Undergraduate Certificate in Law
UndergraduateSWI-LAW-CTF2026
- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- 100% online
- Credit available
- Yes
- Duration
- 8 months full time or part time equivalent
- Total subjects
- 4
- Available loans
- Australian Higher Education Loan Program (HELP)
Undergraduate Certificate in Law
About this degree
Why study with us?
During this program students will gain:
- Accessible entry into legal studies: Begin your journey toward a law degree, even if you don’t meet traditional entry requirements.
- 100% Online flexibility: Study anywhere, anytime, with support from experienced Online Learning Advisors.
- Career readiness: Build professional legal skills in research, writing, and reasoning valued across business, government, and justice sectors.
- Pathway to the Bachelor of Laws: Earn full credit and guaranteed entry into Swinburne’s Bachelor of Laws upon achieving a credit average.
- Recognised Swinburne quality: Graduate with a nationally recognised university qualification identical to on-campus study.
The Undergraduate Certificate in Law introduces you to the Australian legal system, its institutions, and its core principles. You’ll explore how laws are created, interpreted, and applied, while developing essential skills in legal research, writing, and analysis.
This fully online program is ideal for anyone interested in the legal profession, or professionals in government, compliance, or administration roles who want to strengthen their understanding of law.
You’ll complete four foundation law units that also count as credit toward the Bachelor of Laws if you choose to continue your studies. Graduates who achieve a credit average (60%) will receive guaranteed entry into the Bachelor of Laws with full credit transfer for all four units.
Recommended study pattern
The Undergraduate Certificate in Law consists of 4 units, and will see you undertake the following studies:
- 3 Core units
- 1 Elective unit.
Core Units
Introduction to Australian Law & Statutory Interpretation (LAW10010)
Torts 1 (LAW10014)
Contract Law 1 (LAW10028)
Elective Units
You must complete one of the following:
Criminal Law & Procedure (LAW10015)
Torts 2 (LAW10025)
Legal Writing (LAW10026)
Contract Law 2 (LAW10029)
Award requirements
Successful completion of the course requirements of 4 units as described in the Recommended Study Pattern.
Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.
Indicative first year fee
$8,696
Indicative total fee $2,174
The amounts shown here are indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.
Fees may vary depending on:
- the subjects you choose
- credit from previous work experience
- your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.
To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.
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- QS World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:
- 19
- Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:
- 15
How to apply
Swinburne University of Technology manages enquiries and applications for this degree.
Complete your details and we'll make sure your enquiry is sent to Swinburne University of Technology who will contact you to discuss this degree.
Don't worry, we're still here to help you - you'll receive a personalised follow-up from an Open Universities Australia student advisor to make sure you have found the right degree for you.
Entry requirements
Applicants are required to meet one of the following minimum entry requirements:
- A completed or partially completed tertiary qualification (e.g. relevant Certificate IVs, Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Associate Degree, incomplete or complete Bachelor’s degree), or
- 4+ years of relevant work experience, or
- Recent Year 12 Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or equivalent completion, with the required English study score.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) allows students to gain credit (advanced standing) towards their course in recognition of skills and knowledge gained through work experience, life experience and/or formal training. Applicants are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Speak to a Course Consultant about applying for RPL.
Career opportunities
Potential career parths:
Paralegal: Assist lawyers with various legal tasks, including client communication, legal research, and document drafting. Their work includes research, preparing court documents, attending client meetings, and communicating with other legal professionals.
Law Clerk: Provide specialised clerical and administrative support to legal professionals, performing tasks like legal research, document drafting and proofreading, and managing case files.
Legal Secretary: Perform administrative and clerical duties to support legal professionals, including preparing legal documents, managing files and schedules, conducting legal research, and handling communication with clients and courts.
Compliance Support Officer: Assist in ensuring an organisation follows all relevant laws, regulations, and internal policies. The primary goal is to mitigate risks and support the organisation in maintaining ethical practices and regulatory adherence.
Court Administration Officer: Manage administrative functions and provide support to the court system, roles that vary based on jurisdiction and court level. Key responsibilities include managing court staff, handling financial and human resources, coordinating with legal professionals, and assisting judges with administrative tasks.
Government Policy Assistant: Conduct research, provides support for policy development and implementation, and assists with administrative tasks such as maintaining records and preparing presentations. They support senior policy officers by analysing information and contributing to the development of strategies on key issues such as national security, technology, or social services.