University of Surrey

PhD Law

University of Surrey

Course overview

The PhD in Law programme educates the next generation of legal thinkers, law reformers, and academics, with emphasis on legal theory and practice. Students carry out research and are supervised by professionals in areas, such as legal philosophy, criminal justice, or public international law, contributing original work to the field.

Students are encouraged to build their teaching skills and present ideas both in university settings and internationally, supported by the university. Assessment is done based on the submission of a written thesis that must represent an original contribution to knowledge, followed by a viva voce examination with at least two examiners.

Entry requirements

Candidates are required to first contact and consult with a potential supervisor from the academic staff and then submit a detailed research proposal, relevant information about their studies, an academic and/or employer reference and a CV to show their work experience or professional background. If you are successful after screening, you will be invited for an interview.

Grade Requirements:

  • Candidates typically need a 2:1 degree and a master's degree at a minimum of merit level in Law, or another relevant discipline, from an approved university.
  • Other international qualifications equivalent to an A-level are also accepted.
  • If you do not meet these requirements and you have a first-class degree in law or a similar subject, you will be considered.

English Proficiency:

  • Candidates need to score at least 7.0 overall in the IELTS test, with no component below 6.5.
  • Other English language test scores, such as PTE Academic and TOEFL IBT tests, are accepted.

Scholarships

  • Discounts for Surrey Graduates

    As graduate of Surrey you may be eligible for a 20 per cent discount on our taught masters programme fees.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Early Payment Discount

    The discount is awarded as a £2,000 fee waiver for eligible students in the first year of their studies.

    Up to £2,000

  • ICAEW Foundation Bursary

    The ICAEW Foundation Bursary will be given as a one-off payment of £5,000 for one year of postgraduate study.

    Up to £5,000

  • International Alumni Discount for Medicine (Graduate Entry) BMBS

    The discount of 20% only applies to the first year of the Medicine (Graduate Entry) BMBS programme.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • International Excellence Award (Postgraduate)

    This prestigious £5,000 award recognises academic excellence and is awarded to selected students starting a masters degree at Surrey.

    Up to £5,000

  • International Excellence Award (Undergraduate)

    The scholarship is awarded as a £5,000 fee waiver.

    Up to £5,000

  • ISTAT Foundation Scholarship Program

    Contributing to the development of future aviation professionals by providing funds and avenues for students with a keen interest in commercial aviation.

  • Surrey MBA AI Pathfinders Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Eastern Europe Bridge Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Employer Partnership Scholarship

    This scholarship allows the Surrey MBA to match employer contributions towards the tuition fee up to 40%.

  • Surrey MBA Enterprise Trailblazer Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Service Stewardship Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Women in Leadership

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10 – 50% of the tuition fee.

  • The Professor GQ Max Lu Global Scholarship

    The total value of the award is £30,000 (£10,000 x 3 years).

    Up to £30,000

Career opportunities

Graduates of the PhD Law programme from the University of Surrey can become:

  • Law Professor/Lecturer
  • Senior Policy Advisor/Analyst
  • Legal Consultant/Expert Witness
  • Chief Compliance Officer (CCO) / Director of Regulation
  • Legal Officer

Cost of study

The international students’ tuition fee for the PhD Law programme at the University of Surrey is £21,800.

Admission

Admission to the PhD Law programme is made through the university’s online application portal. If you need further assistance, we at AHZ can assist you with your application process.

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