Master's Degree Law (JD) Full Time

Master of Laws (by research)

at Victoria University · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

068565A

CRICOS provider code

00124K

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

1.5 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$82,008 total

Per year

A$54,672/yr

Intake

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

About this program

Victoria University's Master of Laws (by research) in Melbourne is aimed at law graduates and legal professionals interested in deepening their expertise through independent research. Over a typical duration of 1.5 years full-time, students focus on a significant research project under the guidance of experienced supervisors. This is not a coursework master's; rather, your primary commitment will be to your thesis, where you develop and defend your findings within your chosen legal specialisation.

The degree structure centres on a single major research thesis, which is assessed on its originality, critical analysis, and contribution to legal scholarship. You will work closely with an academic supervisor while developing advanced skills in research methodologies, legal analysis, and academic writing. Students may also engage in related seminars or workshops designed to support higher degree research candidates.

Research students in law benefit from Victoria University's connections with the Melbourne legal community, which can support both your studies and your future career. This course is suited to those who wish to pursue a career in academia, research-based roles within government or policy bodies, or to specialise their legal knowledge through rigorous independent inquiry. Entry requires evidence of strong English proficiency, generally at IELTS 7.0 or equivalent, due to the demands of advanced research and legal writing.

International students can apply with evidence of English language proficiency, using approved tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, or the university’s English programmes. While enrolled, students are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight under Australian regulations, and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) after graduation. Details and entry requirements should always be confirmed on the official Victoria University website.

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

Academic roles and research positions at Australian universities
Legal policy analyst within government departments
Legal research officer in law reform commissions or social justice organisations
Specialist consultant for non-governmental organisations and advocacy groups
Advisor roles in international agencies or think tanks that engage with law and policy

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Laws (by research) at Victoria University?

It typically takes 1.5 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$82,008 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Academic roles and research positions at Australian universitiesLegal policy analyst within government departmentsLegal research officer in law reform commissions or social justice organisationsSpecialist consultant for non-governmental organisations and advocacy groupsAdvisor ro...

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