Socio-Legal Research

The MSc in Socio-Legal Research at the University of Oxford offers an rigorous and comprehensive postgraduate pathway for individuals interested in exploring the complex relationship between society and law. Designed to equip students with advanced research skills and a deep understanding of socio-legal issues, this programme provides a unique interdisciplinary approach that combines legal analysis, social science methods, and critical thinking. Throughout the course, students engage with a diverse array of topics, including human rights, legal theory, social justice, criminal justice, and the impact of law on social behavior. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and empirical research, enabling students to design, conduct, and present independent research projects that contribute meaningfully to the field.

Students benefit from the expertise of leading academics and practitioners in socio-legal studies, participating in seminars, workshops, and collaborative research activities that foster intellectual growth and professional development. The programme encourages critical analysis of legal institutions and practices within their social contexts, preparing graduates for careers in academia, policy analysis, legal practice, advocacy, and further doctoral research. The MSc in Socio-Legal Research also offers a flexible structure, accommodating diverse interests and backgrounds, whether students come from law, social sciences, or related disciplines.

With access to Oxford’s extensive resources, including libraries, research centers, and networks, students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in cutting-edge research and engage with contemporary socio-legal debates. The programme culminates in a dissertation that demonstrates the student’s ability to conduct original research and contribute to scholarly discussions. Overall, the MSc in Socio-Legal Research at Oxford stands as an intellectually stimulating programme that prepares students to critically examine the social dimensions of law and to influence the development of fairer, more effective legal systems across the globe.

The MSt in Socio-Legal Research normally takes place over a full academic year. You will undertake the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies (CSLS) course in theory and methods during your first two terms. This is intended to develop your appreciation of law as a social phenomenon, to introduce various theoretical perspectives and to consider the variety of practical techniques by which research questions may be addressed. 

Throughout the period of your studies, you will work with a supervisor with whom you should meet individually at regular intervals to discuss your project and to provide feedback and advice. You will also be able to take part in an extensive range of seminar programmes and discussion groups, affording plentiful opportunities for interaction both with your peers and with academics working in the same or similar research areas.

You should submit your final theses shortly before the start of the following academic year. The examination method for the 30,000-word MSt thesis is the same as that used for the DPhil – two examiners are appointed who read the thesis and then conduct an intensive oral examination of the student, known as a viva voce, before making a written report to the faculty. On that basis your thesis may be judged to have passed, so that you can be awarded a MSt degree, or to be in need of revision, in which case it is referred back to you for re-submission at a later date; in extreme cases it may be rejected.

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in law, or in any other social science discipline. For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.7 out of 4.0.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

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

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Research proposal: Around 800 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 MSc in Socio-Legal Research at the University of Oxford is a highly interdisciplinary postgraduate program designed to equip students with advanced research skills and a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between law, society, and social issues. The program combines rigorous academic training with practical research experience, preparing graduates for careers in academia, policy analysis, law, or related fields. Delivered by the Faculty of Law, this degree fosters an environment of intellectual inquiry and critical thinking, encouraging students to explore the social implications of legal frameworks and judicial processes.

The curriculum includes core modules on research methodologies, legal systems, and social science techniques, alongside specialized options that may include topics such as human rights, criminal justice, and law and society. Students engage in independent research projects, often culminating in a dissertation that demonstrates their ability to conduct original research and contribute new insights to the field. The program benefits from the university’s extensive resources, including access to legal archives, research centres, and an international network of scholars.

Students are also encouraged to participate in seminars, workshops, and conferences, providing ample opportunities for academic engagement and professional development. The program is suitable for those seeking a career in research, non-governmental organizations, government agencies, or academia. Entry requirements typically include a strong academic background in law, social sciences, or related disciplines, along with a keen interest in socio-legal issues. Overall, the MSc in Socio-Legal Research offers a comprehensive and intellectually stimulating environment for those committed to exploring the complex interactions between law and society on a global scale.