Program Overview

---

Diploma in Law

The Diploma in Law is a highly practical qualification that sets students up to explore new career opportunities or enhance their current role. The online component of the Diploma allows students to fit their studies around work and family commitments.

Points and Duration

The total number of points to gain this qualification is 150, and it is expected to take one year to complete full-time.

Locations

The qualification is offered in Hamilton and Tauranga.

Area of Study

The Diploma in Law is offered under the School of Law, Politics and Philosophy.

Start Dates

The qualification can be started in Trimester A (March) and Trimester B (July).

Why Study the Diploma in Law?

A qualification in law is an asset for many careers, including those not directly related to law. The knowledge and skills developed through the Diploma in Law are relevant in:

• Finance
• Business management
• Human resources
• Education
• Local and central government
• The voluntary sector
• Māori governance

How it Works

The Diploma in Law typically takes two years to complete studying part-time. The programme is offered through a combination of online lectures and in-class tutorials. Tutorials are an integral part of the programme, run in small groups of up to 30 students, and are held in Hamilton and Tauranga. Evening options are available.

Credit towards a Bachelor of Laws

Once students successfully complete their Diploma in Law, they will have guaranteed entry into the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) programme, and their Diploma papers will be credited towards the first and second years of their LLB programme at Waikato.

Degree Information

Plan Your Study

The Diploma in Law is 150 points. An additional 15-point paper is optional but recommended for those considering a Bachelor of Laws.

Year 1

• LEGAL103 Legal Method A: 15 points, introduces students to the skills of the legal method in New Zealand, with particular emphasis on case law analysis, legal reasoning, and opinion writing.
• LEGAL104 Legal Method B: 15 points, introduces students to the skills of the legal method in New Zealand, with particular emphasis on statutory interpretation and introduces students to the key legal skill of mooting.
• LEGAL106 Legal Systems and Societies: 30 points, an historical introduction to, and a descriptive outline of, the legal systems in England and New Zealand.

Year 2

• LEGAL201 Public Law: 30 points, the principles and working of the constitution, the institutions of government, the exercise of public power and relations between the citizen and the state.
• LEGAL204 Contracts: 30 points, the general principles of the law of contract and agency.
• LEGAL207 Torts: 30 points, general principles of civil liability.
• LEGAL203 Jurisprudence: 15 points, an analysis of legal theories and ideologies.

Entry Requirements

All applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Faculty of Law Admissions Committee. Factors such as academic results, work experience, school and community involvement, and other achievements will be taken into account.

• A written statement (letter of application) of up to 300 words outlining work experience, community involvement, previous study, and reasons for wishing to undertake the diploma programme.
• Verified copies of academic records (transcripts) of any previous studies.
• A verified copy of birth certificate or current passport.

If under 20 years of age, students need to have gained University Entrance including at least 18 points in one literacy-rich subject, or their NCEA Level 3 Certificate endorsed with Merit or Excellence.

Fees and Scholarships

• Domestic tuition fees: Approximate annual tuition fees and costs for domestic students enrolled in one year of full-time study.
• Scholarships: Visit the Scholarship finder for more information about possible scholarships.

Graduate Study Options

Graduate or postgraduate study lets students develop advanced knowledge in an area of law, giving them an edge in the job market.

Master of Laws

1 year, Hamilton, Tauranga, Online.

Master of Laws in Māori/Pacific and Indigenous Peoples' Law

1 year, Hamilton.

Undergraduate Qualifications in Law

Explore other undergraduate qualifications in law, such as the Bachelor of Laws.

Practical Skills

Throughout the diploma, students gain strong research and analytical skills, as well as become excellent problem-solvers. They learn how to construct legal arguments, form legal opinions, create legal documents, and develop their capacity to manage their own learning.

Cultural Experience

The Faculty has a diverse and vibrant student body, with up to 30% of students identifying as Māori and nearly 16% coming from a Pacific background. The law student associations play an important role in fostering great collegial relationships between students and offer plenty of social and learning opportunities.

Regulations

Full regulations for the Diploma in Law are available.

What Our Law Students Are Saying

Read stories from current students and alumni about their experiences studying law at the University of Waikato.