Master's Degree Law (JD) Full Time

Master of Laws

at University of Newcastle · Newcastle, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

079533G

CRICOS provider code

00109J

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$41,210 total

Per year

A$41,210/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Master of Laws at the University of Newcastle is designed for law graduates and legal professionals seeking to deepen their expertise and broaden their career prospects in the dynamic field of law. This advanced programme builds critical knowledge of domestic and international legal principles, providing in-depth study in specialised areas such as commercial law, environmental law, and human rights. Students gain the ability to engage in complex legal analysis and research, all while honing their advocacy, negotiation, and legal writing skills.

This one-year master's degree typically consists of a series of advanced core and elective units of study that amount to the required credit points, following the Australian model. Students may also have the opportunity to complete a research thesis or capstone project, allowing them to critically investigate a topic relevant to their interests. The University of Newcastle emphasises practical engagement, with opportunities to connect with local Australian legal industry and research communities, preparing graduates for transitions into practice, policy-making, or further academic research.

The programme is structured to accommodate contemporary legal practice in Australia, reflecting latest developments in legislation, policy, and cross-jurisdictional matters. This degree suits those looking to upskill for senior positions, pivot into specialised legal fields, or enter academia. It is especially valuable for international students, offering insights into the Australian legal system while developing skills transferrable to legal systems globally.

International students benefit from work rights up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying and may be eligible to apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-graduation, depending on individual circumstances. English language proficiency is essential, with higher entry standards reflecting the demands of Australian legal studies. As course offerings may change, applicants should consult the official university page for the latest information.

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

Solicitor or barrister (subject to further admission requirements)
Legal consultant in commercial or governmental organisations
Policy advisor in public sector or not-for-profits
Researcher or academic in legal studies
In-house counsel in corporations
Roles in regulatory agencies and international bodies operating in Australia

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Laws at University of Newcastle?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$41,210 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Solicitor or barrister (subject to further admission requirements)Legal consultant in commercial or governmental organisationsPolicy advisor in public sector or not-for-profitsResearcher or academic in legal studiesIn-house counsel in corporationsRoles in regulatory agencies and...

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