Law

Entry requirements

A minimum of an upper second-class honours degree in law (or equivalent) and normally at least a merit at master's level (or equivalent). Alternatively, a first-class honours degree in law (or equivalent) and evidence of ability to conduct independent and original research.

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Months of entry

September

Course content

PhD study is substantially different from other types of postgraduate work as each candidate devises their own independent research project. At the University of Bristol Law School, comprehensive research training is provided by expert academics, who also offer guidance and supervision of your research project. If you are undertaking socio-legal research, initial research training can take the form of the MSc Socio-Legal Studies programme, which is recognised by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC).

As a PhD Law student you will join a vibrant and diverse research community that includes primary units organised around research specialisms and eight centres of research excellence. You will be invited to participate in the Law School's staff seminar programme and many other frequent research events that happen in the school. There may also be opportunities to undertake some part-time teaching within the school. Travel and conference funding is available for research students.

Information for international students

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Fees and funding

The Faculty of Social Sciences and Law has an allocation of 1+3 (MSc and PhD) and +3 (PhD) ESRC scholarships. Applicants may also be interested in applying for funding from the AHRC, the University of Bristol scholarship fund or the Law School Graduate Teaching Assistantship scheme.

ESRC funding: Internal deadline - 8 December 2023. ESRC deadline - TBA.

For details on applying for ESRC funding, please visit the South West Doctoral Training Partnership (SWDTP) website.

There may be a graduate teaching assistantship available in the Law School. Visit the school's fees and funding webpages for further information.