Master of Laws

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of New South Wales

Program Overview

The Master of Laws (LLM) at UNSW Sydney is a flexible postgraduate program designed for law and non-law graduates to deepen their legal knowledge, specialise in a particular field, or broaden their understanding of contemporary legal issues.

Curriculum Structure:

In the first year, students complete 48 UOC across eight courses. Students can choose a specialisation in Corporate and Commercial Law, Criminal Justice and Criminology, Human Rights Law and Policy, International Law, or Technology, Intellectual Property and Media Law, or follow a generalist pathway.

Focus Areas: Corporate and commercial law, criminal justice, human rights, international law, technology, intellectual property, media law, and legal research.

Learning Outcomes: Analyse complex legal issues, conduct advanced legal research, evaluate legal developments, apply legal knowledge to contemporary challenges, and communicate legal arguments effectively.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The LLM is a postgraduate qualification for career advancement, legal specialisation, professional development, or transition into a new field. It is not a pathway to legal practice in Australia.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): The program provides access to leading academics, research centres, career support, industry connections, and flexible study options. It prepares graduates for careers across law, government, corporate, policy, international organisations, and other professional sectors

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of New South Wales (UNSW), the Master of Laws (LLM) program is designed to provide students with not just theoretical knowledge, but also practical skills that are essential for a successful legal career. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage in real-world legal scenarios through various hands-on opportunities. With state-of-the-art facilities and resources, students can immerse themselves in the legal field and develop competencies that will set them apart in the job market.

Here are some of the key experiential learning opportunities available in the LLM program at UNSW:

- Legal Research and Writing: Students have access to advanced legal research databases and tools, including Westlaw and LexisNexis, which are essential for conducting thorough legal research and analysis.

- Group Projects and Collaborative Learning: The program encourages teamwork through group projects, where students can collaborate on case studies and legal issues, fostering a deeper understanding of complex legal concepts.

- Internships and Work Experience: UNSW has strong connections with various law firms, NGOs, and government agencies, providing students with internship opportunities that offer practical experience and networking possibilities.

- Field Trips and Site Visits: The program includes organized field trips to courts, legal institutions, and law firms, allowing students to observe legal processes in action and gain insights from professionals in the field.

- Access to Research Laboratories: Students can utilize dedicated research facilities and laboratories that support legal research, including spaces for collaborative work and access to specialized legal resources.

- Libraries and Study Spaces: The UNSW Law Library is equipped with extensive legal resources, study areas, and technology to support students in their research and learning.

- Institutes and Research Centers: Students can engage with various research institutes at UNSW, such as the Gilbert + Tobin Centre of Public Law, which focuses on contemporary legal issues and provides opportunities for involvement in research projects.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Laws (LLM) at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) equips graduates with advanced legal knowledge and skills, opening doors to a variety of rewarding career paths. Graduates often find themselves in roles such as legal consultants, corporate lawyers, and policy advisors, among others. This program not only enhances your legal expertise but also significantly boosts your employability in a competitive job market.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: UNSW offers dedicated career services, including personalized career coaching, resume workshops, and networking events with industry professionals to help you secure your ideal job.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, over 90% of UNSW Law graduates find employment within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around AUD 70,000 to AUD 90,000, depending on the role and sector.
- University–Industry Partnerships: UNSW has strong connections with leading law firms and organizations, such as Herbert Smith Freehills and the Australian Human Rights Commission, providing students with valuable internship and job placement opportunities.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The LLM program is recognized globally, ensuring that your qualifications are respected and valued in various jurisdictions, enhancing your career prospects both locally and internationally.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates of the LLM program often report high levels of job satisfaction and career advancement, with many moving into senior positions within their organizations.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Master of Laws, you may choose to pursue further studies such as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Law or specialized postgraduate diplomas in areas like international law or human rights law. This can deepen your expertise and open up even more advanced career opportunities in academia, research, or specialized legal practice.

Choosing to study at UNSW is not just about earning a degree; it’s about building a future filled with possibilities. The Master of Laws program is a significant step towards achieving your professional goals in the legal field.