University of Western Sydney
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Admission and Unit Information – Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Laws

Accreditation

Graduates from this program are eligible to apply to the Legal Profession Admission Board for admission to legal practice in NSW after undertaking prescribed practical legal training. The Bachelor of Science (Chemistry)/Bachelor of Laws is accredited by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI).

Admission

Eligibility for admission to the Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws is based on the following requirements:

Assumed knowledge: At least two of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics

Recommended studies: HSC English standard or equivalent.

Applications from Australian and New Zealand citizens and holders of permanent resident visas must be made via the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).

Applicants who have undertaken studies overseas may have to provide proof of proficiency in English. Local and International applicants who are applying through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) will find details of minimum English proficiency requirements and acceptable proof on the UAC website. Local applicants applying directly to UWS should also use the information provided on the UAC website.

http://www.uac.edu.au/

International applicants must apply directly to the University of Western Sydney via UWS International.

International students applying to UWS through UWS International can find details of minimum English proficiency requirements and acceptable proof on the UWS International website.

http://pubsites.uws.edu.au/international/

Overseas qualifications must be deemed by the Australian Education International - National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (AEI-NOOSR) to be equivalent to Australian qualifications in order to be considered by UAC and UWS.

Course Structure

Qualification for this award requires the successful completion of 400 credit points as specified in the structure below. Students who complete this award will graduate with a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Laws. These 24 units include the eight specified law units.

Note: At least 60 credit points must be at Level 3 or above.

Bachelor of Science Units

Students undertaking the science part of this double degree must follow the listed schedule of units, and complete one of the Majors listed in the UWS Handbook entry for 3675 Bachelor of Science, provided this can be completed within the 16 Bachelor of Science units, may graduate with a Bachelor of Science after three years. Students in this course will be eligible to graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree on completion of all 24 units listed in the first three years of the relevant sequence below. It should be noted that this includes the eight specified law units. Students will only be eligible to graduate from their Bachelor of Laws degree on completion of the entire 400 credit point course.

For the Science component of this double degree students must study 16 Science units of which a minimum of 8 units must be from one of the Science majors: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Chemistry, General Biology, or Mathematics.

Consult the handbook entry for the Bachelor of Science degree course for further details about the science majors.

Year 1

Autumn session

Introduction to Law

This unit introduces students to the basic structure of law, information retrieval, legal research techniques and the judicial process. The unit covers the mechanical aspects of legal research; sources of law, including the common law tradition, statute law and delegated legislation; and the judicial process and its interface with contemporary legal theory.

Torts Law

Torts law is the first substantive law unit in the LLB. It introduces students to the legal principles and policy of a variety of torts, defences and remedies. It introduces students to the generic legal skills of case reading, analysis and note taking, statutory interpretation and legal problem solving, as well as placing the law in the wider political and social context.

Non-mathematics majors choose

Scientific Literacy

This unit is designed to provide students with scientific literacy and generic skills required to successfully undertake science-related undergraduate studies. Students learn, develop and utilise academic and interpersonal methodologies within the context of applied scientific principles in society and take responsibility for their own learning. Students are introduced to the contestable and uncertain nature of science and the scientific method. Activities encourage development of self-confidence, self-efficacy, creative thinking through problem solving, group process, communication and peer support. Academic skills include scientific reading and report writing, researching scientific information and library skills, oral presentation, taking tests and exams, effective personal and group based learning strategies, peer assessment, and online learning.

Choose one more science unit as follows:

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology major choose one of

Biodiversity

How many species walk, fly, swim or slither, crawl, hop, wriggle or just float, hitchhike or move so slowly that they appear not to move at all? No one knows and new species appear almost every day. This unit focuses on this spectacular diversity of living things and the process of evolution. Students explore and classify biodiversity and how organisms function, acquire and assimilate resources and co-ordinate growth and reproduction. Organisms interact with one another and their environment forming a complex set of interactions in ecosystems. It is these interactions that have driven evolution. Ultimately human survival depends on the sustainable use of this biodiversity and ecosystems.

Essential Chemistry 1

This unit provides an introduction to some of the essential knowledge, concepts and skills of chemistry, to serve the needs of students majoring in chemistry and those requiring a working knowledge of chemistry. Observable chemical facts and phenomena including structure, dynamics, and energetics, are explained in terms of current mathematical and visual models and further developed in Essential Chemistry 2. Evidence for chemical understanding is provided using IR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and computer molecular modelling. Laboratory skills relate theory to practice through the development of practical skills required to determine the concentration of an analyte using volumetric and spectrophotometric analysis.

General Biology major choose

Biodiversity

How many species walk, fly, swim or slither, crawl, hop, wriggle or just float, hitchhike or move so slowly that they appear not to move at all? No one knows and new species appear almost every day. This unit focuses on this spectacular diversity of living things and the process of evolution. Students explore and classify biodiversity and how organisms function, acquire and assimilate resources and co-ordinate growth and reproduction. Organisms interact with one another and their environment forming a complex set of interactions in ecosystems. It is these interactions that have driven evolution. Ultimately human survival depends on the sustainable use of this biodiversity and ecosystems.

Chemistry major choose

Essential Chemistry 1

This unit provides an introduction to some of the essential knowledge, concepts and skills of chemistry, to serve the needs of students majoring in chemistry and those requiring a working knowledge of chemistry. Observable chemical facts and phenomena including structure, dynamics, and energetics, are explained in terms of current mathematical and visual models and further developed in Essential Chemistry 2. Evidence for chemical understanding is provided using IR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and computer molecular modelling. Laboratory skills relate theory to practice through the development of practical skills required to determine the concentration of an analyte using volumetric and spectrophotometric analysis.

Mathematics major choose

Mathematics 1A

This level one unit provides a solid foundation in the theory and applications of differential calculus, as well as some introductory work on complex numbers. It is the first of two units developing aspects of calculus.

Discrete Mathematics

This Level 1 unit introduces set theory, symbolic logic, graph theory and some counting problems. It serves as a grounding for further study in mathematics or computing.

Spring session

Law Foundation

This unit gives students an introduction to a range of perspectives on the history and philosophy of the humanities, science and the social sciences and their relationship to law.

Criminal Law

This unit introduces students to the basic principles of criminal law and criminal responsibility and the criminal justice process as located in its broader social and political context.

Non-mathematics majors choose two units as follows:

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology major or General Biology major choose

Cell Biology

Cells are the most basic form of all life, and underlying normal cell function are the molecules used to build complex cellular structures, generate energy, and propagate dynamic life. The unit will study the fundamental processes through which key biomolecules, including lipids, carbohydrates, amino acids and nucleic acids, are manipulated to generate and store energy, and build a broad array of important biological macromolecules including DNA, membranes and proteins. To sustain life, cells respire for energy and replicate for growth and sexual reproduction. Accordingly the unit will examine cellular respiration, transcription, translation, mitosis, meiosis, transmission and how the genetic code is inherited and modified providing students insights into the phenomena of life. The role of DNA technology in the fields of medicine, biomolecular plant and animal science, food, forensic and environmental science will provide students with real world applications.

Essential Chemistry 2

This unit introduces an investigation of the reactivity of covalent molecules, in particular, of carbon-based compounds. Focussing on introductory chemical dynamics and thermodynamics, students will develop an in-depth understanding of the structure, nomenclature and reactivity of the principal organic functional groups, extending their basic principles of chemistry. They will also understand how molecules are synthesised and the ways they react being important in the function and role of chemistry in biological systems in our domestic and industrial worlds.

Chemistry major choose

Essential Chemistry 2

This unit introduces an investigation of the reactivity of covalent molecules, in particular, of carbon-based compounds. Focussing on introductory chemical dynamics and thermodynamics, students will develop an in-depth understanding of the structure, nomenclature and reactivity of the principal organic functional groups, extending their basic principles of chemistry. They will also understand how molecules are synthesised and the ways they react being important in the function and role of chemistry in biological systems in our domestic and industrial worlds.

And one science units see list below

Science units:

Cell Biology

Cells are the most basic form of all life, and underlying normal cell function are the molecules used to build complex cellular structures, generate energy, and propagate dynamic life. The unit will study the fundamental processes through which key biomolecules, including lipids, carbohydrates, amino acids and nucleic acids, are manipulated to generate and store energy, and build a broad array of important biological macromolecules including DNA, membranes and proteins. To sustain life, cells respire for energy and replicate for growth and sexual reproduction. Accordingly the unit will examine cellular respiration, transcription, translation, mitosis, meiosis, transmission and how the genetic code is inherited and modified providing students insights into the phenomena of life. The role of DNA technology in the fields of medicine, biomolecular plant and animal science, food, forensic and environmental science will provide students with real world applications.

Introduction to Physiology

This unit introduces the concept of homeostasis and critically examines examples of how the body systems are regulated and homeostatically controlled. The unit uses a body-systems approach to examine the physiology of tissues, organs and systems in order to develop an integrated view of the regulated functioning of the human body.

Programming Fundamentals

As a first unit in computer programming, Programming Fundamentals covers basic computer architecture, basic data and file structures, concept of algorithms, programming constructs, programming language features and functions, program design, test design, basic documentation. A high level programming language is employed to solve problems in a structured manner.

Physics 2

This unit develops a deeper understanding of physics for students pursuing courses in nanotechnology, chemical, physical and mathematical sciences. Topics covered include Mechanics: Equilibrium, stress and strain, harmonic oscillators, rotational motion, moment of inertia. Gravitation, types of force in nature. Thermal Physics: temperature, specific & latent heat, heat transfer, kinetic theory of gases, first law of thermodynamics, isothermal, isobaric & adiabatic processes. Introduction to Modern Physics: special relativity, time dilation, length contraction, momentum, mass, rest energy, velocity addition. Basic quantum theory, Planck's hypothesis, wave nature of matter, quantum mechanical view of atoms. Nuclear physics, radiation, half-life, nuclear reactions.

Mathematics major choose

Mathematics 1B

This Level 1 unit provides a solid foundation in the theory and applications of integral calculus, as well as some introductory work on linear algebra and infinite sequences and series. It is the second of two units developing aspects of calculus.

Biometry

This unit introduces students to various statistical techniques necessary in scientific endeavours. Presentation of the content will emphasize the correct principles and procedures for collecting and analysing scientific data, using a hands-on approach. Topics include effective methods of gathering data, statistical principles of designing experiments, error analysis, describing different sets of data, probability distributions, statistical inference, non-parametric methods, and simple linear regression and correlation.

Year 2

Autumn session

Contracts

Contracts covers the formation of contracts, the requirement of writing, privity of contract, contractual terms and their interpretation, breach of contract, discharge of contractual obligations and elements vitiating its formation such as misrepresentation, misleading an deceptive conduct, mistake, undue influence, unconscionability, duress and discharge. Statutory developments are also considered such as the Contracts Review Act 1980 (NSW) and Trade Practices Act 1974 (Cth), as are the historic and theoretical aspects of the development of the law of contract.

Non-mathematics major choose at least one Level 1 mathematics unit from the list below in either semester in second year.

Mathematics units:

Quantitative Thinking

This level 1 unit develops the quantitative skills that underpin many fields of study in the sciences. The content covered includes basic algebra, functions, graphs, equations, linear and quadratic, introductory probability and descriptive statistics. These mathematical/statistical concepts will be revised and developed using scientific concepts such as molarity and dilution, optical density, population growth, and predator-prey models. In all aspects of this unit, students will be developing and using critical thinking skills to solve mathematical/statistical problems set in a scientific context.

Analysis of Change

This Level 1 unit introduces students to the mathematical modelling techniques that are used to formulate and solve problems in the physical and biological sciences. To use these techniques successfully, students must develop the ability to formulate a problem mathematically and then be able to use the appropriate knowledge to test conclusions by analytical and numerical means. These skills will be emphasized as each technique in introduced. Apart from some introductory work on logarithms and exponentials (essential concepts in the sciences), the main techniques developed involve aspects of differential calculus, culminating in the use of differential equations to model real phenomena in the sciences.

Mathematics 1A

This level one unit provides a solid foundation in the theory and applications of differential calculus, as well as some introductory work on complex numbers. It is the first of two units developing aspects of calculus.

Biometry

Biometry introduces students to various statistical techniques necessary in scientific endeavours. Presentation of the content will emphasize the correct principles and procedures for collecting and analysing scientific data, using a 'hands-on' approach. Topics include effective methods of gathering data, statistical principles of designing experiments, error analysis, describing different sets of data, probability distributions, statistical inference, non-parametric methods, simple linear regression and analysis of categorical data.

Discrete Mathematics

This Level 1 unit introduces set theory, symbolic logic, graph theory and some counting problems. It serves as a grounding for further study in mathematics or computing.

Either choose two more science units if completing a mathematics unit in Autumn, or three science units otherwise.

Science units:

Functional Proteins and Genes

Biochemistry is the study of the chemistry of life. By understanding the structure and roles of biological macromolecules found in cells students will develop the concept of self assembly of these molecules to form life. Topics include the structure of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids and how they function in the lipid and aqueous environments of the cell. Basic metabolism is introduced with an overview of the major pathways in cells, mechanisms of regulation, and an introduction into important cofactors and intermediatory molecules. These concepts will be reinforced through practical classes that teach critical skills in experimental design, analysis and interpretation.

Genetics

Genetics has a lot to do with sex and how genes are passed from one generation to the next. This unit introduces the student to the important conceptual issues in genetics from Mendel to DNA, from chromosomes to population genetics and from peas and fruit flies to genomics. While there is an emphasis on Mendelian and population genetics the unit also covers important concepts in molecular genetics demonstrating the link between genotype and phenotype. As the semester proceeds students are encouraged to makes links between concepts and problem solving through a series of exercises that enhance an analytical view of genetics.

Plant Physiology

Plants are the primary producers of terrestrial ecosystems and the key moderators of climate change. Hence, it is vital for students to appreciate how plants produce sugars and interact with their environment. This unit will introduce students to how plants fix and allocate carbon and energy, acquire water and mineral nutrients, and conduct water and organic compounds, the key determinants of plant growth. Students will also learn about how plants interact with their biotic and abiotic environments. This knowledge is crucial for understanding how crop productivity and ecosystem function will be affected by the unfolding global climate change.

Microbiology 1

In this unit students will use an inquiry-based approach to explore the origin and diversity of microorganisms and their significance in the environment, in foods and industry as well as in health and disease. Students will be introduced to the structure, reproduction, classification, cultivation and enumeration of bacteria, viruses, fungi and protists. The conditions required for growth and survival of microorganisms will be studied as well as physical and chemical methods of control. In laboratory classes students will develop skills in culturing and observing microorganisms and in designing experiments to test microbiological concepts. This unit is a pre-requisite for Microbiology 2 and Level 3 Microbiology units.

Inorganic Chemistry

This unit introduces students to a thorough study of coordination chemistry (discussing complexes, ligands, structure, isomerism, stability, reaction mechanisms, oxidation states, elements in the first transition series, coordination chemistry in biological systems). The unit then moves on to areas of fundamental inorganic chemistry, including bonding, and solid state chemistry. Advanced Modules cover the following topics: comparative inorganic chemistry, inorganic speciation in solution, X-ray methods for characterising inorganic materials, spectroscopy in coordination complexes, physiology and inorganic chemistry, and medicinal inorganic chemistry. This unit also introduces many of the laboratory techniques and equipment that are used in synthetic procedures in coordination chemistry.

Physical Chemistry

Physical Chemistry describes the fundamentals of energy changes in chemical systems (thermodynamics), the rates and mechanisms of chemical reactions (kinetics), and electrochemistry and/or ion and electron transport. These concepts will be applied to a range of chemical and/or biochemical processes. A major focus of the unit will be to develop the ability to study quantitative chemical/biochemical problems, and develop useful physical chemistry experimental and data-analysis skills.

Mathematics major choose

Scientific Literacy

This unit is designed to provide students with scientific literacy and generic skills required to successfully undertake science-related undergraduate studies. Students learn, develop and utilise academic and interpersonal methodologies within the context of applied scientific principles in society and take responsibility for their own learning. Students are introduced to the contestable and uncertain nature of science and the scientific method. Activities encourage development of self-confidence, self-efficacy, creative thinking through problem solving, group process, communication and peer support. Academic skills include scientific reading and report writing, researching scientific information and library skills, oral presentation, taking tests and exams, effective personal and group based learning strategies, peer assessment, and online learning.

Linear Algebra

Objective of this unit is to present the main fundamentals of linear algebra and includes such topics as solving systems of linear equations, matrix algebra, determinants, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, Euclidean vector spaces, general vector spaces, inner product spaces and linear transformations.

Advanced Calculus

This unit is designed for students undertaking studies in mathematics, statistics, operations research and mathematical finance. It provides further mathematical training in the areas of multivariable and vector calculus, which is essential to the understanding of many areas of both pure and applied mathematics.

Spring session

Property Law

The unit introduces basic concepts and principles of Property law, including the meaning of property; legal and equitable estates and other interests is land; and the Torrens system of registered title.

Non-mathematics majors choose either one mathematics unit and two science units, or, three science units (if mathematics unit completed in Autumn).

Science units:

Metabolism

Organisms degrade food molecules to generate energy and converts excess food molecules into internal fuel stores. This unit will cover topics including: bioenergetics; the structures of key molecules; glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, glycogen synthesis and breakdown; fatty acid oxidation and synthesis; amino acid catabolism; urea synthesis; citric acid cycle; electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation. Emphasis will be on the regulation and integration of these pathways, including their responses to hormonal regulation. The effects of altered dietary and hormonal status on metabolic pathways and their consequences for the organism will be discussed.

Immunology

This unit aims to provide students with an understanding of structure and function of immune system and particularly highlights common and unique systems that exist across kingdoms and phyla. There is a focus on the organs and cells of the human immune system and peculiarities associated with the immune systems of marsupials due to their early developmental stage at birth will be examined. The students will also develop laboratory skills that involve some immunological principles, investigative skills leading to understanding the knowledge base, and self learning at a sophisticated level and enhance their science communication skills.

Comparative Physiology

Building on the underlying physical and chemical principals/laws that define physiology, this unit from both a systems (e.g. Respiratory) and environmental (e.g. Marine) perspective, seeks to compare the functional physiology of organisms at all levels of organisation. Particular attention will be paid to respiration, temperature tolerance & regulation, living in water, sensory and neurophysiology. Students will have the opportunity to carry out a defined research project.

Microbiology 2

The unit focuses on the origins of genetic variation and the process of gene regulation in prokaryotes and explores the metabolic diversity of microorganisms from a variety of habitats and their application in industry. Using published scientific literature, students will learn how scientists research functional microbial physiology in the postgenomic era. The principles and applications of recombinant DNA techniques are discussed. Classification and identification of bacteria and yeasts is presented, including an introduction to molecular systematics. Laboratory classes introduce students to techniques used to study microbial physiology and genetics.

Ecology

We live in a society where environmental problems dominate public debate. Ecology is one of the sciences required to find solutions to such problems; terms and ideas that came originally from ecology are used in public discussions, and in legislation. This unit will introduce students to ecology: what is studied, how it is studied, what are the strengths and limitations of ecology. Current ecological thinking will be covered, from the scale of individual organisms, through populations, and up to communities and ecosystems. Methods of study will be highlighted using evidence from molecular ecology through to field investigations.

Molecular Biology

Molecular biology is central to many fields of the biomedical and natural sciences, and includes genetics, immunology, cell biology, biochemistry, and forensics. Through comparative studies of different organisms, this unit will describe fundamental concepts and methods in the study of DNA and RNA and the application of molecular biology in advanced fields such as genomics. Subjects will include DNA replication; transcriptional, post-transcriptional and epigenetic regulation of gene expression; microarrays, and an introduction to bioinformatics. Practical work will provide opportunities to become familiar with the methods of molecular biology, with an emphasis on the development of problem solving and analytical skills

Organic Chemistry

Organic molecules are at the heart of the chemistry of life and industry. This unit builds on the fundamental chemical principles, exploring reaction mechanisms and the concept of reactivity and stereo- and regio-selectivity of many of the central reactions that form the basis of living processes, modern research, and contemporary industrial transformations. The unit contains a problem-based module on the application of spectroscopic methods to organic structure elucidation, focusing on spectroscopic data and a practical section on organic synthesis. The unit will focus on complex organic molecules including biologically relevant molecules, and examples from chemical industries, medicinal and pharmaceutical industries.

Analytical Chemistry

This unit provides insight into both classical methods of analytical analysis and an introduction to modern instrumental methods of analysis. Specifically, the classical methods of analysis include volumetric and gravimetric methods, while the modern instrumental methods include separation techniques and spectroscopy. The role of spreadsheets in data analysis and presentation is discussed and applied in the laboratory program.

Geochemical Systems

This unit covers the structures of minerals and determination of their structure and composition, interpretation of structural data in the literature, aspects of solid solutions, and the forces that stabilise mineral lattices. The unit explores the limits of chemical conditions in the natural environment (redox conditions, pH, speciation); mobilisation and transport of selected elements in primary and secondary environments; aqueous and supercritical fluids; complexing and ion-pairing phenomena. Exploration, extraction and ore processing will be illustrated with hands-on examples using advanced analytical instrumentation. A three day field trip to western NSW will be undertaken during the mid-session break.

Mathematics majors choose

Differential Equations

Differential equations arise naturally, both in abstract mathematics and in the study of many phenomena. This unit provides the theory of ordinary differential equations and an introduction to partial differential equations, together with methods of solution. Examples are drawn from a wide range of biological, chemical, physical and economic applications.

Applied Statistics

The unit builds on the basic statistical concepts introduced in first year, and also prepares students for broader application of statistics for those majoring in science or business. Topics include some common probability distributions; revision of hypothesis testing; analysis of categorical data; analysis of variance; simple and multiple linear regression analysis and correlation; some nonparametric methods; and fundamentals of time-series analysis.

Plus one science unit from the following:

Cell Biology

Cells are the most basic form of all life, and underlying normal cell function are the molecules used to build complex cellular structures, generate energy, and propagate dynamic life. The unit will study the fundamental processes through which key biomolecules, including lipids, carbohydrates, amino acids and nucleic acids, are manipulated to generate and store energy, and build a broad array of important biological macromolecules including DNA, membranes and proteins. To sustain life, cells respire for energy and replicate for growth and sexual reproduction. Accordingly the unit will examine cellular respiration, transcription, translation, mitosis, meiosis, transmission and how the genetic code is inherited and modified providing students insights into the phenomena of life. The role of DNA technology in the fields of medicine, biomolecular plant and animal science, food, forensic and environmental science will provide students with real world applications.

Essential Chemistry 2

This unit introduces an investigation of the reactivity of covalent molecules, in particular, of carbon-based compounds. Focussing on introductory chemical dynamics and thermodynamics, students will develop an in-depth understanding of the structure, nomenclature and reactivity of the principal organic functional groups, extending their basic principles of chemistry. They will also understand how molecules are synthesised and the ways they react being important in the function and role of chemistry in biological systems in our domestic and industrial worlds.

Physics 2

This unit develops a deeper understanding of physics for students pursuing courses in nanotechnology, chemical, physical and mathematical sciences. Topics covered include Mechanics: Equilibrium, stress and strain, harmonic oscillators, rotational motion, moment of inertia. Gravitation, types of force in nature. Thermal Physics: temperature, specific & latent heat, heat transfer, kinetic theory of gases, first law of thermodynamics, isothermal, isobaric & adiabatic processes. Introduction to Modern Physics: special relativity, time dilation, length contraction, momentum, mass, rest energy, velocity addition. Basic quantum theory, Planck's hypothesis, wave nature of matter, quantum mechanical view of atoms. Nuclear physics, radiation, half-life, nuclear reactions.

Year 3

Autumn session

Professional Responsibility and Legal Ethics

This unit examines the nature of the legal profession and its role in society. It deals with the professional, legal and ethical responsibilities lawyers owe to the law, the courts, their clients, to fellow practitioners, as well as the state and society at large. Students will be able to explain and evaluate the law and practice of lawyers, by reference to key topics, such as: professionalism; legal ethics; the history, structure and regulation of the legal profession; and the interpersonal, psychological and cultural factors affecting lawyering. In addition students will be able to demonstrate the process of ethical decision making by selecting and using ethical decision making tools in a legal context.

Non-mathematics majors choose three units from the following

Advanced Inorganic Chemistry

Building on the foundations laid in Inorganic Chemistry, this unit focuses on structure and bonding in inorganic chemistry, and the stereochemistry of coordination complexes. Spectroscopic and magnetic properties of inorganic compounds are evaluated as a consequence of structure and bonding, and an introduction to X-ray methods for structure determination is given. Kinetics and mechanism of inorganic reactions are examined, and the area of bioinorganic chemistry is developed. Unique structures and reactions of organotransition metal chemistry are explored. Advanced Modules cover aqueous chemistry of cations and oxyanions, inorganic materials, molecular orbital theory in coordination complexes, group theory; lanthanides and actinides.

Advanced Physical Chemistry

Advanced Physical Chemistry builds on the fundamental principals of energy changes in systems (thermodynamics), and the rates and mechanisms of reactions (kinetics) learnt in Physical Chemistry and extends this so that students gain an understanding of polymer and surface chemistries. This unit also will strengthen student's problem solving skills in quantitative chemical analysis , develop experimental techniques and advanced data-analysis skills.

Environmental Geochemistry

The unit deals with how how the lithosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere and atmosphere are interconnected through global biogeochemical processes. Topics include-the composition of ocean, ground and surface waters and their interactions with the atmosphere, rocks, soils, sediments and man-made pollutants; transfer of dissolved material between environments, and detection and control of toxic waste materials; environmental quality criteria, field sampling and modelling of selected environmental systems. These topics will be brought to life in a two-day field trip to Sunny Corner undertaken in the mid-session break.

Genes, Genomics and Human Health

Genomics is the application of our knowledge of the structure and expression of genomes to understanding gene function and the genetic basis of human disease. The Unit will begin with an introduction to the human genome and its relationship to the genomes of other organisms. It will also teach how genome-wide analysis of genetic variation in individuals and populations is improving our understanding of diseases such as asthma, heart disease, obesity, dementia and cancer. Practical application of genomics in the areas of pharmacogenomics, gene therapy/genetic medicine, genetic discrimination and ethics will also be covered.

Advanced Cell Biology

Cells of the body are studied in the context of health and disease, including mechanisms by which cells respond to the environment and integrate in and around tissue. Fundamental cellular processes are discussed that are important in embryonic development, stem cells, haematology and cancer. This unit investigates the action of hormones, growth factors and morphogens; their receptors and signalling pathways and the cellular responses they trigger. This unit covers modern techniques in cell culture, tissue engineering, advanced microscopy and other modern experimental approaches that enable dynamic understanding of live cell function.

Analytical Microbiology

The unit provides a theoretical and practical introduction to wide range of microbiological techniques that are commonly used in medical science, industrial and food microbiology, environmental science, and research. Building on a basic understanding of microbiology the unit shows how microorganisms can be isolated, identified, and enumerated using traditional microbiological methods, modern variations on traditional methods, and more recent immunological and molecular methods. The laboratory component is an integral component of the unit as the students use a variety of techniques, methods and commercial systems that are applied in microbiological laboratories, and incorporates problem solving and inquiry based exercises.

Mathematics major choose

Abstract Algebra

This unit develops algebraic thought to a high level. The abstract concepts involved in the main topics (group theory and number theory) have many applications in science and technology, and the unit includes an application to cryptography.

Analysis

Analysis provides the theoretical basis of real and complex numbers, including differentiation and integration. Topics include: field axioms and completeness, sequences, series, convergence, compactness, continuity, differentiability, integrability, and related theorems in both the real and complex number systems.

Regression Analysis & Experimental Design

This unit covers regression analysis and experimental design. The regression section of the unit develops the theory and application of one of the most commonly used statistical tools: regression analysis. Topics covered include simple linear regression, multiple regression, and model diagnostics and selection. The experimental design section deals with completely randomized design, randomized block design, Latin square design, and factorial experiment models. Such design models are useful for applications in engineering and physical sciences and in the business and behavioural disciplines. The integration of the theory and practice of the two sections will be enhanced by using the statistical computing package MINITAB.

Spring session

Constitutional Law

This unit introduces the legal rules and doctrines governing State and Commonwealth Constitutional systems in Australia. Topics covered include: State and Commonwealth Constitutions; legislative powers of the Commonwealth and State governments; the separation of powers doctrine; the legal relations between State and Commonwealth laws; Bills of Rights; Constitutional freedoms and restrictions on Commonwealth legislative powers.

Non-mathematics majors choose three units from the list below, at least one must be a capstone unit appropriate for your major.

Major capstone units:

Molecular Medicine

Molecular Medicine is an inquiry based capstone unit that integrates core concepts in molecular and cell biology with a focus on cancer as a framework to discuss autoimmune, infectious and genetic diseases. This unit aims to enhance critical thinking for the professional environment and prepares students for future innovations in prevention, management and cure of catastrophic diseases. Current research, diagnosis, treatment and policy issues, related to health and disease states, are placed in the context of real world experiences and changing imperatives.

Conservation Biology

Most species disappearances have occurred in major extinction events spread over geological time. Are we in the midst of and the cause of another mass extinction event? This unit will explore this idea by examining the processes that have led to, and are leading to species extinction and the current biodiversity crisis. Many of the methods and issues used in and associated with conservation will be covered in a variety of case studies, field and laboratory activities.

Science Research Project

Science Research Project is a final-year capstone unit that gives students an introduction to scientific research, while extending their knowledge and practical skills. Each student undertakes a research project supervised by an academic staff member. With the assistance of their supervisor, students will research the literature and define the problem to be studied, carry out a risk assessment, develop the appropriate experimental methods, carry out research on their project, and present a final written report and a poster or oral presentation. This unit offers a challenge to final-year students, and allows innovation by the student with respect to both method and research direction.

Laboratory Quality Management

This capstone unit is directed towards the accreditation of a laboratory for chemical, microbiological or forensic testing, using the standards that are applicable in industry. The unit focuses upon the importance and coordination of good laboratory management, teamwork, calibration, record keeping and laboratory manuals. Groups of students are required to develop, establish and operate a comprehensive Laboratory Quality Management system designed for a specific class of chemical, microbiological or forensic test. The students' technical competence and quality system are then assessed using the guidelines laid down by the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA).

Alternate units:

Advanced Analytical Chemistry

This unit builds on Analytical Chemistry 2 and focuses more on instrumental analysis, isolation and cleanup techniques and aspects of quality control and quality assurance in an analytical laboratory and in manufacturing are discussed. The instrumental methods covered include atomic spectroscopy (for example, atomic absorption and emission, x-ray fluorescence), molecular spectroscopy (for example, UV-Vis, IR, fluorometry, mass spectrometry), chromatography, electrochemistry, thermal methods and automated methods. The theory of the instrumental methods, their construction, operation and applications are covered. The theory and application of isolation and cleanup techniques in inorganic and organic residue analysis are given.

Advanced Organic Chemistry

This unit builds on the reactions learnt in the unit Organic Chemistry, extending the range of C-C bond forming reactions to include the most significant in modern synthesis. In the second stage students learn to develop multistep synthetic strategies to produce target molecules using their level 2 organic chemistry and the reactions above. Structural analysis by mass spectroscopy and more advanced NMR techniques is also investigated. The students use this chemistry in a lab course designed to highlight a number of these concepts (including the synthesis of 2 pharmaceutical compounds and a team experiment) and to extend their range of practical skills.

Medical Microbiology

Infectious diseases worldwide are the most common cause of illness. Medical microbiology is subdivided into four areas: virology, bacteriology, mycology (the study of fungi) and parasitology. The rapid evolution of microbes means that this is an area that does not remain static. This unit has a modern approach to the study of the balance between the host, humans, and the very large army of potential invaders. Students will embark on a journey into the world of pathogenic micro-organisms exploring the molecular mechanisms by which these override host defences leading to disease. Infectious diseases of the human body systems as well those of the immunocompromised and infections contracted in the healthcare setting (nosocomial) are discussed. The theory will be supported with laboratory experience representing diagnostic procedures for the identification of infectious agents.

Advanced Immunology

The human immune system is a milieu of cells, cytokines, chemokines, growth factors and cell adhesion molecules which form an elaborate molecular communication network through a number of signalling networks and molecules. The relevance of this knowledge for understanding the pathology and specific diseases of the human immune system are emphasised through the unit. This unit also provides an in depth analysis of the molecular mechanisms of cell to cell communication, cell activation, the immunological synapse, transplant rejection (including adoptive transfer experimentation), antigen presentation, B and T cell recruitment and MHC restriction. Medical and diagnostic applications of hybridoma technology, antibody engineering and advances in vaccine development are discussed. The laboratory course will develop technical and interpretative skills in relevant techniques, in particular the ImmunoCAP technology for asthma and allergy diagnosis.

Mathematics major choose

Mathematical Modelling

Mathematical Modelling is about solving real world problems. The real world is a complicated place which we often need or want to understand better. One way to do this is to set up a mathematical model which we hope can provide insights, predictions and a greater understanding of a complex system. Selected real-world problems are approximated by mathematical models that are amenable to being written in terms of linear and non-linear equations or differential equations. Once equations are solved emphasis is placed on interpreting solutions, modifying models as required and using models for prediction.

Abstract Algebra

This unit develops algebraic thought to a high level. The abstract concepts involved in the main topics (group theory and number theory) have many applications in science and technology, and the unit includes an application to cryptography.

Analysis

Analysis provides the theoretical basis of real and complex numbers, including differentiation and integration. Topics include: field axioms and completeness, sequences, series, convergence, compactness, continuity, differentiability, integrability, and related theorems in both the real and complex number systems.

Year 4

Autumn session

Equity & Trusts

This unit examines the principles of the law of equity and trusts in Australia. The primary emphasis is on the nature and development of the law of equity and students are also introduced to fundamental principles in the law of trusts. Topics include the nature and application of principles and maxims of Equity, the trust, the types of trusts and introduction to express trusts.

Parramatta students

Commercial Law

This unit provides an introduction to the general principles of commercial law. It also examines key aspects of substantive commercial law principles as they arise in a practical context with reference to current developments in the business community. Topics include: the law of principal and agent, guarantee, bailment, negotiable instruments, insurance, credit, sale of goods, and consumer protection law.

LLB alternate unit

LLB alternate unit

Campbelltown students

Law of Associations

This unit deals with issues that arise in relation to the selection of appropriate structures for the conduct of non-profit and commercial dealings. Students examine the legal and practical requirements involved in creating, operating and winding up associations, partnerships and corporations. Emphasis is on the creation and operation of corporations, and the duties and liabilities of directors and officers, as well as the rights and obligations of shareholders.

LLB alternate unit

LLB alternate unit

Spring session

Remedies

This unit examines the principles of the major common law, equitable, restitutionary,and statutory remedies available in Australia to wronged parties in a variety of circumstances. Emphasis is on the analysis of practical and theoretical advantages and disadvantages of various remedies. Topics include the effectiveness of common law, equitable and statutory remedies and the law of restitution and the scope of each of these remedies.

Parramatta students

Law of Associations

This unit deals with issues that arise in relation to the selection of appropriate structures for the conduct of non-profit and commercial dealings. Students examine the legal and practical requirements involved in creating, operating and winding up associations, partnerships and corporations. Emphasis is on the creation and operation of corporations, and the duties and liabilities of directors and officers, as well as the rights and obligations of shareholders.

LLB alternate unit

LLB alternate unit

Campbelltown students

Commercial Law

This unit provides an introduction to the general principles of commercial law. It also examines key aspects of substantive commercial law principles as they arise in a practical context with reference to current developments in the business community. Topics include: the law of principal and agent, guarantee, bailment, negotiable instruments, insurance, credit, sale of goods, and consumer protection law.

LLB alternate unit

LLB alternate unit

Year 5

Autumn session

Parramatta students

Dispute Resolution and Civil Procedure

The aim of this unit is to introduce students to the fundamental concepts and theories of dispute resolution, and to consider the distinctive features of alternative modes of dispute resolution including litigation, arbitration and mediation. The unit examines the major roles and practices governing court supervised processes, which are involved in superior court litigation. There is also an examination of how to differentially diagnose a dispute and how to match it to the most appropriate dispute resolution process. Topical issues connected with adversarial and alternative dispute resolution processes are considered.

Revenue Law

A knowledge of revenue law is essential for all students intending to embark on a career in law or business. A knowledge of revenue law is important to the work of a practicing lawyer in areas such as conveyancing, drafting of wills, family law, probate and business planning. The focus is on providing students within a policy framework with a basic understanding of key aspects of revenue law, especially income tax law including the concepts of income and capital, allowable deductions, taxation of business entities, residence of taxpayers and source of income, international taxation, tax accounting, tax administration and anti-avoidance.

LLB alternate unit

LLB alternate unit

Campbelltown students

Criminal Procedure and Evidence

The unit is designed to provide an understanding of the law, the theoretical underpinnings and the underlying policy issues, in the areas of evidence and criminal procedure.

Administrative Law

This unit examines the legal principles regulating the exercise of power by the executive arm of government in its various manifestations; ministers, government departments and officials, regulatory bodies, tribunals, inferior courts and local councils. This is examined in the context of Australian constitutional arrangements and it is taught in the context of constitutional themes and principles that underpin the law in this area. The exercise of power examined includes decision making, the exercise of discretion, delegated legislation and the decision making procedure of the major administrative tribunals. The focus is on the principles of judicial review developed by the courts, standing and remedies. There is also an examination of major non-judicial avenues of review by the major tribunals such as the Commonwealth Administrative Appeals Tribunal, and the Ombudsman. The unit will also examine Freedom of Information legislation.

LLB alternate unit

LLB alternate unit

Spring session

Parramatta students

Administrative Law

This unit examines the legal principles regulating the exercise of power by the executive arm of government in its various manifestations; ministers, government departments and officials, regulatory bodies, tribunals, inferior courts and local councils. This is examined in the context of Australian constitutional arrangements and it is taught in the context of constitutional themes and principles that underpin the law in this area. The exercise of power examined includes decision making, the exercise of discretion, delegated legislation and the decision making procedure of the major administrative tribunals. The focus is on the principles of judicial review developed by the courts, standing and remedies. There is also an examination of major non-judicial avenues of review by the major tribunals such as the Commonwealth Administrative Appeals Tribunal, and the Ombudsman. The unit will also examine Freedom of Information legislation.

Criminal Procedure and Evidence

The unit is designed to provide an understanding of the law, the theoretical underpinnings and the underlying policy issues, in the areas of evidence and criminal procedure.

LLB alternate unit

LLB alternate unit

Campbelltown students

Dispute Resolution and Civil Procedure

The aim of this unit is to introduce students to the fundamental concepts and theories of dispute resolution, and to consider the distinctive features of alternative modes of dispute resolution including litigation, arbitration and mediation. The unit examines the major roles and practices governing court supervised processes, which are involved in superior court litigation. There is also an examination of how to differentially diagnose a dispute and how to match it to the most appropriate dispute resolution process. Topical issues connected with adversarial and alternative dispute resolution processes are considered.

Revenue Law

A knowledge of revenue law is essential for all students intending to embark on a career in law or business. A knowledge of revenue law is important to the work of a practicing lawyer in areas such as conveyancing, drafting of wills, family law, probate and business planning. The focus is on providing students within a policy framework with a basic understanding of key aspects of revenue law, especially income tax law including the concepts of income and capital, allowable deductions, taxation of business entities, residence of taxpayers and source of income, international taxation, tax accounting, tax administration and anti-avoidance.

LLB alternate unit

LLB alternate unit

The majors available on the Parramatta campus are: General Biology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Geochemistry and Mathematics.

The majors available on the Campbelltown campus are: Microbiology, General Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics.

LLB Alternate Units:

Students may choose 80 credit points of units from the following list.

Land Transactions Law

This unit gives students an in-depth treatment of various aspects of the law relating to the transfer of land and interests in land. Transactions dealing with land are examined from both a commercial and residential perspective. These matters form an integral part of the practice of law and are approached from a practical perspective. Topics include the standard agreement for sale of land, the law and practice relating to different title systems, mortgages, leases, easements and covenants.

Advanced Taxation Law

This is an advanced level study of selected aspects of income tax and capital gains. The unit broadens and deepens the student's knowledge of taxation and revenue law by building upon the topics covered in 200187 Taxation Law and 200019 Revenue Law.

International Criminal Law

This unit analyses the current state of international criminal law and its place in the modern international legal system in light of important recent developments. It discusses why States should reform their national criminal laws to accord with international developments. It focuses on both the substantive and procedural law. It examines relevant international legal concepts, general principles of international criminal law, and how international criminal tribunals function. It considers particular international crimes, participation in such crimes, defences, and important recent cases such as Pinochet and Slobodan Milosevic.

Professional Legal Skills 1

Professional Legal Skills 1 is the first of a stream of two units which will focus on meeting the students need, that at the point of admission to practice they will be expected to provide evidence they have achieved the requisite competence in the following Skills (certain aspects of Lawyer's Skills; certain aspects of Problem Solving) and Practice Areas (certain aspects of Civil Litigation Practice) as prescribed in the Competency Standards for Entry Level Lawyers for practical legal training that have been jointly developed by the Australasian Professional Legal Education Council (APLEC) and the Law Admissions Consultative Committee (LACC).

Professional Legal Skills 2

Professional Legal Skills 2 is the second of a stream of two units which will focus on meeting the students need, that at the point of admission to practice they will be expected to provide evidence they have achieved the requisite competence in the following Skills (certain aspects of Lawyer's Skills) and Practice Areas (Criminal Law Practice; certain aspects of Civil Litigation Practice) as prescribed in the Competency Standards for Entry Level Lawyer's for practical legal training that have been jointly developed by the Australasian Professional Legal Education Council (APLEC) and the Law Admissions Consultative Committee (LACC).

Alternative Dispute Resolution

This unit will examine the theory and practice of alternative dispute resolution generally, and in the context of the Australian legal system specifically, although the course does not focus specifically on the law. The unit is experientially-based, and students will be expected to participate in discussions, exercises and role-plays. The theory and practice of conflict and dispute resolution will be critically considered, as will the social, cultural and legal contexts within which alternative dispute resolution occurs. The unit is presented with a multi-disciplinary, analytical and practical approach.Although an introduction to mediation is included in this unit, it is not a unit on mediation. Although an introduction to mediation is included in this unit, it is not a unit on mediation. This unit will provide students with a broad understanding of the theory and practice of dispute resolution, and provide them with the basic skills required to resolve disputes more effectively.

Mediation

This unit will examine the theory and practice of mediation, specifically in the context of the Australian legal system. It builds upon the more general introduction given in the unit Alternative Dispute Resolution (which is a prerequisite for this course). This unite will assume that students have read the textbook for Alternative Dispute Resolution. This unit is experientially based, and students will be expected to participate in discussions, exercises and role-plays. The theory and practice of mediation will be critically considered, as will the social and legal contexts within which mediation is practised. The unit is presented with a multi-disciplinary, analytical and practical approach. Given the very broad range of areas within which mediation can be applied, students will be able to focus on an area or areas of particular personal or professional interest to them (for example, mediation of commercial disputes, mediation under anti-discrimination or family law). This unit is intended to be an introduction to the practice of mediation.

Bioethics

This unit covers some of the ethical and legal issues associated with medical practice and research, including issues raised by new developments in biotechnology. There is a strong emphasis on clarification of personal values. Topics covered include some of the following: the nature of moral thinking, issues of life and death, experimentation and research involving human and animal subjects, organ transplantation, genetic manipulation, new reproductive technologies, access and rationing of health care resources and ethical issues in psychiatry.

Law Economics and Business Ethics

This unit considers ethical analysis of institutions and practices of contemporary market capitalism as a foundation for possible future legal reforms. Topics covered include; market efficiency and externalities, corporations and regulation, principles of distributive justice, the ethics of globalization, class and crime.

Law of Employment

This unit focuses on the law that regulates individual aspects of employment relationships including the contract of employment rather than the focus on collective aspects of the law of employment. It aims to place an examination of the development, nature and scope of relevant legal principles in the context of the key features of the contemporary Australian labour market.

Immigration and Refugee Law

This unit combines a detailed examination of the actual law and processes of Australian immigration and refugee law with a rigorous critique from an historical, international and political standpoint.

Comparative Law: Legal Systems of the World

The unit introduces students to the different legal systems of the world: the common law and civil law traditions, indigenous legal systems, religion-based legal systems and legal systems in Asia. It aims to provide an understanding of how they have developed in particular legal and cultural contexts. It also examines and evaluates the impact of the introduction of western legal systems in non-western countries. The unit will study the systems of both at the general level and in relation to specific laws, such as family law, torts and contracts, dispute resolution and procedure. The unit is also concerned with the nature and function of comparative law as a discipline. Students will be encouraged to undertake individual research and to evaluate legal information derived from a variety of different sources and perspectives.

Advanced Family Law

This unit adopts a range of interdisciplinary and theoretical perspectives to critically evaluate developments in and proposals for reform of family law, policy and practice. It provides students with the opportunity to research and examine particular areas of interest, including family law reform, post separation arrangements for children, parenthood, financial planning and protection of assets, professional responsibility of family lawyers and family dispute resolution.

Child Law

This unit examines legal responses (and lack of response) to children and young people. Historically, the child was viewed as an object of legal concern with few legal rights and inadequate means to access and participate in decisions and legal processes that affect them. Developments in international and domestic law indicate greater recognition of the child's capacity to make decisions and acknowledge his or her right to be heard in matters which will affect the child. This unit adopts a range of interdisciplinary and theoretical perspectives to critically evaluate developments in theory, laws, policies and practices relating to children and young people.

Competition Law and Policy

Competition Law is an important constituent element of economic policy, reflecting the view that competition enhances market efficiency and productivity. This unit examines the regulation of competition in Australia with particular reference to the substantive provisions of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 regulating anti-competitive conduct in Australia and access to infrastructure services. Some reference will also be made to equivalent overseas laws and to reform issues. Particular reference will be made to current EU and US competition laws.

Elder Law

This unit examines law relevant to an aging community. The legal issues are examined in a broad social, cultural and ethical context. Issues of legal capacity relevant not only to the law of contracts but also to medical treatment and end of life decisions are considered. Similarly the law relating to areas of special importance to the elder community such as age discrimination, pensions, retirement villages, wills and estate planning are also discussed.

Family Law

This unit aims to graduate students who will become reflective, ethical and effective family lawyers and/or family dispute resolution practitioners. This unit adopts a range of perspectives to critically evaluate developments in theory, laws, policies and practices concerned with the legal regulation of intimate relationships, particularly after separation. Family law balances the competing rights, obligations and interests of partners, children and others following separation, often in the context of complex family dynamics. In addition to having a sound grasp of family law, family lawyers must also appreciate the social, political, psychological and economic contexts that influence separating families.

Human Rights Law

This unit examines the foundations of the concept of human rights under international law. It contains an historical review of international measures for the protection of human rights and how international law came to be concerned with the rights of individuals. Special attention is given to key international human rights instruments such as The Charter of the United Nations, The Universal Declaration of Human Rights and The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. It also examines the extent to which international human rights have been compromised by issues of sovereignty, cultural relativism and political resistance towards comprehensive incorporation of some of the fundamental principles into domestic law.

Intellectual Property

In modern society, significant commercial value attaches to intangible intellectual property rights. An understanding of Intellectual Property law is therefore increasingly important in commercial practice. This Unit explores the three central regimes of Intellectual Property (Copyright, Patents and Trade Marks) in a broad range of commercial contexts, including the music, literary and visual arts industries; internet and information technology; protection for scientific, pharmaceutical and engineering innovations and protection of brands and merchandising indicia. The Unit also highlights current as well as international developments.

International Business Transactions Law

This unit is designed to be taught offshore as well as in Australia. It examines the legal regimes governing international business; what lawyer do when negotiating and drafting international trade; licensing, and investment arrangements; what needs to be taken into account when dealing with developed, developing, and non-market economies; and the interplay of law, politics and culture in these contexts.

International Trade Law

This unit examines the legal regime governing the international exchange of goods, services and capital. While the focus of the unit will be the WTO and the GATT and GATS agreements, attention will also be given to the interaction of trade and monetary issues, and the interplay of law, politics and diplomacy in regulating these issues. Topics include: the international legal framework for international trade and finance; international, structural and transactional aspects of international trade and finance; the impact of national and foreign trade policies on world trading activities; the role and interest of Australia as a trading nation; and trade as a political issue.

Medical Malpractice Law

The relationship between the provider of health services and the patient has, in recent times, become more complex and provides a significant field for litigation, reform and legal scholarship. Advances in medical science have yielded increasingly complex questions concerning patient's rights, obligations of health care providers and the extent to which the State should intervene in that relationship. This unit aims to provide knowledge and understanding of core practical issues in Australian medical litigation; together with an overview of some cutting edge legal and policy issues that arise in medical litigation.

Wills and Succession

Wills and Succession is that body of law that deals with the devolution of property upon death. The unit encompasses inter alia the law relating to intestacy, the making of a valid will, the administration of the estate and what is known as testator's family maintenance. This unit is of particular importance to those students who intend to practice either as a solicitor or barrister as Wills and Succession forms a significant part of private practice.

Advocacy

This unit imparts basic courtroom trial skills giving practice in applying substantive law, practice, procedure and evidence in a simulated courtroom. It also explores both professional and ethical issues involved in the courtroom. There is a limit on enrolment in this unit because of the teaching method adopted.

Planning and Environment Law

This unit seeks to achieve a balance among theory, policy and practical issues in its approach, and it incorporates a strong interdisciplinary component in the introductory phase. It examines the planning laws in the state of New South Wales. Topics covered include an analysis of the functions of the relevant ministers, State government departments, and local councils; the role of public agencies; the effect of environmental planning instruments; and the impact of the planning system.

Jurisprudence

This unit provides a theoretical perspective on the law and its institutions, relevant to an understanding of both the notion of law itself and the way in which the legal system operates. Students analyse and compare differing theories of the nature and role of law and legislation.

Advanced Torts and Civil Wrongs

Advanced torts and civil wrongs examines in detail the basic principles and current issues in selected areas of torts law and civil liability.

Space Law - Commercial Aspects

This unit examines the underlying legal principles that regulate the use, exploration and exploitation of space, and how International Law can and should be applied to the many different State and private commercial uses of outer space. It examines the existing international legal regime - the five United Nations Space Treaties and key Declarations of Principles related to space activities - as well as a number of domestic regulatory systems, including the Australian legal regime. The unit also concentrates on the (many) uses and proposed uses of space for which the legal framework may not be particularly well suited.

Public International Law

Public International Law regulates nation states and seeks to order human affairs at the international level. As developments in technology and travel continue to shrink the distance between nations, issues of public international law become increasingly important. This unit explores the nature, role and characteristics of international law; concepts of statehood; sovereignty and jurisdiction; the relationship between domestic and international law; the role of law and treaties; and the role of international organisations such as the United Nations and International Court of Justice. The specific issues covered reflect contemporaneous and contentious issues of international law.

Anti-Discrimination Law

This unit deals with the law and policy concerned with unlawful discrimination in Australia. The various grounds of unlawful discrimination in federal and NSW state legislation are examined together with the procedure for investigating and determining complaints. It deals with the promotion of equal opportunity goals through affirmative action programs and their limitations; and the nature of and legislative strategies for dealing with sexual harassment. It also covers the wide range of anti-discrimination laws and the emergence of private justice systems and equal opportunity grievance procedures to deal with complaints either as a preliminary or as an alternative to statute-based procedures.

Conflicts of Law

Conflict of Laws (also known as Private International Law) is about resolving legal questions involving more than one jurisdiction. Conflict of Laws issues may arise between the Australian States and Territories or between nations. The globalisation of economic activity, and ease and affordability of travel and telecommunications have contributed to the recent dramatic increase of trans-national dimensions in personal and commercial litigation. This unit provides an introduction to the sources of conflict of laws, the international jurisdiction of domestic courts, the recognition and enforcement of foreign judgements and decrees, and the problem of choice of law as it arises in various situations.

Corporate Governance

Through an interdisciplinary approach, this unit explores the place and role of the modern for profit business corporation in advanced and emerging capitalist economies. It examines the public and private role of public and private companies (and their equivalent in non-common law jurisdictions), their external and internal orientation, and issues relating to their accountability, responsibility, and transparency.

Electronic Financial Transactions Law

This unit examines electronic financial transactions from a legal perspective. It explores in details a variety of legal issues raised by different methods of transferring funds electronically, and provides a framework against which legal controls affecting these methods are critically evaluated.

Insolvency Law and Policy

The laws regulating insolvency administration have developed over time into an integral component of the legal system, domestic and international. By purposive analysis of the Australian and cross-border legislative provisions, this unit introduces the law and public policies by which regulators administer insolvent corporate entities and persons, and examines potential outcomes, including restructuring proposals.

Occupational Health and Safety Law

This unit examines major occupational and health legislation in Australia, especially in New South Wales. The arbitrary and inadequate nature of standard setting in the early systems of safety regulation is compared with later legislative models. The nature and limitations of current legislative strategies are illustrated by a series of selected issues relating to contemporary health risks in workplaces. Continuing problems of enforcement, sanctions and the adequate identification of hazards and protection are examined.

Media Law

This Unit examines various aspects of law relating to the mass media. The laws of defamation, contempt, privacy and the laws dealing with prohibited publications, such as those involving sedition, obscenity and vilification, form the central content of the Unit. The Unit also examines the policy rationales involved in balancing protection of free speech with a range of other interests in the context of legal restrictions on media freedom. Analysis of the application of existing media law principles to new technologies will also be featured throughout the Unit.

Advanced Criminal Law

Advanced Criminal Law is a unit designed to extend your knowledge beyond that of the core academic and practical topics of the LLB unit Criminal Law. This will be achieved by examining the deeper philosophical issues that demand that the criminal law meet the requirements of fairness and justice. You will be given the opportunity to extend your knowledge of the mechanics of the criminal law by an examination of the philosophy of criminal law. You will consider the moral limits of punishment and criminalisation, and examine the philosophical basis for criminal responsibility. This subject is designed to get you to think at a high level. It requires you to think about what the law ought to be, rather than merely about what it is.

International Moot Court

This unit aims to train those students selected to represent the School of Law of University of Western Sydney in international law Mooting Competitions in litigation and advocacy before international courts. Depending on the circumstances at the time, the possible competitions will be one or more of the following: Jessup International Law Court Competition; Jean Pictet International Humanitarian Law Competition; Manfred Lachs Space Law Moot Competition; Stetson International Environmental Law Competition. Other alternate competitions may be chosen in the future. For several of the competitions, the majority of the work will be conducted over the summer months and students will be required to undertake that they will devote sufficient time during that period to properly undertake all required tasks. Students will be provided with a grounding in issues including jurisdiction, admissibility, interim measures, principles of state responsibility and remedies. The course will focus on the International Court of Justice. The course will also have a practical component aimed at enhancing the advocacy skills of participants and applying the theory to the practical aspects of the conduct of international advocacy. Students will be involved in the preparation and presentation of a hypothetical case before the ICJ and will be given the opportunity to develop their advocacy skills, including the preparation of written submissions and delivery of oral submissions, in a non-competitive context.

Banking and Securities Law

This unit examines the banker customer relationship, the taking and enforcement of security for credit, and the regulation of banks and non bank financial institutions nationally and internationally. Examined in detail are (1) the legal relationships that ensue from different forms of international bank finance and the nature and effect of various contractual provisions designed to assure payment by the debtor, (2) the impact on the creditor's rights of the insolvency of the debtor or of a major clearing participant, (3) the effect of government interference with payment through expropriation and freezing of financial assets, and (4) the role of Central Banks and the Bank for International Settlements.

Clinical Legal Placement

Clinical Legal Placement allows you to attend the Parramatta Community Justice Clinic (PCJC) or a community legal centre for five (5) days. Places are limited and enrolment is based on merit. This unit provides you with an invaluable opportunity to use and reflect on your study of law in an interactive, legal service environment. Under the supervision of a legal practitioner you will work on advice, casework, policy or project work, as required by the PCJC or relevant centre. You will examine the practical application of the law and the interaction of law, facts, policy and ethical issues. You will be exposed to a system of self-analysis and self-criticism. You will be required to record and reflect on your experiences, deliver a presentation and submit a paper.

Law Honours Dissertation

This unit comprises the research and writing of a research dissertation of between 8,000 and 10,000 words on an approved topic in law. The unit provides an opportunity for law students to further develop and refine their legal research and writing skills and to explore and analyse a legal topic of their choosing in order to produce a high quality piece of academic work. It includes training in research methodology, and support activities including presenting at an honours research seminar and requires the student to undertake a literature review followed by submission of a research proposal, upon acceptance of which the dissertation is written under supervision.

Issues in the Criminal Justice System

This unit introduces candidates to the criminal justice system through an examination of justifications for punishment and the policy and practice of various criminal justice agencies. Attention is paid to the significance of race, class and gender, and how these variables impact upon justice within the criminal justice system. Where possible, visits to criminal justice agencies and a prison are organised, and practitioners are invited to seminars to enable candidates to gain a more practical understanding of the criminal justice system.

Public Health Law

This unit considers various legal issues related to health and medicine. This area of law is relatively new and continually developing and expanding. This unit is primarily concerned with how law has and should respond to various health dilemmas. These include State protection of the community from death and disease (for example immunisation, quarantine, disease outbreaks such as AIDS and Aboriginal health), patient rights, (for example privacy, access to information and human rights) mental illness (including civil commitment and competency to make decisions) and technological advances.

Independent Study (Law)

This unit will result in the writing of a research paper of 5,000 words on an approved topic in law. It is anticipated that the unit will be used is appropriate situations such as where the Law School has a Visiting Professor who is prepared to supervise independent study in an area related to their expertise. The intent is that the areas researched will focus principally on those areas identified by the Schools in its Research Strategy. These include (i) international and trans-national governance, (ii) elder law, (iii) law and medicine. (iv) revenue law and (v) professional services law.

Indigenous Australians and the Law

Indigenous Australians and the Law provides students with a grounding in the central legal issues associated with the historical and contemporary interaction of indigenous Australians with the Australian legal system .

Family Dispute Resolution

This unit explores the rapidly growing field of family dispute resolution. It builds on skills and understandings developed in 200633 Family Law and 200294 Mediation to deepen students' knowledge of and capacity to assist separated parents to resolve disputes about their children. Particular attention is given to processes concerning children and processes to assist families who may present with highly complex family dynamics, including the presence of multiple forms of family violence. Students may arrange a workplace placement with a family dispute resolution provider as an assessment option.

Moot Court

This unit aims to train students in mooting conducted before an appellate court or tribunal. Students will be provided with a grounding in issues including jurisdiction, admissibility, and remedies. The unit will focus on one or more areas of domestic substantive law and will include a research component. The unit will also have a practical component aimed at enhancing the advocacy skills of participants and applying the theory to the practical aspects of the conduct of appellate advocacy. Students will be involved in the preparation and presentation of a hypothetical case before an appellate court or tribunal and will be given the opportunity to develop their advocacy skills, including the preparation of written submissions and delivery of oral submissions, in a non-competitive context. Undertaking this unit would be useful for students seeking to participate in one or more law mooting competitions, representing University of Western Sydney such as the Sir Harry Gibbs Constitutional Law Moot, Sir John Peden Contracts Moot, Shine Lawyers Torts Moot, AAT Moot, and the Law Council of Australia Family Law Moot.

Consumer Law and Policy

This unit builds on concepts learned in Contracts and Commercial Law. It provides a detailed examination of misleading or deceptive conduct under The Australian Consumer Law, and related provisions dealing with false or misleading representations. Unconscionable conduct under The Australian Consumer Law and relevant industry codes will also be covered. The protection offered to consumers through this regime will be explored in a range of contexts, including regulation of advertising and the financial services sector. Enforcement through civil and criminal proceedings, including accessorial liability, and a range of defences to these actions will also be covered.

Honours

An Honours award is offered - see the Honours in Bachelors Awards Policy and associated College Guidelines for the admission criteria.

Honours Policy

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