NZ Recommend Majors

Law

Bachelor of Law

Law is the study of legal systems, including not only practical laws encountered in daily life but also legal philosophy, theory, and principles. New Zealand law is based on English common law and incorporates elements of Commonwealth law, case law, and equity.

After completing a law degree in New Zealand, graduates may pursue registration as a lawyer and generally work in one of two main roles:

  • Solicitor: Primarily handles legal practice and advisory work.
  • Barrister: Specializes in courtroom litigation.

The path to becoming a registered lawyer is the same for all law graduates, but after registration, individuals can choose career paths based on their interests and strengths.

Study pathways

Recommended university

University of Auckland

Programme

Bachelor of Laws – 4 years

  • IELTS overall 6.0

  • 3-year Post-Study Work Visa

  • Career pathway: Solicitor / Barrister

Recommended university

Victoria University of Wellington

Programme

Bachelor of Laws – 4 years

  • 3-year Post-Study Work Visa

  • Career pathway: Solicitor / Barrister

Career opportunities

New Zealand law graduates who become registered lawyers can choose various career paths:

  • Private Practice: Solicitor or Barrister

  • Public Sector: Prosecutor, Legal Aid lawyer, Public Defender

  • Judiciary: Judge or other judicial roles

  • Law Reform: Policy advice and legal system improvement

  • Corporate Sector: In-house legal counsel, tax, real estate, business consulting, regulatory compliance, HR

  • Government Agencies: Policy development, resource management, legislative drafting

  • Academia: Teaching and research

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