Why Study / Key Benefits

The MLS focuses on creativity, communication, critical analysis, applied knowledge and problem-solving across specialist areas of Legal Studies. The University describes it as a flexible, professionally aligned academic qualification designed to develop skills that can be applied across public and private-sector occupations.

Key benefits include:

• Development of the ability to “think like a lawyer” when analysing and solving problems.
• Advanced skills in interpreting legislation and analysing judicial decisions.
• Development of logical, clearly written and well-supported arguments.
• Understanding of the influence of M?ori tikanga on New Zealand law.
• Opportunity to study selected areas of law in depth and apply legal knowledge in policy and professional settings.
• Transferable skills for government, public policy, business, advocacy, research and other law-related careers.
• Potential pathway to further higher-degree study.
• Waikato's Legal Studies subject area is ranked among the top 300 universities worldwide for Law in the QS World University Rankings, while the University overall is ranked equal 293rd globally in the QS World University Rankings 2027, placing it in the top 1.5% worldwide.

Programme Structure and Subjects / Topics

The 2027 Legal Studies regulations prescribe a range of 500-level papers that can be used within the MLS.

Examples include:

• LEGAL501 – Advanced Evidence Law – 30 points
• LEGAL504 – M?ori, Pacific and Indigenous Research Methodologies – 30 points
• LEGAL505 – Critical Issues in the Treaty of Waitangi in Contemporary Aotearoa New Zealand – 30 points
• LEGAL507 – Academic Legal Research and Writing – 30 points
• LEGAL508 – Advanced Family Law – 30 points
• LEGAL520 – Intellectual Property Law and Policy – 30 points
• LEGAL522 – Advanced Climate Change Law – 30 points
• LEGAL523 – Advanced Civil Litigation – 30 points
• LEGAL525 – Critical Issues in Contemporary and International Indigenous Law – 30 points
• LEGAL526 – Legal Aspects of Cyber Security – 30 points
• LEGAL527 – Advanced Issues in Charity Law – 30 points
• LEGAL528 – Advanced Foreign Investment Law – 30 points
• LEGAL530 – Advanced Water Law – 30 points
• LEGAL535 – Advanced Environmental Law – 30 points
• LEGAL540 – Critical Issues for Pacific Peoples and the Law – 30 points
• LEGAL544 – Critical Issues in Space Law – 30 points
• LEGAL550 – Critical Issues in Sports Law – 30 points
• LEGAL552 – Critical Issues in International Criminal Law – 30 points
• LEGAL562 – Law of International Trade – 30 points
• LEGAL582 – Advanced Banking and Finance Law – 30 points
• LEGAL587 – Advanced Health Law – 30 points
• LEGAL588 – Advanced Issues in Gender and the Law – 30 points
• LEGAL590 – Directed Study – 15 points.

Disciplines / Specialisations

Unlike the Master of Laws, the current MLS regulations do not specify formal named endorsements or majors.

Instead, students can construct an approved programme around areas of legal interest. The 2027 paper list provides opportunities in areas such as:

• Environmental and climate change law
• Health law
• Cyber security and technology
• Intellectual property
• International trade
• International criminal law
• Indigenous law
• M?ori and Pacific legal issues
• Treaty of Waitangi issues
• Foreign investment
• Banking and finance
• Family law
• Civil litigation
• Evidence law
• Water law
• Sports law
• Space law
• Gender and law
• Charity law
• Legal research and writing. 

Programme Highlights

• 120- or 180-point Master's qualification.
• 1-year or 1.5-year standard duration depending on entry pathway.
• Hamilton, Tauranga and online study options.
• Flexible choice of advanced Legal Studies papers.
• Strong emphasis on critical analysis, legal reasoning, communication and problem-solving.
• M?ori tikanga and its influence on New Zealand law form part of the graduate learning outcomes.
• Wide range of contemporary subjects including climate change, cyber security, space law, international trade and Indigenous law.
• Can be completed without becoming a practising lawyer.
• Provides preparation for law-related professional roles and potential further academic study.

Career Outcomes

The University specifically identifies career opportunities including:

• Negotiator
• Legal researcher
• Board member for iwi or other organisations
• Local government advocacy
• Corrections and probation
• Policy analyst
• Foreign policy officer.

The broader nature of the MLS can also support law-related roles in:

• Government and public administration
• Policy and regulatory organisations
• Corporate governance
• Indigenous governance
• NGOs
• Environmental regulation
• Human resources
• Public-sector organisations
• Research and academia.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

The latest 2027 Legal Studies regulations confirm:

• The MLS continues to have 180-point and 120-point routes.
• The 180-point route requires 180 points at 500 level.
• The 120-point route requires 120 points at 500 level.
• At least 45 points must be from eligible advanced-study papers.
• ALPSS500 or LEGAL507 must be passed before continuing beyond the first 60 points.
• Up to 60 points outside Legal Studies can be included on the 180-point route.
• Up to 30 points outside Legal Studies can be included on the 120-point route.
• Students can potentially receive First Class, Second Class First Division or Second Class Second Division Honours.
• A failed paper makes a student ineligible for Honours.

International Student Visa Requirements

International students intending to study the MLS in New Zealand will generally require a Fee Paying Student Visa.

Immigration New Zealand currently states that this visa:

• Costs from NZD 850.
• Can be granted for up to 4 years.
• Requires an offer of place from an approved education provider.
• Requires sufficient funds for tuition or an applicable scholarship.
• Requires sufficient funds for living expenses or an acceptable sponsor.
• Requires acceptable medical and travel insurance.
• Requires the applicant to be in good health and of good character.
• Requires a genuine reason for studying in New Zealand.
• Requires evidence that the student can leave New Zealand at the end of the stay.