Technology and innovation: the future of law

Uncharted territory

With over 1.35 million tech start-ups worldwide today, technological innovation is a constantly shifting field. Almost everything we do is powered by technology. But regulating emerging technologies has presented a significant challenge for lawyers. 

Whether dealing with bitcoin, artificial intelligence or machine learning, the legal profession will require law graduates with the skills and expertise to navigate the ethical application of new technologies, manage risk, support innovation and ensure the rights of individuals are protected.

Employers are seeking lawyers with experience practising in cutting-edge fields like bitcoin, blockchain, automation, Industry 4.0, artificial intelligence and machine learning.

A future-focused law degree

Introducing the Legal Futures and Technology major in the UTS Bachelor of Laws. A first-of-its-kind in Australia, this major aims to equip lawyers with the skills and insights necessary to respond to future challenges of the legal profession and adapt to technological innovation.

Students who enrol in this major will graduate with a core framework of legal skills with a competitive edge in technology law and innovation that will raise career prospects. It consists of two capstone subjects plus your choice of specialist electives in addition to core Law subjects.

"Employers are seeking lawyers with experience practising in cutting-edge fields like bitcoin, blockchain, automation, Industry 4.0, artificial intelligence and machine learning," says Dr Genevieve Wilkinson, Senior Lecturer at the UTS Faculty of Law. "The broad range of subjects available here at UTS will prepare you for the future of practising law in Australia," she says.

What's it really like?

Kate Daine is a recent Bachelor of Laws graduate who enrolled in the Legal Futures and Technology major to learn how to think differently about the law. "I also wanted to be challenged and explore the mindset of innovation to see if I can learn new ways of thinking," she says.  

"The subjects were incredibly engaging. We were exposed to topics like blockchain and cryptocurrency. You get to learn about the technology itself, the risks involved, the opportunities it opens, and its global applications," Kate says.

Since graduating, Kate has found work at the prestigious global consulting firm Kearney as a Business Analyst. Her day-to-day work varies from advising international cryptocurrency start-ups to more traditional banking clients.

"The Legal Futures and Innovation major has given my career a head-start in a world where companies are trying to navigate a shifting digital and legal landscape."

INTERESTED IN STUDYING LAW AT UTS? Find out more about our Legal Futures & Technology Major