Administrative Law and Policy

The Master of Laws (LLM) in Administrative Law and Policy at The University of Sydney is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices, and policies that underpin administrative law within the Australian legal system and beyond. This advanced degree program offers a rigorous academic environment where students can explore the development, interpretation, and application of administrative law, gaining insights into the functioning of government agencies, regulatory bodies, and public institutions. Through a carefully curated curriculum, students will examine key legal issues related to administrative decision-making, judicial review, administrative justice, and public policy formulation.

The program combines core courses that cover the foundations of administrative law with specialized electives focusing on contemporary challenges such as transparency, accountability, human rights, and governance. Students will have the opportunity to analyze case law, statutory frameworks, and policy debates that shape the administrative landscape. The curriculum is designed to enhance critical thinking, legal research, and analytical skills, preparing graduates for careers in legal practice, government, policy development, or academia.

In addition to coursework, students may engage in practical experiences such as seminars, workshops, and research projects, facilitating a deeper understanding of real-world administrative legal issues. The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach by integrating perspectives from political science, public administration, and law, enabling students to develop a well-rounded understanding of public law context.

Graduates of this program are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute effectively to legal and policy reforms, advocate for good governance, and provide expert advice on complex administrative legal matters. The University of Sydney’s strong links with government agencies and the legal profession also provide valuable networking opportunities and pathways to employment in the public sector, private practice, or further academic pursuits. This master’s program is ideal for students seeking to specialize in administrative law and policy, aiming to influence positive change within government and society at large.

The Master of Laws (LLM) in Administrative Law and Policy at The University of Sydney offers an in-depth exploration of the fundamental principles and contemporary issues surrounding public law and governance. This program is designed for legal professionals, policymakers, and scholars who wish to deepen their understanding of the legal frameworks that govern administrative actions, decision-making processes, and public policy formulation. Throughout the course, students will engage with a diverse range of topics including constitutional principles, administrative decision-making, the relationship between government and citizens, and the legal processes involved in public administration. The curriculum emphasizes critical analysis of legal cases, statutes, and policies impacting the functioning of government agencies and public institutions.

Students will examine the principles of administrative justice, accountability, transparency, and the rule of law, gaining insights into how these concepts are applied in various contexts. The program also addresses current challenges in administrative law, such as administrative discretion, regulatory reforms, and the impact of technology on public administration. Courses include modules on public law reform, administrative tribunals and dispute resolution, and the interaction between federal and state governments. The program encourages an interdisciplinary approach, integrating political, social, and legal perspectives to understand the complexities of administrative governance.

Research components and practical coursework prepare students to analyze real-world issues, develop policy proposals, and contribute to legal practice or public service. Throughout their studies, students will have access to world-class faculty with expertise in administrative law, public policy, and governance, as well as opportunities for engaging with policymakers and stakeholders. The program ultimately aims to produce graduates equipped with the analytical skills, legal knowledge, and policy insights necessary to influence public law reforms and improve administrative practices in Australia and beyond. Whether pursuing a career in legal practice, government agencies, or academic research, students will emerge with a comprehensive understanding of the legal foundations of administrative decision-making and policies shaping public life.

• Relevant bachelor degree (Law, Economics, Government, Social)
• Or equivalent

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Sydney offers various financial support options for students enrolled in their Administrative Law and Policy programs, aimed at assisting with tuition fees, living expenses, and other study-related costs. Domestic students may be eligible to access government-funded financial assistance, including the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP), which provides income-contingent loans to help cover tuition fees. HELP schemes encompass the FEE-HELP and Austudy, offering significant relief and flexible repayment options once the student’s income reaches a specified threshold. These schemes significantly reduce the upfront financial burden and enable students to focus on their studies without immediate financial stress.

International students are required to self-fund their studies but can explore scholarships, bursaries, and grants offered directly by the university. The University of Sydney provides a range of competitive scholarships for international students, which may be awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or a combination of both. These scholarships can cover partial or full tuition fees and sometimes include living allowances, assisting students in managing their overall study costs effectively. Additionally, students can seek external funding from government or private sources in their home country, which may support their international education at the university.

Apart from scholarships and government loans, students are encouraged to consider university-managed financial planning and budgeting services, designed to assist students in preparing financially for their studies. The university has partnerships with financial institutions that may offer student loans at favorable terms, although students must carefully consider the repayment obligations involved. The university's financial services department provides personalized advice on financial planning, helping students navigate their options to minimize debt and optimize available resources.

Part-time employment opportunities are available on and around campus, providing students with additional income streams to support their study-related expenses. The university's career services often host job fairs and placement programs tailored to students enrolled in legal and policy-related disciplines, facilitating employment opportunities suited to students' schedules and areas of study.

International students should also consider the costs associated with visas, health insurance (such as Overseas Student Health Cover), and travel, which are significant components of the overall financing plan for studying at the University of Sydney. Understanding these costs in advance and planning accordingly ensures that students can sustain their livelihoods throughout their academic journey.

In conclusion, financing a degree in Administrative Law and Policy at the University of Sydney involves a combination of government loans for domestic students, scholarships, personal savings, part-time work, and potential external funding sources. Proper financial planning and utilization of available support options are crucial for reducing economic barriers and ensuring a successful educational experience at the university.

The Master of Administrative Law and Policy at The University of Sydney is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to provide students with an advanced understanding of the legal and policy frameworks that govern public administration and regulatory practices. This program is ideal for practitioners, legal professionals, policymakers, and those interested in the development and implementation of law and policy within government and non-government sectors. The curriculum focuses on key areas such as administrative law, government regulation, public sector management, administrative decision-making, legal compliance, and policy analysis. Students will examine the principles and practices that underpin effective governance and explore contemporary issues affecting administrative law, including transparency, accountability, human rights, and legal reforms.

Throughout the program, students engage with case law, statutory interpretation, and the roles and responsibilities of public administrators. The course emphasizes critical thinking, legal reasoning, and the practical application of concepts through case studies and experiential learning opportunities. It incorporates interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from law, political science, and public policy to prepare graduates for careers in legal advisory roles, government agencies, judicial institutions, or policy development organizations.

The program typically offers flexibility in delivery, with a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and research projects. Some courses are available online to accommodate working professionals. Duration varies depending on full-time or part-time study options, but generally, it is designed to be completed in one to two years. Admission requirements include an undergraduate degree in law or a related field, along with relevant work experience for some applicants. Graduates of this program gain comprehensive knowledge of administrative law principles and policy mechanisms, equipping them to navigate complex legal and administrative challenges, contribute to policy development, and promote good governance practices within various sectors of public administration.