NQF 9
qualification level
The LLM by Research is a master's Degree offered by Akademia for 2027 postgraduate applicants, taking 2 years minimum (maximum 3 years); e-learning only to complete. This page covers the minimum admission requirements you need to qualify, what the course involves, where you can study it, the careers it leads to, and how to apply.
Do you qualify
Minimum Admission Requirements to study LLM by Research at Akademia
- An LLB degree (NQF level 8) with an average of at least 65% for the prescribed final-year modules
- A written motivation of no more than 1 000 words
- A preliminary research proposal of no more than 3 000 words
What you study
About LLM by Research
The LLM by Research is a master's degree in law in which students complete an independent research project under supervision, written in Afrikaans. It is an NQF level 9 qualification of 180 credits (SAQA ID 123585) and is offered through e-learning only, so students do not need to live near a campus.
It suits law graduates who want to specialise in a particular area of law through research, who regularly do legal research in their work, or who plan to go on to a doctorate or an academic career.
Selection is competitive. Apart from meeting the minimum academic requirements, applicants must submit a written motivation of up to 1 000 words and a preliminary research proposal of up to 3 000 words. These are judged on academic merit and feasibility, and on whether the applicant shows:
- a strong academic foundation and knowledge of the chosen field
- excellent critical thinking, writing and research skills
- the ability to work independently on a long research project
Because there is no coursework, success depends on self-discipline and regular contact with the supervisor. Graduates are well placed to apply for doctoral study in law.
After you graduate
Careers After LLM by Research
Course intelligence for LLM by Research
Data-driven planning insights for this specific course: job market outlook, NSFAS funding, and how competitive admission is likely to be.
Job market outlook
LLM by Research doesn’t currently appear on the national scarce-skills list as a Legal Researcher. That’s not a red flag on its own, most jobs in South Africa aren’t on that list, it just tracks where employers reported the strongest hiring pressure. Your own results, experience and network will matter more here than national demand trends.
NSFAS funding
NSFAS does not usually fund students at private institutions like Akademia. Ask Akademia directly about its own bursaries or payment plans, and check whether a sector SETA offers funding for this field.
Admission chances
Akademia’s intake and this course’s requirements with its published admission requirements generally leave more room than the most sought-after courses, so you likely have a reasonable window to apply without rushing, though applying early is always the safer bet.
These insights are estimates generated from South Africa’s National List of Occupations in High Demand (DHET, November 2023 draft), NSFAS’s published funding rules, and this university’s general applicant demand. They’re planning guidance, not a guarantee. Always confirm funding and admission specifics directly with Akademia and NSFAS.
Step by step
How to Apply for LLM by Research in 2027
Apply online at akademia.ac.za/doen-aansoek, or book a consultation with an advisor first. Upload a certified ID copy, your Grade 12 results (or final NSC) and, for postgraduate study, your academic record and degree certificate. Applications for 2027 close on 29 January 2027. Classes and assessments are in Afrikaans, so make sure you are comfortable studying in the language.
Ready to apply? This takes you straight to Akademia’s own official application page.
Apply NowYou will leave studies.mycourses.co.za and apply directly with Akademia.
Answers
LLM by Research: Frequently Asked Questions
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Source: Official website: https://akademia.ac.za/llm-deur-navorsing/, last verified 2026-09-22. Requirements and fees change. Always confirm current details directly with Akademia before applying.