Law (Research)

The University of Canberra offers a comprehensive and rigorous Law (Research) postgraduate program designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of legal principles through advanced research and scholarly inquiry. This program provides an ideal platform for those aiming to pursue academic careers, engage in expert legal research, or contribute to policy development and legal innovation. The Law (Research) degree emphasizes the development of critical thinking, analytical skills, and scholarly writing, equipping graduates with the expertise necessary to interpret complex legal issues across various contexts. Throughout the course, students will engage in independent research supervised by leading academics in the field, with opportunities to explore specialized areas of law such as constitutional law, environmental law, human rights law, and commercial law, among others. The program fosters an environment of intellectual rigor, encouraging students to contribute original ideas and critical insights to the legal community. Additionally, students will develop valuable skills in legal analysis, methodology, and academic writing, enabling them to produce high-quality research outputs suitable for publication or policy advising. The research degree also involves participation in seminars, peer review exercises, and academic conferences, facilitating professional networking and scholarly engagement. Graduates of the Law (Research) program will be well-equipped to pursue doctoral studies, academic positions, legal research roles in government or private sectors, or other positions requiring high-level legal expertise and analytical capabilities. The University of Canberra’s research-focused approach ensures that students benefit from innovative methodologies, access to extensive resources, and mentorship from experienced faculty members dedicated to advancing legal scholarship.

The Master of Laws (Research) program at the University of Canberra is a comprehensive postgraduate degree designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of legal principles through rigorous research and scholarly inquiry. This program provides an excellent opportunity for aspiring legal academics, researchers, and practitioners to develop advanced analytical skills and specialized knowledge in various areas of law. The curriculum emphasizes independent research, critical thinking, and scholarly writing, enabling students to contribute meaningful insights to the legal field.

Throughout the program, students will engage in a systematic investigation of legal issues, guided by experienced supervisors who are experts in diverse legal disciplines. The coursework prepares students to undertake an original research project that culminates in a thesis of significant academic value. Topics may include private law, public law, international law, human rights, environmental law, commercial law, and other specialized legal areas. Students are encouraged to explore contemporary legal challenges and propose innovative solutions based on thorough legal analysis.

The research-driven nature of the program promotes intellectual independence, self-motivation, and academic rigor. Students will learn advanced research methods, including qualitative and quantitative analysis, statutory interpretation, case law analysis, and comparative legal studies. The program also fosters skills in academic writing, presentation, and dissemination of research findings through conferences, seminars, and publications.

Designed for those who already possess a foundational knowledge of law, the Master of Laws (Research) at the University of Canberra offers a flexible learning environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources. The program can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis, allowing students to balance their studies with professional commitments. Upon graduation, students will be equipped with the expertise necessary for legal research roles, academic positions, policy development, or further doctoral studies.

This program also promotes engagement with local, national, and international legal communities, encouraging students to develop professional networks and collaborate on legal research initiatives. Whether you aim to enhance your legal expertise, pursue an academic career, or contribute to legal reform, the Master of Laws (Research) at the University of Canberra provides a solid foundation for your future endeavors in the legal field.

• Before an applicant is admitted to the Master of Legislation (Research) application, the Faculty must be satisfied that it is able to supervise the candidate's proposed dissertation and that the candidate satisfies the following admission requirements: a. holds a bachelor degree with above normal execution (or credentials deemed to be equivalent), at the appropriate discipline (usually inlaw )
• B. provides evidence of capacity and capability to undertake legal research at the masters level. Students whose initial credentials have been in a field aside from Legislation are invited to discuss their potential candidature with the program convener
• Academic IELTS or equivalent of 6.5 with no band score below 6.0.

Funding for the Bachelor of Laws (Research) program at the University of Canberra is designed to support students through various financial assistance options. Domestic students may have access to government-funded schemes such as the New South Wales or Australian Federal Government financial aid programs, including FEE-HELP, which allows eligible students to defer the cost of tuition fees. FEE-HELP is a loan scheme that provides financial support for tuition fees, which students commence repaying once their income exceeds a certain threshold. International students are required to pay tuition fees upfront, with the option to access scholarships or financial aid opportunities offered directly by the university or external organizations.

The University of Canberra offers a range of scholarships to assist students financially throughout their studies. These include academic excellence scholarships, equity scholarships, and specific awards for research students. Scholarship eligibility and application processes vary, but they are designed to reduce the financial burden of higher education and reward outstanding academic achievement. Additionally, students may seek external funding sources such as federal or state government grants, private sector sponsorships, or employer support based on eligibility and specific criteria.

Students enrolled in the Law (Research) program are encouraged to explore the university’s Graduate Research Scholarships. These scholarships typically provide financial assistance covering tuition fees, living allowances, and research support expenses. International students may also be eligible for merit-based scholarships or tuition discounts, depending on their academic performance or research proposal strength.

Furthermore, students can consider part-time employment opportunities within the university or in the local area to support their studies financially. The university’s Career Development services provide guidance on part-time work, internships, and other employment options suitable for research students.

In summary, funding options for the Law (Research) program encompass federal and state government support schemes, university scholarships, external grants, and employment opportunities. The university is committed to assisting students in navigating financial challenges, enabling them to focus on their academic and research pursuits effectively.

The Master of Laws (Research) at the University of Canberra is a postgraduate program designed for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of legal principles through advanced research. This program offers a unique opportunity for students to engage in rigorous academic inquiry, contributing original insights to the field of law. It is suitable for those who have completed an undergraduate law degree or an equivalent qualification and wish to undertake a focused research project, typically culminating in a thesis. The program emphasizes independent research skills, critical analysis, and scholarly writing, preparing students for careers in academia, legal practice, policy development, or further doctoral studies. Students have access to the university’s extensive resources, including dedicated research facilities, academic supervision by experienced legal scholars, and opportunities for interdisciplinary engagement. The curriculum may include coursework components designed to support research methodology and ethics, although the primary focus remains on the research thesis. The duration of the program is usually one to two years of full-time study, with part-time options available to accommodate working professionals. Entry requirements generally include a recognized law degree with a strong academic record, along with a proposal outlining the intended research topic. The university fosters an inclusive, collaborative academic environment, encouraging students to critique existing legal frameworks and contribute to ongoing legal debates. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers in legal research, policy analysis, or further academic research at the PhD level. The University of Canberra also provides support services, including access to libraries, research funding opportunities, and academic writing assistance, to ensure students can achieve their research goals. Overall, the Master of Laws (Research) is an excellent pathway for those committed to advancing legal scholarship and making meaningful contributions to the understanding and development of law.