Graduate Diploma in Law (CRICOS course code 115865F) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Adelaide University over 1 year. This Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 8 course sits within the field of Society and Culture, specifically Law (090900). Designed for international students seeking advanced legal knowledge, it provides critical thinking and analytical skills essential for legal practice or further study. Adelaide University, a government-owned institution with CRICOS registration 04249J, offers this program at its Adelaide City Campus in South Australia. As a CRICOS-registered provider, you are protected under the ESOS Act. The indicative tuition fee is A$49,900, with additional non-tuition fees of A$351, bringing the estimated total to A$50,251. Please note fees are subject to change. Graduate Diploma in Law is a single qualification with no dual qualification or work component. Delivery is in English over 52 weeks. Entry typically requires an IELTS score of 5.5-6.0 overall. This page provides comprehensive information to help you decide if this course aligns with your academic and career goals. HeadStart Academy sources data from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, covering 26,433 courses across 1,556 providers.
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Graduate Diploma in Law (CRICOS 115865F) is a one-year postgraduate course at AQF Level 8, offered by Adelaide University (CRICOS 04249J). The course falls under the field of Society and Culture (0909 Law), providing advanced legal education for international students. As a CRICOS-registered program, it meets Australian government standards for international student enrolment, ensuring ESOS Act protections. Adelaide University is a public university with a strong reputation in legal education. This Graduate Diploma is designed for students who already hold a bachelor's degree and wish to specialise in law without committing to a full master's degree. The course is delivered entirely in English at the Adelaide City Campus, South Australia. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, choosing a registered course like this guarantees quality and compliance with Australian education regulations. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, with data sourced directly from the CRICOS register.
The Graduate Diploma in Law covers foundational and advanced topics in legal theory, legal research, ethics, and critical analysis. Students develop skills in interpreting legislation, case law, and legal reasoning. The curriculum typically includes subjects such as Australian legal systems, contract law, torts, criminal law, and constitutional law, though specific subjects vary by provider. At this level, graduates acquire the ability to apply legal principles to complex problems, communicate effectively in legal contexts, and understand the ethical responsibilities of legal professionals. The course prepares students for further study (e.g., a Master of Laws) or for roles in legal support, policy, or compliance. It is important to confirm the exact syllabus with Adelaide University, as course outlines are set by the institution and may change. The field of Law (090900) encompasses a broad range of legal studies, and this Graduate Diploma provides a solid foundation for international students seeking to work or study in law in Australia.
The course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) as registered on the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time in English, with no online or part-time options indicated. This is a single qualification — it does not combine with another degree or include a foundation studies component. The language of instruction is English, so proficiency is essential. Students should expect a full-time study load of around 40 hours per week, including classes, independent study, and assessments. The standard academic year in Australia typically runs from February to November, with intakes possible in February and July (check with Adelaide University for exact dates). Studying in South Australia offers a vibrant student life, with Adelaide known for its affordable living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne. The city has a student population of over 40,000 international students from various countries, and public transport is accessible via buses, trams, and trains.
Indicative tuition fees for the Graduate Diploma in Law are A$49,900, as listed on the CRICOS register (April 2026). Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$351, covering items such as student services and amenities fees. The estimated total is A$50,251. Please note: these figures are indicative only and set by Adelaide University. You must confirm current fees directly with the university before applying. The following costs are not included in this estimate: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover; living expenses — the Australian Government recommends at least A$21,041 per year for a single student; and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). Additionally, you should budget for accommodation, transport, and personal expenses. In Adelaide, indicative weekly costs are: rent (shared) A$200–A$350, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$30–A$50. Always visit the Adelaide University fee page for the most accurate information.
General entry requirements for a Graduate Diploma in Law at Adelaide University include: English language proficiency — typically IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall (with no band below 5.5 or 6.0, depending on the provider); a completed bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) or equivalent in any discipline; and any prerequisite subjects or work experience as specified by the university. Some providers may require a minimum GPA or a background in law for entry. Adelaide University may also consider alternative qualifications or professional experience on a case-by-case basis. If you do not meet the English requirements, you may be able to enrol in an English language course (ELICOS) first. Pathway programs such as a Foundation Studies program are not typically required for a Graduate Diploma, but you can contact Adelaide University for advice. Remember that satisfying the entry requirements does not guarantee admission — the final decision rests with the institution.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no internship, placement, or work experience requirement as part of the Graduate Diploma in Law. However, as an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled university holidays. This allows you to gain relevant legal experience through casual or part-time employment, but it is not a requirement of the course. Any work undertaken must not interfere with your studies. If you are seeking a course with a mandatory internship, you may want to look at other programs. Always check your visa conditions regarding work rights and ensure compliance.
The Graduate Diploma in Law is delivered at Adelaide University's Adelaide City Campus in Adelaide, South Australia. The campus is located in the city centre, close to public transport hubs (Adelaide Railway Station, bus stops, and tram lines). Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, with a population of approximately 1.3 million. It is known for its vibrant arts scene, festivals, and affordable cost of living. The city hosts over 40,000 international students across multiple CRICOS-registered providers. Adelaide University is one of the leading universities in Australia, offering modern facilities, libraries, and student support services. Studying in Adelaide provides a relaxed lifestyle with easy access to beaches, parks, and cultural attractions. The campus is well-connected, and students often live in nearby suburbs like North Adelaide, Unley, or the city itself. Indicative living costs in Adelaide are lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, making it an attractive destination for international students.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a registered course. Key requirements include: meeting the genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, having sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents, and maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. As a student visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (check current conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website). You must also comply with visa conditions such as maintaining enrolment, satisfactory course progress, and not engaging in work that compromises your studies. Upon completing the Graduate Diploma, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) to gain work experience in Australia. For personalised visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma in Law at Adelaide University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to verify that Adelaide University (CRICOS 04249J) and this course (115865F) are registered. You can search by course level, field, and city to compare options. HeadStart Academy provides a free search tool covering all 26,433 courses.
2. Apply directly to Adelaide University: Prepare your documents, including academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.5-6.0), and any other required materials. Check the university's application deadlines (typically Semester 1 in February and Semester 2 in July). Submit your application online through the university's admissions portal. You may also need to provide a statement of purpose or references.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, Adelaide University will issue a CoE. Use this CoE to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and a valid passport. Visa processing times vary — apply early.
Start your journey to study Graduate Diploma in Law at Adelaide University. Check your eligibility and apply now.
Graduate Diploma in Law 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.