Diploma in Legal Studies (CRICOS course code 115780M) is a Diploma delivered by Adelaide University over 1 year. This course is designed for international students seeking foundational knowledge in legal principles within an Australian context. As a CRICOS-registered provider (04249J), Adelaide University ensures the program meets the high standards of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 5). Whether you're planning to pursue further study in law or seek entry-level roles in legal support, this diploma offers a pathway into the Australian legal landscape. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, and fees are indicative only.
Diploma in Legal Studies (CRICOS course code 115780M) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Adelaide University, a government-owned institution. The course is classified under Field of Education 090900 – Law, n.f.d., providing a broad introduction to legal concepts, Australian legal systems, and critical thinking skills. Over 52 weeks (1 year full-time), students study entirely in English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. The course does not include a mandatory work placement, but students may undertake voluntary work or internships subject to visa conditions. Adelaide University, with CRICOS code 04249J, is one of Australia's newest comprehensive universities, formed from the merger of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia. It is fully CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with ESOS Act protections for international students.
This diploma introduces students to the Australian legal framework, including areas such as contract law, torts, criminal law, and legal research. At AQF Level 5, graduates develop broad theoretical and technical knowledge, along with cognitive and communication skills to analyse legal issues. The course aims to prepare students for higher-level study in law or for roles such as paralegal, legal assistant, or administrative officer in legal environments. Please note that completion of this diploma does not qualify graduates to practice as a lawyer; further study (e.g., a Bachelor of Laws) is required for admission to legal practice. For detailed subject listings, refer to Adelaide University's official website.
The Diploma in Legal Studies is a 1-year full-time course, comprising 52 weeks of study as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include a foundation studies program. Students attend classes at Adelaide University's Adelaide City Campus in the heart of South Australia's capital. The campus is easily accessible via public transport, including buses, trams, and trains. Adelaide is known for its affordable student living, with indicative weekly costs of A$300–450 for rent, A$80–120 for groceries, and A$30–50 for public transport. As a CRICOS-registered course, students benefit from ESOS protections, including tuition assurance and refund provisions.
The indicative tuition fee for Diploma in Legal Studies is A$19,000 (non-tuition fees A$0), bringing the estimated total to A$19,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$21,041 per year for a single student), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always confirm current fees with Adelaide University directly. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, and we encourage students to compare costs across multiple providers.
English language proficiency of IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) is typically required for this level. Applicants should hold a qualification equivalent to Australian Year 12 or a Certificate IV/Diploma. As this is not a foundation studies program, students must meet direct entry requirements. Adelaide University may also consider work experience or other pathways. Always check the provider's website for the most up-to-date entry criteria. For students who do not meet requirements, pathway programs (such as English language courses or foundation studies) may be available through other CRICOS-registered providers. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the institution directly for personalised advice.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Any work must not compromise the course of study. Students should also ensure they have appropriate OSHC cover. For more details, visit the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent.
The Diploma in Legal Studies is delivered at Adelaide University's Adelaide City Campus, located in the Adelaide central business district, South Australia. Adelaide is home to over 50,000 international students and has more than 30 CRICOS-registered providers. The city offers a vibrant student community, affordable living costs, and excellent public transport. The campus is within walking distance of major transport hubs, shopping precincts, and cultural attractions. For students considering studying in South Australia, Adelaide provides a safe and supportive environment with a range of student services and support networks.
International students enrolling in Diploma in Legal Studies must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Adelaide University, evidence of English proficiency, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All conditions must be met to maintain visa compliance. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only; for detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma in Legal Studies at Adelaide University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Diploma), field (Law), and location (Adelaide). Compare providers and verify CRICOS registration.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check the entry requirements (including English test scores) and application deadlines on Adelaide University's website. Submit your application online with supporting documents such as academic transcripts and English test results.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: If accepted, the institution will issue a CoE. Then lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs, attaching all required documents including OSHC evidence. Ensure you meet the GTE and financial criteria.
Adelaide is Australia's fifth-largest city, known for its affordability and student-friendly lifestyle. With over 50,000 international students from 130+ countries, Adelaide offers a multicultural environment. The city has a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne: indicative weekly rent A$250–400, groceries A$70–110, and transport A$30–50. Adelaide University's city campus is centrally located, providing easy access to libraries, cafes, and legal precincts. If you prefer a compact, accessible city with a strong sense of community, Adelaide could be an ideal study destination. Consider also that South Australia has a growing legal sector, offering potential networking opportunities for legal studies graduates.
Ready to start your legal studies journey? Use HeadStart Academy to compare more Diploma courses in South Australia, or contact Adelaide University directly for application details.
Diploma in Legal Studies is a CRICOS-registered programme at Adelaide University. 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.