CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG · HONG KONG
Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Laws
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
7.5
IELTS
€5k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 2 years (full-time)Normative Duration
- Potential pathway to PhDProgression
- Highly competitive admissionSelectivity
- Research-intensive curriculumFocus
- English Medium of InstructionLanguage
The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Laws is a research-focused degree designed for students dedicated to advanced legal scholarship. This program offers a pathway to potentially pursue a PhD in Laws at CUHK, subject to academic performance and evaluation during your MPhil studies. Admission is highly competitive, with a limited number of places available each year. The program is delivered in English at the University's main campus in Shatin and can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis.
Curriculum
The MPhil in Laws program includes core research methodology and legal theory modules, alongside thesis research. Students are also required to complete specific postgraduate learning and ethics training modules.
- Year 1 (Full-time)
- Orientation to Research Postgraduate StudiesLAWS7001
- Research MethodologiesLAWS7002
- Legal Education PracticumLAWS7004
- Year 2 (Full-time)
- Legal Academic Composition for Research Postgraduate StudentsLAWS7003
- Throughout Enrollment
- Thesis Research, Writing and OrganisationLAWS8001
- Improving Postgraduate Learning (IPL) module on “Observing Intellectual Property and Copyright Law during Research”
- Research Ethics Training module on “Publication Ethics” and obtain a valid Publication Ethics Certificate
- IPL module on “Basics of Research Data Management”
Careers
The MPhil in Laws program equips students with advanced research skills, preparing them for careers in academia, policy research, or specialized legal practice requiring in-depth analytical capabilities.
- Academic Researcher
- Policy Analyst
- Legal Scholar
- Specialist Legal Consultant
Entry requirements
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)First class honours or upper second class honours from a recognized university.
Juris Doctor (JD) or Master of Laws (LLM)Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above from a recognized university.
Equivalent Degree (including non-law)Awarded by a recognized tertiary educational institution.
Degree from Hong Kong or English-speaking country, or taught in EnglishN/A
IELTSBand 7.5 or better
TOEFL (Paper Based)600
TOEFL (Internet Based)100
English language test results must be obtained not more than two years prior to the date of application. Alternative evidence of English proficiency equivalent to the above may be considered.
Fees
Tuition (international)HK$47,000 per year (for 2026-27, subject to annual review)
Tuition (home)HK$47,000 per year (for 2026-27, subject to annual review)
LivingEstimated HK$19,100 per month (postgraduate studentship value for 2025-26; actual living costs may vary).
Tuition fees are subject to annual review. Full-time students may receive a postgraduate studentship, but this does not include a waiver of tuition fees.
How to apply
1. Complete Online ApplicationSubmit your application via the Graduate School's online system.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all required documents including academic transcripts, degrees, a research plan (max 3,000 words), a personal statement (max 1,500 words), and a Curriculum Vitae (CV).
3. Submit Supporting DocumentsUpload all necessary documents, including references, to the online application portal.
4. Await DecisionApplications are reviewed, and successful candidates will be notified.
Scholarships
Postgraduate StudentshipHK$19,100 per month (2025-26 academic year)