Master of Laws

Applications for the Oct 2027 intake are due by Oct 31, 2026; tuition fees are 1,527 USD per year.

The Master of Laws program at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is for students who have a Bachelor's degree and want to study law at a higher level. This one-year program is taught in English and helps students gain a deeper understanding of law. The main advantage of this program is that it allows students to specialize in a specific area of law.

The curriculum includes subjects such as legal research, legal writing, and legal theory. Students also develop skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical writing. The program includes hands-on components like moot courts and case studies to help students apply theoretical knowledge to real-life situations.

After completing this program, students can work as lawyers, legal consultants, law professors, or policy analysts. They can find jobs in law firms, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. Some potential employers include law firms, courts, and government ministries. Students can also pursue further studies like a PhD in law.

The University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, known as Wits, is a prominent research-intensive university founded in 1922 and located in one of Africa’s most vibrant cities. With a student body exceeding 42,000 and a diverse international community, Wits offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across humanities, sciences, engineering, health sciences, and business. Its urban campus provides access to cultural institutions, industry partners, and public sector organizations for experiential learning.

Wits is recognized for rigorous research and strong professional programs, offering 322 distinct programs that combine theoretical depth with practical training. The university’s academic environment supports innovation through research centers, clinical training partnerships, and industry collaborations that help students build professional networks. International students benefit from dedicated support services, orientation programs, and resources to assist with visas, accommodations, and academic advising, helping them integrate into campus life and pursue career ambitions.

Campus life at Wits is dynamic, with active student societies, sporting opportunities, and cultural events that reflect Johannesburg’s diversity. Graduates join a broad alumni network and often find career pathways in South Africa and abroad. Prospective students should explore program-specific entry requirements, funding and scholarship options, and early engagement with faculty to tailor their study plans to research interests or professional objectives.