An increasing number of students are studying law to give them an edge in their chosen profession, according to Bond University Executive Dean of Law, Professor Nick James.
Professor James said many students study law not to become legal practitioners, but to set them apart from their fellow graduates in disciplines such as Commerce, Business, Arts and International Relations.
He said a growing number were also studying law as part of non-traditional dual degree combinations, such as health sciences and law. Bond has recently launched an actuarial science and law dual degree program.
"The majority of law students study law as part of a dual degree, and many of these students are more interested in pursuing the career that flows from the other degree," he said.
"A lot of students want to keep their options open while at university, and they appreciate that the knowledge and skills that come from a law degree, whether or not they chose to become a legal practitioner, will significantly enhance their employment prospects.
"While we teach every law student as if they are going to become a lawyer, the reality is that about half are likely to follow a different career path."
Professor James said gaining a comprehensive understanding of the legal system and learning practical legal skills gave students an advantage when applying for jobs.
"Law teaches research, communication, negotiation and advocacy skills, and the ability to think like a lawyer, which are of enormous benefit not just to lawyers but those going into business or any professional career," he said.
"That is really what many students are looking to get from a law degree: the ability to analyse complex programs, to think clearly and methodically, and come up with practical solutions."
Mitchell Stevens landed a job as an associate with professional business services firm Boston Consulting Group, after graduating with Commerce and Law degrees from Bond in 2012.
"In my team of four at Boston Consulting Group, three of us have a law degree," said Mr Stevens.
"The combined degree gave me more options - I could have gone into almost any business, legal or professional field. I enjoyed law and problem solving, but was more interested in business, finance and economics and it worked well to put them together.
"As a management consultant I work with businesses to help improve their efficiency and I use my legal skills all the time. Problem solving is a big one - studying law teaches you to break complex problems down and that's applicable in all settings.
"Also, the written and presentation skills you get from law are invaluable, particularly if you have been involved in mooting. It definitely gives you an edge."
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