Master of Laws (Research)

To qualify for the award of Master of Laws, a student must: (a) complete any specified probationary requirements; (b) complete LAWS6077 Legal Research 1; (c) conduct research on an approved topic; and (d) complete a thesis of a maximum 50,000 words embodying the results of the research.

The course commences in Research Period 2 (1 March) and Research Period 3 (1 July). For commencement on 1 March, please apply by 15 September. For commencement on 1 July, please apply by 15 March. If you intend to apply for an Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship, you must submit a full admission application by the relevant RTP scholarship closing date.

The Expression of Interest is optional, but the Law School encourages applicants to submit one, as it allows Sydney Law School to conduct an initial review of eligibility and confirm whether the proposed research topic aligns with their Research Themes and whether supervisors are available. Applicants are encouraged to submit an Expression of Interest as early as possible and no later than 30 June for a 1 March commencement, or 31 December for a 1 July commencement.

Master of Laws researchers perform original research under the supervision of a member of the University of Sydney Law School who is an expert in the subject matter. The nomination of supervisors is determined by the Law Postgraduate Research Education Committee. Applicants must consult a potential supervisor about their proposed research before submitting a formal application, and potential supervisors must not be nominated or serve as referees.

To be considered for an RTP (Research Training Program) scholarship, you must submit both your Master of Laws (Research) application and your scholarship application by the relevant RTP scholarship closing date. Information about the Sydney Law School Postgraduate Research Scholarships is also available, and separate deadlines apply for scholarships.