PhD in Law

Class Profile

Class Size

25

Average Age

27

Average Work Experience

2 Years

Diversity

North America:

5%

UK:

65%

EU:

10%

Others:

2%

Asia:

10%

South America:

2%

Africa:

5%

Career Outcomes

Median Earnings After Graduation

$1,10,000 / year

Graduation Rate

89%

Job Placement

90%

Top recruiters

Bristol-Myers Squibb

Richardson Independent School District

Equinix

Equinor

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Marie Claire

SimplyHired

Aberdeenshire Council

Parker Hannifin

Police Service of Northern Ireland

Te Puni Kōkiri

Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees

$19,650 / year

Overall Cost

$34,650 / year

FAQs

• What are the career prospects after completing a PhD in Law at Essex?
  
  Graduates have pursued careers in international organisations, government, NGOs, academia, the legal profession, and the judiciary
• What are the key skills and outcomes expected from graduates?
  
  Graduates are expected to demonstrate deep knowledge of legal doctrines, critical reasoning, independent research, and the ability to communicate complex legal arguments clearly. Skills are developed through coursework, seminars, independent research, and assessed via a combination of written work, presentations, and the final thesis
• What are the main research areas and centres at Essex Law School?
  
  The School of Law is home to interdisciplinary research centres such as the Human Rights Centre, Essex Armed Conflict and Crisis Hub, and the Essex Transitional Justice Network. Other clusters include Business and Human Rights, Big Data, and Environment and Human Rights
• What training and support are provided?
  
  All first-year PhD students take the LW987 Postgraduate Research Methods and Professional Development module, which covers methodologies, theoretical frameworks, and professional development for legal research. Supervisors may also recommend attending undergraduate or postgraduate modules to support your research. Additional training and development opportunities are available through the Proficio programme
• What is the structure and duration of the PhD?
  
  The PhD is typically completed in 48 months full-time or 84 months part-time. The programme includes regular supervision, milestone assessments, and a focus on developing your research in a supportive environment. You will complete a thesis based on original research and defend it in a viva voce examination
• What are the entry requirements for the PhD in Law at Essex?
  
  You need a Master’s degree in law and a first or 2:1 LLB honours degree (or equivalent). A well-developed research proposal is also essential. Applicants are usually interviewed (in person or via Skype), and acceptance depends on the department’s research expertise. If English is not your first language, you need an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (with 6.5 in writing and no component below 5.5)