Fast Facts
Location
This course is only available for study onshore in Australia
Commencing
- Online: February, May, September
- Townsville: February, May, September
- Cairns: February, May, September
Fees
From $17,399+
$33,133^
+
estimated annual Commonwealth Supported Fee for a full-time study load, based on 24 credit points. Please note this estimate is variable and subject to fluctuation depending on choice of elective subjects.
^
estimated annual tuition fee for a full-time study load, based on 24 credit points.
Scholarships and financial aid available if eligible.
Plus Student Services and Amenities fee. Fee deferral and scholarships available if eligible
Currently displaying fees for 2026, which are subject to change in following years.
Duration
3 years full-time
6 years part-time
2-Year Accelerated Option Available
The standard expected time to complete the Juris Doctor is three years of full‑time study. An accelerated study option is also available, allowing eligible students to complete the course in two years through an increased study load and approved enrolment pattern. Availability of the accelerated option is subject to academic progression requirements and subject offering constraints.
Part-time Option Available
This course is normally completed in three years of full-time study. Students studying in Australia on a Student Visa must maintain a full-time study load. Students who are not subject to Student Visa requirements may be eligible to study part-time and complete the course over six years.
Entry Requirements
English language requirements
Band 3a
If your native language is not English, you must meet the minimum English language requirements for this course.
Applicants must hold a completed bachelor degree (AQF level 7 or 8, or equivalent) in any discipline other than law from a recognised tertiary institution
OR
a law degree from an overseas jurisdiction that does not entitle the holder to practice law in Australia.
Course Code
101004
Course detail
The JCU Juris Doctor is a postgraduate law degree open to graduates of any discipline. Complete it in three years full-time, six years part-time, or use the accelerated two-year option and get into the courtroom faster. Speak to JCU for details on eligibility and study load requirements.
Academic rigour and practical skills go hand in hand at JCU. You'll develop the ability to research, reason, negotiate and communicate under pressure, and apply all of it in realistic legal settings throughout the degree. Core subjects cover contracts, torts, criminal law, property, constitutional law, equity, evidence and civil procedure.
Industry engagement runs through the program from the start. Students will also have the opportunity to immerse themselves in legal practice through our elective program. In Advocacy and Criminal Sentencing, you'll make bail applications, opening and closing statements, and conduct examination and cross-examination before judges, with one-on-one coaching from practising barristers and solicitors. In Practical Mooting, you work a single case across an entire trimester under an experienced practitioner's mentorship, from initial brief to final trial. A placement with the Townsville Community Law Centre adds real client experience.
In North Queensland, the legal profession is tightly connected and accessible. Small class sizes mean lecturers know you, practitioners are reachable, and JCU alumni are active in providing support.
The degree is seeking accreditation by the Legal Practitioners Admissions Board and is currently under review by the Chief Justice of the Queensland Supreme Court.
View the Handbook for a full subject overview and entry requirements.
Graduates pursue careers across a wide range of legal and law-related settings, including as solicitors, barristers, mediators, in-house counsel, and in government legal roles, law reform agencies, diplomacy and the military. The practical skills and networks developed throughout the degree also open doors well beyond traditional legal practice. Graduates could go on to work in politics, journalism and media, executive management, public relations and non-governmental organisations.
Admission as a solicitor or barrister requires completion of approved practical legal training and acceptance by the Supreme Court of Queensland.
Estimated annual Commonwealth Supported fee: $17,399
Estimated annual tuition fee: $33,133
A variety of Scholarships are available to suit different student types.
Learn more about fees and financial support
JCU offers multiple Pathways to University. If you do not meet the entry requirements for this course, consider exploring our available Pathways options.
Contact our friendly team today to discover which pathway is right for you.
Complete an online application through our Online Application Portal.
Real stories
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Academic Head
Dr Carmel O’Neill
Acting Head of Law
What sets the JCU Juris Doctor apart is its close connection to the legal profession. Students learn from leading academics and experienced practitioners while building valuable professional relationships. We challenge them to think critically and develop the skills and confidence to thrive in legal practice.
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Sessional Lecturer
Mark Fenlon
Criminal Law and Advocacy and Criminal Sentencing
Having worked as a Commercial Lawyer, Criminal Lawyer and Senior Prosecutor, I've seen that employers value graduates who can apply their knowledge in practice and build trusted professional networks. JCU's Juris Doctor develops these skills while fostering valuable industry connections.