Master of Laws in Māori/Pacific and Indigenous Peoples' Law
Law
A course by
University of Waikato
Develop an in-depth understanding of Māori, Pacific, and Indigenous Peoples' Law with this specialist LLM. Gain the expertise to contribute to Pacific jurisprudence and foster inclusive legal systems.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Hamilton, Hamilton
It will take a total of 1 year


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Analyse historical and developing trends in indigenous rights
Students will critically investigate the evolution and current status of indigenous peoples' rights, with an emphasis on Māori and Pacific contexts.

Understand international influences on Indigenous legal development
Gain insight into how bodies such as the United Nations shape indigenous rights processes and frameworks.

Evaluate the state's role in recognising Indigenous rights
Develop the ability to evaluate how states consider and integrate environmental and economic rights of indigenous communities within national systems.
What You're Signing Up For
The Master of Laws in Māori/Pacific and Indigenous Peoples' Law (LLM Māori/Pacific and Indigenous Peoples') at the University of Waikato offers the opportunity to examine the historical and developing trends in the rights of indigenous peoples, with a focus on Māori, Pacific, and broader indigenous legal systems. Students will study the impact of international organizations such as the United Nations, environmental and economic rights, post-settlement legal changes in Aotearoa New Zealand, and will develop skills relevant for careers in Māori governance, Crown Law, Treaty settlement, teaching, research, government, and the Māori economy.
Course Content
- Historical and current trends in indigenous peoples' rights
- Role of international organizations (e.g., United Nations) in Indigenous rights development
- State recognition of environmental and economic rights
- Post-settlement New Zealand legal landscape
- Inclusive New Zealand jurisprudence
- Traditional Māori practice and Common Law integration
- Legal systems outside Common Law jurisdictions
- Academic research and teaching in indigenous legal matters
What you need to know first
Completed an LLB or a combined Law degree (with at least a B GPA) at the University of Waikato, or equivalent qualification from another university
An LLB (Hons) at the University of Waikato with at least a B GPA or equivalent
Satisfy prerequisites for graduate study as determined by the Academic Board
Demonstrated academic merit and relevant experience (exceptional circumstances)
English language proficiency: IELTS (overall 6.5, with at least 6.0 in Writing), or equivalent, if first language is not English

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Legal services
Government
Academia
Māori governance
Policy

Future employment opportunities might be
Academic teaching and research
Treaty settlement roles
Māori governance roles
Crown Law
Local and central government positions
Legal practice
Education sector
Roles in the Māori economy


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