The degree of Doctor of Philosophy is available in the Faculty of Law and requires the completion of a program of research over a period of three years full-time study and the preparation of a thesis. The length of a PhD thesis normally should not exceed 100,000 words of text.
A Doctoral degree is recognition of successful research experience. The candidate must make a distinct contribution to knowledge – of fact and/or theory. For a doctorate, considerably more original work is required than for a Masters Research degree.
Unless the candidate already has a masters degree or equivalent research experience, the work must be closely supervised in the early stages and the supervisor must make sure that the training in research methods is adequate. In the later stages, however, the candidate must be allowed increasing scope to exercise initiatives and demonstrate originality. In the last year of the program the candidate should be able to work alone and be guided rather than directed by the supervisor.
Student Evaluation
The Review Process
Three months after enrolment, and annually thereafter, candidates will meet a progress review panel whose role is to ensure that the thesis is progressing well and that supervision and other Faculty support is satisfactory.
Thesis Assessment
At least three examiners of the thesis will be appointed by the Faculty Research Committee, two of whom must be external unless the Committee is satisfied that it is not practicable. Please consult the University Postgraduate Handbook for conditions for the Award of Degrees.
Undergraduate Law degree to an acceptable level to the Faculty Research Committee (generally a distinction average is required)
In exceptional circumstances, candidates with qualifications in disciplines other than law will be considered
Duration
Full time or part time
Minimum of 3 years full time
Assessment
Submission of a thesis (normally not exceeding 100,000 words)
Award of degree based on examiners’ reports
For some candidatures, satisfactory performance in coursework is also required