At a glance
36 mo
Duration
7.5
IELTS
€37k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 3-4 years full-timeCourse Length
- 6-8 years part-timeCourse Length
- 75,000-100,000 wordsThesis Length
- Advanced research qualificationDegree Type
- Significant contribution to fieldResearch Impact
The Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) in Law at the University of Oxford is the Faculty's most advanced research qualification, designed for students who wish to make an original and significant contribution to the field of law. This program involves extensive independent research, culminating in a thesis of 75,000 to 100,000 words. You can pursue this DPhil either full-time or part-time, allowing flexibility for your studies. As a DPhil candidate, you will work under the supervision of leading academics, benefiting from Oxford's world-class libraries and research facilities. The program aims to develop your expertise in legal scholarship and research methodologies, preparing you for a career in academia, research, or other high-level professional roles. The DPhil is a rigorous and rewarding journey for those passionate about legal inquiry.
Careers
A DPhil in Law from Oxford prepares graduates for a wide range of demanding and influential careers. The rigorous research training and deep subject expertise gained are highly valued by employers in academia, policy, and legal practice.
- Academic Researcher
- University Lecturer/Professor
- Legal Policy Advisor
- Judge (following further legal practice)
- Barrister/Solicitor (following further legal practice)
- International Law Specialist
- Think Tank Researcher
- Government Legal Advisor
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students in the DPhil in Law program?
- International students can expect tuition fees of £32,170 per year. These fees are subject to annual review.
- How long does the DPhil in Law program typically take to complete?
- The program is designed to be completed in 3-4 years of full-time study or 6-8 years of part-time study.
- What are the English language requirements for international applicants?
- International applicants must achieve an overall IELTS Academic score of 7.5, with at least 7.0 in each component.
- What is the application deadline for the DPhil in Law program?
- The application deadline is in January, with the specific date varying each year.
- What academic qualifications are required to apply for the DPhil in Law?
- Applicants typically need a very strong master's degree in law or a related discipline, usually with a high merit or distinction, and a compelling research proposal.
- Are there any scholarships available for DPhil in Law students?
- Yes, scholarships like the New College Graduate Awards and Clarendon Fund Scholarships are available for eligible students who apply by the January deadline.
Entry requirements
Master's degreeA very strong master's degree in law or a related discipline. Applicants are usually expected to have achieved a high merit or distinction.
Research proposalA detailed and compelling research proposal outlining your intended DPhil project.
IELTS AcademicOverall score of 7.5 (with at least 7.0 in each component)
Admission to the DPhil is highly competitive. Applicants are expected to demonstrate exceptional academic ability and research potential. Specific academic requirements may vary by intended research area and the applicant's prior qualifications. Refer to the University Prospectus for the most detailed and up-to-date information.
Fees
Tuition (international)£32,170 per year (for international students)
Tuition (home)£9,990 per year (for UK students)
LivingEstimated between £17,100 and £24,420 per year (for 12 months)
Tuition fees are subject to annual review. Living costs are estimates for a single student and do not include visa or immigration health surcharge costs for international students. The immigration health surcharge for a DPhil can be substantial as it is paid upfront for approximately 5 years. It is important to budget for this in addition to living costs.
How to apply
1. 1. Find Your CourseBrowse the University's graduate admissions pages to find the DPhil in Law course details, specific entry requirements, and application deadlines.
2. 2. Prepare Your Application DocumentsThis typically includes academic transcripts, a detailed research proposal, letters of recommendation, and proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS). Ensure all documents are accurate and meet the specified criteria.
3. 3. Submit Your Online ApplicationComplete the University's online application form, uploading all required documents. Pay attention to specific questions about your academic history and research interests. If applying for New College scholarships, ensure you list New College as your first choice.
4. 4. Await DecisionAfter submission, your application will be reviewed by the admissions committee. You may be invited for an interview. Decisions are typically communicated within a few months of the application deadline.
5. 5. Prepare for Visa (International Students)If accepted, international students will need to apply for a student visa. This involves budgeting for the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is paid upfront for the entire duration of your course (approximately 5 years for a DPhil).
Scholarships
New College Graduate AwardsVaries (generous college awards)
Clarendon Fund ScholarshipsFull tuition fees and a generous grant for living costs
Accreditation
The University of Oxford is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, globally recognised for its academic excellence. Its degrees are highly respected internationally.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students in the DPhil in Law program?
+
International students can expect tuition fees of £32,170 per year. These fees are subject to annual review.
How long does the DPhil in Law program typically take to complete?
+
The program is designed to be completed in 3-4 years of full-time study or 6-8 years of part-time study.
What are the English language requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants must achieve an overall IELTS Academic score of 7.5, with at least 7.0 in each component.
What is the application deadline for the DPhil in Law program?
+
The application deadline is in January, with the specific date varying each year.
What academic qualifications are required to apply for the DPhil in Law?
+
Applicants typically need a very strong master's degree in law or a related discipline, usually with a high merit or distinction, and a compelling research proposal.
Are there any scholarships available for DPhil in Law students?
+
Yes, scholarships like the New College Graduate Awards and Clarendon Fund Scholarships are available for eligible students who apply by the January deadline.