PhD Law

The London South Bank University PhD Law programme is closely connected to the university's active and expanding research environment. This doctoral degree allows students to make a significant, original contribution to legal knowledge through in-depth research.

Students who take this course become part of a strong academic community, benefiting from contact with highly qualified academic staff who are experts in their chosen fields and who will guide and support their research journey.

The programme usually includes independent research that ends with a thesis. Students in this course will also attend postgraduate seminars and will receive regular contact with their supervisor and a postgraduate research tutor within the school.

In this course, students’ progress is assessed through a series of internal reviews, which help identify any gaps in knowledge or research development early on. This also provides practice in presenting and defending research, preparing students for their final oral examination.

Candidates are required to submit a personal statement in which they discuss their reasons for applying for the course and other relevant information regarding their studies. A relevant academic and/or employer reference is also required. Students have the option to include their CV along with their applications to highlight their work experience.

Grade Requirements:

• To be considered for the PhD Law programme, applicants are usually expected to have a good honours degree (at least a 2:2) and a relevant postgraduate qualification at Master's level.
• Professional experience, publications, and other evidence of research ability may also be considered.

English Proficiency:

• If English is not your main language, you will need to provide an IELTS score of 7.0 overall.
• The university also accepts other English language test scores, such as PTE and TOEFL.

For international students, the full-time tuition fee for the PhD Law at London South Bank University is typically £17,600 per year.

There are many scholarship opportunities for PhD students at London South Bank University, including options for international applicants. The LSBU Chancellor's PhD Scholarships offer full tuition fee waivers for up to four years for full-time UK, EU, and international applicants starting a new LSBU research programme.

There may also be specific PhD studentships in the School of Law and Social Sciences, which can be fully funded, covering tuition fees and an annual stipend. These scholarships are highly competitive and are usually awarded on a rolling basis, so early application is advised.

A PhD in Law prepares graduates for leading roles in academia, research, and high-level legal professions. Potential career paths include:

• University Lecturer / Academic Researcher
• Legal Scholar
• Policy Advisor
• Legal Consultant
• Senior Legal Counsel
• Think Tank Researcher

To apply for the PhD Law programme, international students should complete the LSBU Online Application Form. Our trained advisors are available to help you.