Law University of Otago

Overview

The Law programme at the University of Otago provides a comprehensive legal education designed to cultivate advanced critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Students engage with a rigorous curriculum that prepares them for the complexities of the modern legal profession and various high-level careers.

This course of study encourages students to challenge assumptions and communicate with precision. The faculty provides a close-knit learning environment where expert lecturers support students in mastering legal analysis. This foundational skill is highly sought after by employers in government, business, and international organisations.

Flexibility is a core feature of the curriculum, allowing for the combination of legal studies with other disciplines such as Science, Commerce, or Arts.

Why Law at University of Otago?

The Faculty of Law boasts over 150 years of world-class legal education, fostering a community where classmates often become lifelong professional networks. The institution is known for its passionate teaching staff and its commitment to developing future-focused skill sets that set graduates apart in the job market.

Students benefit from a structured journey that begins with fundamental principles before moving into specialised topics. The learning environment is designed to be supportive and collaborative, ensuring that every individual has the resources needed to succeed in both academic and practical legal settings.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: NZD 45990 per year
• National fee: NZD 10891 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to build expertise from foundational concepts to advanced specialisations. Modules may include:

Year 1

• Legal System

Year 2

• Criminal Law
• Law of Contract
• Property Law
• Public Law
• Legal Writing

Year 3 and 4

• Law of Torts
• Jurisprudence
• Legal Research Skills
• Research and Writing
• Advocacy Skills
• Law of Evidence
• Family Law
• Labour Law
• Vendor and Purchaser
• Laws and Indigenous Peoples
• Advocacy
• International Human Rights Law
• Advanced Company Law
• International Labour Law
• Insolvency Law
• Accidents and the Law
• Law and the Biosciences

Careers with Law

Graduates are well-prepared for entry into the legal profession as solicitors or barristers. The analytical and communication skills gained during the programme are also highly applicable to roles in policy development, journalism, and business leadership across various sectors.

Many alumni find success in specialised fields such as health policy, environmental law, or financial compliance. The degree provides a versatile foundation for working within international organisations, non-governmental agencies, and corporate legal departments globally.