University of Auckland

What you'll study

The LLB curriculum combines compulsory core subjects that establish the foundations of legal knowledge with elective options and experiential learning. Core topics typically include Legal Method and Ethics, Contract Law, Tort Law, Criminal Law, Property Law, Public and Constitutional Law, Evidence, Equity and Trusts, and Commercial and Company Law. Students also study specialist areas such as Administrative Law, Taxation, Family Law, Environmental Law, Māori and Indigenous Legal Studies, International Law and Human Rights.

Instruction mixes lectures and smaller tutorials, with assessments by written assignments, exams, problem-based exercises and oral advocacy. Practical skill development is a strong feature: clinical legal education, mooting and negotiation workshops, and externships with courts, law firms, public agencies and community organisations give hands-on experience. Senior students can undertake advanced electives and supervised research projects or professional placements.

Entry requirements

Entry to the LLB is by the University of Auckland admissions process. School leavers typically require completion of a recognised secondary qualification that meets the university's entrance criteria; international applicants must hold an equivalent credential. Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong academic ability and competencies in critical reading and writing.

Students who have already completed tertiary study may apply for admission on the basis of prior university performance; selection can be competitive and may take grade point average into account. There are pathways for mature applicants and for those transferring from other institutions. All applicants for whom English is not a first language must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of the LLB typically proceed to legal practice or further professional training required for admission as a barrister and solicitor. Common career pathways include roles in private law firms, in-house counsel positions in corporations, work for government departments and regulatory agencies, and employment with NGOs and community legal centres. The degree also provides a foundation for careers in public policy, compliance, dispute resolution, academia and international organisations.

Many graduates combine the LLB with other qualifications (for example commerce, arts or science) to broaden career options in areas such as business law, commercial advisory, tax, property, and specialised regulatory work. Practical components of the programme, including clinics and internships, help build networks and readiness for professional practice.

Why study at University of Auckland

The Faculty of Law at the University of Auckland is New Zealand's largest law faculty and offers a comprehensive, professionally oriented programme taught by academics and experienced practitioners. The faculty has particular strengths in areas such as public law, commercial law, and Māori and Indigenous legal studies, providing unique opportunities to engage with issues of local and regional significance.

Students benefit from the university's central Auckland location, close links with courts, firms and government agencies, a wide range of clinical and experiential learning opportunities, and international exchange partnerships. Robust student support services, active mooting and negotiation programmes, and career guidance help graduates transition into the legal profession and related careers.