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SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Master of Laws 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
125680  Master of Laws 
ORIGINATOR
University of Mpumalanga 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Master's Degree  Field 08 - Law, Military Science and Security  Justice in Society 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  180  Not Applicable  NQF Level 09  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0639/26  2026-04-16  2029-04-16 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2030-04-16   2033-04-16  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of the Master of Laws qualification is to provide learners with advanced knowledge and skills in specialised areas of law, enabling them to make meaningful contributions to the legal profession and society.
The aim is also to equip learners with the ability to design, conduct, and present original research, fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and problem-solving abilities in legal studies.
Further aim is to offer learners the opportunity to specialise in specific areas of law, such as commercial law, human rights law, or environmental law, and develop expertise in these areas.

The secondary objective is also to enhance the career prospects of learners, enabling them to take on leadership roles, pursue academic careers, or work in specialised fields of law.
Also aims to provides learners with opportunities to engage with peers, academics, and professionals in the field, fostering networking and collaboration.
Learners will be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to make a positive impact on society, promoting social justice, human rights, and the rule of law.

The qualification will also produce highly skilled, knowledgeable, and innovative legal professionals who can make meaningful contributions to the legal profession, academia, and society.

Upon completion of the qualification a qualifying learner will be able to:
  • Apply advanced knowledge and understanding of law through original research.
  • Conduct independent research: Design, conduct, and present original research that contributes to the field of law.
  • Analyse complex legal issues and develop innovative solutions through research.
  • Communicate complex legal ideas and research findings effectively to various audiences.

    Rationale:
    The introduction of the LLM qualification aligns with institution's goal of contributing to the development of highly skilled individuals who can contribute to the country's growth. There is a growing need for advanced skills and research capacity in the field of law, particularly in addressing unresolved legal issues and promoting legal research.

    The LLM qualification will not only enhance the institution's research capacity but also provide opportunities for learners to engage in practical research, addressing real-world legal challenges. This, in turn, will contribute to the development of the country's legal system and society as a whole.

    The NDP [National Development Plan 2030] is a long-term vision for the country, which provides a broad strategic framework to guide key government choices and actions, and focuses on the critical capabilities needed to transform the economy and society. It regards education, training and innovation as central to South Africa's long-term development. Chapter 9 of the NDP focuses on improving education, training and innovation. The PSET system is expected to meet a wide range of education and training needs of our nation, particularly the youth.

    By offering the LLM qualification, the institution aims to:
  • Enhance the skills and knowledge of legal practitioners, academics, and researchers.
  • Promote research culture: Foster a research culture that addresses unresolved legal.
  • Address manpower needs: Meet the growing demand for highly trained legal practitioners in various organisations and society.
  • Contribute to the development of the country's legal system and society through advanced research and skills development. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The institution's Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy for this qualification is designed to provide alternative access routes into the qualification. The policy is aligned with the National Policy and Criteria for the Implementation of Recognition of Prior Learning (Amended March 2019).

    RPL Process:
    The RPL process for the LLM by Research qualification involves the following steps:
  • The applicant approaches the Registrar's Office and is directed to the relevant Head of School.
  • The applicant completes an RPL application form and pays an application fee.
  • The assessor advises the applicant on how to gather and present evidence to demonstrate that they have met the stated learning outcomes.
  • The outcome of the RPL process is documented, including a written report by the assessor and a recommendation regarding status recognition and admission.
  • The final decision regarding the recognition of status and admission of the RPL candidate is made by the Dean and reported to the relevant authorities.

    RPL Assessment Criteria:
    The RPL assessment criteria for the LLM by Research qualification include:
  • The relevance of the prior learning experience to the qualification's learning outcomes.
  • The currency of the prior learning experience, including its relevance to current practices and theories.
  • The authenticity of the prior learning experience, including evidence of its validity and reliability.

    RPL Outcomes:
    The RPL process for this qualification may result in one of the following outcomes:
  • The applicant's prior learning experience is recognised as equivalent to the qualification's admission requirements.
  • The applicant's prior learning experience is not recognised as equivalent to the qualification's admission requirements.

    Entry Requirements:
  • Bachelor of Laws, NQF Level 8. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory module at National Qualifications Framework Level 9, totalling 180 Credit.
  • Research Dissertation, 180 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply advanced knowledge and understanding of law through original research.
    2. Design, conduct, and present original research that contributes to the field of law.
    3. Analyse complex legal issues and develop innovative solutions through research.
    4. Communicate complex legal ideas and research findings effectively to various audiences.
    5. Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address real-world legal challenges.
    6. Demonstrate intellectual independence and autonomy in conducting research and developing research findings.
    7. Contribute to the field of law through original research that addresses real-world legal challenges and issues. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Apply depth and breadth of knowledge in the field of law.
  • Critically evaluate and synthesize complex legal concepts.
  • Illustrate understanding of the theoretical and practical implications of legal research.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Design and conduct original research that contributes to the field of law.
  • Apply effective use of research methodologies and techniques.
  • Illustrate an ability to collect, analyse, and interpret data.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Illustrate an ability to identify and analyze complex legal issues.
  • Effectively use critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Develop innovative solutions to complex legal problems.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Apply clarity and coherence of written and oral communication.
  • Communicate complex legal ideas and research findings to various audiences.
  • Effectively apply of visual aids and presentation techniques.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Critically evaluate and analyze complex legal concepts.
  • Effectively apply of critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Develop innovative solutions to complex legal problems.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Work independently and take responsibility for own research.
  • Effectively apply of initiative and self-motivation.
  • Make decisions and take calculated risks.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Illustrate originality and significance of research contribution.
  • Identify and address real-world legal challenges and issues.
  • Effectively apply research to inform policy, practice, or further research.

    INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT:
    The assessment strategy for this qualification is designed to assess learners' conceptual understanding and applied competencies. Although the qualification is summative, with all 180 credits based on the dissertation, formative assessment is embedded throughout the qualification.

    Formative Assessment:
    Formative assessment is used to monitor learner progress and provide feedback throughout the qualification. The following formative assessment activities are used:
  • Learners and supervisors agree on and co-sign a Learning Agreement, which outlines expectations and the supervisory process.
  • Learners submit a research proposal, which is assessed and provides feedback.
  • Learners submit a literature review, which is assessed and provides feedback.
  • Learners submit regular progress reports, which are assessed and provide feedback.
  • Learners submit draft chapters of their dissertation, which are assessed and provide feedback.
  • Learners present a research seminar, which provides an opportunity for critique and feedback.
  • Learners participate in a Community of Practice, which provides an opportunity for critique and feedback.

    Summative Assessment:
    Summative assessment is used to evaluate learner learning at the end of the qualification. The final summative assessment is based on the dissertation, which is assessed by two external examiners.

    Assessment Criteria:
    The assessment criteria for the dissertation are outlined in the Master's and Doctoral Degrees Policy and include:
  • The delineation of appropriate research objectives/aims/hypotheses.
  • The formulation of an unambiguous title that conveys the focus of the study.
  • The relevance, contemporary nature, and authority of the scientific sources and theories consulted.
  • The extent to which the research design is a logical progression from the research objectives/aims/hypotheses.
  • The accurate interpretation and discussion of findings, well substantiated by the results of the analysis.
  • Logical conclusions based on the results and appropriate recommendations/proposals for future research.
  • The overall linguistic and technical presentation of the dissertation. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Master of Laws (LLM) by Research qualification at the University of Mpumalanga is designed to meet international standards and compares favourably with similar programs offered globally, regionally, and nationally.

    Country: Australia.
    University of Melbourne (UM).
    Institution name: University of Melbourne, Australia.
    Qualification title: LLM by Research.
    Duration: One to two years.

    Entry requirement:
  • Have completed a Bachelor of Laws degree (LLB) (AQF7) or a Juris Doctor (JD) (AQF9) leading to admission to legal practice with a weighted average mark (WAM) of 70%, or equivalent,
    Or
  • Have completed a Bachelor of Laws degree (LLB) (AQF7) or a Juris Doctor (JD) (AQF9) or equivalent, leading to admission to legal practice.
    And
  • Have two years of documented relevant experience.

    Purpose/Rationale:
    The Melbourne Law Master's qualification has been designed around the busy schedules of working professionals. Subjects are offered from February to December each year. Most subjects are taught intensively over five days, with some subjects taught for two hours each week during the semester.

    Subjects delivered online will have a combination of pre-recorded lecture content, live sessions and discussion boards among other resources. On-campus subjects involve interactive, seminar-style classes in the Law Building in Melbourne.

    Similarities:
  • The South African (SA) and the UM qualification both accept learners who completed a LLB degree.
  • The SA qualification puts emphasis on advanced legal knowledge, independent research, and contribution to legal scholarship.
  • Similarly, the UM qualification puts emphasis on developing legal thinkers and the application of critical legal knowledge in resolving problems.
  • Both qualifications are offered over one year, with the SA qualifications consisting of 180 credits and the UM qualification consisting of 100 credits.
  • Both qualification's examination of the thesis by two external examiners appointed by the faculty examination committee.
  • For both qualifications, learners can articulate to a doctoral the qualification after the successful completion of LLM.

    Country: Botswana.
    Institution name: University of Botswana (UB).
    Qualification title: LLM by Research.
    Duration: One to two years.

    Entry requirement:
  • The normal minimum entrance requirement shall be a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree of this University with at least a second-class second division, or a comparable or equivalent qualification from any other recognized University or equivalent institution.


    Purpose/Rationale:
    The University of Botswana offers LLM programs featuring both coursework and dissertation, with pathways for a research essay (24 credits coursework + 12 credits research) or a full dissertation (12 credits coursework + 24 credits research). Research topics generally focus on advanced legal theory, commercial, labour, property, and constitutional law.

    Course structure:
  • LLM by Coursework and Research Essay; and
  • LLM by Coursework and Dissertation.

    Similarities:
  • The South African (SA) qualification and the UB qualification both accept learners who have completed an LLB.
  • The UB qualification aims to develop critical legal thinkers, contributing to legal knowledge and framework, similarly the SA qualification puts emphasis on advanced legal knowledge, independent research, and contribution to legal scholarship.
  • Both qualifications are offered over one year fulltime and two years parttime.
  • Both qualifications thesis are examined by two external examiners appointed by the faculty examination committee.
  • Both qualifications articulate into an LLM degree.

    Difference:
  • The SA qualification consists of 180 credits, and the UB qualification consists of 165 credits. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal articulation:
  • Master of Laws in Competition Regulation, NQF Level 9.
  • Possible horizontal articulation options between Sub-Frameworks for this qualification reached the registration end date in December 2025.

    Vertical articulation:
  • Doctor of Laws, NQF Level 10.
  • Doctor of Laws in International Human Rights Protection, NQF Level 10.

    Diagonal Articulation:
  • Advanced Occupational Certificate: Military Police Detective, NQF Level 6. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A. 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A. 

    NOTES 
    N/A. 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. University of Mpumalanga 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.