Master's Degree Law (JD) Full Time

Master of Laws (Research)

at Edith Cowan University · Perth, Western Australia

CRICOS course code

099203D

CRICOS provider code

00279B

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

2 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$95,100 total

Per year

A$47,550/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Master of Laws (Research) at Edith Cowan University in Perth is designed for graduates who want to pursue advanced, independent legal research. This two-year master's degree focuses on developing expertise through the design and completion of an original research project within the field of law. Students engage deeply with a chosen area, working closely with academic supervisors, and produce a thesis that contributes new insights to legal scholarship.

This qualification aligns with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) at master's level and generally consists of a structured research plan, research seminars or related coursework, and the completion of a substantial thesis. The course structure does not typically involve trimesters or units measured in the same way as coursework degrees, but progress is marked by research milestones and the final thesis submission. There is a strong emphasis on critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to interpret complex legal issues.

Applicants usually come from legal or related backgrounds and should be ready to independently manage a substantial research project. The thesis can address issues relevant to Australian law, policy, or international legal contexts. English language proficiency requirements are high due to the nature of legal writing and research. International students must provide evidence of advanced English skills, such as an IELTS Academic score of 7.0 or higher, or equivalent.

This degree suits those aiming for careers in academia, policy, or legal research, and those seeking to specialise further. As a research degree in law, it provides valuable experience that is recognised in Australian legal and academic circles. Students benefit from Perth's legal sector and ECU's connections with local organisations. Work rights of 48 hours per fortnight while studying, and post-study work opportunities via the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), may be available to eligible graduates. For entry, English requirements, or specific research topics, always check ECU's official course page.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Legal researcher for universities or think tanks
Policy adviser in government departments
Legal consultant in public or private sectors
Academic staff or lecturer (subject to further qualification)
Positions in law reform commissions or advocacy bodies
Strategic roles within legal and regulatory organisations in Australia

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Laws (Research) at Edith Cowan University?

It typically takes 2 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$95,100 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Legal researcher for universities or think tanksPolicy adviser in government departmentsLegal consultant in public or private sectorsAcademic staff or lecturer (subject to further qualification)Positions in law reform commissions or advocacy bodiesStrategic roles within legal and...

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