At a glance
48 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 4 yearsFull-time duration
- Thesis-basedProgram structure
- World-renowned graduate programs in energy and environmental lawAreas of strength
- Home to the Journal of Environmental Law and PracticeAcademic publications
- Faculty experts in diverse areas including international environmental law, cybersecurity, business law, and legal theoryFaculty expertise
The PhD program in Law at the University of Calgary offers qualified students the chance to conduct in-depth research in a specialized area of law. Under the guidance of experienced faculty, you will engage in sustained academic inquiry. The program is ideal for those passionate about research and writing, with potential aspirations for an academic or research-focused career. Graduates often pursue post-doctoral research.
Curriculum
The program requires completion of core courses, a thesis/dissertation proposal, written field of study examinations, an oral candidacy examination, and the final original thesis/dissertation.
- Year 1-4
- Graduate seminar in legal research and methodology
- Graduate seminar in legal theory
- Independent, supervised research
Careers
This PhD program is designed for students passionate about research and writing in a focused area of law. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in academia or research.
- Academic positions
- Researcher
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the PhD in Law program?
- You need an LLM or equivalent master's degree. A minimum GPA of 3.3/4.0 on your law degree and 3.0/4.0 on your master's is required, with successful applicants often having a GPA of 3.7/4.0 in their master's studies. You must also identify a potential supervisor before applying.
- What documents are needed for the PhD in Law application?
- Required documents include a 10-page statement of research interests and dissertation proposal, a CV, a 10-30 page writing sample, transcripts from all post-secondary institutions, and two academic reference letters.
- When is the application deadline for the PhD in Law program?
- The application portal opens on September 1st, and the application deadline is December 1st, with supporting documents and reference letters due by December 15th.
- What is the duration of the PhD in Law program?
- The PhD in Law program is full-time and typically takes 4 years to complete, with a thesis-based structure.
- What are the career prospects after completing the PhD in Law?
- Graduates are well-prepared for careers in academia or research, with opportunities in academic positions and post-doctoral research.
- Where can I find information about tuition fees and financial assistance?
- Information regarding tuition fees, fee regulations, awards, and financial assistance can be found in the Graduate Calendar.
Entry requirements
Master's degreeAn LLM or other relevant and appropriate master's degree is required. A minimum GPA of 3.3 out of 4.0 on a JD, LLB, or equivalent Law degree is necessary, along with a 3.0 out of 4.0 GPA on a Master of Laws or equivalent. Successful applicants typically have a GPA of at least 3.7 out of 4.0 in their Master's degrees. International applicants should verify their GPA equivalency.
English language proficiencyRefer to the Academic Calendar for accepted criteria.
Applicants must identify a potential supervisor during the application process. A writing sample of approximately 10-30 pages is mandatory. Two academic reference letters are required.
Fees
Tuition (international)Refer to the Graduate Calendar for fee information.
Tuition (home)Refer to the Graduate Calendar for fee information.
LivingRefer to the Graduate Calendar for information on awards and financial assistance.
Information on fees, fee regulations, awards, and financial assistance can be found in the Graduate Calendar.
How to apply
1. Prepare Your Application MaterialsAssemble your application using the provided templates and guidelines. This includes a 10-page statement of research interests and proposed dissertation project, a Curriculum Vitae (CV), and a substantial writing sample (10-30 pages) demonstrating your analytical and writing capabilities. Ensure your writing sample is original and you are prepared to discuss its context. You will also need to identify two referees, preferably academic contacts familiar with your work at the Master's level.
2. Submit TranscriptsProvide transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. Specific information regarding transcripts can be found on the university's website.
3. Arrange for Reference LettersEnsure your identified referees submit their academic reference letters by the specified deadline.
4. Identify a SupervisorYou must identify a potential supervisor for your research before applying. Supervisors must be listed within your application.
5. Check English ProficiencyIf English is not your primary language, ensure you meet the English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements as outlined in the Academic Calendar.
6. Submit Your ApplicationComplete and submit the online application form. Ensure all supporting documents, including transcripts and reference letters, are submitted by the respective deadlines.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the PhD in Law program?
+
You need an LLM or equivalent master's degree. A minimum GPA of 3.3/4.0 on your law degree and 3.0/4.0 on your master's is required, with successful applicants often having a GPA of 3.7/4.0 in their master's studies. You must also identify a potential supervisor before applying.
What documents are needed for the PhD in Law application?
+
Required documents include a 10-page statement of research interests and dissertation proposal, a CV, a 10-30 page writing sample, transcripts from all post-secondary institutions, and two academic reference letters.
When is the application deadline for the PhD in Law program?
+
The application portal opens on September 1st, and the application deadline is December 1st, with supporting documents and reference letters due by December 15th.
What is the duration of the PhD in Law program?
+
The PhD in Law program is full-time and typically takes 4 years to complete, with a thesis-based structure.
What are the career prospects after completing the PhD in Law?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for careers in academia or research, with opportunities in academic positions and post-doctoral research.
Where can I find information about tuition fees and financial assistance?
+
Information regarding tuition fees, fee regulations, awards, and financial assistance can be found in the Graduate Calendar.