Graduate Certificate in Laws
- Degree Structure - Start In
- Semester 1 or 2 (February or July)
60
Overview
Graduate Certificate in Laws
Introduction
The Graduate Certificate in Laws (GradCertLaws) at UC builds onto your undergraduate Law studies to broaden and upskill in specialised areas of law, such as international criminal law, Tikanga Māori, Intellectual Property (IP) law, and many more.
This Certificate is also a great option for those with a Law degree from overseas, or internationally qualified practitioners, to meet academic requirements for admission as a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand.
Graduate Certificate in Laws
Entry requirements
For entry to the Graduate Certificate in Laws, you will need to have previously completed either a Bachelor of Laws from an Aotearoa New Zealand university (or equivalent from overseas), or any other bachelor's degree plus at least three years of work experience in a related field.
If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet UC's English language requirements.
For the full entry requirements, use the admission requirements checker.
How to apply
You can apply online at myUC.
See Admission and enrolment for all information on enrolling at UC.
Graduate Certificate in Laws
How do I plan my certificate?
The GradCertLaws is made up of 60 points of electives:
- Choose four courses from these options
Starting in February or July, you can complete the Certificate in 6 months full-time, or within 2 years part-time.
For international students, this Certificate will meet New Zealand Council of Legal Education requirements to complete four 300-level Law courses to apply to practice as a Barrister and Solicitor in New Zealand.
UC also offers a Graduate Diploma in Laws if you are assessed to need more than four courses for admission.
Graduate Certificate in Laws
Further study
UC offers a range of postgraduate Law study:
- Graduate Diploma in Laws
- Master of Laws
- Master of Laws (International Law and Politics)
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Law
With approval, you may transfer your completed courses from the GradCertLaws to the Graduate Diploma.
Graduate Certificate in Laws
Career opportunities
This programme will enhance your legal skills with specialised knowledge in particular areas of law towards your practice in Aotearoa.
You will also find this a great pathway into postgraduate Law studies and academic research.
