To become a lawyer in New South Wales it is necessary to satisfy the requirements of the Legal Profession Admission Board.

The study path for entry to the legal profession begins with undertaking either the Board's examinations, or a law degree from an accredited law school. Then, in either case, in order to be eligible for admission to practice, it is necessary to complete an accredited program of practical legal training.

Successful completion of the Board's examinations leads to the award of the Board's Diploma in Law. For the purpose of admission as a lawyer the Diploma and a degree from an accredited law school are equivalent qualifications.

The Law Extension Committee of the University of Sydney was established in 1964 to assist students in their preparation for the Board's examinations. The Committee offers a teaching program in evening lecture and external modes. All students should ensure that they attend the full lecture program, either by evening or weekend classes, or by a combination of both. The lectures are our primary learning and teaching tools.

The teaching program is supported by library , research and web-based services.

WHY A DIPLOMA IN LAW?

From 1848, before Australian universities offered law degrees, the Supreme Court set examinations for admission to the profession. This tradition has been continued by the admission board, allowing people to study law, in the country as well as the city, and to become legal practitioners in circumstances where it might not have been possible otherwise.

The Diploma provides the means by which residents of New South Wales and others have traditionally acquired their legal training.

The Board is not a degree-granting body, and unlike a university, does not offer personal supervision or facilities for research. Emphasis in the Diploma course is on its practical, professional orientation.