Master of Laws Specialisation in Corporate & Commercial Law

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of New South Wales

Program Overview

The Master of Laws Specialisation in Corporate & Commercial Law at UNSW Sydney is designed for professionals who want to develop advanced knowledge of corporate, commercial, and taxation law in a practical business and regulatory context. The specialisation combines legal and business perspectives and covers both traditional and emerging areas of commercial practice.

Curriculum Structure:

In the first year, students complete the required LLM study while specialising in Corporate, Commercial and Taxation Law. Students complete at least 24 UOC from specialised courses covering areas such as corporate governance, commercial contracts, banking and finance, corporate insolvency, taxation, international business transactions, financial markets regulation, and commercial dispute resolution.

Focus Areas: Corporate law, commercial law, taxation, corporate governance, commercial contracts, banking and finance, insolvency, financial regulation, international business, and dispute resolution.

Learning Outcomes: Analyse complex corporate and commercial legal issues, evaluate business and regulatory frameworks, conduct advanced legal research, assess legal risks, and apply legal knowledge to national and international commercial contexts.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The specialisation provides advanced knowledge relevant to legal practice, tax advisory, contract management, corporate governance, accounting, financial planning, business consulting, and banking and finance.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): Students learn from academics, international visitors, guest lecturers, and leading practitioners, with a strong emphasis on knowledge that can be applied in professional practice.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of New South Wales (UNSW), the Master of Laws Specialisation in Corporate & Commercial Law is designed to provide students with not just theoretical knowledge, but also practical skills that are essential for success in the legal field. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage in real-world scenarios and develop competencies that are highly valued by employers. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, students can immerse themselves in a dynamic learning environment that fosters collaboration and innovation.

Here are some of the key experiential learning opportunities and resources available to students in this program:

- Practical Legal Training (PLT): Students can participate in PLT programs that provide hands-on experience in legal practice, enhancing their understanding of corporate and commercial law.

- Internships and Work Placements: The program encourages students to undertake internships with law firms, corporations, and government agencies, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

- Group Projects and Collaborative Learning: Students often work in teams on projects that simulate real legal challenges, promoting teamwork and problem-solving skills.

- Access to Legal Research Facilities: UNSW boasts extensive legal research resources, including specialized libraries and databases that support in-depth research in corporate and commercial law.

- Workshops and Seminars: Regular workshops and guest lectures from industry professionals provide insights into current trends and practices in corporate law.

- Digital Tools and Software: Students have access to various legal research tools and software that are commonly used in the industry, preparing them for the technological aspects of legal practice.

- Field Trips and Site Visits: The program may include visits to courts, law firms, and corporate offices, giving students a firsthand look at the legal environment.

- Research Institutes: Students can engage with research institutes focused on corporate and commercial law, providing opportunities for collaboration and advanced study.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Laws Specialisation in Corporate & Commercial Law at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) equips graduates with the expertise and skills needed to excel in a dynamic legal landscape. Graduates often find themselves in roles such as corporate lawyer, compliance officer, legal consultant, or in-house counsel. This program not only enhances your legal knowledge but also opens doors to a variety of career paths in both the public and private sectors.

Here’s how UNSW supports your journey towards a successful career:

- Career Services: UNSW offers dedicated career support, including workshops, resume reviews, and networking events that connect students with industry professionals.
- Employment Statistics: The university boasts an impressive employment rate of over 90% for law graduates, with many securing positions shortly after graduation.
- Salary Figures: Graduates from the Master of Laws program can expect competitive salaries, with starting salaries often exceeding AUD 80,000, depending on the role and location.
- University–Industry Partnerships: UNSW has strong ties with leading law firms and corporations, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world experience through programs like the UNSW Law Society and various industry placements.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the relevant legal authorities, ensuring that your qualification remains respected and recognized in the legal field.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have gone on to hold influential positions in top law firms, multinational corporations, and government agencies, showcasing the program's strong reputation.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the Master of Laws in Corporate & Commercial Law, you may choose to pursue further studies such as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Law or other specialized postgraduate programs. This can deepen your expertise and open up opportunities in academia, research, or high-level consultancy roles. Additionally, you might consider obtaining professional certifications or qualifications that align with your career goals, further enhancing your credentials in the legal field.

Choosing UNSW for your Master of Laws is a step towards a rewarding and impactful career in law.