University of Bristol United Kingdom

Law PhD

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree PhD
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Embark on a rigorous academic journey with the Law PhD at the University of Bristol, a programme designed for aspiring scholars who wish to contribute original research to the legal field. You will delve into complex legal questions, drawing on diverse research approaches from doctrinal and theoretical to socio-legal and interdisciplinary perspectives. This doctoral programme is ideal if you are passionate about areas such as immigration and citizenship, environmental law, corporate governance, or international law, and are ready to engage deeply with critical legal scholarship.

This full-time, on-campus PhD is structured over four years, providing you with comprehensive research training and expert academic supervision. You will join a vibrant community of around 80 research postgraduates, participating in staff seminars and numerous research events. The University of Bristol Law School offers support for your research, including potential part-time teaching opportunities and available travel and conference funding. Upon completion, you will graduate with advanced research skills and a significant contribution to legal knowledge, preparing you for academic careers or specialist roles in legal practice and policy.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This doctoral program in Law offers advanced study and research opportunities for students seeking to contribute to legal scholarship. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and in-depth analysis of complex legal issues. Students will engage in rigorous academic work, culminating in the completion of a dissertation.

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 29,602.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 29,602.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 29,602.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 29,602.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 118,408.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,285.00 - USD 2,164.00
Food & Groceries USD 1,048.00 - USD 1,402.00
Transport USD 355.00 - USD 693.00
Utilities & Bills USD 10,471.00 - USD 13,967.00
Estimated Total USD 11,874.00 - USD 16,062.00

Living cost estimates are based on Clifton campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

95%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Border Control & Immigration EnforcementCorporate & Commercial LawCorporate Training & DevelopmentCriminal LawEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEdTech & E-LearningEducational Support ServicesHome Health & Long‑Term CareRehabilitation & PhysiotherapyVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Burges Salmon LLP

Ministry of Justice UK

Osborne Clarke

TLT LLP

Why Study Law PhD at University of Bristol

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Bristol in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Law PhD at University of Bristol

Can I work while studying?

International PhD students in the UK can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is required.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, you can take tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Specific scores are set for each test, such as a TOEFL overall score of 95 or an IELTS overall score of 7.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Researcher, Academic Lecturer, Legal Consultant, Policy Analyst, and Judge.

What will I actually study in this course?

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

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Law PhD program has one intake period each year, which is in September. Applicants are encouraged to prepare their materials in advance to align with this schedule.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️