Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Criminology

Yes. The Bachelor of Laws satisfies the academic requirements to become an Australian Lawyer as required by the Victorian Legal Admissions Board (VLAB). However, to become an Australian Lawyer you will also need to complete Practical Legal Training or an equivalent after graduating.

You will learn to apply your law and criminology study in simulated workplace environments and tasks including advising clients, resolving disputes, mediation, and using principled persuasion. You may also take part in VU's renowned moot program and gain experience through Supreme Court and County Court internship programs. Placement opportunities are available at Victoria Police and Legal Aid, among many others.

Yes. Students in the Bachelor of Laws may apply to transfer into the Bachelor of Laws (Honours) once they have completed a minimum of 192 credit points and attained an average mark of Distinction or above (70–100%). Students are assessed on the highest grades in their top 12 Law units, an outline of a proposed thesis topic, and the availability of a supervisor. Successful applicants enrol in Advanced Research Legal Methods and Advanced Legal Research Dissertation instead of 24 credit points of law electives.

This course is offered as a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) for eligible students, with indicative fees of approximately AU$17,399 per year for a full-time student in 2026. Eligible students may use a HELP loan to defer tuition fees, repaid through the tax system once earnings exceed the compulsory repayment threshold. VU also awards hundreds of scholarships each year worth millions of dollars combined to support students at all levels of study.

The program is taught at VU's Queen Street law hub on the City Campus, located in the heart of Melbourne's legal district. Lecturers and adjunct professors include some of Australia's most reputable legal professionals, such as the Hon. Justice Chris Maxwell QC, Professor Robert Richter QC, criminal law specialist Robert Stary, Victorian Chief Magistrate Ian Gray, and retired High Court Judge the Hon. Michael Kirby. The dedicated law building features a specialised law library, legal research centres including the Sir Zelman Cowen Centre, a mooting court, computer labs, and student lounges.