Doctor of Philosophy (Research) in Law

The Research Law Program at the University of Southern Queensland offers a comprehensive and rigorous pathway for students seeking to advance their expertise in legal research and scholarly inquiry. Designed for individuals aiming to contribute original knowledge to the field of law, this program emphasizes independent research, critical analysis, and the development of advanced legal scholarly skills. Students will engage deeply with complex legal theories, methodologies, and contemporary issues, preparing them for careers in academia, policy development, legal practice, or further scholarly pursuits. Throughout the program, candidates will work closely with experienced supervisors who are experts in various legal disciplines, ensuring personalized guidance and mentorship. The coursework is tailored to foster analytical thinking, academic writing proficiency, and research methodology competence, equipping graduates with the tools necessary to produce publishable research outputs. The program is suitable for those seeking to undertake a Master’s or Doctorate level research in law, offering a flexible study environment that accommodates professional and personal commitments. The curriculum encompasses advanced topics such as legal analysis, research ethics, data collection and interpretation, and dissemination of research findings. By completing this program, students will develop a robust scholarly portfolio, positioning themselves as thought leaders and innovators in legal studies. The University of Southern Queensland prides itself on supporting research excellence and providing an environment that encourages intellectual growth, collaboration, and innovation. Whether aspiring to contribute to legal academia, influence policy, or pursue specialized legal consulting, graduates of this program will be well-equipped with the theoretical knowledge and practical research skills necessary to succeed in competitive legal fields.

Field of Education: Law (Research)

The Doctor of Laws (Research) program at the University of Southern Queensland is a rigorous and comprehensive postgraduate research degree designed for individuals seeking to advance their expertise and contribute original knowledge to the field of law. This program offers a unique opportunity for aspiring legal scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to engage deeply with complex legal issues through independent research under the supervision of experienced faculty members.

The program emphasizes the development of advanced research skills, critical analysis, and scholarly writing, enabling students to explore a wide range of legal topics such as constitutional law, international law, human rights, environmental law, corporate law, and more. Candidates are encouraged to select a research topic that aligns with their professional interests and societal needs, fostering innovation and progressive legal practices.

Throughout the program, students will undertake a comprehensive review of existing legal literature, formulate a clear and feasible research problem, and employ appropriate methodologies to investigate their chosen area. The research process culminates in the submission of a substantial thesis that contributes original insights and advances the understanding of specific legal issues. Alongside individual research, students receive mentorship and support from qualified supervisors to refine their ideas, methodologies, and writing.

The Doctor of Laws (Research) program also offers opportunities for interdisciplinary engagement, encouraging students to incorporate perspectives from fields such as economics, politics, sociology, and ethics to enrich their legal research. This holistic approach prepares graduates to address complex legal challenges in academia, government, legal practice, and the private sector.

Graduates of this program will be equipped with the critical thinking, analytical, and research capabilities necessary for leadership roles in legal scholarship, policy development, or professional practice. They will be well-prepared to publish their findings in reputable journals, present at academic conferences, and contribute to the development of law both nationally and internationally.

The University of Southern Queensland is committed to supporting its research students with state-of-the-art facilities, comprehensive research training workshops, and a vibrant academic community. The Doctor of Laws (Research) program sets a solid foundation for those aspiring to make meaningful contributions to the legal discipline through high-quality research and scholarly excellence.

The Doctor of Laws (Research) at the University of Southern Queensland requires candidates to undertake a rigorous research program aimed at contributing original knowledge to the field of law. Prospective students must hold a relevant master's degree with research components or equivalent qualifications, demonstrating their capacity for independent research and scholarly work. Applicants are expected to submit a comprehensive research proposal outlining their intended research focus, objectives, methodology, and significance within the legal discipline. The program typically encompasses a minimum duration of three years for full-time study or the equivalent in part-time study, with supervision provided by experienced academic staff specializing in various legal domains such as constitutional law, international law, commercial law, human rights, or legal theory. Throughout their candidature, students are required to engage in regular supervision meetings, present progress reports, and participate in academic seminars or workshops to develop their research skills and academic profile. The research must adhere to rigorous academic standards and ethical considerations, with the final thesis subjected to examination by independent experts to ensure originality and scholarly contribution. Successful completion of the program involves defending the thesis before an examining panel, demonstrating mastery of the research area and the capability to make a substantial contribution to legal scholarship. The program fosters critical thinking, analytical skills, and comprehensive understanding of complex legal issues, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, legal practice, or policy development. Entry into the program also requires proficiency in English, typically demonstrated through standard language testing. Overall, the Doctor of Laws (Research) is designed for candidates committed to advancing legal knowledge through independent research and scholarly inquiry, supported by the University’s comprehensive academic resources and research community.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Funding options for the Doctor of Laws (Research) program at the University of Southern Queensland include a variety of financial support mechanisms designed to assist eligible students throughout their academic journey. The university offers several scholarships specifically tailored for postgraduate research students, which may cover tuition fees, living expenses, or research costs. Prospective students are encouraged to explore external funding sources such as government research scholarships, Commonwealth-supported places, and international student scholarships, depending on their eligibility and residency status. The university also provides information on financial planning and management to help students budget effectively during their studies. Additionally, students may have opportunities to work part-time within the university or in related industry settings, subject to visa regulations and workload limits. It is recommended to consult the university’s official website or the Office of Research for detailed and current information regarding funding applications, deadlines, and eligibility criteria. Graduates of the program may also explore research grants or external awards aligned with their academic and professional interests. Overall, while the university offers internal scholarships and supports for research students, securing additional funding often requires applying for external grants and demonstrating academic merit and research potential.

The Doctor of Laws (Research) at the University of Southern Queensland is a postgraduate research degree designed for individuals seeking to advance their expertise and contribute original research to the field of legal studies. This program offers a rigorous academic environment where students engage in extensive research under the supervision of experienced faculty members. The coursework component focuses on developing advanced research skills, critical analysis, and scholarly writing, while the primary emphasis is on completing a substantial thesis that contributes new knowledge to the discipline. Students enrolled in this program have access to state-of-the-art research facilities, academic resources, and peer support to foster an environment of innovation and scholarly excellence. The research areas are diverse, often aligning with contemporary legal issues such as human rights, environmental law, international law, or legal philosophy. The program is suitable for those looking to pursue academic careers, policy development, or specialized roles within the legal sector. Candidates are expected to demonstrate high academic achievement in their prior studies and possess a strong research proposal aligned with the university's research priorities. The degree typically takes several years to complete full-time and may offer part-time options to accommodate working professionals. Graduates of the Doctor of Laws (Research) program are well-equipped to make meaningful contributions to legal scholarship, influence policy, or continue into academic roles as university lecturers or researchers. The university provides comprehensive support services for research students, including workshops, seminars, and mentoring, to ensure successful completion of their thesis. Overall, the program emphasizes independent research, scholarly integrity, and the advancement of legal knowledge, preparing graduates to lead and innovate within the legal domain.