Master of Legal Studies (MLS)

The Masters of Legal Studies (MLS) is for graduates who do not have a Law undergraduate degree but whose work involves legal issues and dealing with legislation.

The programme has a similar structure to the LLM and offers FIVE specialisations: Commercial Law, Public Law, Environmental Law, Human Rights Law, International Law and Litigation and Dispute Resolution. Completion of this degree will not satisfy the entry requirements for admission as a barrister and solicitor in New Zealand and is not a substitute for an LLB.

The MLS suits professionals from non-legal backgrounds who find that their careers require some knowledge of legal matters, but do not necessarily want to practise law. Professionals who will particularly benefit include: Accountants and Auditors, Architects and Town Planners, Business Development Managers, Compliance Managers, Engineers, IT professionals, Police and Public Sector.

The MLS allows cross-disciplinary study of postgraduate courses from other University of Auckland faculties, enabling students to advance their professional skills while acquiring knowledge of the law.

Master of Environmental Legal Studies (MEnvLS)
This degree is to be discontinued, however an environmental law specialisation is available as part of the MLS. No new admissions are being accepted, but there are transitional arrangements for students who began the MEnvLS before 2009. Please see the Postgraduate Student Adviser for more information.

There are two ways to conduct your MLS:

MLS by research

MLS by taught courses

For further information please contact our Postgraduate Student Advisor:

Scott Pilkington
Postgraduate Student Advisor
Building 810
Room 745
1-11 Short Street
Auckland

Phone: +64 9 373 7599 ext 82123
Email: s.pilkington@auckland.ac.nz