University of Auckland

What you'll study

The LLB(Hons) is centred on independent research and advanced coursework. Students normally undertake a substantial honours thesis or research project supervised by a member of the Faculty of Law, supported by taught honours seminars and advanced legal research training.

• Honours thesis / research project: a major piece of supervised legal research on a topic chosen in consultation with staff, demonstrating originality, rigorous argument and advanced research skills.
• Research methods: advanced legal research and writing, including doctrinal methodology, comparative and interdisciplinary approaches, and use of primary and secondary sources.
• Advanced seminars: small-group courses exploring specialised areas such as constitutional and administrative law, commercial and corporate law, criminal law, public international law, human rights, environmental and resource law, and indigenous and comparative law.
• Optional advanced papers: opportunities to study cutting-edge topics and contemporary issues in law, often reflecting the research strengths of the faculty.

The programme emphasises critical thinking, independent scholarship and the skills needed to produce publishable-quality legal research.

Entry requirements

Admission to the LLB(Hons) normally requires completion of an LLB or equivalent qualification from a recognised institution, together with a high level of academic achievement in law subjects. Applicants will typically need to demonstrate strong research potential and obtain the support of a prospective supervisor. The Faculty of Law assesses applications on academic merits and research fit; additional requirements such as a sample of writing or a research proposal may be requested.

Career prospects

Graduates of the LLB(Hons) pursue a variety of career pathways where advanced legal analysis and research skills are valued. Common directions include:

• Postgraduate study and research, including entry to LLM and PhD programmes.
• Academic careers in law schools or legal research institutes.
• Judicial and legal clerkships, including roles supporting judges and tribunals.
• Senior roles in public policy, government agencies and regulatory bodies.
• Specialist practice in major law firms or in-house legal teams requiring expertise in complex or specialist areas.
• Positions with international organisations, non-governmental organisations and advocacy groups.

Why study at University of Auckland

The University of Auckland Faculty of Law is a leading centre for legal teaching and research in New Zealand, offering access to experienced academic supervisors and a broad range of specialist expertise. Students benefit from a research-led environment, opportunities for clinical legal experience and mooting, and strong connections with the legal profession and government institutions in Auckland. The faculty also offers international exchange options and engagement with comparative and indigenous law scholarship, providing a supportive setting for students aiming for advanced professional or academic careers.