Doctor of Philosophy in Law

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Law at Queensland University of Technology offers an advanced opportunity for students to engage in in-depth legal research and contribute to the development of legal scholarship. This program is designed for those who aspire to pursue academic, professional, or policy-oriented careers in the field of law. Throughout the duration of the PhD program, candidates will undertake original research under the supervision of experienced faculty members, focusing on a specific area of legal study such as constitutional law, criminal justice, environmental law, human rights, international law, or other specialized fields. The program emphasizes rigorous academic inquiry, analytical skills, and the ability to critically evaluate and contribute to legal theories and practices. Candidates are expected to develop a substantial thesis that makes a meaningful contribution to legal knowledge and practice. The PhD in Law at QUT provides access to comprehensive research resources, including academic journals, legal databases, and support from expert supervisors. Students have opportunities to attend seminars, workshops, and conferences to enhance their understanding and engagement with contemporary legal issues. The program fosters a collaborative academic environment, encouraging interdisciplinary perspectives and innovative approaches to legal research. Graduates of the PhD program will be well-equipped for careers in academia, research institutions, government, non-governmental organizations, or private sector legal services. The program typically requires three to four years of full-time study to complete, during which students will gain extensive research experience, develop critical thinking skills, and broaden their understanding of law’s role in society. Admission requirements include a relevant master's degree or equivalent qualification, a research proposal, and demonstrable academic aptitude. The Doctor of Philosophy in Law at Queensland University of Technology stands as a prestigious and rigorous program dedicated to cultivating high-caliber legal scholars and professionals committed to advancing justice, policy, and legal education.

• Advanced Information Retrieval Skills
• Time based Thesis

Other units as agreed by student in negotiation with their supervisor and faculty.

• A completed recognised relevant First Class or Second Class Division A Honours degree or equivalent; or
• A completed recognised masters degree or professional doctorate (by research or coursework)

Masters and professional doctorate degrees by coursework must have a significant research component, normally not less than 25%. Holders of masters and professional doctorate by coursework must:

• have a minimum grade point average (GPA) score of 5.0 on QUT's 7 point scale; and
• present evidence of research experience and potential for approval

Admission to the Doctor of Philosophy depends on an applicant’s demonstrated research aptitude and the availability of supervision, infrastructure and resources needed for the proposed research project.

Financial Guarantee

Acceptable forms of evidence include:

• A letter from an approved employer confirming the continuation of your salary; Or
• A signed Scholarship Agreement between QUT and your sponsoring agency; Or
• An accepted letter of offer from QUT for a postgraduate research scholarship; Or
• An approved external scholarship.

Financing studies for the Doctor of Philosophy in Law program at Queensland University of Technology typically involve a combination of university scholarships, research grants, external funding, and personal financial resources. The university offers a range of scholarships specifically aimed at supporting postgraduate research students, including the QUT Research Scholarships, which provide a living allowance and tuition fee exemption for eligible students. Applicants are encouraged to explore government-funded schemes such as the Research Training Program (RTP), which offers subsidies to domestic and international students undertaking research degrees. Additionally, students may seek external funding through various organizations, legal foundations, or industry partnerships that support research in legal studies.

The process for securing financial support often involves submitting a comprehensive application demonstrating academic excellence, research proposal quality, and potential contribution to the field of law. International students are usually required to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance, and other associated costs, which can total to over AUD 30,000 annually depending on the mode of study and individual circumstances. Domestic students may have access to government-funded support schemes, loan programs, or university-based grants, reducing their financial burden.

Students also often supplement their funding through part-time work, which is permitted under student visa conditions, provided it does not interfere with their research commitments. The costs associated with the program include tuition fees, health insurance, accommodation, study materials, and day-to-day living expenses, which prospective students should carefully budget for before commencing their studies. It is recommended to consult the Queensland University of Technology's official website or contact the university's admissions office for the most up-to-date and detailed information regarding financial planning and available financial aid options specific to the Doctor of Philosophy in Law program.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Law at Queensland University of Technology is a research-intensive degree designed for individuals seeking to contribute original knowledge and insights to the field of law. The program emphasizes rigorous scholarly inquiry, offering students the opportunity to engage deeply with complex legal issues, theories, and practices. Candidates are expected to develop a substantial research proposal, conduct independent study, and produce a thesis that demonstrates critical analysis, originality, and scholarly excellence.

Admission to the PhD in Law typically requires a relevant master's degree or an equivalent qualification with a high standard of academic achievement. The program encourages interdisciplinary research, allowing students to explore intersections between law and other fields such as politics, economics, and social sciences. Students benefit from access to the university's extensive legal resources, including comprehensive libraries, research centers, and academic mentors renowned in various legal disciplines.

The duration of the PhD program is usually three to four years of full-time study, with part-time options available. Throughout their studies, candidates participate in seminars, workshops, and conferences to enhance their research skills and academic networks. The faculty supervision team provides personalized guidance tailored to each student's research interests, ensuring rigorous scholarly development.

Graduates of the PhD in Law program are equipped to excel in academic, legal practice, policy development, or public service roles. They gain competencies in critical thinking, detailed legal analysis, and effective scholarly communication. The program promotes ethical research practices and encourages students to produce work that contributes meaningfully to contemporary legal debates and societal challenges.

Overall, the Doctor of Philosophy in Law at Queensland University of Technology aims to foster innovative legal scholarship that addresses real-world issues, supporting students to become experts and thought leaders in their respective legal fields.