CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG · HONG KONG
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Laws
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
7.5
IELTS
€5k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 36 monthsNormative duration (full-time, with research master's)
- 48 monthsNormative duration (full-time, without research master's)
- HK$47,000Annual tuition fee
- EnglishMedium of instruction
- Hong KongLocation
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Laws is the highest research degree offered in law at CUHK. It is designed for individuals aiming for careers in legal academia. PhD candidates are expected to produce a dissertation that makes a substantial and original contribution to legal scholarship, under the guidance of CUHK faculty members. Admission is highly competitive, with a limited number of places available annually.
Curriculum
The PhD program involves both coursework and extensive dissertation research. Core modules focus on research methodologies and academic writing. Students also complete mandatory modules on research ethics and data management, alongside their thesis research.
- First Two Academic Terms
- Orientation to Research Postgraduate StudiesLAWS7001
- Research MethodologiesLAWS7002
- Legal Education PracticumLAWS7004
- First Term of Second Year
- Legal Academic Composition for Research Postgraduate StudentsLAWS7003
- Throughout Enrollment
- Thesis Research, Writing and OrganisationLAWS8001
- Graduating Year
- Dissertation
Careers
This program is primarily designed for students aspiring to careers in legal academia, equipping them with advanced research skills and the ability to produce significant scholarly work.
- Legal Academia
- Legal Scholar
- Researcher
Entry requirements
Master of Laws (LLM) or Juris Doctor (JD) degreeFrom a recognised university with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above.
Equivalent degree (including non-law)From a recognised tertiary educational institution.
IELTS7.5 overall
TOEFL (Paper-based)600
TOEFL (Internet-based)100
Degree taught in EnglishDegree awarded by a recognised university in Hong Kong or an English-speaking country, or taught primarily in English.
Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as selection is competitive. IELTS and TOEFL scores must be obtained no more than two years prior to the application date. Applicants may provide alternative evidence of English proficiency.
Fees
Tuition (international)HK$47,000 per year (for 2026-27)
Tuition (home)HK$47,000 per year (for 2026-27)
Living—
Tuition fees are the same for full-time and part-time PhD students. Fees for 2027-28 are projected at HK$49,500.
How to apply
1. Prepare Application DocumentsGather academic transcripts, personal statement (max 1500 words), curriculum vitae, research plan (max 5000 words), and arrange for academic references.
2. Submit Initial Application (for HKPFS)If applying for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme, complete the initial application via the RGC website by 12 noon, 1 December 2025 (Hong Kong time).
3. Submit Full Application to CUHKComplete and submit the online application form to CUHK's Graduate School by the relevant deadline (e.g., 1 December 2025 for the main round). Ensure all supporting documents are uploaded.
4. Attend Interview (if required)Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview.
5. Await Admission DecisionDecisions are typically released after the application deadlines.
Scholarships
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)HK$28,400 per month stipend + HK$14,200 annual travel allowance (up to 3 years)
CUHK Vice-Chancellor HKPFS ScholarshipFull tuition waiver + HK$40,000 lodging (1st year) + HK$20,000 lodging (subsequent years)
CUHK Postgraduate StudentshipHK$19,100 per month stipend
CUHK Vice-Chancellor PhD ScholarshipHK$80,000 total (HK$40,000 1st year, HK$20,000 2nd & 3rd years)