Juris Doctor courses
Introduction to Juris Doctor
This postgraduate law degree is an option for you if you have previously studied in another discipline, but have realised law is your calling.
Through Open Universities Australia you can compare Juris Doctors offered by leading law schools from across the country. We’ll help you earn your qualification at a flexible pace, so that you can continue to work full or part-time in your current career.
Once you graduate from this course, you will satisfy the educational requirements needed to practice as a lawyer in Australia. Though with your comprehensive understanding of the law, you will be free to pursue a career in any sector where legal expertise is required, including business, government or the not-for-profit sector.
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Juris Doctor study FAQs
What do you learn in a Juris Doctor?
In your Juris Doctor, you will learn about the core areas of legal practice and gain an in-depth understanding of Australia’s legal system. Your studies will cover the ‘Priestley 11’, which are 11 law subjects you must complete if you would like to apply for admission to practice as a lawyer.
Those subjects are:
- Administrative law
- Civil procedure
- Company law
- Contracts
- Criminal law and procedure
- Equity and trusts
- Ethics and professional responsibility
- Evidence
- Federal and state constitutional law
- Property
- Torts
You can also choose from a range of electives in other areas of interest, including consumer law, environmental law and health law. Students often discover an area that they would like to specialise in while exploring these subjects.
Student stories and study advice
What area of law should I practice?
Helping Aussie filmmakers navigate the law
Lawyer, or law professional?
Taking law cross-country
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