
Overview
At the University of Bristol Law School, comprehensive research training is provided by expert academics, who also offer guidance and supervision of your research project. If you are undertaking socio-legal research, initial research training will take the form of the MSc Socio-Legal Studies programme, which is recognised by the Economic and Social Research Council.
As a Law student at the University of Bristol you will become part of the school’s primary unit system, which provides support for research students, and you will be invited to participate in the Law School's staff seminar programme. There may also be opportunities to undertake some part-time teaching within the school. Travel and conference funding is available for research students.
Careers
The PhD offers useful preparation for several different careers. The first of these is academic work, particularly if the dissertation or parts of it are published in well-respected academic journals. The ability to plan, research and write a sophisticated dissertation, including an ability to conduct detailed doctrinal analysis, to think in broad theoretical terms and to engage in empirical research can provide a firm foundation for a career in the academy.
A second possible career is that of working for an NGO or policy organisation, drawing on skills in research and writing, which are invaluable for work of this kind. A third possibility is working within governments, again building on analytical, doctrinal or empirical research skills developed through the PhD, which incorporate both an ability to undertake rigorous research and to see the bigger picture.
Finally, some students choose to enter the legal profession, carrying with them a rich understanding of legal principles and practice.
Get more details
Visit official programme websiteProgramme Structure
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 human rights, housing, governance and regulation, criminal justice, the legal profession, and family law and practice.
- The school usually has 50 research postgraduates at any one time, working in a wide variety of subject areas and adopting a range of different approaches to legal research.
Check out the full curriculum
Visit official programme websiteKey information
Duration
- Full-time
- 48 months
- Part-time
- 84 months
- Flexible
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting
- Apply before
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Language
Delivered
Disciplines
Civil & Private Law Public Law Legal Studies View 30 other PhDs in Legal Studies in United KingdomExplore more key information
Visit official programme websiteAcademic requirements
English requirements
Other requirements
General 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.
Make sure you meet all requirements
Visit official programme websiteTuition Fee
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International
19500 GBP/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 19500 GBP per year during 48 months. -
National
4565 GBP/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 4565 GBP per year during 48 months.
- UK: part-time £2,283
Living costs for Bristol
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
Studyportals Tip: Students can search online for independent or external scholarships that can help fund their studies. Check the scholarships to see whether you are eligible to apply. Many scholarships are either merit-based or needs-based.