USQ law bachelors to become fastest in Australia with change
STUDENTS at the University of Southern Queensland’s law and juris doctor programs will now be able to complete the course faster than anywhere else in Australia.
It is thanks to the introduction of an optional fast-tracked program that allows students to complete their degrees within the usual threeyear time frame, or do their degrees in two years by signing on for optional third full-time semesters.
The fast-track program allows students to start their studies in any of the three semesters within the year and procede through each subsequent semester full-time.
Law and Justice Head of School Professor Reid Mortensen said the program was one of the first of its kind in the country.
“We are the only university that allows students to complete a law degree by fast-tracking over two years, regardless of the semester of entry,” he said.
“Ever since summer study became available, students in the LLB and JD programs have been trying to work out ways to complete their degree in a shorter period.
“This program recognises this preference and organises the degree in a way which will allow them to fast-track their studies without compromising the sequence.”
Professor Mortensen said the university’s Juris Doctor program had seen a surge in popularity.
“The overall enrolment in the program is 28 per cent higher than the same time last year,” he said.
“Not only does it provide a pathway to practising law, but the amount of research required in the program means that our JD graduates are also qualified for entry into the PhD program.”