PhD - Aston Law School

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Aston Law School's PhD program cultivates exceptional legal scholars through rigorous research methods training, expert supervision, and a supportive environment. Students delve deeply into their chosen legal field, developing advanced research skills and the ability to make original contributions to legal knowledge, preparing them for careers in academia, legal research, and beyond.

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Analysis of PhD - Aston Law School program at Aston University

Degree Overview:

Objective:

The PhD program at Aston Law School aims to develop exceptional legal scholars and researchers who can excel in academic or professional industry research careers.

Program Description:

This program provides a rigorous and stimulating environment for doctoral students to delve deeply into their chosen legal field. Through a combination of taught modules, independent research, and expert supervision, students develop advanced research skills, critical thinking, and the ability to make original contributions to legal knowledge.

Outline:

Year 1:

• Students undertake four ESRC-approved research methods modules, equipping them with the necessary skills to successfully conduct and complete their PhD research.
• Modules cover:
• Philosophy of Social Science Research
• Research Design, Practice and Ethics
• Fundamentals in Quantitative Research Methods
• Foundations in Qualitative Research Methods
• Students work towards completing their Qualifying Report, which focuses on refining their research project and receiving feedback on early drafts.
• The Qualifying Report is assessed through a viva voce examination with two academic examiners.

Year 2:

• Students incorporate feedback from the Qualifying Report and develop their research projects further.
• Opportunities exist to present research at external conferences like the Society of Legal Scholars conference.
• Students engaged in empirical research typically focus on obtaining ethical approval for their projects and begin data collection and analysis.
• This may involve travel to external research sites.
• Students communicate and defend their research progress through:
• An oral presentation of their research, or
• A written chapter of their research thesis.

Year 3:

• Students have draft versions of most chapters of their thesis completed.
• They may need to revisit earlier chapters based on developments in later chapters or incorporate new legal developments.
• Students are encouraged to submit their work to important academic conferences and consider publication in journals or other academic formats to build their research profile.
• The final year culminates in:
• Thesis submission
• Formal viva voce examination where the finished PhD is examined by internal and external examiners.

Assessment:

• Assessment methods vary depending on the individual research project and may include:
• Written assignments
• Presentations
• Portfolios
• Viva voce examinations
• Thesis defense

Teaching:

• The program emphasizes close supervision and collaboration between students and faculty.
• Students receive individual guidance and support from experienced supervisors who are experts in their respective fields.
• Aston Law School is committed to providing a vibrant and supportive research environment where students can thrive and develop as researchers.

Careers:

• Graduates of the PhD program pursue careers in academia, legal research, government, policy, and various other sectors.
• The program equips them with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in diverse legal and research-oriented careers.

Other:

• The program offers a supportive and inclusive environment for students from diverse backgrounds.
The program's focus on individual supervision, research skills development, and a supportive environment fosters the growth of exceptional legal minds.

UK students (2024/5) Annual full-time fees: £4,786 Overseas students (2024/5) Annual full-time fees: £15,800 Home students, including EU students with settled or pre-settled status, living in England may be eligible for a non-means tested, low interest, loan towards tuition costs and living expenses. Find out more about the Doctoral Loans Scheme. PhD Scholarships BSS PhD Studentships Each year the College of Business and Social Sciences advertises a number of PhD studentships. Funded Studentships