Program Overview

The Bachelor of Justice Studies will equip you with an in-depth understanding of the structure, concepts and underlying principles of the justice system. Within the unique legal context of the nation’s capital – which covers both ACT and federal jurisdictions – you’ll explore the practical and theoretical issues that arise in developing, managing and administering justice policy.

Choose to study the specialist electives which interest you, including human rights, judicial administration in civil and family law, or criminal justice issues. You’ll gain skills in advocacy, communication, problem solving, negotiation and mediation, and will graduate work-ready for a range of professional roles in the civil and criminal justice sectors, responsible for developing and implementing justice policy and improving access to justice.

Study a Bachelor of Justice Studies at UC and you will:

• Learn the fundamentals of the Australian justice system – its core concepts, structure and principles
• Understand the social, legal, economic and political environment affecting the justice sector
• Broad theoretical and technical knowledge about many areas of the justice sector
• Analyse and generate solutions to problems and transmit knowledge and ideas relevant to the sector to others
• Apply your knowledge and skills to demonstrate autonomy, well-developed judgement and responsibility
• Analyse and evaluate information to complete a range of activities relevant to the justice sector
• Work both individually and collaboratively to investigate issues and creatively solve problems that arise within the justice sector
• Develop the relevant cognitive, technical and communication skills to undertake professional roles in research, operations, policy or advocacy.

Work Integrated Learning
As part of the course’s Work Integrated Learning (WIL) component, you’ll undertake an internship placement of 75 hours in an area of your choosing. You’ll apply practical skills, including analysis, research, problem solving and writing, in a law or justice workplace. Past student internship examples have included time at community legal centres, courts, the Commonwealth Ombudsman, federal and ACT government departments (including Justice and Community Safety), the Australian Federal Police Association, and community organisations, such as Victim Support ACT and Legal Aid ACT.

You’ll also participate in a virtual work experience program where you will study highly practical units, such as dispute management. The program will draw together theoretical, practical and professional skills and knowledge in a capstone project, where you will focus on your real-world area of interest or potential future employment goal.

Core Major: Justice Studies
The core units in the BJS will include the four professional core units, tailored to a range of justice career options to produce graduates who are work-ready, now and into the future. This training will be supplemented by an understanding of the relevant theoretical frameworks and administrative processes in the criminal and civil justice systems. Students will have the opportunity to participate in internships, including virtual work experiences.