Overview

The Department is confident in its distinctive identity and reputation for teaching of a high quality, linked to a vigorous research activity and carried out in a stimulating and friendly environment. The Department’s activities benefit from a mature and well-stocked library and generous and up-to-date information technology provision.

A PhD is awarded upon the satisfactory completion of a thesis of about 80-100,000 words followed by viva voce examination. The normal period of registration is three years and it is expected that the thesis will be submitted within four years of initial registration. As explained above, much of the first year is spent undertaking research training, leaving the second and third years for full-time research into the chosen topic. A PhD enables you to become expert in your chosen subject and to explore the intricacies of the law in context. In order to satisfy the examiners, you must demonstrate originality of thought as well as detailed analysis.

A PhD is regarded as a major stepping stone in academic and academic-related careers. It signifies that you are capable of undertaking detailed research and of presenting the results of that research in an understandable way.

Many people embark on a PhD in order to make progress in their employment and a large number are actually sponsored by their employers to do the degree. Others see it as the logical next step after their undergraduate or Masters studies. In any case, it is a rare opportunity for you to spend two to three years working on a subject that excites and fascinates you. Most people who complete a PhD find it to have been a challenging, but extremely rewarding, experience.