Master's Degree Law (JD) Full Time

Master of Laws

at Australian National University · Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

CRICOS course code

006504E

CRICOS provider code

00120C

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

1 year

Tuition (whole course)

A$56,120 total

Per year

A$56,120/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Master of Laws (LLM) at the Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra offers law graduates and legal professionals a dynamic and comprehensive postgraduate qualification. This advanced legal programme is designed to deepen your expertise, allowing for both specialisation in a particular area or a broader overview that enhances critical legal thinking and analytical skills. The course curriculum typically spans one year of full-time study, comprising a set number of postgraduate-level units of study within the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).

Students undertake a flexible structure, selecting from a range of specialised elective units that may include international law, corporate law, environmental law, human rights, and more. Each unit of study is assigned credit points that contribute towards the completion of the degree. There is a strong focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical application, often culminating in a research paper, substantial project, or capstone experience. The programme is suitable for those wishing to advance their career in law, enter leadership roles, or transition into legal research or policy environments.

At ANU, students benefit from connections to Australian and international legal communities, government agencies, and research centres in the nation’s capital. Where relevant to the unit of study, there are opportunities for real-world case analysis, policy engagement, and professional development. The Master of Laws emphasises the development of skills in legal analysis, advanced research, effective communication, and critical problem-solving. These skills are highly valued in the Australian legal sector and can be advantageously applied in roles across government, private firms, non-profit organisations, and beyond.

The programme suits Australian and international law graduates looking to enhance their qualifications, as well as experienced professionals seeking specialised knowledge or a stepping-stone to doctoral research. International students are required to meet ANU’s English language proficiency standards (such as IELTS 7.0–7.5 for law), with multiple assessment options accepted. While enrolled, students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight under their student visa and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-completion. For full entry and course details, prospective students should consult the official ANU course information page.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Legal practitioner in private law firms
Policy advisor in Australian government departments
Legal counsel in corporations and financial institutions
Legal academic or researcher in universities and think tanks
Positions in international organisations and NGOs
Roles in regulatory bodies and law reform commissions

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Laws at Australian National University?

It typically takes 1 year, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$56,120 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Legal practitioner in private law firmsPolicy advisor in Australian government departmentsLegal counsel in corporations and financial institutionsLegal academic or researcher in universities and think tanksPositions in international organisations and NGOsRoles in regulatory bodie...

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