Programme details

Master of Legal Studies - MLS

The Master of Legal Studies program focuses on fostering creativity, effective communication, critical thinking, practical knowledge, and problem-solving skills across a range of specialised fields.

Course description

The curriculum is tailored to equip students with crucial skills that are in demand across various fields, such as the ability to approach problem-solving with a legal mindset and to construct coherent arguments. This academic degree is designed to be flexible and relevant to professional contexts, covering key aspects of human culture, communication, and society. It provides clear pathways to entering the workforce and opportunities for career advancement or further education.

While the Master of Legal Studies program does not lead to qualification as a lawyer, it will furnish graduates with essential competencies and skills necessary for legal-related work. Students will acquire practical legal knowledge that is versatile and transferable to a broad range of occupations, spanning both the public and private sectors.

Immigration benefits

This course may qualify for the following visa rights:
In-study work rights
Partner visitor rights
Partner work rights
Post-study work rights

This course qualifies for 5 points if applying for residency under the Skilled Migrant Category.

Career Prospects

Policy Analyst & Advisor
Mediator and/or Negotiator
Legal Researcher
Board Member for Iwi or other organisations
Local government advocacy

Entry requirements

Academics

To gain admission to the Master of Laws programme, you must have:

Finished an LLB or a combined Law degree at the University of Waikato with a minimum ‘B’ grade point average, or an equivalent qualification at another university; or
Completed an LLB (Hons) at the University of Waikato with at least a ‘B’ grade point average, or a combined Law degree at the University of Waikato, or an equivalent qualification at another university; or
Met the prerequisites for graduate study in the subject at a level deemed appropriate by the Academic Board.
In exceptional cases, candidates who do not meet these requirements, but have a proven academic record and relevant experience, may be admitted to the programme.

English

Students whose native language is not English must present satisfactory evidence of their English language proficiency. An overall score of 6.5 (with at least 6.0 achieved in the Writing band) in the IELTS or equivalent is required.

Subjects

Society, Culture, Law, Economics

Credits

120 180

Duration

1 to 1.5 years

Intakes

Trimester A (March) and Trimester B (July)

International fees

$39,335 (120 pts) $59,005 (180 pts) per year

Location

Hamilton, Tauranga