Hello,

I'm an Australian school leaver, finishing secondary school in 2009, and have a keen interest in studying law at university. After much research into this area, and taking into consideration my areas of interest in the law (primarily, the areas of Public, Administrative, Constitutional and International Law), I've narrowed it down to the Australian National University LL.B and the postgraduate Melbourne JD.

The question I'd like to ask is, of these institutions and considering my interests, which is the best place to undertake my studies (particularly in the field of Constitutional Law)? Furthermore, why does the Melbourne JD course structure require less electives to be completed, especially in comparison to other law degrees, such as the ANU or Monash LL.B?

Regards,

Curious

Hello Curious Student

I have tried my best to assist you - but please do double-check what I say as I might be wrong!

Both ANU and UniMelb are good choices for taking law school studies but the thing you should note is that ANU and Monash have their own JD programs as well. JD programs will require a first degree before you will be permitted entry so students will have to complete a first degree (in any field).

In my opinion, universities are generally known for their specialisations in postgraduate level, especially in their Master of Laws program. Should you be reading for an LLB, I think it does not really matter where you undertake your degree (USyd and UNSW would be good choices too) because the Australian authorities prescribe "Priestley 11" subjects to be complete within an LLB program - this subjects include, Tort law, Contract law, Administrative law etc. etc. Therefore, majority of the LLB and JD programs what somewhat similar content coverage because it is a pre-requisite for training lawyers.

In my opinion, the difference between LLB programs and JD programs lie with the elective component. LLB programs generally tend to be highly similar because schools generally offer a wide list of subjects (which are general - e.g. Insurance Law, Maritime Law etc) while JD students in ANU, UniMelb, Monash, as postgraduate students, will get access to the university's wide offering of Master of Laws subjects. These subjects, are the ones you seem to be interested in given their focus on administrative, constitutional and international law.

Essentially, what I am trying to say is - I think there is not much difference in LLB programs offered throughout Australia but this does not necessarily apply to JD programs because students tend to get access to a wider range of elective subjects. However, generally LLB students can complete more electives because a LLB course is typically 3.5 years to 4 years while a JD program is 3 years. The difference will be filled up by electives. Some universities also prefer to cover "Priestley 11" subjects as a year long subject versus a semester subject, resulting in a more in-depth learning of the "Priestley 11" subjects and less room for elective studies.

I hope this helps - again - others might have differing opinions but here is mine.

Cheers,
G

Gregor2009,

Much obliged for your generous and adequately comprehensive contribution!