Open to both LLB graduates and non-LLB graduates, the PGCertLaw is effectively half of a Master of Laws (LLM) degree or Master of Legal Studies (MLS) degree.
If you have limited time or wish to study only a few select courses, this programme is ideal.
For some students, the PGCertLaw may also act as a pathway to the LLM or MLS degrees.
For more detailed information on courses available see our 2019 Postgraduate Handbbook.
Can be completed full-time (one semester) or part-time (over two years) to allow flexibility for those with other professional or personal commitments.
Students must complete a minimum of 60 points of courses from the Master of Laws schedule (excluding thesis or dissertation courses), alongside Legal Research Methodology (LAW 788).
You'll also need to meet other requirements, including time limits and total points limits. See Postgraduate enrolment.
Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place.
Bachelor of Laws
Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place.
Bachelor of Laws
No bands less than 6.5
You must have completed a Bachelor of Laws or an equivalent undergraduate degree in law at a recognised university (or similar institution). You will need a GPE of 4.0 over your most recent year of law courses.
If you do not hold an undergraduate degree in law, you will need to have completed a four-year undergraduate degree or a three-year undergraduate degree followed by a year of postgraduate study. Your study must have been completed at a recognised university (or similar institution) and you will need a GPE of 4.0 over your most recent full-time year of study.
Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Amounts shown are indicative only. In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of $7.86 per point, estimated at $471.60 for full-time study (60 points). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment into courses.
*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.
Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.
Are you a New Zealand citizen or resident? You could be eligible for a student loan or allowance.
Get an idea of how much accommodation and general living in Auckland will cost.
In light of the impact of Covid-19, Semester 2 applications will remain open after the closing date published and will be considered if places are available.
International students should start the application process as early as possible to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.
Please note: We will consider late applications if places are still available. International students should start the application process as early as possible to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.
Here are the start dates for the programme.
| Summer School | Starts – 6 January |
|---|---|
| Ends – 19 February | |
| Semester One | Starts – 2 March |
| Ends – 29 June | |
| Semester Two | Starts – 27 July |
| Ends – 22 November |
| Summer School | Starts – 6 January |
|---|---|
| Ends – 17 February | |
| Semester One | Starts – 1 March |
| Ends – 28 June | |
| Semester Two | Starts – 19 July |
| Ends – 6 November |
See important dates for the academic year, including orientation, enrolment, study breaks, exams, and graduation.
The PGCertLaw can enhance your career potential by honing your specialist knowledge and transferable skills. Our graduates combine their legal knowledge with advanced communication, research and analytical skills in a wide range of careers.
Once you become a student at the University, you can get help with planning and developing your career from Career Development and Employability Services.
Becoming a barrister and solicitor
After completing the LLB or LLB(Hons) degree, if you wish to be admitted as a barrister and solicitor, you must complete a three-month Professional Legal Studies course.
There are currently two providers of this course:
The Institute of Professional Legal Studies
The College of Law (New Zealand)
Compare qualifications and academic information across different New Zealand institutions.
You can phone us directly.