Why study a law and psychology double degree
Deakin’s new Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Psychological Science, commencing in March 2026, brings together two of our most respected disciplines in response to growing student interest and evolving industry needs. By combining law and psychology, you'll build a powerful foundation for a future that blends legal expertise with deep insights into human behaviour.
Why law and psychology make a strong double degree
This innovative double degree prepares you to navigate complex, human-centred legal issues with confidence and compassion.
You will study with Deakin Law School, ranked among the top three Law Schools in Victoria, and the School of Psychology, ranked #1 in Victoria for undergraduate psychology employment outcomes.
Completing a double degree means earning two qualifications sooner and with a lighter overall study load. It is a smart, future-focused way to broaden your career options, strengthen your professional skill set and reduce both time and cost.
What you’ll study in the Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Psychological Science
Over five years, the law and psychology double degree brings together foundational and applied learning from both disciplines.
The course is offered at Melbourne Burwood Campus, Geelong Waterfront Campus and online (psychology classes for Waterfront students are held at the Waurn Ponds Campus).
In law, you'll complete all units required for professional practice and can choose from a wide range of electives. Throughout your law studies, you'll find your understanding of human behaviour is an asset, particularly in areas such as criminal law, family law, health law, workplace law and alternative dispute resolution.
In the psychology component, you'll explore human behaviour and personality while developing a deeper understanding of the factors that shape how we think and act. You'll study topics such as cognitive and social psychology, developmental psychology, forensic psychology and psychopathology.
You'll also have opportunities to gain real-world experience through work-integrated learning units, including:
- Deakin Law Clinic
- legal internship and placement programs
- mooting and advocacy opportunities
- applied counselling and psychology projects.
With flexible study options, you can balance university with work and life commitments in a way that suits you.
Students recognise that today's lawyers need to understand not just the law, but the people they represent. Legal practitioners often deal with clients under considerable stress. A grounding in psychology gives them the insight to better support those clients.
Director of Teaching, Deakin Law School
Law and psychology double degree careers
This double degree meets Victorian Legal Admissions Board (VLAB) academic requirements for admission to legal practice and provides an approved pathway towards registration as a psychologist.
As a graduate, you'll be well prepared for careers where law and psychology intersect, from family and criminal law to policy, social justice and mental health.
Law and psychology in justice and legal practice
Understanding psychology is invaluable in fields such as criminal, family and health law, where clients may be vulnerable or navigating difficult circumstances.
Some firms specialise in abuse-related practice areas, including family and domestic violence and institutional abuse. In these cases, psychological insight helps lawyers recognise abuse, understand the impacts of trauma on memory and ensure clients feel safe and supported throughout the process.
Across the justice system, law and psychology also come together in youth justice, sentencing, parole and specialist courts such as the Assessment and Referral Court and the Drug Court. Within courts and corrections, you may contribute to behavioural programs aimed at reducing reoffending, taking on roles such as youth justice clinicians, behaviour support specialists and evaluation coordinators.
Law and psychology in policy and advocacy
As a graduate, you'll be well placed to drive law reform and champion social justice across community and not-for-profit organisations.
In roles such as mental health advocate, policy researcher and program manager, you bring a dual lens to issues including disability rights, youth mental health, family violence, housing and homelessness.
By considering both the legal and psychological impacts of policy, you can help shape reform that reduces harm and supports better outcomes for communities.
Law and psychology in health and human services
Within government departments such as the Victorian Department of Health, Families, Fairness and Housing, combined expertise in law and psychology supports the design of effective, equitable policies and programs.
This is where behavioural science meets legislative frameworks – producing solutions that are evidence-based, legally sound and respectful of individual rights.
You may work as policy officers, program managers or evaluation specialists, helping shape systems that improve people’s lives.
Study law and psychology to create meaningful change
This law and psychology double degree is designed for people who want their knowledge to make a meaningful difference. By combining legal capability with an evidence-based understanding of human behaviour, you can strengthen justice systems, government services and community organisations – helping to uphold fairness, equity and social justice.
Explore Deakin's Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Psychological Science
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