If you’re considering a career in law, then the Juris Doctor degree may be the right choice. This degree can equip you to take on roles such as attorneys, paralegals, advocates and policymakers. Not only does this type of degree equip graduates with the skills needed to succeed in the field of law – but it also provides them with an opportunity to make a real difference in their communities.
A Juris Doctor (JD) in Australia is a three-year postgraduate law degree designed for non-law graduates and international law degree holders. Equivalent to a Level 9 qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), the JD is not a doctorate despite its name. Graduates should not use the title “Doctor” in professional settings. The JD is academically and professionally equivalent to a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and qualifies graduates to proceed toward legal practice.
Given that a lot of new university students are looking at either a Juris Doctor or MBA, this blog post will cover what a Juris Doctor Degree entails and why it benefits those pursuing careers in law-related fields.
Course Details, Duration & AQF Level
The JD is a comprehensive graduate-entry law program that satisfies all Priestley 11 requirements—core subjects needed for admission to legal practice in Australia. These include torts, contracts, criminal law and procedure, constitutional law, administrative law, property law, equity (including trusts), civil procedure, evidence, company law, and ethics and professional responsibility.
In addition to core subjects, JD programs offer electives such as international law, human rights, corporate law, and environmental law.
Delivery Modes: Full-time and part-time, with blended/online formats offered by many universities.
AQF Level: Level 9 (same as a Master’s degree)
Admission Requirements & Format
To apply for a JD in Australia, you must hold a completed non-law undergraduate degree (any discipline) and demonstrate academic aptitude (often via GPA or LSAT score). Some universities also assess relevant professional experience.
How difficult is it to earn a Juris Doctor degree?
This degree is considered one of the most difficult degrees to earn for those interested in the law field. The program is three years long, and students must complete rigorous coursework to qualify for the bar exam. In addition, many law schools require students to participate in extracurricular activities, such as moot courts or legal clinics, to gain practical experience.
The JD degree is well-respected in the legal community, and those who earn it can typically find high-paying jobs as lawyers. However, a degree is not for everyone; it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to earn a JD. If you are interested in pursuing a career in law, make sure you are prepared for a challenging but rewarding journey.
The benefits of earning a Juris Doctor degree
A Juris Doctor degree can offer many benefits to those who earn it. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is that it can help prepare you for a career in law. A JD can give you the knowledge and skills you need to practice law, as well as the ability to understand and analyse complex legal issues. It can also give you a strong foundation for a career in politics or public service.
But a JD isn’t just for those interested in a career in law. It can also be a valuable asset for those pursuing careers in business or academia. It can help you develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills and the ability to research and write effectively. It can also give you access to exclusive networks and resources.
JD vs LLB: Which Path Suits You?
Here’s a quick comparison of the JD and LLB degrees in Australia:
| Feature | Juris Doctor (JD) | Bachelor of Laws (LLB) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Requirement | Completed undergraduate degree | High school or prior degree |
| AQF Level | Level 9 (Master’s level) | Level 7 (Bachelor’s level) |
| Duration | 3 years FT (up to 6–8 years PT) | 3–4 years (may vary) |
| Academic Rigor | Postgraduate standard | Undergraduate level |
| Recognition | Academic/Professional | Academic/Professional |
Career paths of a Juris Doctor degree
A Juris Doctor degree can be used in a variety of ways. One option is to use the degree to practice law. After completing an accredited law school, graduates can take the bar exam in their state and become licensed lawyers. Lawyers can work in various settings, such as private firms, corporations, or government organisations.
Another option is to use the degree to pursue a career in academia. Law professors typically have a JD degree and some teaching experience. They work in law schools, teaching future lawyers the ins and outs of the legal system.
A JD degree can also be used in business. Graduates with a JD can work as corporate counsel or in other legal positions within businesses. Additionally, many MBA programs accept JDs so that business-minded individuals can pursue dual degrees.
The options for what you can do with a Juris Doctor degree are truly endless, and you’ll find multiple professionals with different careers having completed this degree.
Is the Juris Doctor right for me?
A Juris Doctor degree is an advanced law degree that can lead to many career opportunities. The benefits of earning a Juris Doctor degree include increased job security, higher earnings potential, and the ability to work in many different fields.
While earning a Juris Doctor degree is difficult, the rewards are well worth the effort. If you are considering a Juris Doctor degree, keep these important things in mind. Good luck.
FAQs
Q: Is a JD the same as a doctorate?
A: No. In Australia, the Juris Doctor is a master’s-level qualification (AQF Level 9). Graduates should not use the title “Doctor” professionally.
Q: Do I need PLT after completing a JD?
A: Yes. The JD satisfies the academic requirements, but you still need to complete Practical Legal Training or supervised training before you can practice law.
Q: Can international students use a JD to practice law in Australia?
A: Yes. The JD is a common retraining pathway for overseas law graduates who wish to meet Australian admission requirements.
Q: What’s the difference between a JD and LLB in terms of career outcomes?
A: Both degrees qualify you to pursue the same legal roles in Australia. The main differences lie in entry requirements and study level.
