Course Overview

About This Course

The UNE Master of Laws (Research) provides a program of flexible learning and independent research for high-calibre graduates in Law to make a substantial and original contribution to an academic field of legal knowledge. You will develop advanced skills in how to write for, research, argue and apply the law and build your critical thinking via an advanced program of self-led research and training, with support from our academic team from start to finish. This course is taught by UNE's highly experienced staff in the School of Law, Australia's largest law school outside a capital city. World-class teaching staff, a thriving research culture and unique perspective on regional, rural and remote legal issues will provide you with access to an engaging program of research and specialist skills that employers are looking for. The course will provide you with theoretical knowledge and relevant research methodologies for conducting advanced research in a specialised area of law, including legal theory, corporate law, comparative law, biotechnology and intellectual property law, human rights, international law or legal history or interdisciplinary studies of law and policy. As part of your study, you will complete a major thesis with supervision and guidance from leading legal researchers.

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

Requirements

You have completed one of the following qualifications in law (or their overseas equivalents): Bachelor Honours (AQF Level 8) with a minimum result of second class honours; Master (AQF Level 9); or Doctorate (AQF Level 10)
You have completed an AQF Level 7 or AQF Level 9 qualification in law leading to admission to legal practice and you have a minimum of two years of full-time (or part-time equivalent) relevant professional experience
Eligibility for admission is reviewed by the Associate Dean Research (ADR) or delegate; the Director Graduate Research has final authority for approving admission to research higher degrees
All admissions are subject to the HDR Admission and Enrolment Policy
All applicants must meet the English Language Requirements for all Higher Degree by Research candidates
You must provide a certified/notarised copy of your official transcript(s) and certificate(s) for all previous tertiary study
You must provide evidence that at least one UNE academic staff member has agreed to support your application/supervise your research
You must submit a research proposal (no longer than three A4 pages) completed in consultation with your potential supervisor
You must nominate two referees (preferably external to UNE) who can testify to your academic achievements and complete the online HDR Referee Report form
You must provide proof of identity and citizenship as certified/notarised copies
You must provide documented evidence that you meet English Language Requirements unless English is your first language and you are from an English speaking Group A country

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

By completing the UNE Master of Laws by research program, you can apply your specialised knowledge and skills to a wide range of career opportunities in any business and organisation dealing with legal requirements. Career options include: legal aid agencies, advocacy organisations and commercial law firms; government departments; banking, finance and commerce; business management; education; policy, research and analysis. The Master of Laws (Research) also equips you with a portfolio of contemporary research skills and the option to progress to a PhD should you wish to continue your research pathway.

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units1 units

LLM500

Research Methodology and Theory

Foundational unit covering research methodology and theory. Advanced standing may be applied for if you have previously completed this unit or its equivalent as part of a completed postgraduate qualification.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I study the Master of Laws (Research) online?

Yes, most students choose to study online across three study periods with 24/7 tutor support, allowing them to fit study around work and family commitments. The course is offered online as well as on the Armidale campus.

Will I need to pay tuition fees for this course?

If you are an Australian or New Zealand student and meet the criteria for entry, you may be funded under the Australian Government's Research Training Program (RTP) and may not incur tuition fees for the duration of the course. International students will incur tuition fees, with an estimated first-year fee of $34,496. An estimated amenities fee of $373 per year also applies for full-time students.

What research areas can I specialise in for my thesis?

The course provides theoretical knowledge and relevant research methodologies for conducting advanced research in a specialised area of law, including legal theory, corporate law, comparative law, biotechnology and intellectual property law, human rights, international law, legal history, or interdisciplinary studies of law and policy.

What supporting documents do I need to submit with my application?

You will need to provide: certified/notarised copies of your official transcripts and certificates for all previous tertiary study; evidence that at least one UNE academic staff member has agreed to supervise your research; a research proposal of no longer than three A4 pages prepared in consultation with your potential supervisor; two completed HDR Referee Report forms from referees preferably external to UNE; proof of identity and citizenship; and documented evidence that you meet English Language Requirements.

Can the Master of Laws (Research) lead to further study?

Yes, the Master of Laws (Research) equips you with a portfolio of contemporary research skills and provides the option to progress to a PhD should you wish to continue your research pathway. UNE offers both a Doctor of Philosophy and a Master of Philosophy as future study opportunities.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

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Master of Laws (Research)