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Where Will Postgraduate Study in Law Lead You?

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at Sydney Law School equips you for careers in advanced research, policy development, public service, tertiary teaching or professional leadership. You will benefit from a vibrant and dynamic research culture and engage with internationally renowned School members who are experts across a range of fields.

Subject areas

Shared pool, entry, fees, funding & how to apply, your entry requirements, english language proficiency.

For academic requirements check the ‘Admission requirements’ section on this page.

How to apply

Please apply by 31 October for commencement on 1 March and 30 March for commencement on 1 July. If your application cannot be assessed in time for commencement, it will be considered for the next possible start date. You may not apply until an Expression of Interest has been accepted by the School.

Starting date

Research Period 2: 1 March and Research Period 3: 1 July

Research areas

Doctor of Philosophy researchers perform original research in an area of law or regulation involving legal or interdisciplinary methodologies under the supervision of a member of the University of Sydney Law School who is an expert in the subject matter.

Learn more about Sydney Law School research

What you'll study

The Doctor of Philosophy (Law) is awarded on the basis of a supervised thesis of a maximum 80,000 words. The thesis must make a substantially original contribution to the knowledge of the subject concerned. Students are also required to complete the compulsory research-support coursework units, LAWS6077 Legal Research 1 within the first 12 months of their candidature and LAWS7001 Legal Research 2 within the first 24 months.

Changes to higher degree research in 2021

From 2021, the University is introducing a new coursework curriculum to support research success. PhD students will complete 12 credit points of coursework and be able to choose from a pool of 270+ units from any faculty. The pool comprises a range of development opportunities that include specialist analytical methods, professional development units and discipline-specific subjects relevant for research students. Refer to the Interdisciplinary Studies handbook

There is no separate tuition fee cost for the coursework units of study you will undertake, it is part of the tuition fee for the course .

See the ‘Your Fee’ section for fee information. Additional non-tuition course costs vary depending on the units of study.

You will be able to see and enrol in any of the units available, subject to capacity constraints and your own background. Note that your faculty may elect to make certain units compulsory for a given PhD degree pathway.

Applying for admission

There are two steps involved in making an application to a Law research program:

If you have already commenced a research degree, there are additional requirements, please contact law.postgraduate.sydney.edu.au

Also visit Research Scholarships

Completion requirement

To satisfy requirements of the degree students must:

Admission requirement

There are three main conditions of admission, namely:

(i) Academic qualifications

(ii) Research and publication experience and

(iii) Suitability of the proposed course of study and research. If you are not academically qualified to undertake a research degree, you may consider pursuing your research interests through coursework study before progressing to a research degree.

The coursework program provides you with an opportunity to enhance your expertise in the proposed area of research by allowing you to complete research projects in related units of study. Applicants require a Master's degree and/or Bachelor's degree with first or second class honours.

Careers & future study

Career pathways.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at the University of Sydney Law School is a pathway to a number of careers, including tertiary education, policy development, advanced research, and specialisation for employment in government, inter-governmental and international organisations, and civil society organisations. You will conduct a research project that makes a substantial and original contribution to knowledge and will have a highly developed knowledge base, with strong written, oral, and critical analytical skills.

Important fee information

Domestic students, international students.

The course information on this website applies only to future students. Current students should refer to faculty handbooks for current or past course information.

Student links

Personalise your experience

Doctor of philosophy - law.

CRICOS code: 056956G

Course overview

Please note: Applications for 2022 have closed! Applications are currently being considered for commencement in 2023.

Melbourne Law School aims to admit outstanding graduates from a wide variety of countries and to provide them with a world class experience in undertaking a graduate research degree.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree requires you to undertake a substantial piece of independent and original research under academic supervision. The research thesis is examined externally by scholars with international standing in the research field of the thesis topic.

(Course code: DR-PHILLAW)

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Doctor of philosophy (phd) in law.

law phd australia

4 years full-time (note that some scholarships are for a maximum of 3.5 years at present with a possible extension). If part-time study is approved, the maximum duration is 8 years.

Entry requirements

The minimum entry requirements are: English language proficiency, and at a minimum, a bachelor's degree with first or upper second class honours, usually in law. Admission into this program is highly competitive and we therefore prioritise applicants with a first class honours degree. We favour applicants who also have a masters degree with a high grade point average.

The level of English language required for Law is high (see How to Apply ) . If you are an international student, you must provide a current IELTS or TOEFL certificate as proof of your competency. The tests can be arranged through the British Council or the Australian Embassy in your country.

Program description

The PhD in Law is an opportunity for you to engage in high-quality independent research as part of an extended research project. The PhD degree requires submission of a thesis of not more than 100,000 words that makes a substantial contribution to learning in the field of law. Each candidate has a supervisory panel of academics. Students are encouraged to participate in the activities of the ANU College of Law, and would most often be based on campus and study full-time.

Mode of delivery

The research outcome of a PhD degree is a thesis of not more than 100,000 words. During their study, candidates are assessed against milestones which include: annual plans (completed 3 months after commencement and then annually); annual reports; a thesis proposal review; and an oral presentation.

Research students at ANU must fulfil the minimum residency requirements specified in the Australian Government’s Research Award Rules 2017 unless approval has been obtained for a reduced period of attendance, or the student is externally based. Applicants should make a detailed case for any reduced period of attendance, preferably at the time of application. ANU also has a PhD Attendance Requirements Policy which describes these requirements.

If you are approved to study externally (via distance), the minimum attendance on campus is 4 weeks each year. For further information, please refer to the Guidelines For Externally Based Students on the ANU Law Apply online page. Approval to study externally cannot be guaranteed.

ANU Law will provide a suitable work space and computer on the ANU campus in Canberra. All students will have access to Wattle (Web Access to Teaching & Learning Environments), the University’s online learning platform.

ANU has the highest level of graduate employability of any Australian university.

In addition, graduating from ANU Law will see you join a prestigious and highly recognised alumni network of over 20,000 professionals in Australia and around the globe.

Academic experts

Each candidate has a supervisory panel of academics, usually drawn from the ANU College of Law’s experts .

With particular expertise in constitutional and administrative law , international law , environmental law , migration law , governance and national security , our academic staff are frequently called on by parliamentary committees, peak bodies, professional associations and the media for analysis, advice and guidance on the law, and what might be done to improve it.

Many of our expert research staff are also award winning teachers who are are always accessible and work closely with you to ensure you successfully complete your studies. We have created a supportive and nurturing environment in which you can thrive.

Admission to practice

A PhD in Law will not provide a basis for admission to practice.

ANU currently enrols domestic research students under the Research Training Scheme (RTS) which is funded by the Commonwealth Government. RTS funded students are not required to contribute to the cost of their tuition for the duration of their program.

International students are required to pay the cost of their tuition for the duration of their program. The annual fee for international students (2018) is $40,416.00.

Fees for the PhD program are also available on the Programs and Courses website.

Scholarships

ANU funds and administers a range of scholarships for graduate research degree programs, especially for domestic students. See our HDR scholarships page for information on these scholarships and their deadlines.

More information on ANU costs and fees , and scholarships and support is available on the central ANU website.

For more information on the Australian education system please go to the government websites MyUniversity and StudyAssist .

We have prepared detailed information on how to apply to do Higher Degree Research at ANU Law , including information on scholarships, putting your application together, applying online and commencement. Please read through these instructions thoroughly.

For information on admission requirements, fees, courses, electives, suggested study patterns and more see Programs and Courses »

Updated: 10 August 2015 / Responsible Officer: College General Manager, ANU College of Law / Page Contact: Law Marketing Team

+61 2 6125 5111 The Australian National University, Canberra CRICOS Provider : 00120C ABN : 52 234 063 906

Group of Eight Member

Develop advanced research skills that will prepare you for a career in which systematic and critical analytical skills are highly valued.

law phd australia

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Research Training Scheme

AU$36,480 (2023 annual)

In this PhD program you will develop advanced research skills that will prepare you for a career in academia and other settings in which systematic and critical analytical skills are required.

This PhD degree may be undertaken in a project or thesis mode.

The GSBL Law academics can provide research supervision in a wide range of topic areas such as:

How you will learn

RMIT's Swanston Academic Building is the base for your business research career.

The building's features include:

The result is a stimulating environment to encourage creative and intellectual activity among a variety of users.

Research in the Graduate School of Business and Law

Research in the school is focused on information technology, information management, information systems and logistics and supply chain management issues. The School has a strong record of achievement in PhD training with a current enrolment of 80 higher degree students.

Research at RMIT

Time spent on research.

Full-time candidates are expected to commit at least four days per week (or at least two days per week for part-time candidates) to their research. The academic year is 48 weeks.

Regular contact with your supervisor

A schedule of meetings with your supervisor/s must be established to assess progress against milestones and timely completion.

Resources, facilities and support

You will have access to the Learning Hub and other online and digital resources through the myRMIT student portal.

You will be part of an active research community and have access to resources and workshops to help you succeed.

Business Research Office

The Business Research Office supports candidates, supervisors in the College of Business. It is the central office responsible for coordinating and disseminating information about funding opportunities and research-related activities. Prospective researchers are invited to contact the Business Research Office to discuss potential candidature.

School of Graduate Research

The School of Graduate Research works with Schools to further support candidates during their postgraduate research degree.

Guiding the development of the College of Business, both nationally and internationally, is an Industry Advisory Board of high-profile executives. The Board creates a strategic bridge between the latest in technology and design thinking and business.

Learning outcomes

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes .

Electives and course plan

You will undertake the PhD program under the supervision of an appointed research supervisor.

The PhD program is structured to enable you to:

Research Integrity modules

You are required to complete the online modules:

You may need to complete an ethics module to ensure your research is ethical and responsible.

Research Methods

The compulsory course Introduction to Research Methods introduces you to research methods commonly used in business disciplines. It helps you explore and discuss how to plan and scope a research project, frame appropriate research questions, write research proposals, and understand 'mixed methods’ approaches to conducting and documenting your research. It is taught in large discipline groups.

Research Techniques

Electives in qualitative or quantitative research techniques are available once data collection has begun. You can use your own data to explore different research analysis techniques. Your supervisor will help decide when you should take these electives.

Co-curricular activities

You are encouraged to participate in activities offered by the university, College and School according to your needs and interests.

This PhD may be undertaken in a project, thesis by publication or thesis mode. Prospective candidates should discuss these modes of submission with their potential supervisor/s prior to application.

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

*The maximum duration of the PhD program is 4 years full-time and 8 years part-time. However, candidates are expected to complete their program within 3-4 years full-time equivalent and 6-8 years part-time equivalent.

*The maximum duration of the PhD program is 4 years full-time. However, candidates are expected to complete their program within 3-4 years full-time equivalent.

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

Graduates will be able to pursue an academic career in a university or be employed in senior leadership and management positions in government, non-government organisations and corporations.

As a researcher, your mastery of the discipline evidenced through a substantial and rigorous research project and other contributions to your field of specific interest can make a real difference to society.

The minimum requirements for admission to a PhD program are:

At RMIT a grade of distinction represents academic achievement of 70% or higher and a high distinction is 80% or higher.

If you are a current master by research candidate, you are able to apply for a transfer to a doctor of philosophy program through the process prescribed in the RMIT Higher Degree by Research policy .

These entrance requirements are the minimum academic standard you must meet in order to be eligible to apply for the program. You will need to complete a selection task as part of your application.

A selection process will be conducted in conjunction with the School and supervisors you nominate.

For further information on the steps you need to take to apply for a research program see How to apply – Research programs .

English language requirements

Research proposal and supervisor

You must attach a substantive research proposal that is 2 to 5 pages in length which articulates the intent, significance and originality of the proposed topic using the following headings:

a) title / topic b) research questions to be investigated in the context of existing research/literature in the area c) significance and impact of the research d) methodology / research tasks required to undertake the research e) particular needs (e.g. resources, facilities, fieldwork or equipment that are necessary for your proposed research program, if applicable).

Your application will not be considered if you have not discussed your research topic with a proposed senior and associate supervisor or joint senior supervisors. You must provide the names of the academic staff in the school you have applied to and with whom you have discussed your proposed research.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information .

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus Certificate at RMIT English Worldwide .

You can gain entry to this program from a range of RMIT four year Bachelor and Honours degrees or Postgraduate or Masters by Research programs.

Fee summary

Fee information for masters by research and doctorate (PhD) programs.

If you are an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or New Zealand citizen you may be eligible for a Research Training Scheme (RTS) place where your tuition costs are funded by the Commonwealth Government under the RTS and you have full exemption from tuition fees.

Acceptance in an RTS place is very competitive and places are granted on the condition that you meet annual progress requirements and complete within the allotted time for your program and your status as a part-time or full-time candidate.

This means a maximum of 2 years for a full-time Masters by Research or 4 years for a PhD (or the equivalent part-time).

Contact the School of Graduate Research for more information.

The student services and amenities fee (SSAF) is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

In addition to the SSAF there may be other expenses associated with your program.

Income tax deductions

Candidates may be eligible to apply for income tax deductions for education expenses linked to their employment. See the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website for more information.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

The annual tuition fee for 2023 is AU$36,480.

The total indicative tuition fee for 2023 commencement is AU$145,920.

International applicants

Other costs

Important fee information.

Find out more details about how fees are calculated and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a refund as a continuing international student.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information.

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Law

Undertake a phd in law at flinders.

The power to change

Understand the legal issues of today to influence change and impact lives in the future by undertaking independent research in an area of law that can make a difference. Develop your legal expertise and gain essential transferable skills, such as competency in advanced research, critical thinking, legal writing, communication, and project management. You will be part of a vibrant academic community that values both established and emerging areas of legal research.

Research supervisors 

How to apply 

Doctor of Philosophy (Law)

Duration: 4 years

Delivery mode: On campus

CRICOS code: 011339D

Annual fees: 2023: $34,600

Further information on fees listed

Why undertake a PhD in Law at Flinders

Your career

A PhD in Law can open the door to a career both inside the courtroom and out. With in-depth knowledge in a legal specialty you will be attractive to both national and international government and non-governmental organisations, in areas of legal practice, business, diplomacy, social justice, and human rights.

Potential occupations include:

Potential employers include:

Top up scholarships available

Top up scholarships are available for newly enrolled high-achieving domestic or international PhD students in the College of Business, Government and Law on the basis of academic merit and research potential.

The six scholarships available are valued at $5,000 per annum for the duration of a PhD degree (maximum 3 years, with a possible 6-month extension).

Potential research supervisors

Flinders Law academic staff are recognised as leaders in their fields both in Australia and around the world. Our academics draw on their extensive knowledge to undertake research that makes a difference to people's lives.

Professor Margaret Davies

Associate Professor Hossein Esmaeili

Dr Esther Erlings

Associate Professor Vivienne Brand

Associate Professor Marinella Marmo

How to apply

Review the course rule

Check your eligibility

Find a research supervisor

Find out about scholarships and fees

Prepare your application

Submit your application

Meet our PhD students

Thesis title : The accountability of State crime: An exploration into the human rights violations concerning the Rohingya of Myanmar Supervisors : Dr Sanzhuan Guo , Associate Professor Marinella Marmo

This project explores the ongoing ‘genocidal violence’ committed against the Rohingya ethnic population of Myanmar by government forces, in an attempt to bring to light the legal and political factors that allow nation states to continue to carry out serious violations of human rights, with no immediate intervention from international law.

Enquire now

If you have a question about how to apply, please review our Frequently Asked Questions before submitting an enquiry.

For all other course enquiries complete the enquiry form.

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Doctor of Philosophy - Law and Criminology

Toowoomba , Australia

THE world university rank: 301

Course qualification

Total course fee

AUD 86,400 ? AUD 86,400 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Doctor of Philosophy ? Law

Sydney , Australia

THE world university rank: 201

AUD 85,200 ? AUD 85,200 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Doctor of Philosophy (Hosted by Faculty of Law)

Brisbane , Australia

AUD 124,000 ? AUD 124,000 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Doctor of Philosophy (Business and Law)

Not Applicable , Australia

THE world university rank: 251

AUD 97,200 ? AUD 97,200 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Doctor of Philosophy in Law (Private and Commercial Law)

THE world university rank: 71

AUD 102,960 ? AUD 102,960 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Doctor of Philosophy in Law (Global and Public Law)

Doctor of Philosophy in Law (Law, Society and Criminology)

Doctor of Philosophy Law (Faculty of Law and Justice)

AUD 184,320 ? AUD 184,320 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Doctor of Philosophy in Law

AUD 138,240 ? AUD 138,240 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Doctor of Philosophy (Law)

AUD 127,680 ? AUD 127,680 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

PhD student UNSW

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at UNSW Law & Justice can accelerate your career, whether you’re planning to move into advanced research, academia, practice or policy development.

Our research degree will equip you with skills and knowledge to help you thrive across a broad range of organisations, including academia, the legal profession, government, NGOs or inter-governmental agencies.

As part of this postgraduate research degree, you will study research methods and complete a research thesis that makes a substantial and original contribution to knowledge in your chosen area of law, criminology or related discipline. You’ll enjoy a collegiate and dynamic research culture at UNSW Law & Justice, an internationally renowned faculty.

Applicants for this doctoral program must have either completed a recognised Masters degree (including a substantial research component) with a minimum distinction average (75 per cent), or a recognised four-year Bachelor's degree with Honours Class II, Division (I) that included a substantial research component, or the equivalent.

You must also submit a research proposal to be considered for this program. Admission to the PhD program is subject to appropriate supervision being available.

The PhD requires a minimum of three and a maximum of four years full-time study and submission of a research thesis, usually not exceeding 100,000 words. You'll be supervised by experts in your chosen area, who will help you develop insights and critical legal research skills in a supportive and stimulating environment.

Compulsory coursework includes research ethics, research methods and data management. Ongoing enrolment in the doctoral program requires confirmation of candidature at between nine to 12 months full-time equivalent.

Confirmed candidates will then have annual progress reviews to help track their research project's achievements and milestones.

law phd australia

Indigenous PhD scholarships in law

UNSW aims to increase opportunities for Indigenous research degree candidates to join our research community through a funded, pathways program.

law phd australia

PhD scholarships in the regulation of the data revolution

UNSW Law & Justice is offering two PhD scholarships for applicants with outstanding research potential. If you are interested in how society might regulate the rise of data, apply now.

law phd australia

PhD Scholarships in Comparative Constitutional Law

The Faculty of Law & Justice, UNSW Sydney, wishes to offer up to two PhD Scholarships for applicants with outstanding research potential & a demonstrated interest in comparative constitutional studies.

law phd australia

PhD Scholarship in China’s role in transnational economic governance

The Faculty of Law & Justice, UNSW Sydney, wishes to offer one PhD Scholarship in conjunction with an Australian Research Council (ARC) Discovery Project on China’s Belt and Road Initiative: A New Model of Economic Governance.

law phd australia

How to apply

You've decided on a research degree and now you're ready to apply. Let's get into the details.

Monash Online

Study at Monash

Scholarships

Future students

It is the University’s expectation that only those who are well and not presenting with COVID-19 symptoms attend a Monash campus or location. View our latest updates .

Monash University has a proud tradition of research excellence, and is committed to providing the highest quality of graduate research education. By undertaking your graduate studies at Monash, you will have the opportunity to be part of our stimulating and supportive and professional research environment.

Monash Law delivers diverse and innovative opportunities to undertake high quality and cross-disciplinary legal research.

A PhD in Law takes the form of the Monash Doctoral Program – a PhD for the 21 st century. At the core of the program is an extensive, independent research project on an agreed chosen topic, supported by at least two expert academic supervisors. Your study will result in a research thesis or alternative approved output, which makes a valuable contribution to the current body of knowledge on your chosen topic. The research component is enhanced by professional development activities that provide you with the skills required to make an impact in academia, industry, government or the wider community.

At a glance

Course details.

Information about fees

A PhD in Law requires you to complete a research thesis of up to 80,000 words (or alternative approved outputs), which must be of a standard comparable to the legal writings found in scholarly law journals. The thesis must demonstrate an ability to undertake independent research and to analyse and synthesise legal concepts.

The Doctor of Philosophy program may be undertaken in any area of research, including:

The staff expertise webpage has an extensive list of the current research areas within Monash Law.

As well as the research component, you will also complete a series of professional development activities or coursework units relevant to your chosen research focus. These activities are designed to provide you with the skills needed to develop your professional skills to support you in your future career.

Entry Requirements

You need to satisfy the following entrance requirements to be considered for entry to this course.

Minimum Entry Requirements (Domestic students)

Qualifications.

All applicants must be able to demonstrate a capacity to carry out independent research and have adequate training and ability to pursue the proposed course of study. See the Section 2.1 of the Graduate Research Handbooks for detailed information.

English requirements

Sound English language skills are required for academic programs at Monash University. See the Section 2.2 of the Graduate Research Handbooks for detailed information.

University entrance requirements

Minimum entrance requirements for admission to Monash University Australia .

Making the application

Applications for this course can be accepted at anytime.

Applications for this course are submitted via the research degree and scholarship online application form .

Self assess for credit eligibility

Check for study credit using the "Credit search" link on the Credit for prior study page

Research Training Program (RTP)

This course is supported by the Australian government's Research Training-->