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Drive business performance with a legal edge.

Download our program guide

Our program guides are here to help you make the right choice. Packed with detailed information about studying with UNSW Online, from course content to career outcomes, they’re designed to support you in finding the program that fits your goals and aspirations.

Here's what you'll find inside:

  • Entry requirements
  • Program highlights
  • Course structures
  • Fees
  • Online learning approach
  • Current Step 1
  • Step 2
  • Step 3
  • Complete

Overview

In today’s dynamic global economy, leaders who understand how law drives opportunity and manages risk are in high demand. Legal frameworks shape ethical conduct and business expansion – turning legal literacy into a strategic edge across industries. As regulations shift and compliance pressures grow, professionals who can interpret obligations and champion ethical practice are well placed to unlock new possibilities and drive success.

Delivered 100% online, this program empowers you to bridge the gap between legal insight and effective business leadership. You’ll apply practical skills from day one, positioning yourself to influence decision-making and safeguard your organisation. On completion, you’ll have a direct pathway to the Master of Management (Business Law specialisation), supporting a flexible and progressive approach to your career development.

 

Why study with us?

Be part of Australia’s first Graduate Certificate in Business Law to offer a Cyber and the Law elective*, uniquely positioning you to meet the challenges of today’s digital landscape. The Cyber and the Law elective lets you explore how legal frameworks intersect with technology, focusing on the issues that define cyber security in modern organisations. You’ll develop core knowledge of Australian legal and policy environments in cyber security, from everyday business risks to complex regulatory scenarios.

UNSW is at the forefront of cyber law research, pioneering new approaches to address cyber security threats. By engaging with critical issues and pushing the boundaries of legal research, we deliver industry-relevant education that’s grounded in real-world impact – preparing you to drive positive change in your organisation and beyond.

*Information accurate at time of publishing. Course selection may vary based on individual career pathways.

Duration
8 months, part time

Courses
4

Intake
Jan, Mar, May, July, Aug, Oct

Indicative 2026 fee per course
$5,130

Study mode
100% Online

Program code
7301

The online Graduate Certificate in Business Law is specifically designed for professionals from non-legal backgrounds, providing the essential knowledge needed to excel in industries where legal and regulatory expertise is invaluable. The program delivers the foundational skills necessary to confidently navigate complex legal landscapes and drive success in your chosen field, whether you are aiming to step up in your current role or explore a new career path.

 

Additionally, this program serves as an approved pathway to the Master of Management, allowing you to further advance your leadership and management expertise.

 

Core course

Complete the following core course:

  • Law, Regulation and Ethics

 

Electives

Choose any three of these electives:

  • Cyber and the Law
  • Introduction to Employment Law
  • Corporate Governance and Leadership
  • Commercial Contract Law

 

Course availability is dependent on initial intake timing and following student participation in study periods. For more information, speak with a Student Advisor.

 

To find out more about each course and specialisation, download your program guide.

The online Graduate Certificate in Business Law equips you with the legal expertise to drive business success. By completing this business law program, you will gain the skills to succeed in roles such as:

  • Compliance Officer
  • Cybersecurity Consultant
  • Regulatory Affairs Manager
  • Management Consultant
  • Policy Officer
  • Risk Manager
  • Workplace Advisor
  • Legal Researcher
  • Human Resources Officer
  • Business Administrator

General admission requirements

To be eligible for the Graduate Certificate in Business Law you must have:

  • An undergraduate degree (in any discipline); OR
  • Applicants who do not meet the undergraduate degree requirement must have a minimum of three years’ relevant work experience. Relevant work experience includes: a clerical, administrative, human resources, paralegal, marketing, or management role in a commercial, legal, banking or finance organisation or the public service.

 

English language

You may need to provide evidence of English proficiency to study at UNSW. This ensures you can succeed in webinars, coursework and assessments. Proof can include:

  • English tests or university courses
  • Prior study in English
  • Other qualifications or waivers

Program fees

At UNSW Online, we’re committed to providing a world-class education that delivers exceptional value. Our programs are designed to fit your lifestyle and career goals, with fees structured on a per-course basis to give you flexibility and control over your investment. Your student fees are calculated based on the courses you take and your residency type, ensuring transparency and fairness.

Indicative 2026 fee per course

$5,130

Indicative 2026 total program fees

$20,500

The total indicative fee varies based on the elective courses you select, the year you complete them and any approved recognition of prior learning (RPL) granted before you begin your studies. Find out more about our course and program fees here.

FEE-HELP available

Eligible domestic students can apply for FEE-HELP, a government loan to cover all or part of your tuition fees for fee-paying places. The loan amount is added to our HELP debt, which is repaid once your income reaches the repayment threshold.

 

You can apply for FEE-HELP as part of your acceptance to UNSW Online. The form will present itself during your final stages of online acceptance if you are eligible.

 

Applications must be submitted before the relevant teaching period census date. Read more about FEE-HELP and eligibility here.

 

At UNSW Online, we’re here to support you every step of the way as you work toward graduating from one of the world’s leading universities. Our online learning environment is designed to fit seamlessly into your busy schedule, giving you the flexibility to access course resources anytime, anywhere on any device. We offer six study blocks, known as hexamesters, each year. These seven-week blocks with orientation time beforehand allow you to focus on one course at a time – providing the perfect balance between study and life’s other commitments.

 

Our academics are among the best in the world and even though you’re studying online, you’ll experience the same high-quality education as our on-campus students. Throughout your journey, you’ll have the dedicated support of your Student Success Advisor. From enrolment to graduation, they’ll be your go-to for all non-academic queries, available by phone or email to ensure you stay on track. You’ll also benefit from Career Success – a self-paced, curated module designed to help you build and implement an effective career plan. With access to tools like Career AI (powered by VMock) and CaseCoach as well as guides for perfecting your LinkedIn profile, resume and cover letter, you’ll be equipped to take the next step in your career with confidence.

Why choose the Graduate Certificate in Business Law at UNSW Online?

Top 20 global university*

UNSW is one of the top universities in the world*, with a global reputation for excellence that opens doors for our graduates.

*QS World University Rankings, 2024–2026

#1 university for career outcomes

UNSW is ranked #1 in Australia for career outcomes and home to the most employable students for six years in a row.

Australian Financial Review (AFR) Best Universities Ranking, 2024

Most employable graduates*

UNSW is recognised for producing the most employable graduates, winning the AFR Top100 Future Leader Awards six years in a row.

*AFR, Top 100 Future Leaders Awards, 2020-2025

#1 for Law & Justice

Study with Australia’s leading institution for Law and Justice, renowned globally for shaping future legal innovators.

*QS World University Ranking by Subject, 2025

Why pursue a career in business law?

Projected employment growth by 2035

21.9%

Typical salary in Australia

 

$115,000

 

People who feel their managers lack change leadership skills

 

74% 

 

Job postings in 2025

39,230

 

Really enjoyed the topics for the weekly case studies and discussions which were both insightful and relevant in helping me to understand and develop my own opinions on significant issues regarding ethics, law and regulations.

Online Student (Law, Regulation and Ethics)

Frequently asked questions

Business law governs the rules, regulations and legal principles that apply to businesses, covering areas like contracts, corporate governance, compliance and employment law.

Yes, a business law degree is valuable for professionals seeking to navigate legal complexities, ensure compliance and manage risk in business, opening doors to diverse career opportunities.

Not exactly. Business law is broader, covering all legal aspects of running a business, while commercial law focuses specifically on trade, sales and commerce-related legalities.

A business law degree can lead to roles such as compliance officer, cybersecurity consultant, regulatory affairs manager and more.

It covers key topics such as Australian legal frameworks and ethics, governance and leadership principles, contract law, cyber security regulations and employment law fundamentals.

No, the online Graduate Certificate in Business Law is not a qualifying law degree and will not provide admission to legal practice in Australia. It is also not a pathway to a law degree. It is a postgraduate academic qualification designed for professionals who want to deepen their understanding of business law and gain a competitive edge in business, management, finance or consulting roles.

For professionals looking to deepen their understanding of the Australian legal system in a business context, a Graduate Certificate in Business Law is an excellent option.

UNSW's Graduate Certificate in Business Law offers practical, real-world knowledge to address legal challenges, manage organisational risks and promote ethical business practices.

“The Graduate Certificate in Applied Finance will prepare students for the opportunities and challenges of the 21st century global workplace. The program offers fundamental financial knowledge that is relevant for business decision making at the executive level where students will have opportunities to solve real-world problems in finance."

 

Luis Filipe Goncalves-Pinto
Associate Professor
 

Image
UNSW Faculty Dr Helen Parker

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