The Bachelor of Laws at the University of Waikato is an undergraduate degree designed for students who want to understand the foundations of the legal system, including why laws are created, how they function, and how they can be reformed. You will explore a wide range of legal disciplines, such as environmental law, human rights, corporate securities, and the Treaty of Waitangi in contemporary Aotearoa/New Zealand. By choosing this qualification, you will gain the critical analytical skills necessary to navigate complex local, national, and global legal contexts, preparing you to address the diverse challenges facing modern society and the legal profession.
Studied full-time on campus over four years in Hamilton or Tauranga, this programme integrates practical training with academic study. You will work alongside judges and lawyers who provide direct feedback on your assignments, while developing essential skills like client interviewing, court advocacy, and contract drafting. From your second year, you will have opportunities to undertake internships at law firms, community law centres, and government organisations. You will graduate with the professional expertise required to pursue diverse career pathways, including roles as a solicitor, barrister, mediator, policy analyst, or advisor within the public and private sectors.