Master of Philosophy (Law) | University of Melbourne

Master's Degree Philosophy Full Time

Master of Philosophy - Law

at University of Melbourne · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

061967F

CRICOS provider code

00116K

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

2 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$107,050 total

Per year

A$53,525/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) - Law at the University of Melbourne is a research-intensive degree designed for graduates who wish to undertake significant, original legal research. This programme equips students with advanced research skills necessary for investigating complex legal questions, addressing contemporary challenges, and contributing to academic, policy or legal practice conversations. The MPhil in Law is suitable for those aspiring to develop an in-depth understanding of legal theory and practice through an independent research project supervised by experienced academics.

The course is structured over two years of full-time study, during which students dedicate most of their time to producing a substantial thesis. While the programme does not follow a typical semester-based unit and credit-point model found in coursework degrees, enrolment and progress are monitored through milestones and formal progress reviews. Alongside guided thesis development, students may have opportunities to participate in research seminars, workshops, and academic skills training, further strengthening their methodological and analytical capabilities.

Students graduating from this programme gain advanced skills in legal research, critical analysis, argumentation, and academic writing. The MPhil in Law nurtures independent thought and scholarly innovation, which are highly valued both within academia and in legal practice. This degree is particularly suited to those considering progression to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or careers in research, higher education, or policy analysis in an Australian or international context.

Located in Melbourne, the University of Melbourne benefits from its proximity to leading legal institutions and courts, providing an enriching environment for legal research. International students should check the official page for up-to-date English requirements and may be eligible for post-study work rights through the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). All students can undertake paid employment for up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, supporting academic and professional development. Always confirm course structure and admission requirements on the official university website.

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 academic or researcher in universities and think tanks
Policy adviser or analyst in government and non-governmental organisations
Specialist roles in international organisations and agencies with a legal or policy focus
Legal or policy research positions within Australian law firms and legal consultancies
Foundation for doctoral research (PhD) and further academic study

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Philosophy - Law at University of Melbourne?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$107,050 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Legal academic or researcher in universities and think tanksPolicy adviser or analyst in government and non-governmental organisationsSpecialist roles in international organisations and agencies with a legal or policy focusLegal or policy research positions within Australian law...

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