Global Utilities

La Trobe University
University Handbook 2010

Disciplines and areas of study

Legal Studies

Coordinator: Dr S. Davies

Enquiries: (03) 9479 2690

Legal Studies involves the examination of law – its nature, operation and effects in social, economic and political contexts. In legal studies we draw together the insights and methods of a diverse range of disciplines including law, criminology, sociology, politics, history and cultural studies. These are used to analyse how law, legal concepts and processes are dynamic and involve the constant negotiation of multiple, complex, competing demands. Legal Studies scholars and practitioners are concerned with a broad range of contemporary issues concerning citizenship, human rights, social justice, crime, criminal justice and the administration of the law.

Legal Studies is a field that engages with issues and ideas that are relevant both locally and globally.

Principal areas of specialisation

Critical criminology, cultural criminology, criminal justice, punishment, imprisonment and corrections, socio-legal history, discrimination and the law, social justice and the law, sexuality and the law, law and social policy. Critical criminology, cultural criminology, criminal justice, punishment, imprisonment and corrections, socio-legal history, discrimination and the law, social justice and the law, sexuality and the law, law and social policy.

Coursework programs

  • Graduate Diploma in Humanities and Social Sciences
  • Graduate Certificate in Humanities and Social Sciences

Research programs

  • Master of Arts by Research
  • Doctor of Philosophy