Considering a combined degree that blends journalism with law? The Bachelor of Journalism / Bachelor of Laws (Honours) (CRICOS course code 083026C) is a Bachelor Honours Degree (AQF Level 8) offered by Queensland University of Technology (QUT), a government CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 00213J). This course is designed for students who want to develop expertise in media and legal practice, preparing for careers in journalism, media law, policy, or advocacy. Delivered over 5 years 6 months (~286 weeks) at QUT's Kelvin Grove campus in Brisbane, the program combines theoretical and practical learning. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students are protected under the ESOS Act. QUT is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses. At HeadStart Academy, we provide free, unbiased information sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you compare study options and understand visa requirements. Whether you're exploring dual degrees or need guidance on student visa (Subclass 500) conditions, this page covers everything you need to know about this course.
Bachelor of Journalism / Bachelor of Laws (Honours) (CRICOS course code 083026C) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by Queensland University of Technology (QUT) over 5 years 6 months (~286 weeks). This combined degree allows you to study two distinct fields simultaneously: journalism (from the Creative Arts field, specifically Communication and Media Studies – Journalism) and law (honours level). As an AQF Level 8 qualification, it includes an honours component, meaning you'll undertake a research project or dissertation in law. The course is designed to produce graduates who can critically analyse legal issues and communicate them effectively across media platforms. QUT is a well-established government university located in Brisbane, Queensland, with a strong reputation for industry-connected programs. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00213J), QUT meets Australian Government standards for delivering courses to international students. All courses on our site are verified against the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy.
This combined degree covers two broad areas: journalism and law. In journalism, you'll explore media ethics, news writing, digital storytelling, investigative reporting, and multimedia production. In law, you'll study core subjects such as contract law, torts, criminal law, constitutional law, and property law, alongside legal research and writing. At honours level, you'll complete a supervised research project or thesis in a legal area of your choice. The curriculum is designed to build interdisciplinary skills – you'll learn to report on legal proceedings, analyse legislation, and communicate complex legal concepts to the public. Graduates may pursue roles as journalists, legal reporters, policy officers, or media lawyers. Note that practical legal training (PLT) may be required separately for admission as a legal practitioner in Australia; check with QUT for further details.
The course runs for 5 years 6 months (approximately 286 weeks) full-time as recorded on the CRICOS register. Language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award), meaning you graduate with one testamur: Bachelor of Journalism / Bachelor of Laws (Honours). No work component is included, though QUT may offer optional internships or work-integrated learning opportunities. Study mode is on-campus at the Kelvin Grove campus. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire course is A$183,100. Additional non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities, library access, and administration) are estimated at A$4,800. Total estimated cost: A$187,900. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by QUT. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For current fees, always check QUT's website. As a guide, international students should budget for OSHC (approx. A$500–700 per year for single cover), living costs in Brisbane (rent A$150–300 per week, groceries A$80–120 per week, transport A$30–50 per week), and the student visa application fee (A$1,600).
Entry requirements are set by QUT. Generally, for bachelor honours degree programs, you need an Australian Year 12 qualification (or equivalent) with a competitive ATAR, or a completed diploma or foundation program. English language proficiency: IELTS overall band of 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0). Equivalent scores for TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge English are also accepted. QUT may consider prior work experience for mature-age applicants. Foundation studies or pathway programs are available through QUT International College. Always confirm specific requirements directly with QUT, as they can change.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Any work must not interfere with your studies. QUT may offer optional placements or internships – check with the faculty.
The course is delivered at QUT's Kelvin Grove campus in Brisbane, Queensland (postcode 4059). Kelvin Grove is a leafy suburb just 3 km from Brisbane's CBD, well-served by bus and the Kelvin Grove Road busway. Brisbane is the capital of Queensland, with a population of over 2.5 million. The city is home to more than 20 CRICOS-registered providers across all study levels. Cost of living in Brisbane is generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne – indicative weekly rent for a share house is A$150–250, and a weekly grocery shop is around A$70–100. Kelvin Grove campus is part of the Kelvin Grove Urban Village, a vibrant hub with cafes, shops, and green spaces. Public transport from the city takes about 15–20 minutes.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity, and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The visa allows work rights detailed above. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet requirements. We recommend consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to find courses like this one. Compare entry requirements, fees, and locations. QUT is a CRICOS-registered provider (00213J). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit QUT's website to check exact entry requirements and deadlines. You may need to provide academic transcripts, English test scores, and a personal statement. Submit your application through QUT's international application portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once QUT offers you a place, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online through the Department of Home Affairs.
Brisbane offers a subtropical climate, a growing job market, and a laid-back lifestyle. As a student city, it has a large international student community and affordable living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. QUT's Kelvin Grove campus is close to the city and has excellent facilities including a library, media studios, and moot court. Consider your preferences: if you enjoy warm weather and want a balance of urban and outdoor activities, Brisbane could be ideal. The city also has a thriving media and legal sector, which is beneficial for networking and internships.
Ready to apply? Visit QUT's official website to check entry requirements and submit your application.
View the full Queensland University of Technology (QUT) profile →
Bachelor of Journalism / Bachelor of Laws (Honours) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Queensland University of Technology (QUT). 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.