Master of Laws (Research)

School of Law & Business

Do you wish to expand your legal knowledge and skills and be the best in your field? The University of Notre Dame Australia’s Master of Laws by Research will enable you to develop in-depth legal knowledge and skills in an area of law of your choice. The program aims to develop advanced independent research and writing skills, critical analysis, complex problem-solving and reasoning. Contact us today to find out more.

  • Why study this degree?

    The Master of Laws by Research is a thesis-based research degree. You will work with a supervisor from the School’s academic staff to develop an appropriate topic within the areas of research focus for the School. The program is individually designed and built around the research and the topic to be investigated. A thesis submitted for a Master of Laws is expected to be systematic, written presentation of the results of study, investigation and research which makes a substantial contribution to the body of knowledge of the law in the relevant area.

  • Program summary

    The Master of Laws by Research consists exclusively of a research thesis.

    Full details of the program requirements are contained in the Program Requirements.

  • Entry requirements

    To be eligible for admission to the Masters by Research, applicants must meet the following specific requirements:

    • Possession of an undergraduate degree from a recognised University, which has been completed at a superior standard and which demonstrates the applicant’s potential to undertake and complete a research-based study at AQF level 9 equivalence.
    • In exceptional circumstances, an equivalent academic or professional background that is considered by the National Head of School to be an appropriate preparation for independent study and research work at Masters level.

    To be eligible for admission to The University of Notre Dame Australia, all applicants must meet the University’s minimum requirements for admission. The requirements for admission are detailed in the University’s Policy: Admissions.

  • Learning outcomes

    Upon successful completion of the Masters by Research, graduates will be able to:

    1. Apply high level cognitive and technical skills in the design and execution of a specialised research project that makes a contribution to knowledge, professional practice and/or creative practice
    2. Investigate, analyse, synthesise, and critically reflect on complex information, problems and concepts and apply established theories in the context of an advanced body of knowledge and practice
    3. Disseminate research findings, communicating a coherent and sustained argument effectively, to specialist and non-specialist audiences
    4. Apply knowledge of research integrity, ethics and the rights and safety of others in the conduct of research and dissemination of research findings; and
    5. Conduct research with creativity, initiative, autonomy, and accountability.
  • Career opportunities

    A Master of Laws by Research provides an opportunity for applicants to advance their knowledge and skill in law, and to specialise in specific areas of law, that may advance career opportunities in fields including law, business, government and public administration, media and the not-for-profit sector.

  • Supervision

    The research thesis is supervised by academic staff.

  • Research focus

    Students may choose a research topic from all areas of law.

  • Real-world experience

    Students have the opportunity to undertake research on a wide range of legal topics that further develop a student’s legal, professional and practical skills. There are no practicum requirements for this program.

  • Fees and costs

    This Program has the following loan scheme(s) available for eligible students:


    FEE-HELP
    The FEE-HELP loan scheme assists eligible fee-paying students with the payment of all, or part, of their tuition fees, not including additional study costs such as accommodation or textbooks. Your FEE-HELP debt will be indexed each year in line with the Consumer Price Index.


    For indicative fees and information on how to pay, including Government loan schemes and our online calculator, visit our Fees Page.

  • More information

    Considering your uni options?

    Talk to one of our career advisors for a personalised advice session. Our advisors provide support while choosing a program of study and completing our application process. Book my session.


    For more information, please contact our Prospective Students Office.

    Fremantle and Broome
    Phone: +61 8 9433 0533
    Email: future@nd.edu.au
    Sydney and Melbourne
    Phone: +61 2 8204 4404
    Email: sydney@nd.edu.au

    All international enquiries should contact the International Students Office on international@nd.edu.au.


Our students give us top marks

  • No.1 uni in Australia
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  • No.1 uni in NSW & WA
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  • No.1 uni in WA
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*2021 Graduate Outcomes Survey-Longitudinal (medium term outcome), undergraduate category, **2021 Student Experience Survey, postgraduate category and ***2021 Student Experience Survey, postgraduate category - qilt.edu.au

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