OVERVIEW

• The Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Computer Science provides you with an accredited qualification in law while you develop expertise in software development and computer science.

• This double degree provides you with a broad, well-rounded legal education that inculcates an understanding of the role the law plays in our society and of how it can assist Australia as a trading nation.

• You'll receive extensive education in contemporary approaches to the analysis, design and implementation of large-scale systems, along with a sound understanding of the traditional aspects of computer science such as hardware and operating systems.

• Like all IT courses at Swinburne, this course pays particular attention to the human factors involved in the development, deployment and use of computer-based systems.

• There is a focus on applications involving mobile and web-based systems, with an emphasis on the design of effective human-computer interfaces. A range of options in the degree allows you to study advanced subjects in computer science areas including artificial intelligence, computer networks, database, enterprise systems and programming languages.

• Work Integrated Learning is a guaranteed part of all our bachelor degrees. In this double degree, you'll complete law-related professional experience placements at organisations in Australia or overseas. You'll also be introduced to the practical aspects of legal practice through moot court scenarios and advocacy exercises. You'll also apply your learning in six project units related to computer science in professionally focused, industry-linked projects.

• As a graduate of this course, you'll have extensive skills in system development, particularly relating to medium- and large-scale projects, will have developed experience in working on team projects, and will have well-developed oral and written communication skills.

COURSE LEARNING OUTCOMES

• describe and demonstrate the application of the fundamental areas of Australian law and the Australian legal system and of the principles and doctrines that underpin them

• describe and demonstrate the application of ethical and professional responsibility in the practice of the law and a commitment to the pursuit of justice

• analyse and evaluate the interdisciplinary contexts in which legal issues arise and the disciplines and policy considerations that influence the content and operation of the law

• describe and compare the international legal order and the law and legal systems of Australia’s major trading partners

• critically evaluate events or factual situations, identify the legal issues to which they give rise and develop and articulate appropriate and creative responses

• undertake and critically evaluate research from a variety of sources to make judgements to solve complex legal problems with intellectual independence

• demonstrate effective and persuasive communication capabilities with legal and non-legal audiences

• communicate proficiently in professional practice to a variety of audiences, function as an effective member or leader of a diverse team and critically reflect on individual performance and professional development.

Upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Computer Science, graduates will be able to:

• apply a broad and coherent knowledge of computer science and software development in diverse contexts and domains using critical thinking and judgement

• apply appropriate methods and contemporary tools to the scoping, analysis, design, construction, verification and operation of software systems

• communicate proficiently to a variety of audiences, function as an effective member or leader of a team, and use the basic tools and practices of project management within project work

• demonstrate professionalism, integrity, ethical conduct, professional accountability and an awareness of professional practice in a global context

• apply problem analysis and decision-making methodologies to identify, design and implement solutions to industry relevant problems with intellectual independence

• reflect on personal performance, learning, and self-management processes as a means of continued professional development and lifelong learning.

CAREER OPPOURTUNITIES

• Bachelor of Laws graduates will have the theoretical and practical knowledge required to operate effectively in diverse settings such as law firms and barristers’ chambers, not-for-profit organisations, government, small businesses and corporate organisations. In particular, the specialisation in intellectual property law equips graduates for careers in the new knowledge economy, giving them the skills to work in media and entertainment, design, branding and advertising, and in internet companies and firms advising information-dependent industries.

• Bachelor of Computer Science graduates typically find employment in organisations engaged in medium- to large-scale software development. Initially, graduates are usually employed in technical areas such as programming and systems analysis and design, internet systems development. They are well-prepared for progression into project leadership and management positions as their experience develops.

COURSE STRUCTURE

• Introduction to Australian Law & Statutory Interpretation

• Contract Law * 

• Commercial Law

• Torts 1

• Criminal Law and Procedure

• Torts 2 

• Legal Writing

• Evidence 

• Administrative Law

• Trade Marks and Related Rights *

• Federal and State Constitutional Law 

• Property Law

• Land Law 

• Legal Technology and Innovation

• Copyright *

• Patents and Designs *

• Equity and Trusts 

• Company Law

• Legal Practice and Professional Conduct 

• Civil Procedure and Alternative Dispute Resolution

• Computer and Logic Essentials

• Introduction to Programming

• Creating Web Applications

• Fundamentals of Data Management

• Network Administration

• Professional Issues in Information Technology *

• Software Engineering Project - A *

• Software Engineering Project - B *

• Professional Experience in Law 1

• Professional Experience in Law 2

• Professional Experience in Law 3