University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) – An In-Depth Guide
Description
1. Introduction
The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) is one of Australia’s leading public research universities, internationally recognised for excellence in law education. Its Law & Justice faculty delivers world-class legal training with a strong global reputation, practical learning opportunities, and diverse international pathways. UNSW Law is consistently ranked among the top law schools globally.
2. Historical Background
Founded in 1971, UNSW Law & Justice has rapidly grown into a major centre for legal education and research in Australia. From its inception, the faculty has focused on progressive legal thought, social justice, and interdisciplinary study, producing graduates who influence legal practice, policy, and global justice initiatives. Today, UNSW Law ranks highly both in Australia and worldwide.
3. Law Courses & English Requirements
Table: Law & Justice Study Programs (Undergraduate & Postgraduate)
| Program Name | Level | Duration | English Language Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Laws (LLB) | Undergraduate | 4–5 yrs (combined options available) | IELTS Academic (common): 6.5 overall (min 6.0) — verify on UNSW official page. |
| Juris Doctor (JD) | Postgraduate | 3 yrs full-time | IELTS 7.0+ (recommended) / TOEFL 94+ / PTE 65+ (typical for law programs) |
| Master of Laws (LLM) – Coursework | Postgraduate | 1 yr full-time | IELTS 7.0+ / TOEFL 94+ / PTE 65+ (indicative) |
| Master of Laws (LLM) by Research | Postgraduate research | 1–2 yrs | Same as LLM coursework (verify during application) |
| PhD in Law / Higher Research Degrees | Doctoral research | 3+ yrs | High English proficiency — usually IELTS 7.0+ or equivalent |
Note: Actual English requirements can vary by program and nationality; applicants should check UNSW International Entry Requirements page.
4. Key Highlights of Top Law Courses
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
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Foundation for legal practice.
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Offers combined degrees (e.g., Law + Arts, Law + Commerce).
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Strong research and experiential learning components.
Juris Doctor (JD)
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Graduate entry professional law degree.
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Designed for students holding any bachelor’s degree.
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Prepares for legal practice and advanced legal careers.
Master of Laws (LLM)
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Flexible coursework with specialist fields (e.g., corporate law, international law).
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Tailored to deepen expertise or segue into new legal areas.
PhD in Law
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Highest academic qualification.
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Ideal for careers in legal research, academia, or policy leadership.
5. Entrance Exam Requirements
Table: Entrance Examination / Academic Requirements
| Program | Law Entrance Exam | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| LLB | No separate national law test for international applicants | Entry based on academic profile and equivalent qualifications. |
| JD | No separate exam like LSAT required | Academic merit assessed via prior degree performance. |
| LLM | No specific law entrance test | Academic record assessed; professional experience considered. |
| PhD (Law) | No entrance exam | Research proposal and academic credentials evaluated due to research focus. |
6. Top 5 Reasons to Choose UNSW Sydney for Law
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World-Ranked Law School: UNSW Law & Justice is ranked #1 in Australia, top 15 globally, and highly respected by employers and academics alike.
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Diverse Legal Programs: Offers undergraduate to doctoral law study with flexible combined and research options.
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Strong International Opportunities: Includes legal exchange, global summer school options, and partnerships with universities worldwide.
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Practical Experience: Internship placements, moot courts, clinics, and work-integrated learning build real-world legal skills.
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Career Outcomes & Global Network: UNSW graduates are highly employable across law firms, government, NGOs, and corporate sectors.
7. Grade and Ranking of the University
UNSW Law & Justice is internationally recognised:
#1 in Australia for law by subject rankings.
Top 15 globally in QS World University Rankings by Law & Legal Studies.
Strong research appraisal and employer reputation worldwide.
8. Required Documents for Admission
Table: Document Checklist for Law Programs
| Document Type | Required For |
|---|---|
| Academic transcripts & certificates | All programs |
| Proof of degree (Bachelor or Higher) | Postgraduate / JD / Research |
| English language test results | All international applicants |
| CV / resume | Postgraduate / Research |
| Statement of Purpose / Research proposal | LLM Research & PhD |
| Passport copy | All applications |
| Recommendation letters | PhD & research programs |
Additional documents may be requested based on the specific program or country of study.
9. How to Apply for Admission
Table: Application Steps
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Explore law degrees via the UNSW Law & Justice webpage. |
| 2 | Check International Entry Requirements including English tests. |
| 3 | Prepare and upload documents (transcripts, English scores). |
| 4 | Submit application online via UNSW International portal. |
| 5 | Await offer letter; accept & arrange visa process. |
Deadlines vary by intake — typically Term 1 in February and Term 3 in July/August.
10. Contact Details – Law & Justice (UNSW Sydney)
Law & Justice Student Services Phone: +61 2 9385 8500
Future Student Enquiries: +61 2 9385 1844
Address: Law & Justice Building, UNSW Sydney, Kensington NSW 2052, Australia
General Contact (Web Forms): via unsw.to/webforms
Conclusion
UNSW Sydney’s Law & Justice faculty offers some of the most comprehensive and respected legal education pathways in Australia — from LLB and JD to Master’s and PhD levels. With strong global rankings, diverse study options, practical experience opportunities, and support for international students, it remains an excellent choice for aspiring lawyers worldwide.























