Do you want to attend another graduation and wear an even fancier robe? Do you want to explore more specific areas of the law than just the Priestley Eleven? Do you want a better-paid job that’s better suited to your interests than the average graduate role? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then perhaps you should consider a master’s degree.
These days, it can sometimes feel like everyone has an undergraduate degree, and employers seem to want more from candidates than just a few years at university. Studying a master’s degree is a great way to get one step ahead, especially if you don’t have a job lined up yet.
Postgrad study can also create pathways for you to become more specialised in areas that interest you. This way, you are more likely to get a job that suits your interests, as opposed to taking any graduate job that comes your way.
I applied for a number of different masters programs in my general interest areas. The application process is easy enough, with the only real challenge being to get hold of all the relevant documentation. I decided to apply for a heap of different things and see what happened. As it turns out, if you didn’t fail any (or many) undergraduate subjects, there is a very good chance you will get into the program of your choice. I was offered a spot in a couple of different programs, and while it was tempting to take the options that would be more likely to lead to a better income, ultimately, I decided to pursue what I was most passionate about and chose a master of human rights.
I hope the course will equip me to help make some positive changes in the world. It might sound naïve, but it’s all I have ever really wanted to do.
When you’re studying core law subjects, I feel that it’s easy to lose sight of the aspects of law that you found fascinating in the first place. Studying the areas of law that you’re interested in tends to be a much more enjoyable experience, and can inspire you to reach for bigger goals.
When it comes to choosing a master’s degree, there are an overwhelming number of options out there. The other great thing about delving into a master’s after a law degree is that you don’t even specifically have to study law. You can do everything from linguistics to forensics. That said, if law is where your passion lies, a master’s degree in law will help to further your legal career.
Workplaces are often accommodating if you want to continue studying, and I know a number of people who have even had their postgraduate studies funded by their employer. Unfortunately, I have to self-fund my studies, but the good news is that there are HECS-like student loan arrangements and scholarships available for postgraduates too.
Applications to study a masters degree can be made to most universities right up until the start of the coming semester, so if you think you are up for a bit more learning, start researching your course options!
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