Overview

This Law programme offered by University of Kwazulu Natal is a research-intensive degree centred on the production of original legal scholarship. Students undertake independent investigation within a chosen area of legal study, demonstrating advanced analytical ability, critical evaluation, and intellectual rigor. The programme emphasizes the creation of new knowledge through sustained engagement with legal theory, doctrine, policy, and contemporary legal issues, culminating in a substantial doctoral thesis.

Key Facts

Doctoral candidates work closely with academic supervisors throughout the research process, participating in regular supervisory meetings, submitting progress reports, and engaging in research and academic writing development activities. In addition to producing a thesis, students are expected to contribute to scholarly discourse through publication in peer-reviewed journals. The programme supports the development of high-level research, academic writing, and scholarly communication skills suitable for careers in academia, research, and advanced legal practice.

Programme Structure

Research

Legal Theory
Legal Scholarship
Legal Research
Law and Policy
Doctrinal Legal Analysis
Interdisciplinary Legal Research

Key information

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-02-09 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-31 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

80

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Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Durban, South Africa

Disciplines

Legal Studies View 4 other PhDs in Legal Studies in South Africa

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

80

Schedule TOEFL®

Other requirements

General requirements

Master's degree in Law or a related discipline.
Postgraduate-level Research Methodology training is advised.
Regular meetings with a supervisor.
Compliance with supervisory guidance and research requirements.
Submission of progress reports twice per year.
Participation in research and writing workshops.
Publication of at least one article in an approved peer-reviewed journal.
Completion of a doctoral thesis.
392 credits earned through research and thesis production.
Full-time or part-time study option.

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Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

18747 ZAR / year

≈ 18747 ZAR / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

18747 ZAR / year

≈ 18747 ZAR / year

Living costs

Durban

South Africa

7800 - 9401 ZAR / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.