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Program Overview

The Ph.D. in Law is an advanced research program that allows students to engage in in-depth study and original research in various fields of law, such as constitutional law, criminal law, human rights, and international law. The program requires candidates to contribute new knowledge to the field through dissertation work and scholarly research. Students work under the guidance of faculty members with expertise in their chosen area of law, and the research is expected to address contemporary legal issues and provide solutions. Graduates of the program often pursue careers in academia, policy-making, legal consulting, or research institutions, becoming experts in their chosen legal domains.

Duration
3 Years

Applications Open for 2025

Programme Name

Ph.D. in Law

phd in law

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the BBA LLB course can explore a wide range of career opportunities in various fields:

  • Academia
  • Legal Consultancy
  • Policy and Advocacy
  • Government and Public Service
  • International Law and Diplomacy
  • Private Sector and Law Firms
  • Publishing and Legal Journalism
  • Think Tanks and Research Institutions

Scholarship

law courses

*Terms and Conditions Apply

  • Scholarships are granted based on the order of application and are applied as fee adjustments.
  • To retain the scholarship throughout the duration of the program, students must maintain a minimum academic performance of 8 CGPA in all semesters, ensure at least 80% attendance, and avoid any disciplinary issues during their course of study."

Eligibility

  • A Master’s degree in Law (LL.M.) or an equivalent qualification from a recognized university.
  • In some cases, applicants with an outstanding academic record in related fields (e.g., political science, economics, or philosophy) may also be considered.

Selection

Vidya Research Aptitude Test (VRAT) - a written test conducted by the University.

Or

Eligibility as per UGC
Qualified For Eligible for JRF Eligible for Assistant Professor Eligible for PhD Admission
JRF Assistant Professor Yes Yes Yes
Assistant Professor PhD Admission No Yes Yes
PhD Admission No No Yes

Program Highlights

  • Advanced Legal Research Focus: The Ph.D. in Law emphasizes the development of original, high-level research that contributes to legal scholarship. Students engage in critical and analytical approaches to solving complex legal issues, often focusing on uncharted areas of law or addressing pressing global legal challenges.
  • Interdisciplinary Approach: Many Ph.D. in Law programs incorporate interdisciplinary research, allowing students to explore connections between law and other disciplines like political science, economics, sociology, and history. This approach enhances the depth and breadth of legal research.
  • Contribution to Legal Theory and Practice: The goal of the Ph.D. in Law is to foster new contributions to the field, whether by advancing legal theory, proposing legal reforms, or addressing contemporary legal issues through original research. Graduates are expected to make a significant impact on the legal community and society at large.
  • Global Perspective on Law: With globalization and international legal frameworks becoming increasingly important, many Ph.D. programs in law provide a global perspective on legal systems, encouraging students to consider legal issues across national borders and jurisdictions.
  • Teaching Opportunities: Many Ph.D. in Law programs offer teaching assistantships or opportunities to teach undergraduate or graduate-level law courses. This experience can be invaluable for those seeking a career in academia.
  • Career Flexibility and Opportunities: Graduates of the program can pursue diverse career paths, including academia, research, policy analysis, legal consulting, and high-level positions in government or international organizations. The Ph.D. equips students with the critical thinking, research, and communication skills needed for leadership roles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Ph.D. in Law

  • Research can focus on various legal fields such as constitutional law, international law, criminal law, human rights law, environmental law, corporate law, intellectual property law, and more.
  • Many programs allow for interdisciplinary research, incorporating perspectives from fields like economics, political science, philosophy, and sociology.
  • Students are expected to contribute original ideas to legal theory, practice, or policy.

  • Yes, most programs require applicants to have a background in law, usually in the form of a law degree (LL.B.) and a Master’s degree in law (LL.M.).
  • However, some programs may allow applicants with strong academic backgrounds in related disciplines (e.g., political science, economics, philosophy) to apply if they can demonstrate a research interest in legal studies.

  • It depends on the program’s structure. Ph.D. students often have flexible schedules, especially once they are immersed in their research. However, completing a Ph.D. in Law requires significant time and effort, so balancing work and research may be challenging.
  • Many students take on part-time teaching assistantships, research assistant roles, or internships to gain experience and support their studies.

  • An LL.M. (Master of Laws) is a postgraduate academic degree that generally involves coursework and may include some research but is not as research-intensive as a Ph.D.
  • A Ph.D. in Law is a research-focused, terminal degree that requires the candidate to produce original scholarly work (a dissertation) contributing to the advancement of legal knowledge.

  • The dissertation is the core of the Ph.D. program and must demonstrate original research and make a significant contribution to the field of law.
  • The process typically begins with developing a research proposal, followed by approval from a faculty supervisor or research committee.
  • Ph.D. students must regularly meet with their supervisor, revise their work based on feedback, and ultimately defend their dissertation before a panel of experts.
  • The dissertation may be a single, long-form manuscript or a collection of articles that contribute to a cohesive research theme.

  • The research environment is typically collaborative, with opportunities to attend seminars, workshops, and conferences where students can present their research, exchange ideas, and receive feedback.
  • Ph.D. students often work closely with faculty mentors and may have access to a range of resources, including legal databases, libraries, and research centres.
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ADMISSIONS OPEN 2025-26