Master of Laws Courses in New Zealand

Studying an LLM in New Zealand

A Master of Laws (LLM) in New Zealand is designed for law and non-law graduates who want to enhance their academic legal knowledge.

Students enrolling in the program enjoy flexibility in choosing modules and dissertation topics; courses generally last one year full-time and 24 months part-time, and students will select the module or area they wish to study and complete a dissertation over the learning period. An LLM qualification will provide graduates with a competitive edge in a crowded job market and offer the chance for a change in direction for those currently employed.

Graduates in the Master of Law in New Zealand can benefit from strategic partnerships with firms, regulators, and teaching-focused academics. The course opens pathways to careers such as paralegal, legal secretary, legal executive, barrister clerk, teacher, and more.

Types of LLM Degrees

Postgraduate Certificate in Law (PGCertLaw)

A postgraduate certificate in law program is designed for professionals from a non-law background who want to seek knowledge of legal matters. In addition, the program can also be taken by law graduates who wish to bridge the gap between the master studies. The PGCertLaw combines a Master of Laws (LLM) or Master of Legal Studies (MLS) degree. 

Professionals such as accountants, tax consultants, compliance managers, IT professionals, business development managers, police, and public sector staff can benefit from this program.

• Course duration - three years
• Course fees - $21, 293
• Entry requirements - Bachelor of Law with GPE 4.0 and IELTS with at least 7.0 or above/GMAT or GRE scores (if applicable). 

Master of Laws (LLM)

An LLM in New Zealand aims to provide advanced-level flexible legal study available full-time and part-time. It provides a detailed analysis of particular areas of law, as well as more policy-oriented courses. Each course contains a significant research component, usually a 12,500-word research essay for 30-point courses. Students can enroll in specializations like - corporate and commercial law, environmental law, international law, public law, etc. 

After completing an LLM in New Zealand, one can opt for professions like foreign policy official, research counsel, tax adviser, barrister, etc. 

• Course duration - one year
• Course fees - $42,586
• Entry requirements - Bachelor of Laws with IELTS academic qualification with at least 7.0. 

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

A PhD is a postgraduate research degree for students who want to undertake independent and original research supervised by their academic advisor and research leaders. New Zealand universities offer more law PhD courses in various specialization areas, including constitutional, administrative, and public law, human rights law, legal history, etc.

• Duration - 4 years
• Fees - $10,600
• Entry requirements - Master’s in law with GPE 6.0 and IELTS academic qualification.

Scholarships

Students planning to study an LLM in New Zealand can avail scholarships for educational expenses. These scholarships are highly competitive due to limited availability. Some of the popular scholarships offered by the NZ universities and government are-

Jobs and Careers

Master of Laws graduates will move into legal or corporate practice and also take on roles in management, business, banking, non-governmental organisations, research and teaching. Traditional legal roles include lawyer, risk analysis and litigation.

Salary

Fresh graduates in Master of Law in New Zealand can earn up to $45,000 annually, and a two to three-year experienced law graduate can earn around $70,000. Here are some top-paying jobs after an LLM degree in New Zealand -

Top Universities for LLM in New Zealand

To learn more about the best LLM courses in New Zealand, find details of the top-ranking universities in the QS World University Rankings by subject 2023 below:

Study an LLM in New Zealand

If you want to learn more about studying an LLM in New Zealand, arrange a free consultation with SI-New Zealand today.

LLM New Zealand FAQ

What are the average fees to pursue an LLM in New Zealand?

The average fee to study LLM in NZ for international students ranges between $20,000- $45,000. However, the fee varies depending on the university and specialization selected. 

What are the general eligibility criteria to apply for an LLM in New Zealand?

To pursue an LLM degree from New Zealand, one must have completed their bachelor’s or an undergraduate degree from a recognized university with a minimum GPA of 5.0. Also, must have qualified IELTS with at least 6.5 or above. 

What are popular specializations for LLM in New Zealand?

New Zealand universities offer LLM degrees in six specializations, which include corporate and commercial law, environment law, human rights law, international law, litigation, and dispute resolution or public law.

What is the minimum English proficiency score requirement for an LLM in New Zealand?

Universities accept a minimum English proficiency score of 6.5 or above for LLM in New Zealand.