Constitutional Law Charles Sturt University

Overview

The  Constitutional Law degree from Charles Sturt University provides an historical and cultural context for the application of constitutional law in the rapidly changing contemporary state, territory and Commonwealth governments.

In addition, the role of the High Court in shaping Commonwealth legislative powers over States is addressed, as well as the limitations of legislative and executive power of the Commonwealth over states and territories.

Learning Outcomes:

• be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the points of difference between the various state, territory and Commonwealth constitutions and constitutional systems;
• be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the processes and challenges involved in federation;
• be able to demonstrate an informed understanding of the origins and formation of the Commonwealth constitution;
• be able to demonstrate an understanding of specific 'heads of power' such as trade, commerce, taxation, corporations and external affairs powers;
• be able to demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between different institutions of government and separation of powers;
• be able to demonstrate an understanding of the constitution and operation of the legislature, executive and judiciary;
• be able to demonstrate a broad understanding of constitutional law, including the role of the High Court in formulating constitutional law reform;
• be able to plan and apply legal research skills in the interpretation of constitutional law in order to resolve hypothetical legal problems;

• be able to demonstrate an understanding of the procedures and processes of the High Court's ability under the Commonwealth Constitution to declare valid or invalid state, territory and Commonwealth government legislation, and its potential impact on Australian society;

The subject will be essential for Law graduates (worldwide) looking to validate their Law degree in Australia.