The Graduate Diploma in Communications Law (GDipCommLaw) gives you an advanced understanding of the existing and developing laws affecting the media and communication industries and their impact on the publication of information, ownership, services and technology.

It’s available for both law and non-law graduates and the flexible structure makes it ideal for working professionals looking to immerse themselves in the study of communications law.

Working with lecturers who are experts in the field of communications law, and fellow students from Australia and around the world, you’ll have a unique opportunity to gain advanced understanding of this vibrant area of the law.

The Graduate Diploma in Communications Law is part of the world-renowned Melbourne Law Masters program.

Students must complete 50 credit points of study from the prescribed list of subjects.

Students who do not have a law degree from a common law jurisdiction or any prior legal studies or experience are also expected to complete the two-day preliminary subject Australian Legal Process and Legal Institutions.

Subject timing and format

The Melbourne Law Masters program has been designed around the busy schedules of working professionals. Subjects are offered from February to December each year. Most subjects are taught intensively over five days, with some subjects taught for two hours each week during the semester.

Subjects will be delivered either online, on campus, or as a hybrid of both. Subjects delivered online will have a combination of pre-recorded lecture content, live sessions and discussion boards among other resources. On-campus subjects involve interactive, seminar-style classes in the Law Building in Melbourne.

Duration

Full-time students enrol in 50 credit points per semester (or half-year period) and have an expected course duration of six months. Part-time* students enrol in 25 credit points per semester (or half-year period) and have an expected course duration of one year. Semesters without enrolments require a student to apply for a leave of absence.

*Part-time enrolment is for domestic students only. Part-time students may reduce their study load to 12.5 credit points per half-year period and thus have a maximum course duration of two years.

For detailed course and subject information, see the Handbook: Graduate Diploma in Communications Law.

As a student in the Graduate Diploma in Communications Law, you’ll develop an advanced understanding of the complex body of knowledge in the field of communications law, including:

• The implications of different regulatory models for individuals, corporate entities, states and information providers
• The international context facing law and the media and communications industries
• Divergent legal norms and cultural values within contemporary approaches to communications law and policy.

You’ll also develop skills in critical analysis and the ability to interpret and transmit your ideas to specialist and non-specialist audiences, including clients.

Applicants must have completed: A degree in law (LLB, JD or equivalent) leading to admission to legal practice, with a University of Melbourne equivalent score of at least 70, or equivalent

IELTS (academic English Only): 6.5 (no band less than 6.0)
TOEFL Internet-based test: 79 + ; Writing 21; Speaking 18; Reading 13; Listening 13;
Pearson Test of English Academic: 58 + no communicative skill below 50
Cambridge English: Advanced/ Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): 176 + no skill below 169.