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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