Law
- PhD
Overview
The PhD Law programme offers you comprehensive research training, provided by globally-renowned legal experts. Ranked third in the UK for legal research excellence (REF 2021), our academics provide you with guidance and supervision of your own independent research project.
Join a vibrant and intellectually stimulating research community, supported by a wide range of Research Centres. As a postgraduate researcher, you'll be immersed in the dynamic academic life of the Law Schoolparticipating in research events such as the Scholar's Seminar Programme and our annual Postgraduate Research Showcase.
You may also have the opportunity to gain valuable teaching experience through part-time roles within the Law School. To support your academic journey, we offer funding for travel and conference attendance.
If your research interests lie in socio-legal studies, you may wish to consider beginning with our MSc in Socio-Legal Studiesan ESRC-recognised programme designed to provide a strong foundation for doctoral research.
Programme structure
PhD students must pass the 20 credit unit Advanced Legal and Socio-Legal Methods within the first 18 months of enrolment, unless they are exempt after applying for Recognition of Prior Learning. Visit the PhD Law programme catalogue.
ESRC/SWDTP students may be required to take additional credits as determined by SWDTP and outlined in their funding award letter.
Entry requirements
A minimum of an upper second-class honours degree in law (or equivalent) and normally at least a merit at master's level (or equivalent).
Alternatively, a first-class honours degree in law (or equivalent) and evidence of ability to conduct independent and original research.
See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.
Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.
If English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our profile level B.
Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.
Fees and funding
- Home: full-time
- £5,106 per year
- Home: part-time
- £2,553 per year
- Overseas: full-time
- £21,900 per year
Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.
More about tuition fees, living costs and financial support.
Alumni discount
University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.
Funding and scholarships
The Faculty of Arts, Law and Social Sciences has an allocation of MSc + PhD and PhD-only ESRC scholarships. The length of these scholarships will be dependent on training needs and can vary, with the shortest generally being three years and six months (PhD only).
Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.
Career prospects
Choosing the PhD in Law from the University of Bristol, ranked third in the UK for legal research excellence (THE analysis of REF 2021), prepares you for a range of careers, including:
- academia
- government, policy and NGO work
- a range of legal careers.
Develop the ability to plan, research and write a sophisticated thesis. Think in broad theoretical terms to engage in empirical research and conduct, for example, a detailed doctrinal analysis. You will also develop a deep understanding of legal principles and practice.
We offer extensive opportunities for career development and advice through our Careers Service, as well as opportunities for mentoring throughout your degree that will help you prepare for a career.
Meet our supervisors
The following list shows potential supervisors for this programme. Visit their profiles for details of their research and expertise.
Research groups
A wide variety of subject areas are covered in the Law School. This reflects a range of different approaches to legal research - doctrinal, socio-legal/interdisciplinary and theoretical. The school has a strong portfolio in immigration and citizenship, socio-legal studies, environmental law, gender and law, legal history, corporate governance and regulation, international law, employment law, and health law and policy.
The school usually has 80 research postgraduates at any one time, working in a wide variety of subject areas and adopting a range of different approaches to legal research.
Please visit our research webpages for more information on our vibrant research community.
Contact us
- Contact
Postgraduate Admissions Administrator
- Phone
- +44 (0)
117 455 1269
law-pgr-admissions@bristol.ac.uk
- Faculties