The LLM is designed to provide an advanced level of study for both full-time students and those who are legal practitioners or engaged in other full- or part-time employment. It can be undertaken by coursework, research, or a combination of both. Students can choose from over 25 taught courses and entry to the LLM is available throughout the year. Students can concentrate their study in particular areas of specialization or study a broad range of legal subjects.

• The LLM taught (coursework) allows students to study areas in greater depth and complexity than at the undergraduate level. The program offers courses that provide detailed analyses of particular areas of law, as well as more policy-oriented courses.
• The LLM by research allows students to conduct in-depth study in an area of personal interest to enhance employment opportunities either professionally or academically.

Each course contains a significant research component, usually in the form of a 12,500- word research essay for 30-point courses. The LLM also permits cross-disciplinary study in the form of one or two master's courses (up to 30 points) from another faculty at the University of Auckland.