Diploma in Law
Law
A course by
University of Waikato
A highly practical diploma introducing students to core principles of New Zealand law, legal reasoning, and legal practice. Offered part-time and online or in-person, it provides guaranteed entry and credit transfer into the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) at Waikato.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Available in 2 locations
It will take a total of 1 year
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Understand the New Zealand Legal System
Gain foundational knowledge of the New Zealand legal system, including its structure, sources of law, and main areas of substantive law.
Develop Legal Reasoning and Analytical Skills
Learn skills in case law analysis, statutory interpretation, forming legal arguments, and opinion writing.
Experience Practical Legal Skills
Participate in mooting, create legal documents, and engage in small-group tutorials focused on real-world application.
What You're Signing Up For
The Diploma in Law at the University of Waikato is a 150-point programme designed for students seeking new career opportunities or to enhance current skills in law-related fields. It covers core law topics and provides practical and analytical skills. The teaching uses a combination of online lectures and small-group tutorials at Hamilton and Tauranga campuses with evening options, making it suitable for students working or with family commitments. Diploma graduates gain guaranteed entry to the LLB with relevant credits transferred.
Course Content
- LEGAL103 Legal Method A: Case law analysis, legal reasoning, opinion writing
- LEGAL104 Legal Method B: Statutory interpretation, mooting
- LEGAL106 Legal Systems and Societies: Legal systems in England and NZ, government, civil and criminal proceedings, sources of law, substantive law, legal reasoning
- LEGAL201 Public Law: Constitution, government institutions, public power, judicial review
- LEGAL204 Contracts: Principles of contract and agency law
- LEGAL207 Torts: Civil liability, types of torts, personal injury compensation in NZ
- LEGAL203 Jurisprudence (optional): Legal theories, ideologies, theory vs practice, concepts such as sovereignty, liability, property, justice, rights
What you need to know first
Applications considered case-by-case by the Faculty of Law Admissions Committee.
Personal written statement outlining work experience, community involvement, previous study, and reason for study.
Verified copies of academic records (transcripts) and birth certificate or passport.
If under 20: University Entrance including at least 18 points in a literacy-rich subject, or NCEA Level 3 Certificate endorsed with Merit or Excellence.
Other pathways considered for those not meeting University Entrance.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Law
Government
Business
Education
Māori governance
Voluntary sector
Future employment opportunities might be
Paralegal or legal assistant
Roles in business management or human resources with legal expertise
Policy or advisory roles in local or central government
Enhanced roles in Māori governance or voluntary sector
Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer
Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details