Key information
Duration
- Full-time
- 36 months
Start dates & application deadlines
You can apply for and start this programme anytime.
Apply by 1 March, 1 July or 1 November, and start studying once you have a final Offer of Place.
Language
English
English requirements
- TOEFL iBT: 90
- PTE Academic: 58
- IELTS: 6.5
Credits
360 alternative credits
Delivered
On Campus
Campus Location
Wellington, New Zealand
Disciplines
- Patent & Intellectual Property Law
- International Law
Overview
A PhD in Law from Victoria University of Wellington sets you up to practise law in New Zealand, as well as overseas in places like Australia, Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Victoria University of Wellington is #1 in New Zealand for law, due to its excellence in teaching, research, and engagement for the subject of law (latest Times Higher Education (THE) 2026 Rankings by Subject).
Choose from a range of flexible, relevant study options—from advanced degrees of international reputation, to short courses for busy professionals.
Key facts
- Victoria University of Wellington's Faculty of Law is frequently ranked among the top 50 law schools in the world, confirming our place as one of the very best places to study the PhD in Law.
- We are ranked first in New Zealand for research quality, according to the Tertiary Education Commission’s Performance Based Research Fund (PBRF) Quality Evaluation.
Visit the programme website for more information
Programme Structure
Courses include
- Be part of New Zealand's leading centre for academic legal research.
- Faculty staff combine their academic work with practising law—as legal advisers, counsel and arbitrators—so their research is topical, relevant and respected all over the world.
Admission requirements
Academic requirements
We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.
English requirements
- TOEFL iBT: 90
- PTE Academic: 58
- IELTS: 6.5
Other requirements
General requirements
- Research degree such as Honours or Master's by thesis from a New Zealand university with an average grade of B+ or higher, an approved international equivalent, or other approved evidence of adequate training and ability.
- You may also be required to demonstrate your proficiency in English.
Fees and funding
Tuition Fees
Additional Details
International fee: TBC
Living costs
Wellington, New Zealand
834-1,918 AUD / month
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.