Legal Research

Legal Research at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive and rigorous exploration of the methodologies, principles, and practices essential for conducting advanced legal investigations and analysis. Designed for students aiming to develop expert-level research skills, this program provides a thorough grounding in both traditional and emerging legal research techniques, encompassing doctrinal analysis, empirical research, comparative methods, and interdisciplinary approaches. Participants will engage with a diverse range of legal sources, including statutes, case law, legal journals, and electronic databases, learning how to critically evaluate and synthesize complex legal information. The curriculum emphasizes the development of meticulous research strategies, problem-solving abilities, and precise legal drafting, equipping students to tackle complex legal questions with confidence and clarity. Throughout the program, students will also explore the ethical considerations and professional standards pertinent to legal research, ensuring their work upholds the highest levels of integrity and accuracy. The program is suitable for aspiring academics, legal practitioners, policy analysts, and students seeking to deepen their understanding of legal inquiry and scholarly investigation. Offered by one of the world’s leading centers of legal studies, the Legal Research program combines rigorous coursework, expert supervision, and access to extensive library resources and digital research tools. Graduates will be well-prepared to contribute effectively to legal scholarship, policy formulation, or specialized legal practice, making this an ideal stepping stone for a career rooted in expert legal analysis and research.

The MSt dissertation is usually completed over three terms - the maximum submission date for the dissertation is currently under review, but will be no earlier than 1 August. The exact date will be confirmed to applicants no later than the point of initial offer. You are expected to undertake the faculty’s course in legal research methods during their first two terms. This provides training in legal research methodology, but will also expose you to the diversity of and intellectual challenges involved in legal scholarship and will serve as a forum of peers in which you will be able to discuss the methodological challenges involved in your own research.

Throughout the period of your studies, you will work with an assigned supervisor who will meet regularly with you to discuss your work and provide feedback and advice. You will also be able to take part in a range of seminar programmes and discussion groups, affording plentiful opportunities for interaction with your peers and academics working in the same or related research areas to yours.

The examination method for the thesis is the same as that used for the DPhil – two examiners are appointed who read the thesis and hold an in-depth oral examination, known as a viva voce, with the candidate.

When completing the MSt as a route into the DPhil, the material submitted for examination is also considered as part of the qualifying test for admission to the DPhil and will usually be incorporated into the DPhil thesis.

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class undergraduate degree wit honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in law.

In the absence of an undergraduate degree in law, candidates may be admitted with a postgraduate diploma or master's qualification in law at Distinction level.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.7 out of 4.0.

Most students admitted to the programme have a previous master's qualification but this is not a formal requirement.

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Research proposal: Around 600 words
• Written work:One essay of 2,000 words 
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

• Global Education
• Hill Foundation Scholarships
• A number of Research Council awards are available each year from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), and Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC).

The Master of Laws (LLM) in Legal Research at the University of Oxford is a highly regarded postgraduate programme designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of legal principles and develop advanced research skills. This programme offers a unique opportunity for students to undertake independent, in-depth legal research under the supervision of leading academics in their respective fields. The course typically attracts applicants with a strong academic background in law and an interest in scholarly research, policy analysis, or pursuing an academic career.

The programme is structured to provide students with a solid foundation in legal research methodologies, critical analysis, and academic writing. Students can choose to specialise in specific areas of law, such as public law, private law, international law, or legal theory, allowing them to tailor their studies to their interests and career objectives. The programme usually involves coursework, research seminars, and a substantial dissertation that demonstrates original research and critical thinking.

Students are encouraged to engage with current legal debates and contribute to academic discourse through their dissertations. They benefit from the expertise of Oxford’s renowned faculty members, access to extensive legal resources, and the opportunity to participate in seminars and workshops hosted by the university. The programme typically spans one year full-time or two years part-time, providing flexibility for students balancing their studies with professional commitments.

Admission to the programme requires a strong academic record in law or a related discipline, evidence of research capability, and a clear research proposal. The university emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and originality in research. Graduates of the programme often pursue careers in academia, legal practice, policy-making, or international organizations. Overall, the LLM in Legal Research at Oxford offers an intellectually rigorous environment to develop expertise in legal scholarship and research, preparing students for influential roles within the legal and academic communities.