Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Course

This course is designed to provide theoretical and practical knowledge in business law and to develop an understanding of and an ability to analyse a wide range of legal problems arising in the practice of business law. The course is of direct relevance to those involved in the private, commercial, or government sectors where business law issues are relevant. The course will enhance legal skills for students seeking placements in legal commercial and governmental regulatory and compliance positions, especially in Australia and Asia.

Master of Business Law aims to produce graduates who will:

(a.) be critical and creative scholars who:

• produce innovative solutions to problems
• apply research skills to business challenges
• communicate effectively and perceptively

(b.) be responsible and effective global citizens who:

• engage in an internationalised world
• exhibit cross cultural competence
• demonstrate ethical values

(c.) have a comprehensive understanding of their discipline and be able to provide discipline based solutions relevant to the business, professional and public policy communities we serve

(d.) have advanced knowledge to masters level in business law.

An optional research pathway is available.

The course structure has four main components:

• a foundation unit in law and business decisions
• a research paper as a capstone unit
• a set of four units in business law
• two open electives.

Students must complete:

(a.) the core unit (6 points):

• BTX5140 Law and business decisions

This unit will normally be undertaken in the first semester of study.

(b.) one capstone unit (6 points):

• BTX5801 Final research project*

* Students who wish to complete the research stream in section (c.) must choose either BTX5900 Research project or BTX5490 Minor thesis as their capstone unit. The capstone unit will normally be taken in the final semester(s) of study.

(c.) four units (24 points) from the units listed in the specified streams under 'Areas of study'. Students are encouraged to select at least three units from one of the specified streams, or may opt to complete the research stream detailed below.

(d.) two graduate units (12 points) subject to the following conditions:

• units may be selected from the specified streams under 'Areas of study'.
• units may be selected from graduate-level units offered by other departments in the Faculty of Business and Economics, or from other faculties of the University, subject to approval by the course director.

Additional degree requirements:

• students can study a maximum of two 9000-level units (12 points)

Research stream

Enrolment in the research units listed below must first be approved by the Master of Business Law degree course director. In order to enrol in these research units, students must show evidence of prior research writing experience and capability to conduct legal research of a high standard. This specialisation provides a pathway to higher research degrees.

• BTX5900 Research project (12 points)
• plus two BTX units, or BTX5490 Minor thesis (24 points)

Areas of Study

• Business law (MBusLaw)
• Corporate law and Corporate governance
• Taxation law (MBusLaw)
• Workplace law (MBusLaw)

This degree may serve as a pathway to a higher degree by research. Students considering a research degree are advised to consult a course coordinator prior to making an application.

Students wishing to exit the Master of Business Law early may apply to graduate with the Graduate Certificate in Business after successful completion of 24 points of study.

Master of Business Law