PhD Law postgraduate research degrees

The postgraduate research degrees in Law include PhD, MPhil, and PhD by Publication. These programmes allow students to conduct an in-depth study into how laws and the legal system influence society. The outcomes of such research can be used by governments, organisations, and individuals to help shape new legal policies and understandings. Examples of previous research include work on will and inheritance laws, and the trade of ivory in the UK.

Students are fully supported by the Doctoral College and a dedicated supervisory team throughout their studies. The Doctoral College provides training, workshops, and events through its Graduate School Development Programme to aid learning and development. Learning methods centre on independent research with academic guidance, culminating in a thesis and oral examination. Tuition fees cover a range of support, including registration, supervision, examinations, training, research assistance, seminars, and access to university facilities and resources such as computer rooms, the library, electronic journals, and support services.

The University of Portsmouth is known for its focus on student learning and progress, providing a good setting where students can reach their educational goals. The university offers many courses for both new students and those returning for further study. These cover various subjects such as Medicine, Law, Engineering, Business, and the Arts. The PhD Law programme is one of many higher-level courses open to those wanting to gain more knowledge.

To be enrolled, you need to submit a personal statement, a relevant academic and/or employer reference is also required, and you will need to attend an interview. You can also upload your CV along with your applications to demonstrate your work experience. 

Grade Requirements: 

• To be eligible for a PhD or MPhil, you need an upper second-class honours degree, an equivalent, or a master's degree in a relevant subject. 
• The university may also accept equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications.

English Proficiency: 

• If English is not your first language, you will need a minimum IELTS band 7.0, with no score below 6.5. The university also accepts other equivalent test scores, such as TOEFL.

International students will pay £17,900 annually as tuition for the PhD in Law at the University of Portsmouth.

There are a good number of scholarship opportunities for students at the University of Portsmouth to support their postgraduate research degrees. Full-time and part-time MPhil courses are eligible for the Government Postgraduate Loan (for UK and EU students). Likewise, full-time and part-time PhD courses are eligible for the Government Doctoral Loan (for UK and EU students). Students can speak to AHZ counsellors for more information on scholarship opportunities available, eligibility criteria and how to apply.

Completing a postgraduate research degree provides graduates with advanced research abilities, equipping them to become:

• University Lecturer / Academic Researcher
• Legal Policy Advisor
• Government Legal Counsel
• International Law Specialist
• Legal Consultant
• Barrister / Solicitor

Applications for this course are submitted online using the university’s application form. Our experienced counsellors are available to help you.