Course overview

The Monash JD is designed for non-law graduates wanting to obtain a first degree in law and 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 professional experiences 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. Flexible 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 and August. Applicants must hold a recognised undergraduate degree and demonstrate extensive employment and life experience.

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 six 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 and timetabling

The JD is taught in trimesters, each running for 12 teaching weeks. Students without significant external commitments can complete the course in two and a half years. However, students may also choose to undertake the course over three and a half years to allow for work or other commitments. Students may continue with a relatively normal work schedule as classes are usually held on Thursday afternoons or Friday mornings.

Practical legal training with Monash Law following the JD

Students seeking admission as a legal practitioner may graduate with a JD and then undertake a practical legal training course or a year of articles. Monash Law School offers the Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice, Skills and Ethics (PDLP), a practical alternative to articles which facilitates admission to practice law as fast as possible with a 21 week on-campus program or a 39 week online program available.

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’.