We offer three Master’s programmes that can be completed through research, coursework (Taught), or a combination of both. Depending on your goals, you’ll need to apply for the Master’s programme that best suits your academic and professional aspirations. 

• Student research conducted under a supervision in the form of a thesis, dissertation and directed study is credited to a formal qualification. 
• The PhD is a research-only based qualification. 
• The LLM, MTaxS and MLS can incorporate a research component in addition to taught courses. 

Read about our research-based qualifications and discover how research can be included in your degree: 

• Master of Laws (LLM)
• Master of Legal Studies (MLS)
• Master of Taxation Studies (MTaxS)
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

• Research Masters – Ideal if you’re interested in completing a 90-point minor thesis or a 120-point thesis as the primary focus of your degree. Any remaining points in the programme will be made up of taught courses. 
• Taught Masters – Best suited if you want to take mostly taught courses, with the option to include a smaller research component, such as a Directed Study or Dissertation. At a minimum, a dissertation is needed if you want to go on to do a PhD.  

If you're intending to complete a Research Masters, it's important to apply well in advance. Securing a supervisor and preparing your research proposal can take time, so early planning is essential. 

Find more information on Postgraduate application closing dates, Research Enrolment and Presentation, and Law Planning Guide.

Once you have applied and submitted all the requested documents, your application will be assessed to determine your eligibility.  

You can check your application when you go to 'Continue your application'.

If you applied for a Research Masters and would like to begin the process of finding a supervisor, have a look at our Research Enrolment and Presentation.

If you are unable to find a supervisor, you may want to consider completing a Taught Masters with a dissertation component. This will also provide a pathway into the PhD.  

The PhD is an advanced degree awarded for an original contribution to research and academic debate in a student’s chosen legal specialisation, with the findings published in a substantial thesis. 

Stimulating and rewarding, embarking on a PhD requires a high level of self-motivation and discipline, providing an exciting opportunity to engage in independent, cutting-edge research. 

Your PhD research will be guided by an appointed supervisor (usually a senior academic from the Auckland Law School) and co-supervisor. Your thesis can be completed within three to four years of full-time study or on a part-time basis. 

The PhD is an ideal qualification if you wish to pursue an academic or research career.  

Learn more about Doctoral study in Law.

For help with any aspect of your studies or life at the University of Auckland, contact Student Hubs or submit an online query.