Master's in Law & Legal Studies in Hong Kong
There are 7 master's Law & Legal Studies programmes for international students across 3 universities in Hong Kong. Tuition ranges from €21k to €27k. Browse the full list below, compare entry requirements, and explore scholarships to fund your studies.
Juris Doctor (JD)
The Juris Doctor (JD) programme at the University of Hong Kong is a rigorous graduate-level law degree designed to be completed in two years. It begins with a mandatory three-week induction period in August to equip new students with fundamental legal study skills. The academic year is divided into two regular semesters (September-December and January-May), with an additional one-month June semester in the second year. To graduate, students must successfully complete courses totaling 144 credits. Core courses account for 84 credits, covering essential legal subjects such as Contract Law, Criminal Law, Tort Law, and Constitutional Law. Students must also complete a capstone requirement through courses like Clinical Legal Education, Public Interest Clinic, Dissertation, or International Mooting. The remaining 54 credits are elective, allowing students to specialize in areas of interest such as financial law, international arbitration, competition law, and intellectual property law. For those intending to pursue the Postgraduate Certificate in Laws (PCLL), specific elective courses like Company Law and Evidence are available. The first year focuses on foundational core subjects, including Legal System & Legal Research, Contract Law, Tort Law, Criminal Law, and Constitutional Law, alongside an elective. The second year delves deeper into core subjects like Equity & Trusts and Land Law, includes the capstone course, and provides ample opportunity for students to explore advanced topics through a wide range of electives.
Juris Doctor (JD)
The Juris Doctor (JD) programme at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) is a postgraduate law degree designed for graduates who hold a bachelor's degree in a non-law discipline. This programme provides a comprehensive legal education that can lead to a career in the legal profession or to leadership roles in various other sectors. It is taught entirely at a postgraduate level, meaning JD students will share classes exclusively with other graduate students and have a wide range of elective courses to choose from. This is a respected, internationally recognised qualification.
Juris Doctor (JD) Programme
The University of Hong Kong's Juris Doctor (JD) programme is designed for individuals seeking a rigorous legal education. It aims to equip students with comprehensive legal knowledge and critical thinking skills essential for a career in law. The programme emphasizes academic excellence and attracts students from diverse backgrounds.
Master of Laws (LLM) in AI Law
The LLM in AI Law program offers a comprehensive exploration of the legal challenges and opportunities presented by advancements in artificial intelligence. It provides students with a deep understanding of how AI's rapid development impacts law-making, legal practice, and society. The program equips students with insights into AI technology itself and its broader implications for the legal profession and humanity.
Master of Laws (LLM) in Common Law
The Master of Laws (LLM) in Common Law program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the common law legal system, which influences numerous countries worldwide. This program focuses on substantive knowledge of Hong Kong law within core common law subjects and aims to enhance your ability to engage with the broader common law tradition. Through elective courses, you can specialize further in common law or explore new legal areas. Hong Kong, as a global financial hub and a common law jurisdiction within China, offers a unique and vital environment for studying law. This LLM will equip you with expertise in the institutions, procedures, substantive law, and developments of the common law world, making you a desirable candidate for legal careers in both common and civil law jurisdictions, as well as internationally.
Master of Laws in Arbitration and Dispute Resolution (LLMArbDR)
The Master of Laws in Arbitration and Dispute Resolution (LLMArbDR) programme at City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) is a well-established and highly regarded program, being the first of its kind in Asia when it was founded in 1991. It offers a comprehensive blend of academic theory and practical training in various dispute resolution methods, with a particular focus on domestic and international arbitration, mediation, adjudication, and negotiation. The program is designed to equip legal and non-legal professionals with advanced knowledge and skills in this field, aiming to foster expertise and leadership within the Asia-Pacific region. With a competitive admission process attracting over 1,000 applications annually for a limited number of places, the LLMArbDR program has earned an outstanding reputation. It is taught in English by experienced legal professionals and is structured to allow for flexible study, typically delivered in evening classes to accommodate working professionals. Graduates often go on to become leading figures in arbitration and dispute resolution.
Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Laws
The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Laws is a research-focused degree designed for students dedicated to advanced legal scholarship. This program offers a pathway to potentially pursue a PhD in Laws at CUHK, subject to academic performance and evaluation during your MPhil studies. Admission is highly competitive, with a limited number of places available each year. The program is delivered in English at the University's main campus in Shatin and can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis.
Frequently asked questions
How many Law & Legal Studies programmes are there in Hong Kong?
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7 across 3 universities, listed on this page.
Can international students apply?
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Yes — these programmes admit international students; check each programme's entry requirements and language of instruction.