Master of Laws (Research)

Transform curiosity into research

Turn your curiosity and ambition into reality with a Master of Law (Research). You may want to shape global policy, launch a startup, deliver community impact or contribute new knowledge to the field. Whatever your goal is, we'll bring together all corners of our campus community, global networks, and world-class facilities to support you.

Deep law knowledge is essential for policy and law reform. Supported by leading experts, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your expertise and see it make a difference to the world.

Part of the Faculty of Law.

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Master of Laws (Research)

CODE

UTS: C03024 (version 7)

CRICOS: 006407F

DURATION

2 years full time
4 years part time

INTAKE

Research Session 1 2025
Research Session 2 2025
Research Session 1 2026
Research Session 2 2026

View important dates

COURSE FEES

Domestic (FT)

LOCATION

City campus

What you’ll study

Your research program is tailored to you. You’ll design it with your supervisors and Faculty of Law at the start of your Research Masters. With access to our networks, facilities and advanced training, you’ll have the opportunity to deepen your speciality.

Under expert mentorship, you’ll study your chosen law-related research topic over multiple years.

You’ll regularly present your research to a team of experts for assessment. Your final research thesis or practice-led research project (such as a policy proposal or whitepaper) will be examined for how you have uniquely contributed to your chosen field.

Subjects at a glance

Core subjects

Subject Code	Subject Name
77698	Thesis (Law)
77697	Higher Degree Research Seminar

See all subjects and majors in the UTS Handbook

Course highlights

This program fosters deep expertise in your chosen law-related field, empowering you to contribute to policy and law reform, while working with top mentors and a global network of experts to drive meaningful change.

Admissions information

The Master of Laws (Research) provides an opportunity for graduates to develop their research skills, deepen their knowledge in some area of the law and undertake original research. The degree is awarded to candidates who demonstrate competence in research, an understanding of research methods and an ability to make an original contribution to knowledge.
This course is suitable for students who have completed a coursework degree and wish to deepen their knowledge in a particular legal area by means of research. Students develop critical and analytical skills and advanced research skills to enable in-depth exploration of their chosen area. This degree is valuable for those wishing to pursue a career in research.
The maximum course duration is two years of full-time or four years of part-time study. Students can complete the course in less than the maximum time.

The work may be carried out either on university premises or at a site external to the university, or some combination of both. Candidates are required to make contact with their supervisor(s) at least once a month to discuss the progress of the research being undertaken.
Applicants must have completed a UTS recognised bachelor's degree, or an equivalent or higher qualification, or submitted other evidence of general and professional qualifications that demonstrates potential to pursue graduate research studies.
Previous qualifications must be in a relevant discipline, usually with honours or a distinction average.
Eligibility for admission does not guarantee offer of a place.
English language requirements
IELTS Academic: overall 7.0, writing 7.0 TOEFL iBT: overall 94, writing 27 Pearson PTE: overall 65, writing 65 Cambridge C1A/C2P: overall 185, writing 185
2025 Indicative tuition fees for domestic students

As a postgraduate student, you'll be responsible for covering your own tuition fees.

2025 Tuition Fee
- Indicative first-year tuition fee:
- Indicative total tuition fee:
You can choose to pay your fees upfront per session, or if you’re eligible, you can defer them using a government FEE-HELP loan. This loan helps you cover all or part of your tuition fees. Keep in mind that applications for this loan are specific to each course.

Additional Costs

Your tuition fees do not include:
- The Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF), which supports student services and activities. If eligible, you can defer this fee using SA-HELP.
- Textbooks, materials, and other course-related costs.
- Any applicable payment processing fees (e.g., credit card surcharges).
Important Information
- Fees are shown in Australian Dollars (AUD).
- The indicative tuition fees above are based on full-time study (1 year = 48 credit points).
- Your actual fees depend on the year you enrol, your study load and the subjects you choose. Some subjects fall into different student contribution bands.
- You can calculate your student contribution based on the amounts listed in the student contribution table
Alumni Advantage Program

As a UTS graduate, you can enjoy a 10% discount on your course fees. Just apply for the course you're interested in, and if you're accepted, the discount will automatically be applied to your enrolment invoice. Learn more about the Alumni Advantage Program.

If you have any questions about course fees, please feel free to make an enquiry. 

Information for Masters by Research students: Government-funded scholarship places available

As a recipient of the Australian Government’s Research Training Program (RTP) Fees Offset Scholarship, you do not have to pay tuition fees for up to the maximum period of candidature. However, even with this scholarship, you should expect ongoing costs that aren’t covered, like travel, training, and professional development. These costs can vary for each person, so it’s important to plan accordingly. Additionally, scholarships are available to help with your living expenses.

Important details: The RTP Fees Offset Scholarship covers your tuition fees, but please note that it doesn’t include additional costs related to studying or conducting research. Additional fees for domestic students. For more information visit Research student fees.
Transfer between UTS courses: Candidates in the Master of Laws (Research) who wish to transfer to the PhD but do not meet the PhD admission requirements can apply to transfer. Transfer applicants must have completed a minimum of one year's study and have reached a standard equivalent to that of a bachelor's degree with first or second class honours (division 1). Candidates applying to transfer must also demonstrate, with the support of their supervisor(s), that their topic has doctoral scope.

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Entry schemes and pathways

Learn more

At UTS, we understand the dedication it takes to reach your current position – forging a path through prior study, work, and diverse learning experiences.

If you're Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, Jumbunna is an alternative application process for our courses that emphasises diverse pathways to success.

You can apply for our courses using your previous study. You may even be eligible for recognition of prior learning, so you won’t need to repeat subjects.

Learn more

Careers

Your future career

During your Research Masters program, you’ll have the opportunity to gain expertise and develop skills in problem solving, project management and communication that are transferrable across industries, global institutions, governments and startups.

Career options

You may rejoin your industry with new perspectives and knowledge. Or you may explore a career change. With the networks you'll have access to, you could join a new industry, start your own business or pursue further research.

Where you’ll study

Our world-class facilities support your future-focused learning and high-impact research. They enable effective partnerships with industry and provide services to our community.

See more facilities

Faculty of Law Student Mooting Side. — Hone your advocacy skills and legal acumen at our meticulously designed Moot Court, designed to mirror the real-life courtroom experience of the NSW Supreme and District Courts.

Academics and Students at Law Faculty Level 14 Postgraduate Lounge. — Access state-of-the-art learning spaces, such as our exclusive Postgraduate Study Lounge designed for knowledge sharing, collaboration and focused study.

UTS Central, Building 2, CB02, Tower, Building 1, CB01, Building 10 at day. — Enjoy city views from our semi-enclosed and naturally ventilated Winter Garden balconies with feature planting.

Why UTS?

Why study Law at UTS

With a Law degree at UTS you'll gain work-ready skills and learn how to ethically use law and new technologies to create positive social change.

Employers value our graduates for their problem-solving, collaborative skills and lateral thinking. Our degrees are flexible, with content developed in consultation with industry. We offer practical learning opportunities, including in-house legal counsel, legal centres and firms, and summer clerkship programs.