At a glance
36 mo
Duration
7.0
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Law is a three-year research-focused degree designed for aspiring legal academics who have already completed a postgraduate law degree. The program requires students to conduct original research, articulate their findings, and defend a thesis that meets the standards of reputable peer-reviewed publications. Graduates often pursue academic careers in law faculties worldwide, and some have become high-level judges or professors at the forefront of their fields. The program fosters intellectual curiosity and provides opportunities to delve deeply into pressing legal topics.
Curriculum
To complete the PhD program, students must successfully defend a thesis and complete graduate-level coursework. This includes a mandatory graduate seminar and two additional graduate-level courses, chosen in consultation with an academic supervisor and the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies. Students may also take courses from other departments with approval. The thesis is a substantial research project, typically 250-350 pages or 62,500-87,500 words. Additionally, students must pass a doctoral candidacy exam, complete an ethics and academic citizenship requirement, and fulfill a professional development requirement.
- Year 1-3
- Graduate SeminarLAW 696
- Additional Graduate-Level Courses
- Ethics and Academic CitizenshipINT D 710/720
Careers
Graduates of the PhD program are well-prepared for careers in academia, including positions as university professors and researchers. Some alumni have also pursued roles as high-level judges.
- University Law Professor
- Legal Academic
- Researcher
- Judge
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the PhD in Law program?
- Applicants must hold an LLM or equivalent degree from a recognized institution. A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required, though competitive applicants typically have a GPA exceeding 3.7.
- What English language proficiency tests are accepted?
- You can demonstrate English proficiency with a TOEFL score of 100 (internet-based) with 25 in each skill, an IELTS score of 7.0 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each band, or a PTE score of 68 overall.
- How long does the Doctor of Philosophy in Law program take to complete?
- The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Law is designed as a three-year research-focused degree program.
- What documents are required to apply for the PhD in Law program?
- Required documents include academic transcripts, a resumé or CV, three reference forms/letters, a 5-10 page research proposal, a 1-2 page statement of motivation, and visa documentation for international students.
- What career paths do graduates of this program typically pursue?
- Graduates are well-prepared for careers in academia, such as university professors and legal academics. Some alumni have also pursued roles as high-level judges or researchers.
- Are there scholarships or financial support available for PhD students?
- The Faculty of Law provides strong financial support and mentorship opportunities, which can aid students in securing positions in the legal academic market.
Entry requirements
LLM or Equivalent DegreeApplicants must hold an LLM or equivalent degree from the University of Alberta or a recognized institution. Exceptional students in the UAlberta LLM program may seek permission to transfer to the PhD.
GPAMinimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. The competitive GPA for the PhD program typically exceeds 3.7 on the international grade equivalent.
TOEFL100 minimum (internet-based) with 25 in each skill area; 600 (paper-based)
IELTS7.0 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each band
PTE68 overall
English language proficiency can also be demonstrated through education or secondary school coursework. Details can be found in the University Calendar under 'English Language Requirement'.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition and fees are based on program type and registration status (full-time/part-time). Specific amounts for international students are available on the Graduate Studies Tuition and Fees page.
Tuition (home)Tuition and fees are based on program type and registration status (full-time/part-time). Specific amounts for domestic students are available on the Graduate Studies Tuition and Fees page.
LivingEstimated living costs are not specified on the program page but are available through Graduate Studies.
Refer to the University of Alberta's Graduate Studies Tuition and Fees section for the most current information.
How to apply
1. Submit ApplicationComplete the online application for admission.
2. Upload Supporting DocumentsUpload all required documents to the online portal. Official transcripts will be required later for successful applicants.
3. Arrange for ReferencesEnsure three referees submit their reference forms and letters of recommendation directly to the online portal.
4. Await ReviewThe Graduate Studies Committee and potential supervisors will review your application.
Scholarships
Financial Support and Mentorship Opportunities—
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the PhD in Law program?
+
Applicants must hold an LLM or equivalent degree from a recognized institution. A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required, though competitive applicants typically have a GPA exceeding 3.7.
What English language proficiency tests are accepted?
+
You can demonstrate English proficiency with a TOEFL score of 100 (internet-based) with 25 in each skill, an IELTS score of 7.0 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each band, or a PTE score of 68 overall.
How long does the Doctor of Philosophy in Law program take to complete?
+
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Law is designed as a three-year research-focused degree program.
What documents are required to apply for the PhD in Law program?
+
Required documents include academic transcripts, a resumé or CV, three reference forms/letters, a 5-10 page research proposal, a 1-2 page statement of motivation, and visa documentation for international students.
What career paths do graduates of this program typically pursue?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for careers in academia, such as university professors and legal academics. Some alumni have also pursued roles as high-level judges or researchers.
Are there scholarships or financial support available for PhD students?
+
The Faculty of Law provides strong financial support and mentorship opportunities, which can aid students in securing positions in the legal academic market.