.1 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
| Semester two | ||
| 436-304 Aerodynamics | 7.1 | |
| 436-305 Data Acquisition and Control | 7.1 | |
| 436-306 Dynamics of Machines | 7.1 | |
| 436-307 Stress Analysis for Engineering Design | 7.1 | |
| 436-308 Thermodynamic Plant and Processes | 7.1 | |
| 436-322 Engineering Design 2C | 7.1 | |
| 436-325 Microstructures and Processing of Materials | 7.1 | |
| Law subjects as approved | ||
Note: For Manufacturing and Environmental stream subjects (Refer to BE).
| Fifth year | |
|---|---|
| Remaining Law subjects | |
| Sixth year (Mechanical) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Year long | Points | |
| 436-420 Engineering Design and Professional Practice | 14.2 | |
| 436-422 Research Project | 14.2 | |
| 436-444 Vacation Work (Practical Experience - Mechanical and Manufacturing) | 0.0 | |
| Semester one | ||
| 436-401 Control of Mechanical Systems | 7.1 | |
| 436-402 Mechanics and Dynamics of Solids | 7.1 | |
| 436-403 Thermofluids | 7.1 | |
| 436-404 Mechanical Laboratory | 7.1 | |
| Electives | ||
| Applied Mechanics electives (Choose three) | ||
| 436-405 Advanced Control Systems | 7.1 | |
| 436-406 Rotor Dynamics | 7.1 | |
| 436-407 Advanced Fluid Mechanics | 7.1 | |
| 436-408 Advanced Mechanics of Solids | 7.1 | |
| 436-409 Advanced Thermodynamics | 7.1 | |
Law subjects as approved.
| Sixth year (Manufacturing) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Year long | Points | |
| 436-421 Engineering Design - Manufacturing | 14.2 | |
| 436-422 Research Project | 14.2 | |
| 436-444 Vacation Work (Practical Experience - Mechanical and Manufacturing) | 0.0 | |
| Semester one | ||
| 436-440 Material Removal Processes 2 | 7.1 | |
| 436-441 Advanced Metal Forming | 7.1 | |
| 436-442 Quality Management | 7.1 | |
| 436-445 Optimisation for Productive Systems 1 | 7.1 | |
| Semester two | ||
| 436-447 Optimisation for Productive Systems 2 | 7.1 | |
| 436-448 Casting Powder and Metallurgy Processes | 7.1 | |
| 436-449 Manufacturing Control 2 | 7.1 | |
Law subjects as approved.
| Sixth year (Environmental) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Year long | Points | |
| 436-420 Engineering Design and Professional Practice | 14.2 | |
| 436-422 Research Project | 14.2 | |
| 436-444 Vacation Work (Practical Experience - Mechanical and Manufacturing) | 0.0 | |
| Semester one | ||
| 436-401 Control of Mechanical Systems | 7.1 | |
| 436-402 Mechanics and Dynamics of Solids | 7.1 | |
| 436-403 Thermofluids | 7.1 | |
| 436-404 Mechanical Laboratory | 7.1 | |
| Electives | ||
| Elective subjects (Choose three) | ||
| 436-453 Bioengineering | 7.1 | |
| 436-454 Energy Conversion and Utilisation | 7.1 | |
| 436-455 Power Generation Systems | 7.1 | |
| 436-456 Wind Energy Systems | 7.1 | |
| 436-468 Materials and the Environment | 7.1 | |
| 436-621 Air Pollution from Combustion Processes | 7.1 | |
| 436-805 Solar Energy Engineering | 7.1 | |
| 436-807 Utilisation of Alternative Fuels | 7.1 | |
Law subjects as approved.
The objectives of this combined course can be gleaned by referring to the objectives for both the LLB and the other degree forming part of the combined course. For the objectives of the LLB see LLB course objectives. For the objectives of the BSc see Faculty of Science.
|
* points to be confirmed
A minimum of 200 science points are required, which must include:
Note that:
Students are able to undertake any science subjects for which they have satisfied the prerequisites. Note, however, that a quota applies to some science subjects as demand for the subject is greater than the number of places available. Selection into quota subjects is largely determined by academic performance in science subjects (refer to the Quota Subject entry in the Faculty of Science entry for further detail).
Prerequisites are stated in the subject entries.
General Manager (Law): Ms Penny Swain
Manager (Undergraduate Studies): Ms Jane Nicholson
Manager (Research and Graduate Studies): Ms Kaye Nankervis
All postal enquiries should be addressed to:
Law School Office, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052.
Contact numbers for the LLB program are:
| Tel. | +61 3 9344 4475 |
| Fax +61 3 | 9347 2392 |
| Telex: | AA35185 UNIMEL |
| Cables: | UNIMELB |
| Email: | POST@LAW.UNIMELB.EDU.AU |
Contact numbers for the graduate program are:
| Tel. | +61 3 9344 6190 |
| Fax | +61 3 9347 9129 |
| 1. | Alternative subjects: Students who have completed 618-171/172 Mathematics IP/IQ in first year will take 421-203 Mathematics for Engineers 2.1A. Others will take 421-204 Mathematics for Engineers 2.1B. |
| 2. | There are two elective streams in the Chemical Engineering course at 300 and 400 level, the Biochemical and Environmental Engineering stream (411-311/407) and the Mineral Process Engineering stream (411-304/410). Students may take both streams if they wish. However, students are required to take a minimum of one Chemical Engineering elective stream to complete the requirements of their BE degree. Law subjects may be taken to replace the other Chemical Engineering elective stream. |
| 3. | Alternative subjects: Students who have completed 618-171/172 Mathematics IP/I in first year will take 421-203 Mathematics for Engineers 2.1A. Others will take 421-204 Mathematics for Engineers 2.1B. |
| 4. | Alternative subjects: Students who have completed 618-171/172 Mathematics IP/IQ in first year will take 421-203 Mathematics for Engineers 2.1A. Others will take 421-204 Mathematics for Engineers 2.1B. |
| 5. | Alternative subjects: Students who have completed 618-171/172 Mathematics IP/I in first year will take 421-203 Mathematics for Engineers 2.1A. Others will take 421-204 Mathematics for Engineers 2.1B. |
| 6. | This subject is available in semester one under certain circumstances only. |
| 7. | Alternative subjects: Students who have completed 618-171/172 Mathematics IP/I in first year will take 421-203 Mathematics for Engineers 2.1A. Others will take 421-204 Mathematics for Engineers 2.1B. |
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Status: Official 1998 Last Modified: Tuesday October 21 17:11 SGML to HTML Conversion: Information Technology Services Authorised by: Academic Registrar Email Enquiries: Course_Information@registrar.unimelb.edu.au