Applications now open
Our Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Psychological Science gives you the legal and psychological expertise you need to build a fairer society.
- Gain an adaptable skillset that combines legal training with behavioural sciences.
- Get real-world placement experience opportunities in both law and psychology.
- Graduate with two degrees in only five years to gain a competitive career edge.
- Expand your career options in a huge range of fields, including legal practice, community and welfare services, policy advisory and development.
Entry requirements and pathways
Recent school leavers
ATAR requirements (compulsory)
This course uses the ATAR as part of its selection considerations.
Melbourne (Bundoora) campus
90.35 2024 lowest selection rank (including adjustment factors)
based on the Final 2023 ATAR Profile
Bendigo campus
– 2024 lowest selection rank (including adjustment factors)
based on the Final 2023 ATAR Profile
*N/A: Students not accepted in this category, NC: New course, N/P: Not published (includes categories with less than five students). Learn more about our processes
Prerequisite
VCE: Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 30 in English (EAL) or at least 25 in English other than EAL.
Meeting minimum prerequisites does not guarantee an offer of a place. Entry into all La Trobe courses is based on competitive selection and there may be limited places available.
Selection rank adjustments
Subject adjustments
VCE: A study score of 25 in any Humanities, any Information Technology, Legal Studies, Maths: Mathematical Methods, Maths: Specialist Mathematics or any Science equals 4 aggregate points per study. A study score of 20 in any LOTE equals 4 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.
Special Entry Access Schemes (SEAS)
For information on adjustment factors that may be applicable, such as those through Special Entry and Access Schemes (SEAS) and other La Trobe special access schemes see: Special Entry Access Schemes (SEAS)
Aspire Programs
Our Aspire Early Entry Program provides you with an early conditional offer into your chosen course at La Trobe.
At La Trobe, there’s more than one way into uni. We have multiple streams to choose from so if you’ve given back to your community, achieved good results in Year 11 or taken extra university studies, you could take the stress out of Year 12 exams with an early conditional offer into your dream course.
Aspire Year 11 Conditional Entry
The Aspire Year 11 Conditional Entry program uses your performance in year 11 to secure you an early conditional offer into a range of courses at La Trobe. Once you have secured your place at La Trobe you can take advantage of our other Aspire pathways to unlock access to our most prestigious courses.
Get started
Aspire Early University Study
The Aspire Early University Study program rewards Year 12 students who’ve done additional studies at La Trobe with an early conditional offer into their dream course. The Early University Study stream has two options to help get your university goals back on track.
Credit for previous study (advanced standing)
Credit for previous study (advanced standing) is the recognition of prior study or learning that can be counted towards a qualification. This can reduce the number of subjects required to complete your course. The amount of credit received depends on the level and relevance of your previous study and the number of subjects completed.
The University will designate courses where there is only admission into Year 1 of the course. In these cases, there is limited credit. See list of limited entry courses.
To check if this course is available for credit, please visit the Advanced standing webpage.
Pathways
A pathway is simply an alternative way for a student to get into their dream course - if direct entry isn't an option.
We've listed the 'pathway method and outcome' - which is how you can transfer into the area you want to study, assuming you meet the entry requirements (e.g. minimum WAM). You'll also find an estimate of how long it could take you to graduate, from the start of your pathway to the completion of your dream degree.
| Preferred course | Alternative pathway courses | Pathway method & outcome | Years to graduate including the Pathway course (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Psychological Science | Bachelor of Arts | Apply to transfer into preferred course | 6 years | Bachelor of Psychological Science | Apply to transfer into preferred course | 5 years |
Questions about the course?
Check when course applications close and find out how to apply directly or via VTAC.
Call 1300 135 045
Book a one-on-one
Book a consultation with us to get advice on your study options.
Ask a question
Submit a question online. We'll get back to you within the next business day.
What you'll study
Sample course structure
Please note, the following course structure is indicative and subject to change depending on your course location, offer year or how you tailor your course with specialisations, majors, minors and electives. Structures for the following year are not normally finalised until October, so the sample provided is based on the most recently approved structure. For more information, please refer to the La Trobe University Handbook.
To qualify for the award of Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Psychological Science, students must complete a total of 600 credit points across 5 years.
Year 1 requires the completion of 120 credit points including:
- 120 credit points from chosen Core
Year 2 requires the completion of 120 credit points including:
- 120 credit points from chosen Core
Year 3 requires the completion of 120 credit points including:
- 75 credit points from chosen Core
- 15 credit points from chosen Electives
- 30 credit points from chosen Electives
Year 4 requires the completion of 120 credit points including:
- 15 credit points from chosen Capstone
- 60 credit points from chosen Core
- 45 credit points from chosen Electives
Year 5 requires the completion of 120 credit points including:
- 30 credit points from chosen Core
- 30 credit points from chosen Core choice
- 15 credit points from chosen Core choice
- 15 credit points from chosen Electives
- 30 credit points from chosen Electives
Study options
Core subjects are required subjects in your course. You need to complete these subjects to attain your degree.
A range of standalone elective subjects is available in this course. Some electives are recommended for your course, but you may also be able to choose from a range of University-wide electives or electives from other interest areas or disciplines. Note these electives may have their own prerequisites and other requirements. Please refer to the La Trobe University Handbook for the subjects available.
Core choice subjects are one or more subject groups you need to select in your course. Core choice subjects may be specific to your course, major, minor, specialisation or other learning requirements.
| Subject name | Subject code | Year | Credit points |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAW INTERNSHIP B | LAW4INB | 5 | 15 |
| LEGAL PRACTICE AND CONDUCT | LAW4001 | 5 | 15 |
| LEGAL RESEARCH PROJECT | LAW4005 | 5 | 15 |
| LEGAL PRACTICE AND CONDUCT CLINICAL PLACEMENT | LAW4LPP | 5 | 30 |
Capstone subjects are required subjects in your course or major that help you integrate and apply the knowledge and skills you gain to solve real world problems. Capstone subjects are often taken towards the end of your course.
| Subject name | Subject code | Year | Credit points |
|---|---|---|---|
| PSYCHOLOGICAL RESEARCH IN PRACTICE | PSY3PRP | 4 | 15 |
Work-Based Learning
Elective placement opportunities (Work Based Learning)
During this course, you will have the opportunity to participate in a Work Based Learning (WBL) placement experience, designed to allow you to extend your formal academic learning beyond the classroom. The WBL experience will provide the opportunity to bring your learning from the university into a work environment and test out your knowledge in a professional real-world environment. Some courses include compulsory WBL subjects, however, we also offer a range of elective WBL subjects, both cross-discipline and subject-specific. La Trobe University will source placements for some subjects, while others will require you to source your own placement. If you are required to source your own placement, dedicated staff will guide and support you through the process. Elective WBL subjects generally involve an application process and Subject Coordinator approval. The location and number of hours undertaken can vary considerably depending on the activity and the discipline area. Please refer to the individual subject entries for more information. Regional students are eligible to access additional support under the Regional Reward program
See La Trobe University Handbook for more details
The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options. The delivery of this course can vary between campuses.
View course information for Melbourne (Bundoora)
Questions about the course?
Check when course applications close and find out how to apply directly or via VTAC.
Call 1300 135 045
Book a one-on-one
Book a consultation with us to get advice on your study options.
Ask a question
Submit a question online. We'll get back to you within the next business day.
Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Psychological Science course and career outcomes
However you choose to structure your study, La Trobe recognises your hard work. Here are the pathways you could follow as you move through your course.
Course intended learning outcomes
- Demonstrate appropriate understanding and competence in the prescribed areas of knowledge required for admission into legal practice in Victoria, Australia, as determined by the Victorian Legal Admissions Board.
- Collect, analyse, and evaluate information and ideas and solve problems using a scientific approach.
- Demonstrate awareness of cultural differences and show sensitivity to the diversity across people, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, when applying knowledge and skills of psychology.
- Analyse and critique theory and research in the discipline of psychology and communicate effectively in written and oral formats
- Distinguish appropriate values and ethics in psychology.
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of Australian legal systems, institutions and procedures, including fundamental legal principles and concepts in substantive areas of law.
- Apply analytical and professional judgement in identifying legal issues, critically evaluating legal doctrine and providing innovative solutions to complex legal problems.
- Coherently communicate legal knowledge, research, and analysis using a variety of modes to both legal and non-legal actors
- Demonstrate an advanced capacity to work independently, self-manage workload, foster personal and professional development, and collaborate effectively in a team environment.
- Critically analyse, synthesise relevant legal sources and conduct research independently using technologies where appropriate.
- Demonstrate awareness of and critically reflect on lawyers' professional and ethical responsibilities and the importance of integrity and service in legal analysis and practice.
- Demonstrate awareness of and critically reflect on the historical, social, economic and cultural contexts and implications of laws and the role of lawyers in promoting justice and equity.
- Acquire, assess, and apply a broad and coherent body of knowledge of psychology, with depth of understanding of underlying principles, theories and concepts.
Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Psychological Science career opportunities
La Trobe's Bachelor of Laws (Honours) satisfies the academic requirements for admission to practise law in Victoria. Degrees in law and psychological science prepare you for careers in a wide range of industries, including in legal practice, community and welfare services and policy advice roles.
The unique blend of expertise offered in this double degree means your potential careers include:
- Forensic psychologist*
- Apply your psychological and legal knowledge, theory and skills as you research or work in criminal justice systems.
- Mediator
- Help community members to reach a resolution to their dispute without pursuing litigation.
- Barrister or solicitor
- Advocate for justice as you prepare cases, represent clients in court, assist in creating and reviewing contracts, and provide advice on legal issues.
- Workplace relations adviser
- Study and interpret legislation, develop and plan enterprise agreements, and perform other vital roles to support the relationship between employers and their employees.
- Policy advisor
- Provide trusted advice as you identify mental health policy needs, review existing legislation, research and analyse policy options and assess the impacts and feasibility of policies.
* Requires completion of further psychology education.
Professional recognition
Questions about the course?
Check when course applications close and find out how to apply directly or via VTAC.
Call 1300 135 045
Book a one-on-one
Book a consultation with us to get advice on your study options.
Ask a question
Submit a question online. We'll get back to you within the next business day.
Fees and scholarships
Estimated course fees for domestic students
Estimated fees per year (2024):
Indicative based on 2023 fees
$12,857 (CSP) per 120 credit points.
Commonwealth supported places (CSP):
The estimated fees are indicative only. The tuition fees you pay will depend on the subjects you choose to study, with each subject having its own cost. In some cases, your course fees may be higher than the indicated fees because of the subjects you choose.
To get a more accurate estimation, you can use the fee calculator to calculate your course fees and study load (EFTSL: Equivalent full-time study load)
How your fees are calculated
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the subjects you choose to study, with each subject having its own cost. This estimated cost is provided as a guide only – the actual cost will vary depending on:
- the subjects you choose
- the time it takes to do your course based on your study load (full-time/part-time)
- approved credit for prior learning
If part-time study is permitted, your annual fees will be proportionally lower based on the number of subjects taken per semester.
Fee help
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
In a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP), your tuition fees are subsidised by the Australian Government. Your share of the fee (the student contribution), is set each year by the government and is determined by the discipline areas (bands) of your individual subjects, not the overall course.
Learn more about Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP)
HECS-Help Loan
HECS-HELP is the Australian Government’s Higher Education Loan Program. It enables you to borrow the amount of your student contribution and then pay that loan back once you are in the workforce and earning at a specified level. A HECS-HELP loan is not means tested.
HECS-HELP is available to eligible Australian citizens and permanent humanitarian visa holders who are enrolled in a CSP. As a CSP student, you may be eligible to apply for a HECS-HELP loan, which allows you to defer payment of up to 100% of your student contribution.
Scholarships
Scholarships are available for both current and future students. Find out what La Trobe scholarship opportunities might be available to you. View all available scholarships
Note: You must first have an offer to study at La Trobe before you are eligible to apply for a La Trobe scholarship.
Scholarships that may be available for this course
Tertiary Access Payment (TAP) Program
Albury-Wodonga Campus, Bendigo Campus, Melbourne Campus, City Campus, Mildura Campus, Shepparton Campus – Future undergraduates, 1st year undergraduates, Australian Citizen, Humanitarian Visa, New Zealand Citizen, Permanent Resident
Full time enrolment and proof of relocation will be confirmed before payment is made into the recipient's bank account.
Questions about fees and scholarships?
Check when course applications close and find out how to apply directly or via VTAC.
Call 1300 135 045
Book a one-on-one
Book a consultation with us to get advice on your study options.
Ask a question
Submit a question online. We'll get back to you within the next business day.
How to apply
Before you apply
If you are applying for multiple courses you will need to apply through UAC or VTAC (Semester 1 only). If you are applying for one course, you may be able to apply direct.
Applying for a Bachelor's degree
Current Year 12 students living in Victoria
Applications now open
If you’re a Year 12 student from Victoria, you’ll lodge an application via the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC). Your application will then be assessed based on your Year 12 results when they’re released.
Current Year 12 students living in NSW
Find out how
If you’re a Year 12 student from New South Wales, you’ll lodge an application via UAC. Your application will then be assessed based on your Year 12 results when they’re released.
Ready to apply?
Check when course applications close and find out how to apply directly or via VTAC.
Call 1300 135 045
Book a one-on-one
Book a consultation with us to get advice on your study options.
Ask a question
Submit a question online. We'll get back to you within the next business day.
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Overview
Key facts
| Award | Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Psychological Science |
|---|---|
| VTAC code | 2100312211 (CSP) |
| Start dates |
Indicative based on 2023 start dates Semester 1 (March 2024), Semester 2 (July 2024) |
| Duration | 5 years full-time or part-time equivalent |
| Available locations | Melbourne (Bundoora), Bendigo |
| Scholarships | View fees and scholarships |
| Prerequisite | English (Please refer to admission requirements for details) |
| Fees |
Indicative based on 2023 fees Estimated cost per year if studying full time $12,857 (CSP) per 120 credit points.Actual fees may vary depending on subject choice; Learn more about Fees and scholarships. |
ATAR requirements
* based on the Final 2023 ATAR Profile
Melbourne (Bundoora) campus
Lowest selection rank 90.35
Bendigo campus
Lowest selection rank –
Estimate your ATAR
ATAR calculator*N/A: Students not accepted in this category, NC: New course, N/P: Not published (includes categories with less than five students).
About the Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Psychological Science
In La Trobe's Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Psychological Science, you'll build an adaptable skillset that combines skills-based legal training with expertise in psychological teaching, preparing you for a rewarding career.
As you study law, you can tailor your degree to your personal career aspirations with a wide range of elective subjects and opportunities for hands-on professional experience. We combine outstanding legal training with a progressive approach that prepares you for employment. You'll build legal expertise in key areas of law and develop skills that are highly valued by all employers, like advocacy, negotiation, and dispute resolution.
In your accredited psychological science degree, you'll enjoy the full benefits of having access to academics who are experts in their fields. Explore the environmental factors that affect our mental health and understand how community members cope with mental and physical disorders. Thanks to our electives and specialised minors, you'll be able to further ensure your study meets your specific career goals.
With access to real-world placement opportunities in both law and psychology, you'll also have opportunities put your knowledge into practice – whether it's working at a community legal centre, law firms and government agencies, or undertaking a psychology-related field placement.
You'll learn:
- Evidence and criminal procedure
- Build your understanding of the criminal legal system and procedure. Learn how to apply criminal law to real-world scenarios and provide legal advice.
- Private and public law
- Learn how to apply the legal principles underpinning contract law, develop the skills to specialise as a corporate legal expert and discover how government power is distributed, exercised and controlled.
- Clinical, health, developmental and social psychology
- Understand how to help people cope with mental and physical disorders and investigate how environmental factors contribute to our psychological makeup.
- Psychological assessment, intervention and research
- Become familiar with methods used to understand and measure people's psychological state, and learn when and how to intervene or conduct research.
The qualification awarded on graduation is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) as Level 8 – Bachelor Degree Honours.
Have questions?
Check when course applications close and find out how to apply directly or via VTAC.
Call 1300 135 045
Book a one-on-one
Book a consultation with us to get advice on your study options.
Ask a question
Submit a question online. We'll get back to you within the next business day.
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