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Key details
Duration
Locations
Entry requirements
View full entry requirementsCredit points required
10Course code
Overview
CDU First Nations Pre-Law Program
Have you ever thought about a career as a lawyer or other legal professional? Are you considering university study and would like to know more? Or perhaps you plan to start studying law and want to begin on the right foot? If any of this describes you, we invite you to submit your expression of interest for the First Nations Pre-Law Program.
This program offers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people the chance to experience what it is like to study law in a friendly, culturally safe environment at no cost. If you live outside the Greater Darwin area, you may also be eligible for financial support for travel and accommodation through the Away from Base program.
Designed and delivered by First Nations educators and law academics experienced in working with First Nations peoples, the program offers a realistic university experience with additional support where needed. Seminars run face-to-face over three weeks, with access to learning materials and staff for a total of six weeks.
What Will You Learn?
The program develops foundational skills and knowledge in key areas essential for success in law, delivered through two units: Legal Research and Writing, and Legal Reasoning and Advocacy. In addition to building academic skills, the program includes site visits to courts, Parliament, law firms, and government departments. These visits allow you to meet professionals in the field and connect classroom learning to real-world law practices. You will also have opportunities for networking and gain firsthand insight into working in law. Additionally, the program features a Larrakia Legal History Tour.
Support and Mentoring
During the program, you will have the chance to connect with a tutor who can provide academic support and guidance throughout the program and into your law studies. This program fosters a sense of connection and belonging with other students, university staff, and members of the professional legal community who can offer support and mentoring as you progress in your studies.
Next Steps
Successful completion of the program provides a direct pathway into CDU-s Bachelor of Laws, allowing you to begin your law studies immediately after finishing the Pre-Law Program.
Fees
Commonwealth supported places
Commonwealth Supported places are available in this course to students who meet one of the following residency requirements:
(a) be an Australian citizen, who will complete some of your course of study while resident in Australia; or
(b) a New Zealand citizen; or an Australian permanent visa holder; or an eligible former permanent humanitarian visa holder; who studies the entire course while living in Australia.
Further information about fees and charges can be found at Fees and Payments.
Why study a pathway course at CDU
At CDU, there is a study pathway for everyone. We strive to provide you with a range of alternative entry methods suitable for students at all levels of education and English proficiency.
- Free 16-week Tertiary Enabling Program
- Range of First Nations enabling and pre-enabling programs
- #5 Australian university for first-in-family study (GUG 2024)
Why study a pathway course at CDU
CDU International College prepares you to study undergraduate and postgraduate programs at CDU.
- Attend classes at the modern CDU Waterfront campus in Darwin City, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive CDU student support
- Specialised language development, a well-rounded curriculum and smaller class sizes provide the support necessary to meet your goals and prepare for the real world
Why study a pathway course at CDU
At CDU, there is a study pathway for everyone. We strive to provide you with a range of alternative entry methods suitable for students at all levels of education and English proficiency.
- Free 16-week Tertiary Enabling Program
- Range of First Nations enabling and pre-enabling programs
- #5 Australian university for first-in-family study (GUG 2024)
Why study a pathway course at CDU
CDU International College prepares you to study undergraduate and postgraduate programs at CDU.
- Attend classes at the modern CDU Waterfront campus in Darwin City, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive CDU student support
- Specialised language development, a well-rounded curriculum and smaller class sizes provide the support necessary to meet your goals and prepare for the real world
What will I study?
The First Nations Pre-Law Program runs as an intensive for students considering applying for an undergraduate law degree. Students will undertake learning experiences needed for successful participation in a law degree by exploring the foundational skills, knowledge and relationships needed to study law.
Course structure
A candidate must successfully complete units totalling 10 credit points (cp) as detailed below.
Study plan
STUDENTS COMMENCING IN INTENSIVE PERIOD 1
The pre-law intensive program is delivered across four weeks, commencing in January each year. The program is delivered by a dedicated facilitator with both professional legal expertise and experience in delivering training and education to Aboriginal learners.
In addition to the skills learnt during the pre-law program, it also assists potential students be successful in their law studies by making them familiar and comfortable with the law environment and expectations for study. The relationships built with other pre-law students and lecturers will mean that successful candidates have a support network from the very first day of their law studies.
| Legend: | CO = Core Unit |
Study Plan
Entry requirements
Quota
Please note that our program has a limited quota of 25 students, primarily due to accommodation constraints for out-of-town students. Early application is recommended.
Admission criteria
This course is only available for First Nations peoples who would like to pursue a career in law and be supported through peer-to-peer learning and mentoring.
Essential requirements
Applicants must complete an online application form, and provide details of their education, work/life experience, and area of study interest. The form is available on this page: First Nations Pathways to University Programs - Application Form
I really felt like the teachers cared. I think that’s what I like about CDU – it feels like more of a family and more of a home.
Sizol
CDU student
I really felt like the teachers cared. I think that’s what I like about CDU – it feels like more of a family and more of a home.
Sizol
CDU student
Course details
Inherent Requirements
There are inherent requirements for this course. Students must read and understand the requirements for this course.
Additional information
Contact details
For further information about the course, enrolment procedures, closing dates and other administrative issues please contact Student Central on:
You make CDU
Together we are a positive force for change in our communities and the world.
You make CDU
Our students choose to study with us because we share the same vision – to make a positive change. Whatever your motivation is, we can guide you in the right direction.
You make CDU
Together we are a positive force for change in our communities and the world.
You make CDU
Our students choose to study with us because we share the same vision – to make a positive change. Whatever your motivation is, we can guide you in the right direction.
How to apply
There are many ways to apply to CDU. The method you use depends on your course type, where you live and whether you are a new or returning student to CDU.
Remember to apply early for your best chance at securing an offer to study with us.
Applicants must complete an online form, and provide details of their education, work/life experience, and area of study interest.
The form is available on this page: First Nations Pathways to University Programs - Expression of Interest.
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