In apparent contradiction to reports in 2015 that there were too many law graduates and not enough jobs, early in 2016 the prospects for future law graduates are looking more positive. In an article entitled “Legal sector to lead in recruitment growth in 2016” it was reported that 45% of 3,793 employers surveyed by Hudson “said they were seeking to hire more staff in the coming year”. The legal sector was identified “as one of the top three professions most in demand for new employees”. The Hudson Report 2016 will be released this month. Interestingly, the survey also asked 4,198 employees about their future intentions and 62% of those surveyed said they “are considering finding a new job”; “More than one in four will be actively seeking a new job this year, with another 36 per cent identifying as ‘passive’ job seekers.” 

This aligns with another recent article which argued that “Options do exist” for senior associates seeking partnership. Lateral moves are suggested as one way forward, and in this context further education can certainly strengthen a CV for legal professionals looking at switching firms. Increasing importance is being placed on Masters degrees for career advancement in Law. Upgrading qualifications and building skills and knowledge through postgraduate study has been highlighted in an earlier Lawyers’ Weekly article in which it was said that the legal profession had “traditionally not placed much emphasis on continuing education” but that more recently much more interest had been shown in higher qualifications in some areas.

There is little doubt that further study beyond a qualifying law degree allows graduates to develop specialist knowledge, skills and expertise in substantive areas, as well as practical aspects and the opportunity for in depth research. Postgraduate study can build upon experience gained in practice and also provides a way for professionals to open up new areas, internationalise their expertise and/or transition from one area to another; in an era when many young professionals are increasingly restless and lawyers are more mobile than previous generations.

Many Australian universities, including The University of Western Australia, have focused on attracting both international and domestic postgraduate students developing a range of new and innovative postgraduate programs; implementing flexible entry pathways and intensive part time study options for working professionals, whilst also providing full time offerings for international students.