Course overview

The Monash JD is designed for non-law graduates wanting to obtain a degree in law which meets the academic requirements for admission as a legal practitioner. Classes are located primarily in the Monash University Law Chambers, located in the heart of Melbourne’s legal precinct at 472 Bourke Street, Melbourne.

The Monash JD offers students the opportunity to pursue a career change or follow a long-held ambition to practise law and recognises the specific needs of graduates returning to study law. The course brings together passionate and dedicated individuals with diverse backgrounds in a stimulating and challenging environment, enhancing the learning experience for all students.

Teaching style

Small class sizes and intensive teaching methods provide the ideal environment for graduate learning, and ensure the highest quality legal education and training. Predictable and convenient timetabling ensures busy professionals are able to continue working while studying. The JD is taught on a trimester basis and has two student intakes per year; in January/February and August. Applicants must hold a recognised undergraduate degree.

Structure

The Monash JD is comprised of 24 units, taught in a small, seminar-style format that facilitates interactive learning and lively class debate. The JD is unique as it allows students to undertake up to eight elective units from the extensive Monash Law masters program once the compulsory units have been completed. This allows students to tailor their degree and choose units that compliment their interests and professional aspirations while ensuring graduates are well-rounded professionals with the core skills required to follow a wide range of legal and professional career paths.

Duration

Each trimester in the program runs for approximately 12 teaching weeks. The program duration is three years for full time students (including international students). Standard progression for Australian students who want to engage in paid work while studying is four years. However, an accelerated program may be completed in just two and a half years by high achieving full time students (including international students).

Admission to Practice

Information about the system in place since July 2008- Supervised Workplace Training and Practical Legal Training can be found from the Law Institute of Victoria website.

Note: The JD is not a professional doctorate and therefore graduates are not permitted to refer to themselves as ‘Doctor’. The appropriate designation is ‘Jane Smith, JD’.