PhD Law
Course overview
The MPhil/PhD Law programmes welcome students into a collaborative academic environment where they can conduct independent research in law and legal studies. This research culminates in an extended thesis, guided by a supervisory team. Research students benefit from structured training, research forums, and networks to develop skills beneficial for their research and future employment.
Students are encouraged to present their research at conferences and may have opportunities to deliver undergraduate teaching. Initially, students enrol for the MPhil degree, transferring to a PhD at the start of their second year. The MPhil/PhD Law programme can be completed in 27 months (full-time) or 41 months (part-time).
Alternatively, students can enrol specifically in the MPhil in Law degree, completed in 18 months (full-time) or 27 months (part-time). Progress is assessed annually, and the PhD is awarded based on the thesis quality and the successful defence of the research topic in an oral examination. Students must demonstrate how their research contributes to knowledge or develops existing theory or practice.
Entry requirements
Candidates must submit a personal statement outlining their reasons for applying and relevant study information. A relevant academic or employer reference is also required. Students may optionally upload their CV to demonstrate work experience.
Grade Requirements:
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Applicants must hold at least a first or upper second-class honours degree or a Master's degree with a substantial law component. Direct entry to the PhD programme is possible with a suitable Master's degree or MPhil. Applicants may be invited for an interview.
English Proficiency:
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Applicants from non-English speaking backgrounds must achieve an overall IELTS score of 6.5, with a minimum of 6.0 in each section, or provide equivalent test scores such as SELT, PTE or TOEFL.
Scholarships
Chevening Scholarships
Global Leaders Scholarship
The scholarship is available to international students and is valued at 50% of tuition fees for one year of study.
Up to 50% of feesGlobal Postgraduate Scholarship
The Global Postgraduate Scholarship is valued at £2,000 and will be awarded to eligible students as a tuition fee discount in the first year of their studies.
Up to £2,000International Alumni Scholarship
The International Alumni Scholarship is valued at £2,000 and will be awarded to eligible students as a tuition fee discount for the first year of a postgraduate taught or postgraduate research programme.
Up to £2,000International Undergraduate Scholarship
The International Undergraduate Scholarship is valued at £2,000 and will be awarded to eligible students as a tuition fee discount for each year of their undergraduate programme at the University of Lincoln.
Up to £2,000Lincoln Alumni MSc School of Health and Social Care Scholarship
£1000 will be paid directly to the student for each year of study for each completed academic year of study, with part-time students eligible for a pro-rata payment.
Up to £1,000Partner Scholarship
If you’re eligible to receive the Partner Scholarship, you may also be eligible to receive a tuition fee discount of £1,000 through our Early Payment Discount.
Up to £1,000
Career opportunities
A doctoral qualification in Law opens doors to a range of specialised career paths. Here are some potential career options:
- Academic Lecturer
- Legal Researcher
- Policy Advisor
- Barrister/Solicitor (with further qualifications)
- Government Legal Advisor
- International Law Specialist
Cost of study
For international students pursuing the PhD Law programme, the tuition fees are £16,600 for full-time study and £8,300 for part-time study.
Admission
Applications for the PhD Law programme are made online through the University of Lincoln's website. Our trained counsellors are available to help applicants with understanding and meeting the entry requirements.
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