| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-10-01 | - |
Program Overview
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.
Program Outline
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
Aston University
Overview:
Aston University is a public research university located in Birmingham, England. It is known for its focus on business and professional studies, with a strong emphasis on practical skills and employability. The university boasts a diverse and international student body, attracting students from over 120 countries.
Services Offered:
Aston University offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Student support services:
The university provides comprehensive support services to students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health support.Library:
Aston University has a modern and well-equipped library with extensive resources for students.Accommodation:
The university offers a variety of on-campus accommodation options for students.Student Union:
The Aston Students' Union provides a range of social and recreational activities for students.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Aston University offers a vibrant and welcoming campus experience. Students can expect:
A global community:
The university has a diverse student body, creating a multicultural and inclusive environment.A strong sense of belonging:
The university fosters a strong sense of community among its students.A range of social and recreational activities:
The university and the Students' Union offer a variety of activities for students to enjoy.A location in a vibrant city:
Birmingham is a major city with a rich cultural heritage, offering students a wide range of opportunities for entertainment, dining, and shopping.Key Reasons to Study There:
High rankings and awards:
Aston University consistently ranks highly in national and international rankings, including being ranked in the top 10% of universities globally.Strong focus on employability:
The university has a strong reputation for preparing students for successful careers, with a high graduate employment rate.Award-winning careers support:
Aston University provides excellent careers support services to students, including work placements and internships.Degrees with integrated work placements:
Many of the university's programs offer integrated work placements, providing students with valuable real-world experience.Triple accreditation:
Aston Business School is one of the few business schools in the world to have triple accreditation, signifying its high quality and standards.Academic Programs:
Aston University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Business:
Aston Business School is renowned for its business programs, including MBA and other postgraduate degrees.Engineering and Technology:
The university offers a range of engineering and technology programs, including computer science, infrastructure engineering, and sustainable engineering.Health Sciences:
Aston University has a strong presence in health sciences, offering programs in medicine, pharmacy, optometry, and psychology.Law:
Aston Law School offers a range of law programs, including undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.Social Sciences and Humanities:
The university offers programs in social sciences and humanities, including history, politics, and sociology.Other:
Entry Requirements:
Qualifications:
- Applicants must possess a Masters degree in business, management, or the social sciences (or related disciplines) with a Merit (or equivalent) overall.
- The Masters degree must include a dissertation or research element.
- Applicants must hold a First or Upper Second Class Honours degree (or an equivalent qualification from an overseas institution).
Additional Entry Notes:
- Applicants who demonstrate exceptional knowledge and capabilities for Doctoral level study may be considered even if they do not meet all the above criteria. These cases will be judged individually.
- Applications are open to both UK and international students, including EU and non-EU students.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- Applicants who are not from English speaking countries must meet Aston Law School's English language requirements. It provides information for both UK and international students, including those from the EU and those from outside the EU.
