Overview
The Year 11 Legal Studies course develops students’ knowledge and understanding of the nature and functions of law and law-making, the operation of the Australian legal system, and the ways individuals and groups experience the law and bring about its reform. Students investigate, analyse and synthesise legal information and examine legal issues from a variety of perspectives. The HSC course explores two core studies — the criminal justice system, and international relations and human rights — together with two options chosen from specialist fields of law. Students also undertake an excursion to court.
HSC Assessment Structure
Legal Studies is a 2-unit course in both Year 11 and Year 12. The Year 11 course consists of three assessment tasks and the Year 12 course consists of four, one of which is the Trial HSC Examination. There are no practical components or major works for Legal Studies.
Career Paths
Students who study Legal Studies go on to university courses and careers as solicitors, barristers, criminologists, police officers, politicians, law clerks, diplomats and business managers.
Skills Required
Legal Studies suits students who are inquisitive, independent and critical in their thinking. The ability to form an opinion and justify it is a valuable skill for the Legal Studies student. Students who do well in Legal Studies are interested in current affairs, have strong reading and writing skills, are well organised and self-motivated, and have good research skills.
Why Choose It
Legal Studies offers excellent preparation for life and informs students about the rights and responsibilities integral to society. It enables students to have confidence in approaching and accessing the legal system, and to understand the influences that shape our society. The course also provides learning that prepares students for further education and training, employment and full and active participation as citizens in Australia and in the global society. Students gain the skills of critical analysis, independent research, collaboration and effective communication.