Law
Studying law is empowering as it affects every aspect of our life. Study Law at the University of Waikato - ranked as one of the world's top 250 universities for Law - and you'll be looking into why laws are made, who makes them, how they work and how to change them.
Everyone needs to know the law, not just lawyers. The Rule of Law is the cornerstone of the civilised society. It defines rights and obligations and provides structure to institutions of government and commerce. Business people, financial consultants, police officers, forensic scientists, parole officers and people of many other professions will have studied law.
Lawyers usually specialise in one or two areas, for example international or cyber law. Use your degree and the practical experiences around it to discover what your passion is, and what kind of law you’d like to practice.
We have the most diverse and vibrant student body of all law schools in New Zealand. Up to 30 per cent of all our students identify themselves as Māori and nearly 16 per cent come from Pacific background. Nearly 40 per cent of our students are over the age of 25.
The QS World University Subject Rankings has recognised the University of Waikato among the worlds top 250 universities for studying Law.
Key information
| Study Locations: | Hamilton; Tauranga; Online |
|---|---|
| Faculty: |
Study Law in these qualifications
- Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Communication Studies
- Bachelor of Computing and Mathematical Sciences with Honours
- Bachelor of Health, Sport and Human Performance
- Bachelor of Laws
- Bachelor of Media and Creative Technologies
- Bachelor of Music
- Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Science (Technology)
- Bachelor of Social Sciences
- Bachelor of Tourism
- Diploma in Law
- Doctor of Philosophy
- Doctor of Philosophy (Law)
- Graduate Certificate
- Graduate Diploma
- Master of Arts
- Master of Arts (Applied)
- Master of Laws
- Master of Laws in Maori/Pacific and Indigenous Peoples' Law
- Master of Management Studies
- Master of Māori and Pacific Development
- Master of Philosophy
- Master of Science
- Master of Science (Research)
- Master of Science (Technology)
- Master of Social Sciences
- Postgraduate Certificate
- Postgraduate Diploma
Law as a specialisation of
- Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Communication Studies
- Bachelor of Computing and Mathematical Sciences with Honours
- Bachelor of Health, Sport and Human Performance
- Bachelor of Laws
- Bachelor of Media and Creative Technologies
- Bachelor of Music
- Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Science (Technology)
- Bachelor of Social Sciences
- Bachelor of Tourism
- Diploma in Law
- Doctor of Philosophy
- Doctor of Philosophy (Law)
- Graduate Certificate
- Graduate Diploma
- Master of Arts
- Master of Arts (Applied)
- Master of Laws
- Master of Laws in Maori/Pacific and Indigenous Peoples' Law
- Master of Management Studies
- Master of Māori and Pacific Development
- Master of Philosophy
- Master of Science
- Master of Science (Research)
- Master of Science (Technology)
- Master of Social Sciences
- Postgraduate Certificate
- Postgraduate Diploma
Career opportunities
- Solicitor
- Barrister
- Judge
- Policy Analyst & Advisor
- Mediator and/or Negotiator
- Legal Researcher
- Board Member for Iwi or other organisations
Papers
Papers available within this subject
Available Law papers
Prescriptions for the DipLaw
To complete a DipLaw students must complete LEGAL103, LEGAL104, LEGAL106, LEGAL201, LEGAL204 and LEGAL207.
Prescriptions for the GradDip(DR)
The Graduate Diploma in Dispute Resolution provides a practical and theoretical exploration of the processes of dispute resolution, and utilises the experience and expertise developed within the Schools of Law, Management, and Education. Graduates of this qualification will satisfy the academic requirements for Associate status of the Arbitrators' and Mediators' Institute of New Zealand (AMINZ). For entry to the Graduate Diploma, candidates must have either a bachelors degree in any discipline or relevant work experience considered to be equivalent.
The programme consists of papers totalling 120 points, comprising LEGAL205, LEGAL306 and MCOM331, either LEGAL449, MCOM431 or MCOM336, and electives totalling 40 points chosen from HDCO340, LEGAL205, LEGAL306, LEGAL405, LEGAL420, LEGAL434, LEGAL449, LEGAL490 or MCOM431. For the purposes of the Graduate Diploma, LEGAL205 is a corequisite for LEGAL306, and a prerequisite for the Law elective papers.
Note: LEGAL205, LEGAL306 and LEGAL449 are requirements for admission to Associate status in AMINZ.
Prescriptions for the GradCert(Law), GradDip(Law) and GradDip(NZLegSt)
A Graduate Certificate and Graduate Diploma are available to graduates who have not included Law at an advanced level in their first degree. A Graduate Diploma in New Zealand Legal Studies is also available.
For further details, contact the Faculty of Law Office.
Prescriptions for the LLB(Hons), PGCert(Law), PGDip(Law), LLM and LLM(Maori/Pacific and Indigenous Peoples)
The LLB(Hons) includes 60 points chosen from LEGAL509, LEGAL523, LEGAL526, LEGAL528, LEGAL531, LEGAL555, LEGAL569, LEGAL574, LEGAL576, LEGAL580, LEGAL590, LEGAL591, LEGAL592, LEGAL593 or LEGAL594. Students enrolling in the Honours programme may be subject to prerequisite and corequisite requirements.
The LLM comprises 120 points chosen from LEGAL509, LEGAL523, LEGAL526, LEGAL528, LEGAL531, LEGAL555, LEGAL569, LEGAL574, LEGAL576, LEGAL580, LEGAL590, LEGAL591, LEGAL592, LEGAL593 or LEGAL594..
The LLM(Maori/Pacific and Indigenous Peoples) comprises a total of 120 points, normally selected from LEGAL516, LEGAL525, LEGAL531, LEGAL551, LEGAL555, LEGAL569, LEGAL575, LEGAL576 or LEGAL577.
Prescriptions for the MPhil
The Master of Philosophy is a one year research-based degree in which students undertake a programme of approved and supervised research that leads to a thesis which critically investigates an approved topic of substance and significance, demonstrates expertise in the methods of research and scholarship, displays intellectual independence and makes a substantial original contribution to the subject area concerned, and is of publishable quality.
Prescriptions for the PhD and SJD
The Doctor of Philosophy is a four year research-based degree in which students undertake a programme of approved and supervised research that leads to a thesis which critically investigates an approved topic of substance and significance, demonstrates expertise in the methods of research and scholarship, displays intellectual independence and makes a substantial original contribution to the subject area concerned, and is of publishable quality.
The Doctor of Juridical Science consists of a research portfolio and a thesis which makes a contribution to knowledge consistent with at least three years of full-time research.
100 Level
| Code | Paper Title | Occurrence / Location |
|---|---|---|
| LAWS103 | Legal Method | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS105 | Introduction to New Zealand Law and Society | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS106 | Legal Systems and Societies | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS107 | Constitutional Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LEGAL103 | Legal Method- Research and Statutory Interpretation | 18A (Hamilton) & 18A (Tauranga) |
| The objective of the paper is to teach students the basics of legal method including introduction to University studies, introduction to the study of law, digital skills and tools for law students, legal research, introduction to problem solving and critical thinking, academic and professional integrity and statutory interpretation... | ||
| LEGAL104 | Legal Method- Legal Writing and Case Analysis | 18B (Hamilton) & 18B (Tauranga) |
| The objective of the paper is to teach students legal writing, case analysis and introduce the students to advocacy including written and oral skills, and to teach the students techniques for revision and sitting law exams. To continue upskilling students in obtaining useful digital skills and tools. | ||
| LEGAL105 | Introduction to New Zealand Law and Society | 18A (Online) & 18T (Online) |
| An introduction for non lawyers to the nature and functions of law and the processes of lawmaking. The relationship between law and society will be illustrated by relevant examples. | ||
| LEGAL106 | Legal Systems and Societies | 18Y (Hamilton) & 18Y (Tauranga) |
| An introduction to the history, sources, context and institutions of law in Aotearoa/New Zealand, with particular reference to statute, custom as illustrated by Maori customary law and the common law, and the distinctive position of the Treaty of Waitangi. | ||
| LEGAL107 | Constitutional Law | 18Y (Hamilton) |
| This paper examines the principles of constitutionalism and the framework of the New Zealand system of government. | ||
200 Level
| Code | Paper Title | Occurrence / Location |
|---|---|---|
| LAWS201 | Public Law A | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS203 | Jurisprudence | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS204 | Contracts | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS205 | Foundations in Legal Studies | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS206 | Administrative Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS207 | Torts | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LEGAL201 | Public Law | 18Y (Hamilton) & 18Y (Tauranga) |
| Part One examines the principles of constitutionalism and the framework of the New Zealand system of government. Part Two examines the exercise and control of executive power in New Zealand and the relationship between the state, its agencies and the individual. | ||
| LEGAL203 | Jurisprudence | 18Y (Hamilton) & 18Y (Tauranga) |
| An analysis of legal theories and ideologies, emphasising different approaches to the meaning of law, examining the relationship between theory and practice, illustrated by the concepts of sovereignty, liability, property, justice, rights and personality. | ||
| LEGAL204 | Contracts | 18Y (Hamilton) & 18Y (Tauranga) |
| This paper is an introduction to the theory of contract; the general principles relating to the operation, formation and discharge of contract; and the general principles of agency. It is a core paper for the Council for Legal Education (CLE). | ||
| LEGAL205 | Foundations in Legal Studies | 18B (Online) & 18T (Online) |
| A paper to provide students with a basic understanding of the New Zealand legal system, and an introduction to the law of torts, contract, agency, sale of goods and services, persons, including corporate bodies, property and consumer legislation | ||
| LEGAL206 | Administrative Law | 18Y (Hamilton) & 18Y (Tauranga) |
| This paper examines the execise and control of executive power in New Zealand and the relationship between the state, it's agencies and the individual. | ||
| LEGAL207 | Torts | 18Y (Hamilton) & 18Y (Tauranga) |
| An analysis of the general principles of civil liability; interests protected by the law of torts; negligence; specific torts such as nuisance and defamation; and the law relating to compensation for personal injury by accident in New Zealand. | ||
300 Level
| Code | Paper Title | Occurrence / Location |
|---|---|---|
| HDCO340 | Perspectives on Counselling | 18A (Hamilton) & 18A (Tauranga) |
| This paper examines the philosophical, psychological and sociological principles that underpin the aims and methods of the helping professions in general, and counselling in particular. | ||
| LAWS301 | Crimes | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS305 | Corporate Entities | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS306 | Dispute Resolution | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS307 | Land Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS308 | Equity and Succession | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LEGAL301 | Crimes | 18Y (Hamilton) |
| An analysis of the general principles of criminal law and selected offences chargeable under New Zealand law; an introduction to criminal procedure from arrest to sentencing in both jury and judge-alone trials (excluding evidence); and an introduction to the criminal justice system. | ||
| LEGAL305 | Corporate Entities | 18Y (Hamilton) |
| An introduction to the concept of corporate personality in the law including an introduction to the general principles of law relating to companies and other corporates. | ||
| LEGAL306 | Dispute Resolution | 18Y (Hamilton) |
| The objective/ethos of the paper is to expose students to the theory, general principles and practical dimensions of client interviewing, negotiation, mediation, arbitration, adjudication and advocacy. Once the students have a basic knowledge of these skills, the paper then examines how these skills are applied within certain conte... | ||
| LEGAL307 | Land Law | 18Y (Hamilton) |
| An analysis of the history, principles and bicultural context of land law. | ||
| LEGAL308 | Equity and Succession | 18Y (Hamilton) |
| An analysis of the principles of equity with particular reference to the laws of trusts, the principle of the law of succession and the administration of estates, and choses in action and the assignment thereof. | ||
| MCOM331 | Managing Conflict and Consensus | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
400 Level
| Code | Paper Title | Occurrence / Location |
|---|---|---|
| LAWS401 | The Law of Evidence | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS402 | Civil Procedure | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS403 | Crime, Criminology and the Criminal Justice System | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS405 | The Treaty of Waitangi in Contemporary Aotearoa/New Zealand | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS406 | Maori Land Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS408 | Family Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS411 | Comparative Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS413 | Nga Tikanga Maori/Maori Customary Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS414 | Indigenous Peoples Rights | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS416 | Judicial Review | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS417 | Immigration and Refugee Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS420 | Employment Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS424 | Revenue Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS426 | Commercial Transactions | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS427 | Competition Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS430 | Water Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS432 | Energy Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS434 | Environmental Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS435 | Cyberlaw | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS436 | Legal Ethics | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS437 | Public International Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS440 | Special Topic | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS441 | Special Topic: Indigenous Rights in the Common Law World | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS442 | Human Rights Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS443 | Special Topic | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS444 | The Law and Public Policy | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS447 | Mining and Petroleum Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS449 | Mediation: Law, Principles and Practice | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS451 | International Criminal Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS456 | New Zealand Animal Law: What, Why and Where to? | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS457 | Insurance Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS458 | Advocacy | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS459 | Law of the Sea | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS468 | Law of Intellectual Property | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS469 | Issues in Health Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS472 | Property Issues in Family Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS473 | An Introduction to the Law of International Trade | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS478 | Media Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS489 | Directed Study | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS490 | Directed Study | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS492 | Law and New Technologies | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS496 | Work Placement | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LEGAL401 | The Law of Evidence | 18B (Hamilton) |
| An examination of the principles of the law of evidence in criminal and civil cases. | ||
| LEGAL402 | Civil Procedure | 18A (Hamilton) |
| An examination of the jurisdiction and procedure of the District Court, High Court and Court of Appeal in civil cases, with particular emphasis on High Court proceedings, the principles of pleading and the drafting of documents. | ||
| LEGAL403 | Crime, Criminology and the Criminal Justice System | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LEGAL405 | Treaty of Waitangi in Contemporary Aotearoa/New Zealand | 18B (Hamilton) |
| An examination of the Treaty of Waitangi 1840 in contemporary Aotearoa/New Zealand. Consideration will be given to ways in which the Treaty guarantees might best be realised in relation to the legal system, health, education, resource management and local government. | ||
| LEGAL406 | Maori Land Law | 18B (Hamilton) |
| An examination of the legal practices applicable to Maori land; the history of Maori land legislation, present laws and practices, the effective utilisation of Maori land and proposals for future utilisation. | ||
| LEGAL408 | Family Law | 18A (Hamilton) |
| A focus on the law and social policies involved in the formation and breakdown of family relationships. The paper specifically examines the matrix of legislation and case law that underpin common family law disputes and legal proceedings in the Family Court. | ||
| LEGAL411 | Comparative Law | 18A (Hamilton) |
| A critical study and comparision of legal systems and structures outside the domestic system (in this case New Zealand). | ||
| LEGAL412 | Introduction to European Union Law | 18T (Hamilton) |
| An introduction to European institutions and the law of the European Union and its relationship to the domestic laws of member states. | ||
| LEGAL414 | Indigenous Peoples Rights | 18A (Hamilton) |
| This paper will explore the construction, development and implementation of indigenous peoples rights domestically and internationally. | ||
| LEGAL420 | Employment Law | 18B (Hamilton) |
| This course is a practical survey of employment law in New Zealand. It examines the formation, operation, and termination of the employment relationship as well as personal grievances, remedies and the employment insitutions. | ||
| LEGAL424 | Revenue Law | 18B (Hamilton) |
| An introduction to some of the key principles and concepts of New Zealand's taxation system. Selected aspects of income tax law as well as the law on indirect taxes, such as the goods and services tax, will also be examined. | ||
| LEGAL426 | Commercial Transactions | 18B (Hamilton) |
| An examination of the law on sale of goods, personal property securities, credit contracts and consumer finance, and aspects of fair trading and consumer guarantees law. | ||
| LEGAL427 | Competition Law | 18A (Hamilton) |
| A study of competition law and policy in New Zealand including the regulation of takeovers and mergers,and restrictive trade practices. | ||
| LEGAL430 | Water Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LEGAL432 | Energy Law | 18B (Hamilton) |
| An examination of the law concerning global energy problems, oil and gas, renewables, markets, energy efficiency and climate change, with an empahsis on regulation and commercial aspects. The course provides an introduction to themes in modern energy law. | ||
| LEGAL434 | Environmental Law | 18A (Hamilton) |
| An examination of the general principles of the law concerning natural and physical resources, sustainable development, pollution control, town planning and Treaty of Waitangi principles. | ||
| LEGAL435 | Cyber Law | 18B (Hamilton) |
| An exploration of the impact of the internet, including aspects of both criminal and civil arenas, with special emphasis on cybercrime, intellectual property, and e-business. | ||
| LEGAL436 | Legal Ethics | 18A (Hamilton) |
| An introduction to the concept of a profession and the ethical and professional duties of practitioners and an introduction to ethical analysis, the applicability of legal analysis to legal practice and the wider responsibilities of lawyers in the community. | ||
| LEGAL437 | Public International Law | 18B (Hamilton) |
| An introduction to public international law: evolution, sources, relationship between international and municipal law, the law of treaties, the law of the sea and international institutions, particularly the United Nations. | ||
| LEGAL440 | Special Topic: Pacific Peoples and the Law | 18S (Hamilton) |
| A critical study and comparision of legal systems and issues within the Pacific region. | ||
| LEGAL441 | Special Topic: Sex, Gender and the Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LEGAL442 | Human Rights Law | 18B (Hamilton) |
| An introduction to the laws governing the protection of human rights both at the national and international level. Students will explore the framework of human rights protection and the enforcement mechanisms. | ||
| LEGAL443 | Special Topic: Advanced Employment Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LEGAL447 | Mining and Petroleum Law | 18A (Hamilton) |
| This paper inquires into the legal framework of mining and petroleum activity in New Zealand and internationally. | ||
| LEGAL449 | Mediation: Law, Principles and Practice | 18T (Hamilton) |
| This paper will offer students an opportunity to understand mediation at an advanced level. It will examine legal aspects of mediation, theories in relation to practice as well as practical training and skill development. | ||
| LEGAL450 | Contemporary Issues in Sports Law | 18S (Hamilton) |
| The law is now an integral part of sport. This course explores the application of numerous legal principles to a specialist environment, the uniqueness of which invites innovative and interesting legal arrangements. It is hoped that by the end of the course, students have a working knowledge of legal problems associated with sport.... | ||
| LEGAL451 | International Criminal Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LEGAL456 | New Zealand Animal Law - What, Why and Where to? | 18A (Hamilton) |
| A survey of New Zealand's current regime of Animal Law, including related to animal production, welfare, use in/as sport, research, control, trade and conservation. | ||
| LEGAL457 | Insurance Law | 18T (Hamilton) |
| This paper provides an introduction to the principles which underpin indemnity insurance, with particular reference to those principles which set insurance contracts apart from other contracts. | ||
| LEGAL458 | Advocacy | 18B (Hamilton) |
| This paper aims to introduce the role of the advocate in society. Participants will develop practical advocacy skills, informed by examination of the function of the advocate in trial and non-trial settings. | ||
| LEGAL459 | Law of the Sea | 18A (Hamilton) |
| Study of the international Law of the Sea and relevant New Zealand laws applying throughout the Territorial Sea, Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf, and High Seas. | ||
| LEGAL466 | International Environmental Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LEGAL468 | Intellectual Property | 18A (Hamilton) |
| A study of the law of intellectual property in New Zealand, including the law of copyright, trade secrets, patents, designs, trade marks, fair-trading and passing off. | ||
| LEGAL472 | Issues in Family Law | 18B (Hamilton) |
| A focus on Family Court procedure, processes and common family law issues stemming from the formation and breakdown of family relationships and the matrix of family law legislation. Includes an examination of the dispute resolution process, legislation and case law, filing of legal documents, options available for settlement, resul... | ||
| LEGAL473 | Introduction to the Law of International Trade | 18B (Hamilton) |
| This paper will provide students with an in-depth understanding and knowledge of the law and policies of present-day international trade regulations, both on the multilateral level (and hence an intensive examination of the procedural and substantive law of the World Trade Organisation (WTO)) and on the regional level (the law of F... | ||
| LEGAL476 | Laws of Armed Conflict and International Humanitarian Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LEGAL490 | Directed Study | 18A (Hamilton), 18B (Hamilton), 18S (Hamilton) & 18T (Hamilton) |
| This paper is open to suitably qualified students who, under supervision of one or more academic staff members with experience in the appropriate area(s), engage in research leading to the production of the equivalent of a 6000 to 8000 word research assignment. | ||
| LEGAL492 | Law and New Technologies | 18A (Hamilton) |
| New technologies often present novel problems for regulators and the legislature. This paper will explore selected new technologies through the lens of law, by analysing legal issues and responses to new technologies. | ||
| LEGAL496 | Work Placement | 18C (Hamilton) |
| This paper enables students to undertake work placement in an area related to their specialisation as part of their LLB and to consolidate that work placement with a 3,000 - 4,000 word research paper. | ||
| MCOM431 | Negotiation and Persuasion | 18B (Hamilton) |
| This paper examines the theory and practice of persuasion and negotiation in a range of professional contexts. | ||
| MCOM476 | Diversity Leadership | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
500 Level
| Code | Paper Title | Occurrence / Location |
|---|---|---|
| LAWS523 | Advanced Civil Litigation | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS524 | Corporate Governance in Context: Legal and Ethical Issues | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS525 | Contemporary International Indigenous Issues | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS526 | Legal Aspects of Cyber Security | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS527 | Advanced Issues in Charity Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS528 | Foreign Investment Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS531 | International Environmental Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS534 | Transnational Criminal Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS555 | Comparative and International Indigenous Rights | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS562 | International Trade | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS566 | Legal Theory: Exploring Law's Dark Side | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS569 | International Law - A place for Indigenous Rights | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS570 | Special Topic: International Entertainment and Sports Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS571 | Special Topic: International Sales and Finance Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS572 | Special Topic: Judicial Remedies | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS574 | Law and Information Technology | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS576 | The Laws of Armed Conflict and International Humanitarian Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS577 | National and International Human Rights Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS591 | Dissertation | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS592 | Dissertation | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS593 | Law Thesis | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS594 | Law Thesis | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LEGAL509 | Legal Research: Theory and Methods | 18A (Hamilton) |
| This paper tackles the key areas and aspects of conducting scholarly legal research and guides students through the research and writing process. | ||
| LEGAL523 | Advanced Civil Litigation | 18A (Hamilton) |
| The focus of this paper is current and significant issues in civil litigation,with an emphasis on the ways in which concerns about access to justice is changing the way in which litigation is practiced across the common law world. | ||
| LEGAL525 | Contemporary and International Indigenous Issues | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LEGAL526 | Legal Aspects of Cyber Security | 18A (Hamilton) |
| This paper explores the legal aspects of cyber security and cyber crime, by analysing selected legislation and case law relevant to the area of cyber security. The paper covers the ethical and legal boundaries of rights and liability of security professionals. | ||
| LEGAL527 | Advanced Issues in Charity Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LEGAL528 | Foreign Investment Law | 18B (Hamilton) |
| This paper will provide students with an in-depth understanding and knowledge of the law and policies of present-day international trade regulations, both on the multilateral level (and hence an intensive examination of the procedural and substantive law of the World Trade Organisation (WTO)) and on the regional level (the law of F... | ||
| LEGAL531 | International Environmental Law | 18A (Hamilton) |
| This paper provides a synthesis of theory and specific case studies (such as devopment, growth, trade, debt and aid - as as they relate to the international environment), so that the student will be able to understand the most formidable international environmental problems in international law and the context from which these prob... | ||
| LEGAL569 | International Law - A place for Indigenous Rights | 18B (Hamilton) |
| The purpose of this paper is to focus on the historical and developing place within International Law, and the United Nations, of the rights for Indigenous Peoples. The influence of the State on this process together the coinciding Indigenous rights to development, education, environmental rights and economic rights will be examine... | ||
| LEGAL574 | Law and Information Technology | 18B (Hamilton) |
| The primary goals of this paper are to examine the impact of the internet on law; how the internet is influencing the interpretation of current law and the development of new law. | ||
| LEGAL576 | The Laws of Armed Conflict & International Humanitarian Law | 18B (Hamilton) |
| This paper is designed to provide the postgraduate student with an advanced understanding of the basic principles of the Laws of Armed Conflict and International Humanitarian Law through an examination of the principles of international law that are to be applied before, during, and after armed conflict. | ||
| LEGAL577 | National & International Human Rights Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LEGAL580 | Special Topic: Clinical Approach to Human Rights | 18A (Hamilton) |
| This paper examines the key principles and concepts, legal issues, and applicable laws concerning a specialised legal topic or research area. This special topic is the subject of in-depth study because it has a significant legal and social impact and it will provide advanced knowledge and skills to law students. | ||
| LEGAL581 | Special Topic: Equality and the Law | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LEGAL590 | Directed Study | 18C (Hamilton) |
| Completion of a 10,000 word dissertation regarding a legal reasearch subject that can properly be supervised in the Faculty. | ||
| LEGAL591 | Dissertation | 18C (Hamilton) |
| Completion of a 12,500 word dissertation regarding a legal reasearch subject that can properly be supervised in the Faculty | ||
| LEGAL592 | Dissertation | 18C (Hamilton) |
| Completion of a 25,000 word dissertation regarding a legal reasearch subject that can properly be supervised in the Faculty. | ||
| LEGAL593 | Thesis | 18C (Hamilton) |
| Completion of a 38,000 word thesis regarding a legal reasearch subject that can properly be supervised in the Faculty. | ||
| LEGAL594 | Thesis | 18C (Hamilton) |
| Completion of a 50,000 word thesis regarding a legal reasearch subject that can properly be supervised in the Faculty. | ||
800 Level
| Code | Paper Title | Occurrence / Location |
|---|---|---|
| LAWS800 | Law MPhil Thesis | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LEGAL800 | Law MPhil Thesis | 18C (Hamilton) |
| Completion of a 50,000 word thesis regarding a legal reasearch subject that can properly be supervised in the Faculty. | ||
900 Level
| Code | Paper Title | Occurrence / Location |
|---|---|---|
| LAWS900 | Law PhD Thesis | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS994 | SJD Thesis | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LAWS995 | Research Portfolio | This paper will not be taught in 2018 |
| This paper will not be taught in 2018 | ||
| LEGAL900 | Law PhD Thesis | 18C (Hamilton) & 18D (Hamilton) |
| Completion of a 80,000 - 100,000 word thesis regarding a legal reasearch subject that can properly be supervised in the Faculty. | ||
| LEGAL994 | SJD Thesis | 18C (Hamilton) |
| Completion of a 60,000 word thesis regarding a legal reasearch subject that can properly be supervised in the Faculty. | ||
| LEGAL995 | Research Portfolio | 18C (Hamilton) |
| The production of two publishable quality research papers, and the production of a research proposal to the same level as a PhD proposal, regarding a legal reasearch subject that can properly be supervised in the Faculty. | ||
“My exchange was one of the best parts of my university life. It’s been a positive discussion point in job interviews and has definitely helped me get to where I am today.”
Read stories from other students
Scholarships and prizes
New to Waikato? The International Excellence Scholarship is worth up to $10,000.
Visit our Scholarship Finder for information about possible scholarships
Exchange programme and study abroad
Are you keen to study in another country? Studying law in a foreign jurisdiction is not only valuable on its own merit but it also enables you to re-examine the foundations of the New Zealand legal system through a comparative lens.
Are you keen to study in another country?
Studying law in a foreign jurisdiction is not only valuable on its own merit but it also enables you to re-examine the foundations of the New Zealand legal system through a comparative lens.
In your fourth year of study, you'll have the opportunity to spend one semester of study towards your degree at one of our many partner law schools in Europe, North America or Asia.
To be eligible you must have completed Year 3 Law and have a sound academic record. For more information, contact the Law Student Administrator
University Exchange Programme
If you’re studying a conjoint law degree, you may be able to participate in an exchange from second year onward by studying some non-law papers overseas.
Cultural experience
We have the most diverse and vibrant student body of all law schools in New Zealand.
We have the most diverse and vibrant student body of all law schools in New Zealand. Up to 30 per cent of all our students identify themselves as Māori and nearly 16 per cent come from Pacific background. Nearly 40 per cent of our students are over the age of 25.
The Faculty's three dynamic law student associations: Pacific Law Student Association, Te Whakahiapo (Māori Student Association) and Waikato University Law Student Associations play an important role of fostering great collegial relationships between students and offer plenty of social and learning opportunities.
Our Mentoring Programme will provide extra support. Our Mentors are law students in their senior years. They will provide guidance in your studies, help you to navigate through the transition period from school or previous employment to university study as well as advise you on other services and opportunities available to you on campus.
Subject links
Download Undergraduate Law Student Handbook2016 Postgraduate Law Student Handbook Other undergraduate qualifications in law Bachelor of Laws (LLB)Diploma in Law (DipLaw) If you have already gained a Bachelor degree in a subject other than law, you may be interested in our Graduate Diploma in Dispute Resolution (GradDipDr).
Download Undergraduate Law Student Handbook
2016 Postgraduate Law Student Handbook
Other undergraduate qualifications in law
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
Diploma in Law (DipLaw)
If you have already gained a Bachelor degree in a subject other than law, you may be interested in our Graduate Diploma in Dispute Resolution (GradDipDr).
Postgraduate Qualifications in law
Graduate or postgraduate study lets you develop advanced knowledge in an area of law that you are passionate about, giving you an edge in the job market.
Typically to be eligible to apply for Master of Laws qualification, you’d need to have gained a Bachelor of Laws qualification.
Master of Laws (LLM)
Master of Laws in Maori/Pacific and Indigenous Peoples Law (LLM(Māori/Pacific and Indigenous Peoples'))
Doctor of Philosophy (Law)
Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD)
Doctor of Laws (LLD)
For more information on these and other options, please contact us at Law Reception.
Contacts
Te Piringa - Faculty of Law
Law Reception
Phone: 0800 924 528 Ext: 4167 or +64 7 838 4167
Email: law.reception@waikato.ac.nz
Website:www.waikato.ac.nz/law
Opening hours: 8.30am - 5.00pm Monday to Friday
Location: N Block, Gate 7, Hillcrest Road, University of Waikato, Hamilton