Law
A course by
University of Waikato
A highly practical diploma introducing students to core principles of New Zealand law, legal reasoning, and legal practice. Offered part-time and online or in-person, it provides guaranteed entry and credit transfer into the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) at Waikato.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Available in 2 locations
It will take a total of 1 year

Gain foundational knowledge of the New Zealand legal system, including its structure, sources of law, and main areas of substantive law.

Learn skills in case law analysis, statutory interpretation, forming legal arguments, and opinion writing.

Participate in mooting, create legal documents, and engage in small-group tutorials focused on real-world application.
The Diploma in Law at the University of Waikato is a 150-point programme designed for students seeking new career opportunities or to enhance current skills in law-related fields. It covers core law topics and provides practical and analytical skills. The teaching uses a combination of online lectures and small-group tutorials at Hamilton and Tauranga campuses with evening options, making it suitable for students working or with family commitments. Diploma graduates gain guaranteed entry to the LLB with relevant credits transferred.
What you need to know first
Applications considered case-by-case by the Faculty of Law Admissions Committee.

Law
Government
Business
Education
Māori governance
Voluntary sector

Paralegal or legal assistant
Law
A course by
University of Waikato
A highly practical diploma introducing students to core principles of New Zealand law, legal reasoning, and legal practice. Offered part-time and online or in-person, it provides guaranteed entry and credit transfer into the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) at Waikato.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Available in 2 locations
It will take a total of 1 year

Gain foundational knowledge of the New Zealand legal system, including its structure, sources of law, and main areas of substantive law.

Learn skills in case law analysis, statutory interpretation, forming legal arguments, and opinion writing.

Participate in mooting, create legal documents, and engage in small-group tutorials focused on real-world application.
The Diploma in Law at the University of Waikato is a 150-point programme designed for students seeking new career opportunities or to enhance current skills in law-related fields. It covers core law topics and provides practical and analytical skills. The teaching uses a combination of online lectures and small-group tutorials at Hamilton and Tauranga campuses with evening options, making it suitable for students working or with family commitments. Diploma graduates gain guaranteed entry to the LLB with relevant credits transferred.
What you need to know first
Applications considered case-by-case by the Faculty of Law Admissions Committee.

Law
Government
Business
Education
Māori governance
Voluntary sector

Paralegal or legal assistant
Personal written statement outlining work experience, community involvement, previous study, and reason for study.
Verified copies of academic records (transcripts) and birth certificate or passport.
If under 20: University Entrance including at least 18 points in a literacy-rich subject, or NCEA Level 3 Certificate endorsed with Merit or Excellence.
Other pathways considered for those not meeting University Entrance.
Roles in business management or human resources with legal expertise
Policy or advisory roles in local or central government
Enhanced roles in Māori governance or voluntary sector
Personal written statement outlining work experience, community involvement, previous study, and reason for study.
Verified copies of academic records (transcripts) and birth certificate or passport.
If under 20: University Entrance including at least 18 points in a literacy-rich subject, or NCEA Level 3 Certificate endorsed with Merit or Excellence.
Other pathways considered for those not meeting University Entrance.
Roles in business management or human resources with legal expertise
Policy or advisory roles in local or central government
Enhanced roles in Māori governance or voluntary sector