University of Waikato

What you'll study

The Master of Legal Studies provides a strong grounding in core legal concepts together with options to specialise in areas relevant to professional practice. Typical topics include legal methods and reasoning, constitutional and administrative law, contract and tort principles, dispute resolution, regulatory and compliance frameworks, and contemporary areas such as environmental law, employment law, health law and Māori and indigenous legal issues.

Study pathways are flexible and commonly include a mix of advanced coursework and a substantial research project or dissertation. You will develop practical skills in legal analysis, statutory interpretation, drafting, and policy evaluation, and learn to apply these skills to real-world organisational and public-sector problems. Modules emphasise interdisciplinary perspectives and the social, cultural and ethical contexts of law.

• Legal research and methods
• Constitutional and administrative law
• Contract, tort and obligations
• Regulatory frameworks and compliance
• Employment, health and environmental law options
• Māori and indigenous legal issues
• Dissertation or applied research project

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree with a satisfactory academic record. The programme is specifically structured to accept graduates from a range of disciplines — a prior law degree is not required. Relevant professional experience can strengthen an application, particularly for applicants seeking part-time study while in employment.

International applicants must meet the University of Waikato’s English language requirements; evidence of recent study or recognised English test results may be requested. Specific admission terms (such as prerequisite courses or conditions) are determined during assessment of each application, and applicants may be offered provisional entry with specified bridging or introductory papers where necessary.

Career prospects

Graduates use the Master of Legal Studies to enhance career opportunities across sectors where legal knowledge is valuable. Common destinations include policy and regulatory roles in central and local government, compliance and risk management in corporate settings, human resources, environmental and resource management agencies, non-governmental organisations, and iwi or community legal services.

The degree also provides a strong foundation for further research degrees or for professionals who advise on legal aspects of contracts, procurement, governance and regulatory compliance. While it does not itself qualify graduates for admission as a practising barrister or solicitor without additional professional legal qualifications, it does prepare students for legally informed leadership and advisory roles.

Why study at University of Waikato

The University of Waikato’s law faculty offers an interdisciplinary approach and strong engagement with local and national legal issues, including the study of Māori law and treaty-related legal questions. Small-class teaching, accessible academic supervision for research projects, and opportunities for work-integrated learning make the programme practical and career-oriented.

Based in Hamilton, the University provides connections with regional government, iwi organisations and industry, enabling applied research and professional networking. The programme’s flexible delivery options support both full-time students and working professionals seeking to upskill while remaining in employment.