Advanced Diploma in Paralegal Studies

The Advanced Diploma in Paralegal Studies course provides students with the opportunity to complete a course dedicated to preparatory skills and studies in law, regardless of their educational background.

Course Aims

The Advanced Diploma of Paralegal Studies aims to graduate students who can demonstrate:· a knowledge of the fundamentals of the Australian legal system;· knowledge of areas that include criminal law, dispute resolution, law and first peoples of Australia; · the ability to take a strategic approach to problem solving by applying critical and innovative thinking to legal issues;· competence in written communication.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to: demonstrate breadth of knowledge and have an understanding of law's purpose and its application in one or more areas of study; demonstrate an ability to critically reflect upon and appreciate law's effect on society and, where appropriate, develop arguments for reform; demonstrate knowledge of areas of law, law's values and principles, and an awareness of Indigenous legal issues; critically analyse and suggest ethically appropriate solutions in an effective and persuasive manner; and be accountable for their own learning by being independent and self-directed learners, and personally practising ethical conduct.

Graduate Attributes

Knowledge of a Discipline Graduates will have an understanding of the discipline areas of the law of Australia, and will also have an awareness of indigenous perspectives. Legal resources may include international law, comparative material such as case-law and legislation from other jurisdictions and also social, political and economic perspectives. Students will also be encouraged to consider the law through indigenous, theoretical and international perspectives. Communication Skills Graduates will develop skills in legal writing and argument. These skills will benefit participants' ability to communicate with both clients and colleagues in both legal and non-legal contexts. Problem Solving Graduates will be able to identify legal issues, apply the law and construct ethically appropriate solutions. Students are also encouraged to respond and apply these problem-solving skills to broader societal projects. Information Literacy Graduates will be able to critically evaluate legal information from a range of sources using technology and communicate it to a range of audiences. Ethical Conduct and Social Responsibility Graduates will be able to recognise ethical issues that may arise in the legal context and how to act in a socially responsible way both as an individual and in a team environment, recognising law's impact on society. Lifelong Learning Graduates will recognise the need to take personal responsibility for the ongoing currency of their legal knowledge appreciating that law is a tool for social justice; and that law is a dynamic discipline. Independence and Collaboration Graduates will develop skills in independent study as well as the ability to work collaboratively. They will learn the importance of participating in discussions in a professional, respectful and ethical manner.