The postgraduate learning environment
Active learning
Practical and applied
Class format
Since its inception, UNSW Law has been recognised for its encouragement of active learning. Our model of interactive teaching in small to medium-sized classes means that the student is at the very centre of the learning process. A key indication of our success is that the UNSW model has become the national template for quality legal education. We continue to be one of the leading law schools for teaching excellence and innovation in Australia.
Engagement is fundamental to the student experience. Most classes average between 20 and 35 students and we require students to read before classes and to participate in class discussion. This enables lively class debate and enhances the learning experience. Assessment is continuous and diverse and includes research papers and projects. Open and friendly teacherstudent interaction is a hallmark of UNSW Law.
All of our postgraduate programs are designed with professional practice and the application of legal knowledge in mind. From the detailed doctrinal study of recent case law to analysing the pronouncements of international tribunals, our courses concentrate on law in action. Assessment tasks typically invite students to research issues of contemporary importance in practice. For example, the innovative Postgraduate Internships( see law. unsw. edu. au / pginternships), open to all students in a Masters program, allow students to acquire the knowledge and skills gained by witnessing and experiencing legal processes at work: in NGOs, courts and tribunals, charities, arms of government, legal centres and elsewhere. This opportunity is available every semester, and complements the practical and applied law focus in our other courses taught by leading practitioners and academic researchers.
Intensive classes Intensive courses are concentrated classes over full or half-days, or weekends. This mode of delivery is particularly attractive to those in demanding full-time employment. Please note that 100 % attendance is required for intensive programs.
Intensive summer school Summer school is an integral part of the UNSW Law School postgraduate coursework program. This additional academic session during December and January allows greater flexibility for students wishing to fast track their degrees or for those students needing to balance work and study commitments. Please note that courses offered in our postgraduate programs by UNSW Business School, UNSW Arts & Social Sciences, UNSW Science and UNSW Canberra may differ in format and location – please consult the relevant faculty for further information.
Weekly classes Courses offered on a weekly basis, over a 12 week semester, take the form of small groups. Weekly classes are held in the evening outside traditional business hours( usually between 6pm and 8pm).
Convenient class locations
Our Law Building is purpose built for teaching, learning and researching law. Light filled atria spaces, open staircases, landscaped courtyards and student meeting places have set a benchmark in law school design, creating a quality teaching, learning and research environment for our students and staff.
Weekly classes are held at both the UNSW Kensington Campus and the UNSW CBD Campus. The CBD Campus is located in the heart of Sydney’ s financial district, in the landmark 1 O’ Connell Street building and is a contemporary training and executive education centre.
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