Juris Doctor (CRICOS course code 079539A) is a Masters Degree (Extended) delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 3 years. This graduate-entry law program prepares students for legal practice in Australia and internationally. As a CRICOS-registered course at a government-funded university, it meets high academic standards. Macquarie University (CRICOS 00002J) delivers this course at its Wallumattagal Campus in North Ryde, Sydney, New South Wales. With a focus on foundational legal knowledge and practical skills, the Juris Doctor is ideal for international students seeking a career in law. The course is taught in English and includes a comprehensive curriculum covering core areas of law, legal research, and advocacy. International students are protected by the ESOS Act and must meet student visa requirements. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that helps you navigate these options. For the Juris Doctor, we have compiled data directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026) to give you accurate and up-to-date information.
The Juris Doctor is a graduate-entry program typically requiring a prior bachelor's degree in any discipline. It covers the academic requirements for admission to legal practice in Australia. Students study subjects such as contracts, torts, criminal law, property law, equity, constitutional law, and administrative law, along with legal theory and ethics. The curriculum also includes practical skills training through simulations and clinical experiences. As a CRICOS-registered course (079539A), it is approved for international student enrolment. Macquarie University is a comprehensive research university with a strong reputation in law. The course is offered at the Wallumattagal Campus, which is well-connected by public transport to Sydney's city centre.
This course falls under the field of education '090900 Law, n.f.d.' within the broader discipline of Society and Culture. At the Masters Degree (Extended) level, students engage with advanced legal concepts and develop sophisticated analytical and argumentative skills. Typical learning outcomes include the ability to interpret and apply legal principles, conduct legal research, construct persuasive arguments, and understand the ethical dimensions of legal practice. While specific subjects are set by Macquarie University, graduates of such programs are generally equipped for roles as solicitors, barristers, legal advisors, or policy officers. The program also fosters critical thinking and communication skills valued across many professions.
According to the CRICOS register, the Juris Doctor at Macquarie University has a duration of 3 years or 156 weeks. The course is delivered in English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual degree). There is no foundation studies component. Students are expected to attend classes at the Macquarie University campus in North Ryde. The full-time study mode is typical for international students to maintain visa compliance. Some subjects may be available online, but the majority require on-campus attendance. Always check with Macquarie University for the latest study mode options.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$154,000 for the full program. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$1,119, giving a total of A$155,119. Please note: these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are indicative only. Fees are set by Macquarie University and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. Living costs in Sydney are typically around A$20,000–A$25,000 per year for a single student, including rent, food, and transport. For current and accurate fee information, visit Macquarie University's official website at www.mq.edu.au.
Entry requirements for the Juris Doctor vary by institution. For this course at Macquarie University, applicants typically need a recognised bachelor's degree with a satisfactory GPA. English language proficiency is required; common acceptable tests include IELTS with a score of 7.0 overall (minimum 6.5 in each band), or equivalent. Some providers may offer pathway programs if you do not meet direct entry requirements. Always refer to Macquarie University's admissions page for precise criteria. As a CRICOS-registered course, providers must ensure students meet genuine student requirements for visa purposes. For personalised advice, contact the university directly.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during semester and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can provide valuable industry experience and help with living costs. Some students may choose to undertake voluntary legal internships or clinical placements, but these are not compulsory for the Juris Doctor at Macquarie University.
The Juris Doctor is delivered at Macquarie University's Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde, in Sydney, New South Wales. Sydney is Australia's largest city with a diverse population and a strong job market in legal services. The campus is easily accessible by train and bus from Sydney's central business district and surrounding suburbs. North Ryde is a major technology hub, and the campus is nearby to Macquarie Park, a business district. Living in Sydney offers a vibrant cultural scene, world-class beaches, and a high standard of living. However, it is also one of the most expensive cities in Australia, so budget accordingly.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and English language proficiency. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying and unlimited hours during recognised breaks. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of the visa. The Department of Home Affairs sets visa conditions, and HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered MARA agent for visa assistance. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, comply with the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights as an international student.
Applying for the Juris Doctor at Macquarie University involves three main steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use resources like HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. For this course, ensure it meets your career goals.
2. **Apply directly to Macquarie University**: Check the entry requirements, prepare your academic transcripts and English test scores, and submit your application through the university's online portal. Pay attention to application deadlines.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, Macquarie will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa. Demonstrate GTE, financial capacity, and OSHC. After visa grant, you can plan your travel to Sydney.
Explore Juris Doctor at Macquarie University and take the next step toward your legal career in Australia.
Juris Doctor is a CRICOS-registered programme at Macquarie University (Macquarie). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.