Program Overview
The PhD in Law at Royal Holloway University of London is a multidisciplinary program that focuses on applied, theoretical, and doctrinal research across various legal and social science fields. The program provides a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment for students to conduct their research, with opportunities for collaboration, placements, and career development. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in academic research, legal practice, policy and advocacy, and non-governmental organizations.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The PhD in Law program at Royal Holloway University of London is a multidisciplinary program that focuses on applied, theoretical, and doctrinal research across various legal and social science fields. Aligned with the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021), the program boasts a strong research environment with 100% of its research impact assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent.
Objectives:
The program aims to:
- Equip students with advanced research skills in law and related disciplines.
- Foster a stimulating research environment for students to collaborate and contribute to multidisciplinary research groups.
- Provide opportunities for students to gain valuable research experience through placements with external organizations.
- Prepare students for successful careers in academic research, legal practice, and other sectors.
Program Description:
The PhD in Law program is a full-time program that typically takes 4 years to complete. Students are initially registered for an MPhil and participate in an upgrade process before the 20th month of their studies. Successful completion of the upgrade process requires submission of thesis chapters and a formal presentation to a Departmental panel. Following the upgrade, students progress to PhD registration and are expected to submit their thesis by the end of their third year of full-time study (8th year for part-time students). The program provides a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment for students to conduct their research. Students benefit from:
- Working within multidisciplinary research groups.
- Participating in monthly seminars and annual research impact events.
- Receiving training in research methods and attending workshops organized by the College-wide Doctoral School.
- Opportunities to present their research at academic conferences.
Outline:
Program Content:
The PhD in Law program offers a wide range of research areas, including:
- Crime and Punishment
- Families and Children
- Health and Social Care
- Rights and Freedoms Students can also choose to focus on specific legal fields such as:
- Criminal Law
- Family Law
- Human Rights Law
- Public Law
Structure:
The program is structured around thematic research clusters that allow students to specialize in their chosen area of interest. Students are expected to attend relevant seminars and participate in research activities organized by their chosen cluster.
Course Schedule:
The program does not prescribe a specific course schedule, allowing students to tailor their studies to their research interests.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:
- Thesis: Students are required to submit a thesis that demonstrates their original contribution to theoretical and applied knowledge in their chosen field.
- Presentations: Students present their research progress at seminars and conferences throughout their studies.
- Originality and innovation of research
- Depth and rigor of analysis
- Quality of writing and presentation
- Contribution to the field of law
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program offers a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Supervision: Students receive individual supervision from academic staff with expertise in their research area.
- Seminars: Students participate in regular seminars on various legal and research-related topics.
- Workshops: Students attend workshops on research methods, academic writing, and career development.
Faculty:
The program boasts a distinguished faculty with expertise in various legal and social science fields. Students benefit from working with leading academic researchers who are actively engaged in their respective fields.
Unique Approaches:
The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to legal research, encouraging students to engage with other social science disciplines to gain a broader understanding of legal issues. Additionally, the program provides opportunities for students to gain practical experience through placements with external organizations.
Careers:
Career Paths:
The PhD in Law program prepares students for diverse career paths such as:
- Academic research: Graduates can pursue careers as researchers at universities, research institutions, or government agencies.
- Legal practice: Graduates can pursue careers as lawyers, solicitors, or barristers.
- Policy and advocacy: Graduates can work in policy development, legislative drafting, or advocacy organizations.
- Non-governmental organizations: Graduates can work in NGOs focusing on human rights, social justice, or other relevant areas.
Career Outcomes:
The program boasts a strong track record of alumni success. Graduates have secured positions in prestigious universities, leading law firms, government agencies, and prominent NGOs.
- Home (UK) students tuition fee per year : £4,786
- EU and international students tuition fee per year : £18,200
- Other essential costs : There are no individual costs greater than £50 per item.
