PhD in Law

The PhD in Law is an advanced, research-intensive program designed to provide students with the opportunity to conduct original research and contribute to the field of legal studies. This program emphasizes a deep understanding of legal theories, principles, and methodologies, preparing students to address complex legal issues through rigorous research. The program covers various areas of law, including constitutional law, international law, human rights law, and comparative law. Students will engage in scholarly research and analysis, culminating in a dissertation that makes a significant contribution to legal scholarship.

Course Duration

The PhD program typically spans 2 to 5 years, consisting of coursework, comprehensive examinations, and dissertation research. The initial years are dedicated to coursework and preliminary exams, while the remaining years focus on dissertation research and defense. The exact duration may vary based on individual progress and research requirements.

Program Format: Online, Hybrid, or On-Campus

Admission Requirements

• Academic Qualifications: A Master’s degree in Law or a related field with a strong academic record. Exceptional candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in Law may be considered for direct entry.
• Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• Letters of Recommendation: Three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant’s research potential and academic abilities.
• Statement of Purpose: A detailed statement outlining the applicant’s research interests, career goals, and reasons for pursuing a PhD in Law.
• Sample of Research Work: Submission of a research paper or thesis, if available, to demonstrate research capability.
• Medium of Study English: Proof of English proficiency if the previous degree was completed in English.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the PhD in Law program are well-prepared for a variety of high-level career paths, including:

• Academia: University faculty positions in law and related disciplines, including teaching and research roles.
• Legal Research Institutions: Research positions in institutions focusing on legal research and policy analysis.
• Judiciary: Roles in judicial bodies or as judicial clerks, contributing to legal decision-making and scholarship.
• International Organizations: Positions in organizations such as the United Nations or International Criminal Court, working on international legal issues and human rights.
• Public Policy and Advisory: Advisory roles in government or non-governmental organizations, providing expertise on legal and policy matters.

Program Benefits

• Expert Faculty: Access to leading legal scholars and practitioners with extensive expertise across various areas of law.
• Research Opportunities: Opportunities to engage in high-impact legal research with potential for publication in leading legal journals and presentations at conferences.
• Advanced Training: Comprehensive training in legal theory, research methodologies, and specialized areas of law.
• Professional Development: Access to workshops, seminars, and networking events to support career advancement and professional growth.
• Resources and Facilities: Access to extensive legal research resources, libraries, and databases to support rigorous academic and empirical research.
• Collaborative Environment: A supportive academic community that encourages interdisciplinary research and collaboration with peers and faculty.
• Global Perspective: Exposure to international legal issues and the opportunity to contribute to global legal discourse and policy development.

Core Courses

• Advanced Legal Theory: Exploration of major theories and conceptual frameworks in legal studies and their application to contemporary legal issues.
• Comparative Legal Systems: Study of different legal systems and traditions, including common law, civil law, and customary law.
• International Law: Examination of principles and practices governing international relations, treaties, and global legal norms.
• Legal Research Methods: Methodologies and techniques for conducting legal research, including qualitative and quantitative approaches.
• Constitutional Law: In-depth analysis of constitutional principles, structures, and jurisprudence.
• Human Rights Law: Study of international human rights norms, treaties, and case law.
• Dissertation Research Seminar: A seminar focused on supporting students through the development, conduct, and presentation of their dissertation research.
• Legal Writing and Analysis: Advanced skills in legal writing, argumentation, and analysis for scholarly work.

Achievements of this Program

• Expertise in Legal Scholarship: Mastery of advanced legal theories, research methodologies, and specialized areas of law.
• Advanced Research Skills: Proficiency in conducting and presenting high-quality legal research with practical and theoretical implications.
• Academic Contributions: Publication of research findings in leading legal journals and contributions to the field of law.
• Professional Networking: Development of a professional network within academic, judicial, and policy-making communities.
• Leadership and Impact: Preparation for leadership roles and the ability to influence legal scholarship, practice, and policy through evidence-based research.

Please go to the admission application to enroll in this program if you feel you are a good fit for the course.