Master's Degree Law (JD) Full Time

Master of Laws (Research)

at Flinders University · Adelaide, South Australia

CRICOS course code

020070J

CRICOS provider code

00114A

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$67,400 total

Per year

A$33,700/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Master of Laws (Research) at Flinders University in Adelaide is a rigorous higher degree programme designed for aspiring legal scholars and practitioners seeking advanced expertise in legal research. This two-year programme requires students to undertake a significant independent research project, culminating in a thesis that contributes original insight to legal scholarship. The course framework encourages the development of critical analysis, research methodologies, and advanced legal writing skills necessary for impactful legal research and academic publication.

Australian master's by research degrees are structured to empower students with comprehensive research capabilities and deep subject knowledge. At Flinders, students are typically supervised by experienced academics and may participate in research seminars and workshops. The programme is generally comprised of research-based units of study, supported by training in research ethics and methodology, and assessed through the completion of a substantial thesis. Students regularly collaborate within the vibrant legal academic community, benefiting from Flinders' research links across the Australian legal industry and public sector.

Graduates attain advanced skills in legal analysis, problem solving, research design, and thesis presentation, positioning them for influential roles in academia, policy, and legal practice. The course is tailored for those with a background in law (such as a Bachelor of Laws or Juris Doctor) who wish to advance their research skills or pursue doctoral studies. Work-integrated learning may be available via collaborative research projects or internships, subject to approval, giving students valuable exposure to the Australian legal context.

International students must demonstrate a high level of English proficiency, with IELTS and equivalent qualifications accepted. While enrolled, students may work up to 48 hours per fortnight, and graduates are generally eligible to apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. For detailed information about admission requirements, credit structure, and thesis expectations, consult the official Flinders University 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 in government, universities, or think tanks
Academic or lecturer in legal studies and law faculties
Policy advisor or analyst in legal and regulatory bodies
Research coordinator within Australian legal organisations
Pathway to doctoral study (PhD) or advanced legal roles

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Laws (Research) at Flinders 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$67,400 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Legal researcher in government, universities, or think tanksAcademic or lecturer in legal studies and law facultiesPolicy advisor or analyst in legal and regulatory bodiesResearch coordinator within Australian legal organisationsPathway to doctoral study (PhD) or advanced legal r...

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