PHD Law and Criminology
Course overview
The PhD in Law and Criminology at Sheffield Hallam University offers you the opportunity to become an independent researcher. You will have a team of supervisors who are experts in your research area. Most of the work is done on your own, so you need to be motivated. Your supervisors will help you plan your research and guide you as you learn to work independently.
You can use different methods for your thesis. Some students use a doctrinal method for legal research, which means they study legal theories. Other students work with real communities and industries. They use methods like interviews and surveys to collect information for their research.
You will also join a research community in the Law and Criminology Department. This gives you the chance to take part in seminars, reading groups, and collaborative projects. A PhD in Law and Criminology from Sheffield Hallam University will help you become a confident researcher with good connections in the field.
Entry requirements
As part of the application process, applicants are to submit a research proposal of not more than 1,500 words. A personal statement that answers four set questions (200 words each) with practical examples is also required. Applicants will also need to supply details of two referees who can comment on their academic ability and readiness for the course.
Grade Requirements:
All applicants should hold a strong, relevant undergraduate degree (2.1 or above) and/or a relevant master's qualification (merit and above).
English Proficiency:
Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate proficiency in English by having an IELTS overall score of 7.0 or above (or equivalent) with at least 6.5 in each of the components.
It should be noted that the IELTS results must have been awarded two years before the beginning of the doctorate programme.
Scholarships
Chevening Scholarships
Payment of tuition fees.
Inclusive Leadership and Sustainable Growth Executive MBA Scholarship
Up to ten scholarships are available, each offering a £5,000 tuition fee discount.
Up to £5,000Joyce Spurr Art Travel Fund
Successful applicants will be awarded between £50 and £250.
Up to £50Online Masters Scholarship
A 10% discount on all our online masters courses.
Up to 10% of feesPerformance Athlete Support Programme
Successful applicants will receive support from our multi-disciplinary team of sport practitioners, free Team Hallam Ultimate Membership, and access to our facilities. Some students may also receive a bursary and support.
Postgraduate Research Scholarship
A 10% discount on postgraduate research courses is available if you have graduated with a full degree from Sheffield Hallam.
Up to 10% of feesPostgraduate Study Discounts
£2,000 discount on full-time postgraduate course fees for home and international students starting in 2026/27.
Up to £2,000Postgraduate Taught Scholarship
£1,000 Postgraduate Taught
Up to £1,000Transform Together Scholarships
A half fee waiver (50% discount) is available for undergraduate and postgraduate taught courses for the first year of study.
Up to 50% of feesVice-Chancellor's Award
South Asia - £2,000; Nigeria - £3,000; South East Asia - £3,000; Ghana- £3,000
Career opportunities
A PhD in Law and Criminology from Sheffield Hallam University opens doors to career opportunities in roles such as the following:
- Attorney
- Policy Analyst
- Federal Agent
- Professor
- Forensic Scientist
Cost of study
For the 2025/2026 academic session, the tuition fee to study the PhD Law and Criminology at Sheffield Hallam University is £17,725.
Admission
You can apply for this course by filling out the university's online application form. Our trained counsellors at AHZ are also available to walk you through this process.
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