free phd in law

30 Fully Funded Ph.D. Programs

These fully funded Ph.D. programs are in fields like business, computer science, education and nursing.

(Getty Images) |

Many Ph.D. programs are fully funded.

Students interested in graduate research in various fields, from public health and English to computer science and engineering, have numerous options for Ph.D. programs that offer full funding. These programs typically provide waived tuition and fees and an annual stipend. Some also offer health insurance and other benefits. Gaining admittance into these small cohorts can be highly competitive, and the programs can be time-consuming . Here are 30 fully funded Ph.D. programs at U.S. colleges and universities. Keep in mind this is not a comprehensive list – there are others out there.

• Ph.D. in anthropology at the University of Chicago

Anthropology Ph.D. students at the University of Chicago can receive funding for up to eight years of study, assuming they are in good standing at the university. During that time, they will receive a full-tuition scholarship plus health insurance and a living stipend – which equated to $33,000 for the 2022-2023 school year – and can apply for external fellowships.

Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health at Harvard University (MA)

Harvard University's T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston offers a Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health that aims to provide students with expertise in disease prevention and treatment. This program includes tuition, a stipend and health insurance for five years as long as the student maintains satisfactory academic progress. International students receive the same benefits. Current research in the school's laboratories involves diseases like AIDS, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, malaria and tuberculosis.

(Dominick Reuter) |

• Ph.D. in business at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Students enrolled in the Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology can study a range of fields like organization studies, accounting and information technology. Those pursuing a Ph.D. will receive a full-tuition scholarship plus a monthly stipend of $4,267, capped at $51,204. They will also receive medical insurance, new laptops at the beginning of their first and fourth years of study and $4,500 over five years for conference travel expenses.

(Tommy Lavergne | Rice University)

Ph.D. in business at Rice University (TX)

At the Rice University Jones Graduate School of Business in Texas, students enjoy full financial assistance upon admission to the Ph.D. program. Aiming to prepare students to teach in fields like accounting, finance, organizational behavior and strategic management, the program provides students with a research or teaching assistantship. Students receive a tuition waiver and a $40,000 annual stipend contingent on making satisfactory academic progress and maintaining full-time student status.

Office of Strategic Communication | University of Iowa

• Ph.D. in business at the University of Iowa

The University of Iowa's Tippie College of Business offers Ph.D. degrees in fields such as accounting, economics, business analytics and marketing. The college says it provides full funding to "virtually all admitted students." This includes tuition and fees, a minimum nine-month stipend of about $20,000 with annual adjustments and comprehensive health insurance covered at 90%. Some departments offer funding for research presentations at major conferences, summer fellowships and paid time off for independent research.

Ph.D. in chemical engineering at Cornell University (NY)

According to Cornell University 's website, all students admitted to the chemical engineering Ph.D. program at the New York school receive a full tuition waiver, health insurance and a stipend. This funding can come from a teaching assistantship, research assistantship or fellowship, and full stipends are granted for nine months with the likelihood of additional aid in the summer.

Chris Taggart | Columbia University

Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Columbia University (NY)

Students enrolled in Columbia University 's Ph.D. program in clinical psychology at the Teachers College in New York receive fully funded tuition and a $25,000 stipend annually for three years. The stipend also carries into a student's fourth year. These doctoral fellows "may be expected to serve" as graduate teaching or research assistants. Students typically complete the mentor-matched program, which includes a full-year internship, in five to seven years.

Ph.D. in computer science at Brown University (RI)

Brown University 's Ph.D. students in computer science have access to "full financial support while completing the degree," plus the option to take classes at nearby schools without incurring additional costs, according to the school's website. In fact, doctoral students in any program at the Rhode Island university are guaranteed five years of financial support, which includes tuition remission, a stipend, health services fees and a subsidy for health insurance.

Georgetown University |

Ph.D. in computer science at Georgetown University (DC)

Georgetown University 's Ph.D. program in computer science provides scholarships and assistantships that cover full tuition at the Washington, D.C., school and include a stipend and health insurance for the first five years. Once enrolled in the program, students must complete the Apprenticeship in Teaching Program and ultimately write and defend a full research dissertation in a seminar open to the public.

Ph.D. in computer science at Washington University in St. Louis

Ph.D. students in the computer science or computer engineering program at Washington University in St. Louis receive full tuition support and health insurance. According to the university's website: "As a doctoral candidate, you will also receive a generous stipend to cover living expenses and a new, high-end Apple laptop computer. This support is guaranteed as you continue to make satisfactory progress towards your degree." Doctoral students may also qualify for one of three fellowships.

Jeff Miller | UW-Madison

• Ph.D. in counseling psychology at the University of Wisconsin—Madison

Incoming Ph.D. students at the School of Education at the University of Wisconsin—Madison are guaranteed full funding for the duration of the time that they are expected on campus, according to the university's department of counseling psychology website. Doctoral students also receive a benefits package that includes health insurance. Funding may come from financial aid, fellowships, assistantships and/or traineeships.

Emory University |

Ph.D. in economics at Emory University (GA)

Students enrolled in the economics Ph.D. program at Emory University typically receive full funding, according to the Georgia university's website. The stipend provided to students is $36,376 per year for five years, starting in fall 2023, and the full tuition scholarship is worth $70,200 per year. Funding for admitted students also includes a $4,370 annual subsidy that covers 100% of a student's cost of health insurance. First-year students have no stipend-related work requirements.

• Ph.D. in education at New York University

New York University's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development offers more than 30 degree programs. Many can be pursued on campus or online. Ph.D. degrees are offered in areas like developmental psychology, educational leadership and childhood education. Full-time NYU Steinhardt Ph.D. students are eligible for a funding package that includes an annual stipend – $32,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year – tuition coverage for required coursework and student health insurance for five years.

L.A. Cicero, Stanford News Service |

Ph.D. in education at Stanford University (CA)

Stanford University's Graduate School of Education allows students numerous fellowship and assistantship opportunities at the California school, along with a "five-year funding guarantee that provides tuition aid, fellowship stipend, and assistantship salary, and covers the standard cost of attendance," the program website reads. At the Graduate School of Education, doctoral students can choose from a range of academic areas like curriculum studies and teacher education, and developmental and psychological sciences.

• Ph.D. in education at the University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education provides full funding to Ph.D. students as part of a fellowship and research apprenticeship package. This funding includes a living stipend, health insurance and coverage of tuition and fees for up to four years if the student maintains full-time enrollment. Some students may also qualify for additional summer funding.

• Ph.D. in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor

Doctoral students in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor can choose from numerous areas of specialization under umbrella categories like aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering, macromolecular science and engineering, and robotics. All engineering doctoral students are guaranteed full funding, a monthly living stipend and health insurance. The exact amount can vary, according to the program's website, and funding comes from a range of sources, including graduate student instructor positions and fellowships.

Boston University Photography |

• Ph.D. in English at Boston University

Annually, doctoral students studying English at Boston University receive a stipend plus full tuition, fees and basic health insurance. This funding is guaranteed for at least five years, with two of those years typically free from teaching requirements. Funding can sometimes be extended up to seven years, according to the university's website, but it's not guaranteed. Students may also apply for various prizes, fellowships and short-term research and travel grants.

(Stephanie Diani) |

• Ph.D. in English at the University of California—Los Angeles

Applicants to the Ph.D. in English program at the University of California—Los Angeles are automatically considered for various funding options. A six-year funding package includes "a minimum of two years of full fellowship, four years of summer stipend support and up to four years of teaching assistantships," according to the school website. Beyond tuition, fees and health insurance are also covered.

Jeff Watts |

Ph.D. in international relations at American University (DC)

American University offers doctoral students in its international relations program who do not have external funding a renewable four-year Dean's Fellowship that is contingent on making satisfactory academic progress. The fellowship includes the cost of tuition, fees and a stipend that must be earned via a part-time role as a teaching or research assistant. Students also must "demonstrate competency in a modern foreign language" before graduating.

Jonathan Cohen | Binghamton University

• Ph.D. in management at Binghamton University—SUNY

All students admitted to the interdisciplinary management Ph.D. program at the Binghamton University—SUNY School of Management in New York receive a combination of a full-tuition scholarship and a teaching or research assistantship for each academic year, up to four years. This STEM-designated business doctoral degree prepares students for careers in academia and work in the public and private sectors, and has a student-faculty ratio of 1-to-1, according to the university's website.

Duke University Communications |

Ph.D. in materials science and engineering at Duke University (NC)

Doctoral students at Duke University in North Carolina studying materials science and engineering generally receive full tuition, a stipend and fee support for the first five years. Students also receive up to six years of health insurance if they are on the university's student medical insurance plan. The doctoral program aims to help students publish with a faculty adviser and develop research skills, with the opportunity to present research at professional conferences.

Homewood Photography | JHU

Ph.D. in nursing at Johns Hopkins University (MD)

The School of Nursing at Johns Hopkins University in Maryland provides most doctoral students with three fully funded years of study. Available financial aid includes graduate assistantships, targeted fellowships and nursing-specific funding. The university aims to "advance the theoretical foundation of nursing practice and healthcare delivery" with the degree, its website reads. "By graduation, most Hopkins nurse scholars have been awarded grants that continue their research and set them well on their way to a successful career."

• Ph.D. in nursing at the University of Virginia

All students admitted to the University of Virginia 's Ph.D. in Nursing program are eligible for four years of scholarship funding to cover tuition, insurance and fees, as well as annual stipends. To receive certain aid, students must work 10 hours per week as a graduate teaching assistant. With a heavy research focus, students can expect courses in qualitative, quantitative and historical research, and will have to submit a research proposal for peer review.

Ph.D. in nursing at Yale University (CT)

At Yale University in Connecticut, the School of Nursing offers full funding to its Ph.D. students. They receive a monthly stipend for four years in addition to paid tuition and health care. The program allows students to gain in-depth knowledge in a particular area of study. Every incoming Ph.D. student gets paired with a faculty adviser "whose area of expertise and active research most closely matches with the student’s scholarly interest," according to the school's website.

University of Minnesota |

• Ph.D. in psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities

Students admitted to the Ph.D. program to study psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities are guaranteed full funding for five years as long as they maintain satisfactory performance and degree progress. This funding includes full-time tuition, a nine-month stipend and subsidized health insurance. Funding comes from some combination of teaching assistantships, traineeships, research assistantships and fellowships. Students in the program can specialize in areas like cognitive and brain sciences, industrial-organizational psychology and social psychology.

Matt Cashore | University of Notre Dame

Ph.D. within the Romance languages and literatures department at the University of Notre Dame (IN)

University of Notre Dame doctoral students who focus on French and Francophone studies, Iberian and Latin American studies or Italian studies are guaranteed five years of funding. Funding includes a full scholarship, including tuition and fees, plus a stipend and health insurance. Anyone who completes the Ph.D. degree requirements at the Indiana university within five years will automatically receive a one-year postdoctoral fellowship via the university's 5+1 Program. Fellows will have a teaching load limited to one course per semester.

Ph.D. in social work at Bryn Mawr College (PA)

Students admitted to Bryn Mawr College 's Ph.D. program in social work receive full tuition waivers and "substantial stipends" toward living expenses. The Pennsylvania college's website says: "Consistent with our model, all Ph.D. students are funded equally, and do not compete for basic financial support during coursework." The program's cohorts typically include only three or four students each year. According to the college, it awarded the first Ph.D. degree in social work in the U.S. in 1920.

Vanderbilt University |

Ph.D. in special education at Vanderbilt University (TN)

Funding is guaranteed for all admitted doctoral students enrolled in the special education Ph.D. program at the Peabody College of Education and Human Development at Vanderbilt University in Tennessee. This includes full tuition, a "competitive" monthly stipend and health insurance for up to four years. Students may also be nominated for additional honor scholarships and fellowships. Areas of focus within the Ph.D. program include high-incidence disabilities and early childhood education.

Ph.D. in theatre and drama at Northwestern University (IL)

This interdisciplinary Ph.D. program at Northwestern University in Illinois combines coursework in humanities, social science and the visual arts. The program's students receive a five-year full-tuition scholarship plus an annual living stipend. Ph.D students enrolling at this program in fall 2022 will receive a living stipend of at least $36,960 during the 2023-2024 school year. Stipend amounts may change from year to year. Students can apply for subsidies to facilitate conference travel and summer language study.

(Photo by Sarah L. Voisin | The Washington Post via Getty Images)

• Ph.D. in women, gender and sexuality studies at University of Maryland

At the University of Maryland 's Harriet Tubman Department of Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Ph.D. students without a master's degree usually have five years of guaranteed funding. Those with a master's degree usually are funded four years, with awards stemming from a mix of departmental fellowships and graduate teaching assistantships. Since the program's establishment in 1999, the department has granted 36 Ph.Ds, according to UMD's website.

Learn more about paying for graduate school.

Finding a fully funded program isn't the only option to offset the costs of graduate school. See these seven strategies to pay for graduate school to learn more. Check out the latest Best Graduate Schools rankings to see the country's top business, medicine and law programs – and more. For additional grad school tips, follow U.S. News Education on Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIn .

Ph.D. programs that are fully funded

• Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health at Harvard University
• Ph.D. in business at Rice University
• Ph.D. in chemical engineering at Cornell University
• Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Columbia University
• Ph.D. in computer science at Brown University
• Ph.D. in computer science at Georgetown University
• Ph.D. in computer science at Washington University—St. Louis
• Ph.D. in economics at Emory University
• Ph.D. in education at Stanford University
• Ph.D. in international relations at American University
• Ph.D. in materials science and engineering at Duke University
• Ph.D. in nursing at Johns Hopkins University
• Ph.D. in nursing at Yale University
• Ph.D. within the romance languages and literatures department at the University of Notre Dame
• Ph.D. in social work at Bryn Mawr College
• Ph.D. in special education at Vanderbilt University
• Ph.D. in theatre and drama at Northwestern University

More From U.S. News

Grad Degree Jobs With $100K+ Salaries

3 Ways Graduate School Pays Off

Best and Worst Reasons for Grad School

You may also like, study away or abroad in law school.

Gabriel Kuris May 28, 2024

A Guide to Executive MBA Degrees

Ilana Kowarski and Cole Claybourn May 24, 2024

How to Choose a Civil Rights Law School

Anayat Durrani May 22, 2024

Avoid Procrastinating in Medical School

Kathleen Franco, M.D., M.S. May 21, 2024

Good Law School Recommendation Letters

Gabriel Kuris May 20, 2024

Get Accepted to Multiple Top B-schools

Anayat Durrani May 16, 2024

Premeds and Emerging Medical Research

Zach Grimmett May 14, 2024

How to Get a Perfect Score on the LSAT

Gabriel Kuris May 13, 2024

Premeds Take 5 Public Health Courses

Rachel Rizal May 7, 2024

Fortune 500 CEOs With a Law Degree

Cole Claybourn May 7, 2024

Ph.D. Common Questions

1. How do you look upon practice experience in applicants?

Practice experience can be a useful qualification for admission, but it is not required. Applicants must complete their J.D. degree before enrolling in the Ph.D. in Law program. This means that students may apply during their third year of law school, but most applicants will have had at least one year of post-law school experience of some kind. Often that experience will be a clerkship, but it may also include law practice, a public interest fellowship, government work, or even experience in a pursuit largely unrelated to law. The Ph.D. Admissions Committee also welcomes applications from candidates with a number of years of post-law school experience. Applicants who have spent more than a couple of years after law school in practice should relate their practice experience to their scholarly agenda or use their personal statements to explain their change in direction.

2. I have a clerkship, or I intend to apply for clerkships, following graduation. Can I take a leave from the Ph.D. program to take a clerkship?

While we are pleased to welcome applications from students in their third year of law school, many applicants will have spent at least one year after law school in a clerkship. We recognize that the continuing disarray in the clerkship market has affected the post-graduate planning for many students, and we will offer the possibility of a leave of absence during the program to take up a clerkship opportunity. Applicants to the Ph.D. program should be candid about their clerkship plans in their applications and should keep the Law School's Assistant Dean for Graduate Programs informed of any developments that occur after they submit their applications.

3. What should I submit as my writing sample? Can I submit a brief or other piece of practical legal writing?

Your writing sample should be the piece of writing that is the strongest evidence that you will complete an excellent dissertation on the subject you have proposed. This might be a paper you wrote in law school, a student note, or even a law review article you have already published. Your writing sample need not be on the same subject as your research proposal, but it may be helpful if it is. Except in unusual circumstances, co-authored works will not be accepted.

If you wish, you may submit a piece of practical legal writing as an additional writing sample, but you should also submit a piece of legal scholarship. The Ph.D. in Law program is designed to prepare candidates for careers in legal scholarship, and your prior legal scholarship is the best evidence of your future potential.

Please note that your writing sample should be no longer than the equivalent of 30 published pages (or roughly 15,000 words)—you may need to select an excerpt from a longer article or paper.

4. I do not have a J.D. degree from a U.S. law school, but I have a first law degree from a university outside the United States. Can I apply for the Ph.D. in Law program?

The Ph.D. in Law program at Yale Law School is designed specifically for candidates with J.D. degrees from U.S. law schools. You may, however, consider applying for admission to Yale Law School's LL.M. degree program. For more information, please consult the LL.M. program's website .

5. How is the Ph.D. in Law degree related to the J.S.D. degree?

Both are doctoral degrees, which are the highest academic degrees in law awarded by Yale University, but the programs have different structures and are designed for different purposes. The more structured Ph.D. program is designed specifically for students whose first degree in law is a J.D. from a U.S. law school, and the Ph.D. is formally awarded by Yale University's Graduate School of Arts and Sciences . The J.S.D. degree is designed principally for students who received their first degree in law from a non-U.S. institution and subsequently received their LL.M. at Yale Law School. Unlike the Ph.D., the J.S.D. is awarded by Yale Law School, not the Graduate School.

6. What if I have more questions? Whom should I contact?

If your question is not answered on this website or on the Graduate School’s website, you may e-mail questions to Gordon Silverstein, Assistant Dean for Graduate Programs, at [email protected] .

Section Menu

Doctoral Programs

Graduate Program

Apply to the Graduate Program

Graduate Program Handbook

HLS Course Catalog

Admitted LL.M. Students

Harvard International Office (HIO)

The Graduate Program attracts lawyers of demonstrated intellectual and academic excellence from all over the world. The LL.M. and S.J.D. programs expose students to American modes of legal education (which emphasize critical thinking and self-inquiry) as well as to substantive law, and enhance our students’ ability to do advanced scholarly work. The Graduate Program also hosts the Visiting Scholar/Visiting Researcher program, which accommodates a small number of legal scholars and researchers from around the world who are engaged in major research projects for which the Law School’s outstanding library resources may be of assistance.

Graduate Program Admissions & Financial Aid

Learn about all aspects of the admissions processes for our LL.M., S.J.D., and Visiting Scholar/Visiting Researcher programs, as well as financial aid and billing.

Admissions & Financial Aid

LL.M. Program

S.j.d. program, visiting scholar/visiting researcher program, graduate program alumni, news from the graduate program, make a gift for graduate financial aid, ll.m. class profile, world class: news and profiles for the graduate program community, modal gallery, gallery block modal gallery.

• Majors & Careers
• Online Grad School
• Preparing For Grad School
• Student Life

Top 10 Best PhD in Law Programs [2024]

A PhD in law is an advanced qualification that will make you a true legal expert. You can use that credential to work as a legal research scholar or teach at a post-secondary level. This is not only a prestigious career path but also a lucrative one — today’s law PhD holders have an average salary  of $93,000.

Today’s law schools emphasize an interdisciplinary approach to legal education, equipping students to work in a diverse range of fields.

Interested in an advanced criminal justice  career? Below we’ll cover the top PhD in law programs, universities, and what you need to know before pursuing a doctorate in law.

Table of Contents

Top PhD in Law Programs

Yale university, law school.

Yale University’s Law School ranks first  in the nation, with its 20 legal clinics offering an immersive experience for students. This PhD program has a purely academic focus. To qualify for admission, you’ll need to already have a JD (Juris Doctor) degree. If accepted, you’ll be able to benefit from Yale Law School’s acclaimed “Yale Teaching Program.”

• Courses: Criminal law & administration, international human rights, and complex civil litigation.
• Duration:  3 years
• Delivery: On-campus
• Tuition: Fully funded
• Financial aid: Full tuition coverage, health insurance, and stipend.
• Acceptance rate:  7%
• Location: New Haven, Connecticut

Stanford University

Doctor of the Science of Law (JSD)

Stanford University is another highly acclaimed institution in the field of law education with a tough admissions process. Only a few exceptionally gifted students with an international JD or LLB or a SPILS (Stanford Program in International Legal Studies) qualification are accepted into this program every year. The program has an emphasis on an interdisciplinary approach to law.

• Courses:  Advanced antitrust, current issues in business law, and reinventing American criminal justice systems.
• Credits: 44 units
• Duration: 4 years
• Tuition : $64,350 per year
• Financial aid: Scholarships, fellowships, grants, assistantships, federal work-study, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 5%
• Location:  Stanford, California

The University of Chicago, The Law School

Doctor of Jurisprudence (JSD)

The Law School of the University of Chicago is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach to teaching and cross-lists its courses with other departments. The faculty include philosophers, political scientists, historians, and law scholars. Students also have the option to pursue a Doctorate in Comparative Law (D.Comp.L.) instead of a JSD if they wish.

• Courses: Antitrust & intellectual property, civil rights clinic: police accountability, and American legal history.
• Duration: 5 years
• Tuition : $7,647 per year
• Financial aid: Full tuition scholarship, fellowship, and health insurance.
• Acceptance rate: 7%
• Location: Chicago, Illinois

Columbia University, Law School

JSD Program

The Columbia Law School emphasizes experiential learning with law clinics, moot courts, and externships, offering opportunities for innovative education and valuable intellectual exchange. Students can conduct independent research with the help of their faculty advisors and they need to submit a DPR (Dissertation Progress Report) at the end of each year.

• Courses:  Intellectual property & technology, international & comparative law, and law of the workplace.
• Duration:  5-6 years
• Tuition : $75,572 per year
• Financial aid: Grants, loans, and first child allowance.
• Location:  New York City, New York

Harvard University, Law School

Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD)

Harvard University is one of the world’s most famous centers for education, and its Law School  is equally renowned. The school has a unique grading system that uses the classifications honors, pass, low-pass, and fail. This flexible SJD program allows students to design their own study plan and choose faculty supervisors for independent research.

• Courses: Advanced comparative perspectives on US law, environmental justice, and strategic litigation & immigration advocacy.
• Duration:  4 years
• Delivery:  On-campus
• Tuition : $67,720 per year
• Financial aid:  Scholarships, grants, and loans.
• Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts

The University of Pennsylvania, Carey Law School

Doctor of Science of Law (SJD)

Carey Law School’s curricula cut across disciplinary and international lines to create law experts in every field, including business, health, technology, education, and social work. For admission to the Carey Law School PhD, you must already hold an LLM or JD from the same school or an institution of similar standing.

• Courses: Privacy & racial justice, appellate advocacy, and disability law.
• Tuition : Refer tuition page
• Financial aid: Full tuition, stipend, health insurance, and scholarships.
• Acceptance rate: 9%
• Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The University of Arizona, James E. Rogers College of Law

The University of Arizona’s James E. Rogers College of Law is one of the country’s most affordable top-tier law schools. This PhD law degree offers the choice of two concentrations: International Trade & Business Law, and Indigenous Peoples Law & Policy.

• Courses:  International business & investment structuring, federal Indian law, and trusts & estates.
• Duration:  3-5 years
• Tuition and fees : $26,000 per year
• Financial aid:  Scholarships, federal work-study, loans, veteran benefits, and fellowships.
• Acceptance rate: 85%
• Location: Tucson, Arizona

The University of Texas at Dallas, School of Economic, Political, and Policy Sciences

Doctor of Philosophy in Criminology

The University of Texas’ School of Economic, Political, and Policy Sciences creates professionals capable of dealing with modern issues like risk management, political violence, social inequality, healthcare, and international trade & conflict resolution. You’ll need a bachelor’s in criminology or a related discipline to apply for this PhD in criminology.

• Courses: Advances in criminology theory, evidence-based crime prevention, and regression & multivariate analysis.
• Credits: 75 semester credit hours
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 79%
• Location:  Richardson, Texas

Abraham Lincoln University, School of Law

Juris Doctor (JD)

This school was founded with to provide affordable education to working professionals who cannot attend regular law school. This doctorate in law is a flexible JD degree that can be completed entirely online through the university’s high-level education technology.

• Courses:  Criminal law, civil procedure, and wills & trusts.
• Delivery: Online
• Tuition : $10,100 per year
• Acceptance rate: 90.3%
• Location:  Glendale, California

Walden University

Online PhD in Criminal Justice

Walden University aims to help working professionals pursue advanced degrees and has been ranked #1  in research doctorates for African-American students. This program was one of the first online doctorates in criminal justice and allows students to explore national and international issues in criminal justice administration with a dual emphasis on contemporary theory and practice.

• Courses: History & contemporary issues in criminal justice, policy & analysis in criminal justice systems, and research theory, design & methods.
• Credits: 77 quarter credits
• Tuition : $636 per quarter hour
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, loans, and veteran benefits.
• Acceptance rate: 100%
• Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota

What Do You Need to Get a PhD in Law?

The exact requirements vary depending on the program, but you’ll typically need a LLB, LLM, or JD as a basic prerequisite.

As part of the admission process, you usually need to submit:

• Academic transcripts from previous studies
• Personal essay and/or research proposal
• Recommendation letters

To earn your doctorate, you’ll have to complete coursework, qualifying examinations, and usually a dissertation to a high standard.

Preparing for a Law Doctorate Program

The best PhD in legal studies programs are competitive, so it’s important to start preparing early. Keep up to date on developments in the field and research the best universities that offer your preferred specialization.

Look into leading faculty members in your areas of interest, and network by joining relevant professional communities. Once you’ve decided on your dream program, check admission requirements to prepare the strongest possible application.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Law PhD Program

Choosing the best law PhD program will depend on a range of factors, including your passions and interests. However, there are a few general factors that are essential for everyone deciding on a law school for their PhD to consider:

• Location:  First, a school close by could save you on accommodation costs. But that’s not the only location consideration. You should look at your school destination for evidence of a booming legal or education industry. For example, New York is a hub for business, while Boston is known as a center for technology.
• Cost and funding:  Ensure the program costs align with your budget and explore financial aid opportunities.
• Specialization:  Some schools offer unique specializations like social justice, law and economics, and international law. Choose a program with a focus on your preferred specialization.
• Faculty:  The university’s reputation is important, but its faculty credentials are equally critical. Explore faculty backgrounds by researching published papers and social media profiles like LinkedIn.
• Class sizes:  Smaller class sizes mean better one-on-one attention; however, a larger cohort offers better networking opportunities.
• Placement support:  What happens after graduation? Are you on the hook for finding a job on your own, or does the school offer placement options? Find out where alumni are employed to get an idea.

Why Get a Doctorate in Law?

A doctorate degree in law will allow you to pursue roles in the legal field as a scholar, researcher, or academic, and build a worthwhile career.

Several candidates apply for admission to PhD in jurisprudence programs every academic year, but top law schools have low acceptance rates, and only a few are accepted. For example, Harvard only has around 70 SJD students  while hundreds or thousands may apply. Therefore, with this qualification, you’ll belong to an exclusive group of in-demand professionals.

Jobs for PhD in Law Degree Holders

Here are some common roles for PhD holders in law with the average annual salaries for each:

• General Counsel ($170,183 )
• Staff Attorney ($71,106 )
• Professor of Law ( $131,926 )
• Project Manager ( $76,264 )
• Senior Research Associate ( $75,029 )

Course Costs

The cost greatly depends on where you study, but prestigious law schools can charge annual tuition of around $65,000. Once you factor in living expenses, books, and facility fees, the total cost can add up to around $100,000 a year. However, you can find programs with tuition and fees for as little as $7,500 a year. Moreover, most top institutions offer full-tuition scholarships, stipends, and similar financial aid that cover almost all of your expenses.

Course Length

Typically, a PhD in law takes 3-5 years to complete. However, most programs will give you extra time to complete your doctorate if needed.

Skills You’ll Gain through a PhD in Law

Aside from giving you in-depth and expansive legal knowledge, PhD in law programs can also help you develop the following skills:

• Communication
• Presentation
• Critical Thinking
• Project Management
• Problem Solving

Key Takeaways

A PhD in law is an excellent choice for legal professionals seeking a career in research or academia. While a JD or Juris Doctor is equivalent to a PhD, the former equips you to become a law practitioner.

On the other hand, if you want to teach at a post-secondary level or conduct further legal research, you will need a PhD. Prepare early and choose a program that will best help you to achieve your career goals.

For more law education advice, take a look at our guide on the best master’s in criminal justice programs , or weigh up your options with the highest-paying PhDs .

PhD in Law FAQs

What is a phd in law called.

A PhD in law is usually called a Doctor of Law or Doctor of Laws. Some universities offer a JD (Juris Doctor or Doctor of Jurisprudence) degree, while others offer SJD (Doctor of Juridical Science) or JSD (Doctor of Science in Jurisprudence) programs.

Is a PhD in Law the Same as a JD?

A JD (Juris Doctor) degree is suitable for anyone who wants to practice as a licensed legal professional. These programs usually take three years to complete and are mostly coursework-focused.

On the other hand, a PhD in law may take 5-6 years to complete and usually involves a dissertation or major research project. If your aim is professional research or a job in academia in the discipline rather than practicing law, a PhD is better for you.

What is the Highest Degree in Law?

A PhD in law is generally considered the most advanced law degree. While some universities call it by other names, such as SJD (Doctor of Juridical Science) or JSD (Doctor of Jurisprudence degree), this is essentially the same thing.

How Long is a PhD in Law?

PhD Law programs typically take 3-5 years to complete. You may take longer for individual reasons, such as if you choose to study part-time.

What Does a PhD in Law Do?

A PhD in law will equip you to work in legal research or academia.

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

• Lisa Marlin https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/lisa-marlin/ 12 Best Laptops for Computer Science Students
• Lisa Marlin https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/lisa-marlin/ ACBSP Vs AACSB: Which Business Program Accreditations is Better?
• Lisa Marlin https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/lisa-marlin/ BA vs BS: What You Need to Know [2024 Guide]
• Lisa Marlin https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/lisa-marlin/ The 19 Best MBA Scholarships to Apply for [2024-2025]

Top 12 Best Laptops for Graduate Students in 2024

Top 10 best phd in theology programs [2024], related posts.

• Experience Paradox: Entry-Level Jobs Demand Years in Field

• Grad Trends: Interest in Artificial Intelligence Surges

• Applying to Big Tech This Year? Here’s How to Ace It.

73% of job seekers believe a degree is needed for a well-paying role–but is it?

Tech Talent Crunch: Cities with More Jobs Than Workers

The Most Under-Rated Career Advancement Tip for 2024

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recent Posts

• Breaking Records: Yale Sees Most Selective Grad Admissions Season Yet
• 12 Best Laptops for Computer Science Students

© 2024 TheGradCafe.com All rights reserved

• Partner With Us
• Results Search
• Submit Your Results
• Write For Us

Doctoral Programme in Law

The doctoral programme and the Faculty of Law offer a uniform selection of disciplines in order to create a flexible framework for the interplay of education and research. The degree programme cooperates with LERU (League of European Research Universities).

Want to know more? Visit our profile & activities page to learn more about the key research areas and activities in the programme.

Ph.D. Program in Law & Economics

• Student Profiles

Program Overview

Vanderbilt Law School's Ph.D. Program in Law and Economics is unlike any other. Dual-degree students pursue a J.D. and a Ph.D. concurrently in a fully integrated curriculum that combines economic theory and methodology with the study of law. The program is designed so that students complete both degrees in just six years. Admitted students receive a full funding package , including tuition for both degrees and a competitive annual stipend, for all six years of study.

• Explore our History

About our Program

Applicants must complete separate applications to Vanderbilt Graduate School and Vanderbilt Law School. Each applicant's Law School and Graduate School applications will be considered together in a collaborative admissions process.

Program faculty guide students through an innovative law and economics curriculum in which students pursue policy-relevant research. The program offers four primary research fields: behavioral law and economics, labor markets and human resources, law and economics, and risk and environmental regulation.

Program graduates are in tenured or tenure-track positions at University of Alabama, University of Arkansas, University at Buffalo, Florida State University, George Mason University, University of Texas, Vanderbilt University, and Western Kentucky University, as well as in positions in government, legal practice, and consulting.

The Law & Economics/Applied Microeconomics Seminar Series brings scholars from around the world to Vanderbilt to present research spanning a variety of fields and topics. The program also hosts a variety of conferences, including the biennial Frontiers in Law and Economics (FILE) conference. 

Application Closed for Fall 2024

• How to Apply

August 15, 2024

Applications open for Fall 2025

January 15, 2025

Deadline for priority consideration

April 1, 2025

Final deadline

In the News

Have questions.

Contact the Ph.D. in Law & Economics Program Manager.

Main navigation

• BCL/JD Program
• Graduate Programs
• Faculty Members
• About Graduate Studies
• Individual Development Plan
• Mentorship, Teaching, and Supervisory Programs
• Residency and Duration
• Master's Programs
• Certificate Programs
• Admissions Guide
• Newly Admitted Students
• Tuition and Financial Support
• Current Students
• Graduate Law Students Association
• Graduate Programs Office

Doctoral Program

Intensive, selective and challenging, our doctoral program is ideal for scholars intent on deepening and broadening their critical understanding of the law, as well as their original engagement with it.

Our Doctor of Civil Law (DCL) program serves as a starting point for those planning to pursue careers in academia, think-tanks, government and international organizations, among others. Our students build the teaching supervision, leadership and knowledge that they need to take on any challenge. Whatever their ambitions, our students have great success in achieving them. The DCL program allows for the development of a substantial thesis, which makes an original contribution to legal scholarship.

McGill's Faculty of Law currently hosts approximately 70 doctoral students, who come from all around the world. Each year, we admit roughly 15 new students to this vibrant community.

Our doctoral programs

The Faculty of Law offers three options for students in its doctoral program:

• Doctor of Civil Law - Law
• Doctor of Civil Law - Comparative Law
• Doctor of Civil Law - Air and Space Law

Research affiliations

If their area of research is suitable, DCL candidates may wish to be associated with:

• the Centre for Human Rights and Legal Pluralism
• the Paul-André Crépeau Centre for Private and Comparative Law
• the Centre for Intellectual Property Policy
• or one of the Research Chairs at the Faculty of Law.

Doctoral students at McGill’s Faculty of Law are invited to participate in Faculty Seminars and other workshops as a way to underscore their membership in a community of academic scholars.

Related Content

Read our leaflet [.pdf]

Read our Graduate Programs Admissions Guide

Submit your application for admission to our graduate programs by December 1st.

Series of Webinars on Graduate Studies Watch all our webinars!

Department and University Information

Faculty of law.

• Law Admissions - BCL/JD
• Law Admissions - graduate programs
• Law Student Affairs Office
• Graduate studies in law
• Law Career Development Office
• Nahum Gelber Law Library
• Focus online
• Business Law Platform
• Canada Research Chair in Transsystemic Property and Sustainable Communities
• Centre for Human Rights & Legal Pluralism
• Centre for Intellectual Property Policy
• Fortier Chair in Int'l Arbitration & Commercial Law
• Institute of Air & Space Law
• Labour Law and Development Research Laboratory
• Oppenheimer Chair in Public International Law
• Paul-André Crépeau Centre for Private & Comparative Law
• Peter MacKell Chair in Federalism
• Private Justice and the Rule of Law
• Research Group on Health & Law
• Rule of Law and Economic Development
• Stikeman Chair in Tax Law
• Wainwright Fund

PhDs in Human Rights (Fully Funded)

If you are interested in pursuing your academic career in human rights, there are Universities that offer a variety of funding and financial assistance opportunities for prospective PhD students. Fully funded opportunities are allocated through an university or external funds. Depending on the program, scholarships cover full tuition costs, living expenses and monthly stipends. The following is an overview of 5 fully-funded PhDs in human rights.

International Joint PhD Programme “Human Rights, Society, and Multi-level Governance”

“Human Rights Society and Multi-level governance” is a three-year doctoral joint academic program with interdisciplinary approach. It is coordinated by University of Padova in Italy in partnership with Universities in Australia, Croatia and Cyprus. The goal of this doctorate program is to form researchers with multi-interdisciplinary profile. Thus, during the programme students will have an opportunity to implement various legal, political, social, philosophical and economic approaches and methodologies in the area of human rights.

While students carry out their research and attend courses at the University of first enrolment, they need to spend at least one semester at one of the partner Universities. During that time, they will be supervised by their mentor from the home University and co-mentor from host University, if the student desires to choose co-mentorship. Additionally, students will be required to do internships at both universities.

When applying, students need to send a research proposal together with other needed documents. If approved by the Academic board, the student will be admitted and then undertake his/her research during the next three years. The program includes teaching, courses (mandatory and free of choice), research and training within the area of human rights studies.

The call for admission to this PhD programme for the academic year 2020/2021 is now open! The deadline for submission of application is June 16 th 2020 by 1 pm Italian time. The first preselection meeting of the Evaluating Commission will be held on 6 th July 2020 and by the 8 th of July the Commission will publish the results of the of evaluation qualifications on the following website. In order to be admitted to the examination, the candidate must get a score of at least 7/10 in the preselection.

More information regarding the fees and scholarships can be found on the University of Padova website. Generally, students can apply for full-tuition funding through their home university, while other types of funding are available as well at the Western Sydney University in Australia, Zagreb University Faculty of Law in Croatia, Panteion University – Athens in Greece and University of Nicosia in Cyprus.

PhD in Security, Conflict and Human Rights – University of Bristol

This program is one of the five South West Doctoral Training Partnership interdisciplinary programs, provided in partnership with the Universities of Bath and Exeter. The PhD in Security, Conflict and Human Rights aims at delivering traditional approaches of the security and conflict discourse, together with interdisciplinary perspectives on protection of human rights. Therefore, students are required to articulate clearly their proposed research which must be interdisciplinary in nature.

This PhD program equips researchers and responds directly to challenges. As the focus is put on interdisciplinary, students are required within their proposal to clearly and substantively articulate how and in what ways the proposed research is interdisciplinary in nature. The offer of a place to the program depends on the availability of co-supervision from two staff members from different disciplines, in relation to the student’s proposal. Students are required to identify this in the ‘proposed supervisor’ section of their application.

When it comes to the funding and fees, the Faculty of Social Sciences and Law allocates 1+3 and +3 ESRC scholarships, while students can also apply for other types of funding from the University of Bristol scholarship fund or alumni PhD scholarship fund. Funding is quite competitive and it is available for exceptional research proposals. The tuition fee is $20,152 per year for international students and $5,441 for EU or EEA citizens. However, University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a ten per cent reduction in tuition feels for postgraduate study. The application deadline is not fixed for students who wish to apply as self-funded, while the closing date for ESRC scholarships is usually open until the end of January.

The PhD in Security, Conflict and Human rights equips students for a number of different careers. During the years, the students got employment in areas of academia, international security, development and conflict issues, and they have worked as policy researchers, consultants, policy civil servants or the military.

Human Rights PhD – University of Sussex

This PhD program in Human rights goes beyond a narrow legalistic approach. Admitted students are supposed to work under the supervision of faculty experts, while focusing on human rights area in the fields of poverty, violence, identity, globalization, the emergence of global forms of governance etc. Duration of this PhD program is 4 years if enrolled full time or 6 years if enrolled part time. Students may also choose when they want to start – in September, January or May.

In order to apply, prospective students need to write an outline research proposal four to five pages long, stating the nature, ambition, research questions and the methodology of a research proposal. On the website of the University instructions on how to write a research proposal can be found.

Students can choose to study for a PhD or an MPhil. These degrees are different in duration and in the extent of research work. The PhD requires research work that will make a substantial original contribution to knowledge or understanding in a chosen field, whereas for an MPhil, student’s work is considered to be an independent piece of research but in less depth compared to PhD. Students graduate with the degree title Master of Philosophy and are able to change to a PhD while studying for an MPhil.

University of Sussex offers various types of scholarships and interested students should check application deadlines for funding opportunities.

PhD in Human Rights and Global Politics – Scuola Superiore Sant’ Anna

PhD in Human Rights and Global Politics is considered to be strongly interdisciplinary, aiming at providing the knowledge which will enable students to carry out systematic academic research and make them professionals in the field of human rights. After three-year’s program, doctoral students can undertake career within international, national and regional entities, both in private and public sectors. When writing an application, prospective students need to indicate main and complementary research area, choosing between Political Philosophy, Public International Law, Agri-food and Agri-environmental Law and Political Economy. They are strongly advised to explore the website pages of these faculties and research profiles of faculty members and prospective supervisors.

Deadline for application to this PhD program is 4 th June 2020 by 12:00 Rome time. The number of positions eligible for scholarships is four and amongst four scholarships available, two are reserved for students with an academic title earned from a non-Italian University. Application requires research proposal written by following specified guidelines. If admitted, doctoral students will carry out the research during the next three years.

There are no positions opened for self-funded students. Admitted students will receive monthly stipend and all fees covered. The Program accepts application from all over the world, while one or more places are usually reserved for students residing outside European Union. For further information about application process, fees and funding visit the official website.

PhD in Human Rights – Centre for Applied Human Rights – University of York

The University of York offers full funded PhD program in Human rights within its Centre for Applied Human Rights. The Centre undertakes researches on various topics – human rights defenders, human rights practice, human rights and development, legal empowerment, refugee law and policy, responsibility to protect, transitional justice etc. PhD program is supported by the Department of Politics and York Law School and inter-departmental Development and Conflict Working Group and York Law School’s Socio-Legal Research group as well. Besides regular courses, Centre often organizes lectures, workshops and conferences on the topic of human rights issues.

Interested students are invited to make online application, choosing the option of “PhD in Politics” or the “PhD in Law”, depending on their preferences. Potential supervisor should also be stated during the application. Finally, draft dissertation proposal should be submitted following the template provided on the website.

There are different funding opportunities for students who have been accepted into the program. Both University of York and external funders offer financial assistance. There are also part-time employment opportunities as tutors or lecturers. Potential scholarship opportunities and other forms of assistance are discusses with students who have been admitted. Nevertheless, students should keep in mind that many scholarships have early application deadlines.

During past few years, the Centre has successfully nominated and advocated on behalf of prospective students for an awarded and ESRC scholarship funding. In the case of UK students, this funding covers tuition and provides a basic stipend. For international students, this funding is limited and usually covers a certain percentage of tuition. Nevertheless, students seeking funding should apply early in the academic year since ESRC funding decisions are by April. Therefore, to be considered for funding, students should submit their applications by the end of January.

Everything You Need To Know Before Doing A PhD In Law

So, you’ve mastered the art of legalese, conquered the casebooks, and now the allure of a PhD in Law beckons.

Moreover, Before you dive headfirst into the world of legal academia, let’s unravel the mysteries and demystify the process of pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Law. Buckle up, future legal scholars – here’s the lowdown.

What Is A PhD In Law?

Here we go, inquisitive ones, be ready to fasten your belts as we unravel a PhD in the law. Not just a degree, it becomes a journey into the unfamiliar landscape of the legal system, which I don’t find in the legal dramas on TV.

Let’s go back to the beginning. A Ph.D. in Law is not just that common type of degree with which you merely learn statutes and it is over.

It is the peak of the academic legal world, the Jedi Master level of legal education . Paint it as your golden opportunity to truly explore the intrigues of legal waters no man has gone before and come out the expert on it.

The Commitment Factor

You want to be a law scholar? Be ready for the most serious and everlasting promise you ever made. This is not a sprint but a marathon. Consider the time span of three to five years in the intellectual field.

You and your research are about to embark on a very long journey – one which lasts for a lifetime – like a sophisticated legal romance novel without the clichéd dialogue.

What’s Your Legal Niche?

As a first step, determine what legal arena interests you most before embarking upon this stupendous travel. Humanize: Be it environmental law, human rights, or any secretive realm like space law – name your legal match. Your PhD is your spending your love for that particular area of law.

Supervisors

Alright, so in your head, be the superhero (since in actual fact, you kinda are). There is no superhero who doesn’t need a devoted and brave sidekick, isn’t it? Congratulations! It’s time to meet your boss; your Gandalf and your Batman, your Robin and your Spiderman.

They guide, mentor, and rarely even offer to make the mother of all bombs that will change your entire worldview as a student.

The Research Proposal

Each masterpiece is made of ideas, and a plan, and your PhD is not an exception. Off you go – the proposal of research – your route to academic triumph. With a successful occurrence of this, you are sure to be on the way to deciphering the riddles of legal academia.

Funding Your Legal Education

Let’s address the elephant in the room: funding. However, if a PhD degree is your intellectual calling, your landlord will still demand that you pay the rent. Study the scholarships, grants , and funding programs. Your money machine has to have some brain muscle.

Life Beyond the Law Library

Contrary to the common belief, the PhD is not only about joining a sleepy library. Join legal conferences, socialize with fellow legal brains, as well as, take a moment to watch your favorite TV series on Netflix. It’s a matter of sanity in the middle of the legal ruin.

And here comes the climax – your D-Day – the defense of the thesis. Conceive it as the legal Olympics; there you defend your intellectual property. Sail through that and you’ll be a litigious Doctor of Philosophy.

How To Get A Ph.D. In Law?

So, you’ve got the legal bug, the burning desire to delve into the intricacies of the law beyond what your LLB or JD provided . A Ph.D. in Law is calling your name, and you’re ready for the challenge. Let’s break down the roadmap to turning those legal dreams into reality.

Finding Your Passion

Before you plunge into the Ph.D. abyss, ask yourself, “What legal puzzle keeps me up at night?” Identify your legal passion; it’s the compass that’ll guide you through the academic labyrinth. Whether it’s environmental law, criminal justice, or the wild world of international law, find your legal muse.

Crafting Your Research Proposal

Picture your Ph.D. journey as a grand adventure, and the research proposal is your treasure map. It’s not just a formality; it’s your chance to articulate your research vision. Be clear, concise, and convincing – your academic destiny hangs in the balance.

Choosing Your Supervisor Wisely

Meet your academic Yoda – your supervisor. This isn’t just a partnership; it’s a mentorship. Choose someone who not only knows the legal ropes but also aligns with your research interests. They’ll be your guiding star through the academic galaxy.

Funding Your Legal Crusade

Let’s be real; pursuing a Ph.D. isn’t a cheap date. Explore scholarship options, grants, and funding opportunities.

Moreover, your brilliance deserves financial backing, so don’t shy away from funding Fandango.

Crafting Your Magnum Opus

Your thesis is the pièce de résistance of your Ph.D. Think of it as a legal manuscript that’ll make waves in academia. Dive deep, conduct rigorous research.

Moreover, present your findings with flair. It’s your chance to contribute something significant to the legal conversation.

Balancing Act of PhD in law

As you immerse yourself in the legal wilderness of writing, remember to balance work and life. Yes, the library is your second home, but don’t forget to attend conferences, network, and occasionally indulge in some self-care.

Moreover, A burnt-out Ph.D. candidate is nobody’s idea of success.

Defending Your Intellectual Fortitude

The day has arrived – your thesis defense. It’s your chance to showcase the intellectual muscle you’ve been flexing for years. Be confident, articulate, and ready to tackle questions.

Moreover, This is the final showdown before you emerge as a legal Jedi.

How Long Does It Take To Get A PhD In Law?

Alright, future legal scholars, you’ve decided to take the plunge into the world of a Ph.D. in Law. But let’s address the elephant in the courtroom – just how long is this academic escapade going to take? 

Buckle up; we’re about to navigate the twists and turns of the Ph.D. timeline .

The Legal Marathon: Setting Realistic Expectations

First things first – a Ph.D. in Law is no sprint. It’s a marathon, a scholarly expedition into the depths of legal academia. 

While the specific timeline can vary, the average duration is typically three to five years. 

Moreover, It’s not just a degree ; it’s a commitment to becoming the Jedi Master of your legal niche.

The Proposal Prelude: Year One

Year one kicks off with the grand proposal dance. This is where you pitch your tent in the academic campground. You’ll be refining your research question, crafting that all-important proposal, and finding your academic bearings.

Moreover, It’s the year of laying the groundwork for the epic journey ahead.

Supervisory Bonding: Years One and Two

Enter the academic Yoda – your supervisor. The early years are all about forging that mentorship, refining your research design, and diving into the sea of legal literature.

Moreover, This phase is where you build the foundation for your thesis and develop the crucial academic muscle required for the journey.

Funding Fandango: Concurrent with Years One and Two

Ah, the funding quest – it’s like searching for the golden key to the academic kingdom. While not everyone embarks on this quest simultaneously, securing funding often happens alongside the initial years of research.

Moreover, Scholarships, grants, and financial backing become your academic sidekicks.

The Write-Up Wilderness: Years Two to Four of PhD in law

Welcome to the write-up wilderness, where the real magic (and sometimes madness) happens. Years two to four are all about immersing yourself in the legal labyrinth, conducting research, and crafting that magnum opus of a thesis.

Moreover, It’s where you refine your legal arguments and contribute your unique perspective to the academic conversation.

Thesis Tango: Years Four and Five of PhD in law

As you waltz into years four and five, it’s showtime – the thesis defense is looming on the horizon. This is the crescendo of your academic symphony.

Moreover, Nail the defense, and you emerge as a Doctor of Philosophy in Law, ready to wield your legal prowess in the wider world.

Life Beyond Law School: The Aftermath of PhD in law

Congratulations, Doctor! The journey might be over, but the adventure is just beginning. Whether you choose academia, policymaking, or even intergalactic legal consultancy (who knows?).

Moreover, the world of law is now your oyster.

What Can You Do With A PhD In Law?

So, you’ve conquered the academic summit, and now you’re armed with a shiny new PhD in Law. But wait, what’s next? Fear not, intrepid legal scholar, because the world is your jurisdiction.

Let’s explore the myriad paths that open up when you wield the mighty title of Doctor of Philosophy in Law.

Academic Odyssey: Shaping the Legal Minds of Tomorrow

One of the classic moves post-PhD is diving into academia. Picture yourself as the wise sage of the law school , molding eager minds and imparting your wisdom.

Moreover, You become the beacon of legal enlightenment, guiding the next generation of lawyers and thinkers.

Policy Architect: Building Legal Bridges Beyond Academia

Ever dreamed of influencing policy and shaping the legal landscape beyond the ivory tower? With a PhD in Law, you’re equipped to dive into the world of policy-making.

Moreover, Become the architect of legal frameworks, advising governments and organizations on navigating the complex waters of law and justice.

Legal Luminary in Practice: Consulting and Expert Testimony

Step into the limelight as a legal expert sought after by law firms , corporations, or even governments. Your expertise becomes a valuable commodity.

Moreover, From consulting on intricate legal matters to providing expert testimony in courtrooms.

Moreover, your PhD is your ticket to becoming a legal luminary in the practical realm.

International Law Trailblazer: Navigating Global Legal Waters From Your PhD in law

With a PhD in Law, you’re not confined by borders. Dive into the dynamic world of international law. Whether it’s shaping global policies, working with international organizations, or advocating for human rights on a global scale.

Moreover, your expertise can have a far-reaching impact.

Research Maestro: Contributing to Legal Scholarship

Fuel your passion for research by continuing to make waves in legal scholarship. Your PhD isn’t just a culmination; it’s a launchpad for further exploration.

Moreover, Contribute articles, publish books, and be the driving force behind advancements in legal knowledge.

Corporate Counsel with a Twist: Navigating Legal Complexities From Your PhD in law

Corporations are always in need of legal wizards to navigate the ever-evolving legal landscape. Your PhD sets you apart.

Moreover, bringing a depth of understanding and critical thinking that can be invaluable in corporate legal departments.

Legal Entrepreneur: Carving Your Own Niche From Your PhD in law

Feel the entrepreneurial spirit bubbling within? Your PhD can be the foundation for launching your own legal consultancy or business.

Whether it’s providing specialized legal services or developing innovative legal solutions, the entrepreneurial path is yours to carve.

Interdisciplinary Explorer: Bridging Law with Other Fields From Your PhD in law

The beauty of a PhD is its interdisciplinary potential. Blend law with other fields like technology, business, or even environmental science.

Moreover, Become a trailblazer at the intersection of law and diverse domains, solving complex problems that span multiple disciplines.

Beyond Earth: Legal Consultancy for Space Ventures

Okay, this one might be a bit out there, but in the era of space exploration, who’s to say your legal expertise can’t extend beyond Earth?

Moreover, Imagine being the go-to legal consultant for interstellar ventures – because why not dream big?

Final Thoughts 

Congratulations, Doctor of Philosophy in Law !

Moreover, wait, is it the end or merely the prologue? The legal world is your oyster now. Whether you choose academia, policymaking, or intergalactic diplomacy – the journey has molded you into a legal maestro.

So, future legal scholars, armed with this roadmap, venture forth into the world of legal academia. Your PhD adventure awaits, filled with twists, turns, and the occasional ‘Eureka!’ moment. May your legal curiosity know no bounds!

• A Comprehensive Guide To Legal Billing
• A Guide To Understand The Job Role Of A Legal Recruiter
• A Guide To Understanding What To Gift For Law Students

Nilanjana is a lawyer with a flair for writing. She has a certification in American Laws from Penn Law (Pennsylvania University). Along with this, she has been known to write legal articles that allow the audience to know about American laws and regulations at ease.

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Recent posts.

Connect Us on Social Media

Related posts.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• School of Law

Ph.D. in Law PhD in Law

A Ph.D. requires a minimum of three years' study, at least two years of which comprises work done while in residence at the University of Washington. Students enter the Ph.D. program having already identified a dissertation supervisory chair and additional committee members (referred to as the student’s Doctoral Supervisory Committee), who will support and shepherd them through the Ph.D. curriculum and dissertation writing process.

Ph.D. candidates must complete 90 credits, at least 60 of which must be taken at the University of Washington, in order to receive a doctoral degree.

I. Requirements

Overall course requirements.

Ph.D. students must successfully complete a minimum of 90 credits including at least 60 course credits and 27 dissertation credits (LAW 800—minimum two credit hours per quarter). With the approval of the Ph.D. Program Director and Steering Committee, an appropriate master’s degree from an accredited institution may substitute for up to a maximum of 30 of the course credits.   This determination of substituting master’s credits takes place at the time when the presumptive chair agrees that the Ph.D. student’s prospectus is ready to defend at a General Examination.   The 60 course credits also include courses required by the School of Law as described immediately below.

Required Competencies:

The primary requirement is the production of a dissertation that, in the opinion of the Ph.D. Doctoral Supervisory Committee, represents a novel and significant contribution to the discipline of law. In addition, Ph.D. students are required to demonstrate competencies in four areas: 

• Understanding of common law legal systems and differences between major legal systems around the world.
• An understanding of a research methodology area relevant to the topic of their dissertation research.
• Subject matter expertise in the area of their dissertation research.
• The ability to present and discuss the results of their dissertation research.

An understanding of common law legal systems and differences between major legal systems around the world

This requirement will be satisfied by 8 credits of coursework as follows:

• Required course: B550 American Legal Systems and Methods (4 credits) or equivalent
• Additionally, students will have to complete B557 Graduate Writing Seminar (4 credits) or the equivalent to demonstrate understanding of the American legal system.

Research Methodology

Broadly speaking, modern academic legal research is supported by one or more of the following:  jurisprudential approaches, qualitative approaches, quantitative approaches. Competency will be satisfied by at least 3-4 credits of coursework as follows, chosen in consultation with the supervisory chair:

• PPM 502 Research Design (4)
• EDPSY 586 Qualitative Methods of Educational Research I (4 credits)
• ARCH 567 Qualitative Research Methods (3)
• CS&SS 536 Analysis of Categorical and Count Data (3)
• LAWA 595 Jurisprudence and Moral Philosophy (4)

Elective courses: Law A599 Legal Research Methods (3 credits), Law   A 549 Advanced Legal Research   (4 Credits) 

Subject Matter Expertise (10-12 credits of subject discipline required courses)

The remaining courses to fulfill the credit requirement are to be chosen based on the Ph.D. student’s dissertation research topic. For instance, students with a focus on intellectual property must complete that discipline’s required courses. The same is true for sustainable international development, health law, etc.

Presentation/Discussion Competency

The presentation/discussion competency will be satisfied by successful completion of the general and final examination process described below.

Other Requirements

Law 600 tutorial with supervisory chair (1-2 credits per quarter).

In addition to the above requirements, students are expected to take 1-2 Law 600 credits with their supervisory chair per quarter to facilitate regular communication during the time leading up to their general exam. The chair will monitor the student’s academic progress and advise on appropriate courses to be taken (at the law school and in other departments on campus) related to the Ph.D. student’s research.

First- and Second-Year Elective Courses

All Ph.D. students are expected and encouraged to take subject-matter courses relevant to their dissertation research topic as part of their 60 credits of coursework. There is a rich variety of courses available in the School of Law and in other schools and departments across the University of Washington campus. For example, the   Graduate School has a variety of graduate certificate programs   that not only may be pertinent to student’s research interests but may provide an additional credential to enhance a student’s academic portfolio.

II. General Examination

Completion of 60 course credits (up to 30 credits from an accredited LL.M. or other pertinent master's degree may be counted toward the 90-credit total) and a Dissertation Prospectus approved by the Doctoral Supervisory Committee are required prior to this exam.

Students must pass an oral   General Examination   designed around individualized readings determined in consultation with the student’s Doctoral Supervisory Committee, and a Dissertation Prospectus that contains the student’s detailed dissertation study plans, including research questions and the chosen methodology and study plan to answer them.

To be eligible for the General Exam, the student must have completed a minimum of 60 course credits (including credits being taken the quarter of the exam) of which at least 18 credits must be at the 500 level and above. Numerical grades must be received in at least 18 quarter credits of coursework taken at the University of Washington. The Graduate School accepts numerical grades in department approved 400-level courses accepted as part of the major and in 500-level courses (this excludes 499 credits). 

Students are required to write and successfully defend a Dissertation Prospectus that outlines a detailed plan for the Ph.D. dissertation. The General Examination tests the student’s understanding of, and facility with, the scholarly literature that relates to the proposed dissertation topic, along with the strength of the proposed research proposal and its design.

III. Final Examination (Doctoral Defense)

In addition to a successful General Examination, the Ph.D. candidate must complete at least 27 dissertation credits over a period of at least three quarters. Candidates total credit count must reach 90 and they must have completed their doctoral dissertation.

To complete the degree, the candidate must complete a   Dissertation Defense   (also known as the   Final Examination ) administered by the Supervisory Doctoral Committee and devoted to the presentation and defense of the dissertation. It should be noted that the Graduate School requires a cumulative 3.0 GPA to obtain a graduate degree. For the final Dissertation Defense, students must get their committee members’ signatures on the UW Graduate School Doctoral Dissertation Reading Committee Approval form and submit that before the end of the quarter (the form will be provided at or prior to the student’s defense and submission instructions are on the form). More detailed information is on the Ph.D. Program’s Canvas page.

Students must be registered and may not be on leave during the quarter that the General and Final Examinations are taken.

IV. Official Submission

After a successful Final Examination, the dissertation must be submitted in the required format to the University of Washington Graduate School by 11:59 p.m. PST on the  last day of the quarter . The PhD Candidate must be registered and may not be on leave during the quarter that the dissertation is submitted.

For details of degree requirements please see Graduate School Policies-Doctoral Degree .

Ph.D. in Law

• Current Ph.D.s in Law
• PhD Admissions

Graduate Programs, UW School of Law William H. Gates Hall Box 353020 4293 Memorial Way Seattle, WA 98195-3020, USA gradlaw@ uw .edu

FellowshipBard

Fully funded phd programs in law 2024.

Are you holding Master’s degree in Law and looking for fully funded PhD positions in Law? Multiple Universities invite online application for multiple fully funded PhD Programs / fully funded PhD positions in various Law research areas.

Candidates interested in fully funded PhD positions can check the details and may apply as soon as possible. Interested and eligible applicants may submit their online application for PhD programs via the University’s Online Application Portal. 

1. Fully Funded PhD Program in Law & Economics at Vanderbilt University

Summary of phd program:.

Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, offers a PhD program in Law and Economics that is fully funded. The program integrates legal studies with analytical training in economic theory and technique. Students who complete the program obtain a PhD in Law and Economics as well as a J.D. Law and economics, risk and environmental regulation, labor markets and human resources, and behavioral law and economics are the main areas of research. Although extensive knowledge of mathematics and economic principles is helpful, a major or master’s degree in economics is not required.

All students enrolled to the Ph.D. Program in Law and Economics get full tuition support as well as a stipend for living expenses during their studies.

Application Deadline: Dec 01, 2024

2. fully funded jd-phd program in philosophy and law at university of arizona.

The University of Arizona, located in Tucson, Arizona, provides a fully funded dual JD-PhD program in Philosophy and Law. Earn your doctorate in philosophy while also studying law. This curriculum entails concurrent enrollment in the College of Law’s Juris Doctor (J.D.) program and the Department of Philosophy’s Ph.D. program (in the Graduate College). You must be admitted to each program independently and authorized for inclusion in the concurrent degree program.

The majority of PhD students receive financial support in the form of fellowships, teaching assistantships, and/or research assistantships.

Follow FellowshipBard for daily updates!

3. Fully Funded PhD in Justice Studies at Arizona State University  

A fully funded PhD in Justice Studies is available at Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona. The varied community of academics brings students and faculty together across academic boundaries to strategically generate democratic, inclusive, and just social change. The PhD/JD option enables qualified students to obtain a Juris Doctor from ASU’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law while also pursuing a transdisciplinary doctorate in justice studies.

Each year, they admit a number of doctorate students who are completely sponsored by graduate scholarships, teaching and research assistantships, and other means. These prizes pay for your tuition, health insurance, and a stipend.

4. Fully Funded JD-PhD in Philosophy and Law at University of California

The University of California, Los Angeles, has a fully funded JD-PhD program in Philosophy and Law. JD-PhD program for highly brilliant and devoted individuals interested in pursuing careers in law and philosophy research and teaching.

All admitted students are provided with a two-year fellowship that covers living expenses, university fees, and health insurance. Highly qualified students are given multi-year fellowships by the university. In years when students do not obtain fellowship assistance, they are offered teaching assistantships, which include a salary and other benefits and can last up to five years if they perform well.

10 Best Platforms To Create And Sell Online Courses

5. fully funded jd-phd in business and law at university of chicago booth.

In Chicago, Illinois, the University of Chicago Booth provides a fully funded JD-PhD in Business and Law. The Joint JD-PhD Program prepares you for a career in law or business. You’ll graduate with two advanced degrees. As a PhD student in this joint-degree program, you will have the freedom to follow your research interests wherever they may take you.

All admitted Ph.D. students at Chicago Booth get a tuition grant, a stipend, student health insurance, a computer or computer subsidy, and access to research and travel support. The stipend for a Ph.D. is $43,500 per year. Teaching assistantships are guaranteed in the third and fourth years.

6. Fully Funded JD-PhD Program at Columbia University

Columbia University in New York, New York, provides a fully funded JD-PhD program. Biological Sciences, Economics, English and Comparative Literature, History, Political Science, Psychology, Religion, and Sociology are among the GSAS departments that have chosen to participate in the JD-PhD program. Students with any major or concentration are encouraged to apply.

Students will receive financing as GSAS doctoral students for the GSAS phase of the JD/PhD program, which requires a multi-year commitment as mentioned in the official letter of admission from the Dean. This multi-year funding is made up of fellowships and teaching or research assistantships.

Looking For More Funded PhD Programs? Click Here

7. fully funded jd-phd in law at northwestern university.

Northwestern University in Chicago, Illinois, provides a fully funded JD-PhD in Law program. The JD-PhD program at Northwestern is open to candidates who want to pursue an academic or research career and whose teaching and research will be enhanced by both degrees. Students can finish the entire program, including the dissertation, in as little as six years.

Northwestern University has the most generous JD-PhD program in the US, typically giving full support (including tuition and living expenses) for up to five students each year for six academic years and three summers.

8. Fully Funded JD-PhD in Environmental Science and Policy at University of Miami

The University of Miami School of Law, located in Coral Gables, Florida, provides a JD-PhD program in Environmental Science and Policy that is fully funded. Students with significant interests in both environmental policy and law can prepare for employment in either the private or public sectors in less time than if they pursued both degrees separately.

For their Ph.D. studies, students will receive stipends and tuition waivers from the ECS program for four years, with the commitment to serve as a Teaching Assistant for one of those four years. The Law School will award a tuition scholarship of $25,000 for the first year of law school.

Get Professional Job Ready & In-demand Career Certificates

9. fully funded jd-phd in law, media and communication at university of north carolina.

The University of North Carolina Center for Media Law and Policy at Chapel Hill, North Carolina, offers a fully funded JD-PhD program in Law, Media, and Communication. The dual degree program in JD-PhD in Media and Communication is primarily designed for individuals interested in academic careers in media law and policy.

Scholarships and other support, such as writing competitions, job aid, and summer fellowships, are available to students interested in media law and policy at both the UNC School of Law and the UNC School of Media and Journalism. Scholarships are offered to all students in the School of Media and Journalism.

Top 10 Free Statistical Analysis Software

10. fully funded jd-phd in law and economics at vanderbilt university.

Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, provides a fully funded JD-PhD program in Law and Economics. In a completely integrated curriculum that combines economic theory and methods with the study of law, dual-degree students pursue a law degree and a Ph.D. concurrently. The curriculum is designed to allow students to obtain both degrees in as little as six years. The Ph.D. Program in Law and Economics is one of a kind.

A competitive package of fellowship support comprising both tuition and stipend is provided to law and economics students.

Looking For Funded Scholarships Programs? Click Here

11. fully funded phd in law at yale university.

Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, provides a fully funded PhD in Law program. The Ph.D. in Law program provides an excellent avenue to a career in legal scholarship and law teaching, in addition to providing an opportunity to study and contribute to the evolution of law as an academic field of study.

Candidates for the Ph.D. in Law will receive a full-tuition fellowship and a living stipend provided by the Graduate School, as well as Yale Basic Health coverage and a Health Award covering the cost of hospitalization and speciality coverage.

12. Fully Funded PhD in Justice, Law and Criminology at American University

American University in Washington, DC, offers a fully funded PhD program in Justice, Law, and Criminology. The Ph.D. program is grounded in current criminology, criminal justice, terrorism and homeland security studies, and legal studies theory, principles, practices, and research methodologies. Students plan their programs on one of two areas of study.

Students chosen for AU financing are awarded a fellowship with full funding for four years of study, contingent on sustaining good progress each year, with opportunities for additional funding possible.

10 Best Plagiarism Checkers Software

13. fully funded phd in criminology, law and society at university of california-irvine.

The University of California-Irvine in Irvine, California, offers a fully funded PhD program in Criminology, Law, and Society. The Ph.D. program aims to improve students’ theoretical and methodological sophistication in order to prepare them for professor positions at major universities and colleges, as well as research, training, and administrative work in the justice system.

CLS Ph.D. students are entitled for 12 quarters of support as a Teaching Assistant (TA), making this the most popular source of funding. Departmental and university scholarships provide additional funding.

1 thought on “Fully Funded PhD Programs in Law 2024”

Interested in a PhD in Law and Politics

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Get 3X More Success with Our Academic CV Templates!

Our Ready-to-Use CV Templates Land You in Harvard, MIT, Oxford, and Beyond!

Juris Doctor Specializations

One way to prepare for law practice in a society facing information overload and increasingly complex legal issues is to concentrate your academic study in a particular field of law. Pitt Law students who choose this route have the advantage of pursuing any of seven specialized areas of study, each offering students the opportunity to take sharply focused courses leading to a designation on the transcript verifying completion of a concentrated course of study.

Please review the requirements carefully before enrolling in a certificate program or area of concentration. View information about  registering for a Certificate Program or Area of Concentration .

The completion of the certificate/area of concentration is noted on your university transcript.  You may find details on the various programs and their requirements below. Review them carefully before enrolling in a certificate program or area of concentration, as several of the programs require you to enroll in certain courses in a specific semester of a specific year or have other requirements that may constrain your course selection.  (Students may not begin a certificate program/area of concentration in their third year).

Student Support

Allie Linsenmeyer Assistant Dean of Students 412-648-1805 alinsenm @pitt.edu

Rob Wible Director of Academic Success and Bar Exam Services  412-624-3055 [email protected]

Meme Jeffries Director of Financial Aid, Ombudsperson 412-648-1415 [email protected]

Students develop vital trial skills and gain confidence through specialized courses taught by practicing attorneys, who provide insights into the nuances of litigation.

This certificate provides students with a basic grounding in health law, complemented by clinical experience and in-depth study of closely related areas of law.

Gain a comprehensive understanding of patents, copyrights, trademarks, and related legal areas to prepare for diverse careers in modern law practice.

Gain a foundation for careers and further study in applying legal regimes to transnational and international relationships.

A flexible curriculum delves into critical laws and regulations, exploring topics like pollution control, energy, land use, renewable energy, and climate change.

Acquire skills relevant to policy work and learn how to apply legal advocacy, research, and writing skills in the policy context. 

Gain a solid foundation in tax law that can be used either to enter a career in tax law, as a basis for pursuing further study in tax law, or as an adjunct to a career in another area of law.

Curricular Pathways

These programs serve as a bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical application. They equip students with the necessary tools, techniques, and skills to understand the practical functioning of the law in the real world. 

• About Pitt Law
• Centers & Institutes
• Courses & Curriculum Overview
• Catalog of Courses
• First-Year Curriculum
• Pitt Law Academy
• Courses by Requirement
• Departmental Consent
• Schedule of Classes Spring 2025
• Schedule of Intersession Spring 2025
• Schedule of Classes Fall 2024
• Schedule of Classes Spring 2024
• Schedule of Intersession 2024
• Schedule of Classes Fall 2023
• Schedule of Classes Spring 2023
• Schedule of Intersession 2023
• Schedule of Classes Fall 2022

Courses and Curriculum

The course catalog contains descriptions of courses offered at the School of Law. Not all courses are offered every year. Information on offerings is available inside the individual catalog pages.

• First-Year Courses

Please note that the Law School makes every reasonable effort to ensure that the courses listed in the course catalog are offered as scheduled. On occasion, however, circumstances or events beyond the control of the Law School can result in a class being cancelled, reassigned to a different professor, or offered on a different day or at a different time. We apologize in advance for any inconvenience that this may cause you.

Schedule of Classes

The course offerings have information specific to the particular section and professor who is offering the course. You will find information about grading, prerequisites, and other offering-specific information here. Links to the course schedules can be found on the left side of this page.

Courses by Requirement Fulfilled

A student must complete all of the following to be eligible for graduation from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law:

• Foundations of Legal Research (1 credit) Must be taken during the second year. Three sections of this course will be offered each Fall semester. LAW 5386: Foundations of Legal Research »
• Legal Profession (Ethics) Courses satisfying the Legal Profession requirement provide substantial instruction in the values, rules, and responsibilities of the legal profession and its members. Legal Profession »
• Upper Level Legal Writing Requirement (ULW) This requirement is satisfied by a paper of substantial length requiring the student to explore, on the basis of significant research in legal sources, the interrelationships of issues presented in a complex context, and must be fulfilled through a seminar, legal writing independent study or other course specifically designated as meeting the upper-level writing requirement. Only members of the full-time faculty may supervise papers to satisfy the ULW requirement. A paper must receive a grade of B- or better to satisfy the ULW requirement. Upper-Level Writing »
• Writing Requirement ("W") This requirement is fulfilled by completing either 1) a second/separate seminar, legal writing independent study, or course meeting the upper level legal writing (ULW) requirement as described above or 2) one course designated as satisfying the W requirement. Students must receive a grade of B- or better to satisfy the W requirement. “W” Writing »  
• Experiential Learning Requirement (For the Class of 2019 and thereafter) Beginning with the Class of 2019 (i.e., students admitted to Pitt Law in the Fall 2016 term), each student must complete at least 6 credits of experiential courses that engage students in performance of the experiential skills generally regarded as necessary for effective and responsible participation in the legal profession. Experiential Learning »
• International/Comparative Law Requirement Each student must complete an international law/comparative law course in the second or third year, choosing from a menu of courses designated as satisfying the international/comparative law requirement. International / Comparative »

Master of Legal Studies in  Law & Economics

“Earning a Master of Legal Studies in Law & Economics from the University of Arizona has given me advanced knowledge to better engage students and give them a greater understanding of how these subjects affect their lives. It also helps me support colleagues teaching this curriculum.  The degree is a tremendous resource that has made me a better teacher and strengthened my career.”

Michele Bentivegna, Classroom Teacher and Arizona Financial Literacy Task Force Member  

Training Critical Thinkers to Strengthen Our Democracy

The Freedom Center partners with the UArizona James E. Rogers College of Law to offer a Master of Legal Studies in Law & Economics  (MLS-L&E) degree. The online program provides an enhanced understanding of the legal, political, and legislative processes and how they collectively impact individuals and society. Scholarships are available for qualified students (see below).

Who it’s for:

• Undergraduate students who want to pursue a postgraduate degree
• High school government, economics, and social studies teachers
• Elected officials and public sector professionals
• Private sector professionals who interact with the government or regulatory process

Freedom Center Ambassadors: We can connect you with MLS-L&E graduates who can share their experience and provide more information detailing how the degree has strengthened their career.

Questions? Contact Freedom Center Manager of Special Programs Kerry Montaño to learn more.

Student Testimonials

“The things I’ve learned in this concentration have been invaluable in my classroom. It’s really been about learning economics for me and then having a great understanding of the concepts and being able to bring that to my students.”

Carrie Ramsey High School Economics and Business Teacher

“Being able to take the ethics and economics of environmental law has brought into the classroom, right off the bat, this ability to connect with students on a topic that they really are concerned about. And that’s the environment around us. In economics, we always touch on how our actions impact other people. From the content of that class on environmental policy, I was able to bring back into the classroom and really get the students interested in our natural environment and the economic questions we have to answer when we’re discussing it.”

Dana Johnson Economics Teacher

“Having an MLS degree in Law & Economics has helped further my career because every employer that I have spoken to, whether it’s pursuing a new career or trying to get a promotion, they really want that employee to have that foundation in economics because it really helps to establish a mindset of increasing your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.”

Lauren Easter MLS Student

“Taking the MLS in Law & Economics, one thing that really stands out to me that I have really benefited from is understanding property and property rights because that is an important theme throughout economics. And so, having the tie of economics and the law and looking at property, I have benefited from understanding that more. It has created opportunities for me outside of teaching. Having that master’s degree will benefit me greatly.”

Mandi Hering Economics Teacher

“I would definitely recommend this program to other teachers because it allows you to know what you are teaching to students. Rather than just teaching standards or curriculum, you know the content, you have the knowledge, and you can teach that to the students.”

Patrick Peatrowsky Economics and Government Teacher

“It’s one of those programs, as teachers like to put it, it’s a shot in the arm. It’s one of those programs that gives us that fun, that great information that takes us to the next level. And it gets the kids prepared for college as well. The level the kids have to perform at brings them up, and they do. They want to.”

Sheila Martinez Economics Teacher

What You’ll Learn

A University of Arizona post-graduate degree provides a solid professional foundation. Working professionals and students enrolled in the MLS, L&E program will learn the following:

• General and specialized knowledge of economic theory and empirical economic methods.
• Application of basic economic concepts and empirical tools to assess legal and political issues.
• Familiarity with concrete applications of law and economics methods across private and public law fields.
• Expertise that builds on economics, political theory, and philosophy to explore and analyze key normative concepts such as rationality, efficiency, justice, welfare, and virtue.
• Through real-world case studies, with issues like property rights and torts and contracts, and the American common law system, court cases can become laws.

Scholarship Opportunities

 Scholarships of up to 50% tuition support are currently available for students accepted into the program. They are limited and will be awarded on a first-come-first-served basis. Please also note that all financial offers are contingent on funding availability at any given time.

Concentration Courses

The law affects every aspect of human behavior, both in the private and public sphere. For this reason, the study of law is by its nature interdisciplinary: the understanding of legal problems almost always requires to cross boundaries and think across a vast range of social science fields. Economics is perhaps the most important among these fields. Whether the subject is a country’s social and political structure, contracts or torts, the functioning of free markets or corporations, the combined knowledge of law and economics is vital for a full assessment of the underlying problems.  It is thus unsurprising that the application of the economic method to the study of law and the legal process has increasingly grown into an established interdisciplinary field.  Nowadays, economic theory is used in almost all areas of law to assess legal issues from a normative perspective.  At the same time, there is a growing recourse to empirical economics as a method to evaluate the positive impact of existing legal rules.The aim of this course is threefold.  First, it aims at providing students with the methodology and tools – both theoretical and empirical – of law and economics to better understand legal institutions. This methodological part will empower students with the ability to develop a functional analysis of institutions aimed at addressing relevant policy issues.  Second, the course will expose the students to concrete applications of the law and economics method across several private law fields, including property, torts and contracts. Third, the course will pay special attention to the law and economics of corporate law, focusing, in particular, on issues such as shareholder and stakeholder conflicts, executive compensation and corporate social responsibility.

The Ethical Entrepreneur studies commercial society from the perspectives of philosophy, economics, business, and law. We start from a simple premise that Ethics concerns how to live in such a way that your community is better off with you than without you, coupled with a simple premise that whatever the conflict is between moral and economic success, such conflict is not a matter of necessity.  The central questions that will explore in this course include: (i) Why do some societies grow rich while others remain poor? (ii) What constitutes a good life and how can one achieve? (iii) What role do entrepreneurs play in a commercial society? (iv) How can I prepare to succeed in commercial society?

Experimental Economics is a field that began with the proposition that economic theory can be testable in a controlled laboratory setting. Experimental work has been conducted in all fields of economics including Industrial Organization, Game Theory, Public Finance, General Equilibrium Theory and even Macroeconomics. Students will be introduced to the methods of experimental science, explore major subject areas that have been addressed through laboratory experiments, and learn of some of the major personalities at the intersection of economics, politics, and philosophy and law. Topics included reflect the current split in the field: behavioral economics is more closely linked to psychology, while the main branch, experimental economics, tries to learn about individual and group behavior given economic institutions and questions. Both, however, are used to examine creative policy and legal solutions to societal problems. Most importantly, this course has many carefully selected “hands-on” simulations of markets and interactions. Those experiences are conducted online, synchronously and asynchronously. Many simulations are exactly the same experiments used in research. Typically, students will participate in the simulation, observe their own behavior and the behavior of others, read the underlying theory, and discuss the results. 

This course revolves around two clusters of questions.  1 st , there are philosophical questions about the nature of value: what sorts of things have rights, what has value, what kinds of values there are, whether value presupposes the existence of valuers, and whether there are objective as well as subjective values.  2 nd , there are practical questions about what kinds of social and legal arrangements are actually conducive to preserving and promoting of environmental values. The first part of the course emphasizes the theoretical cluster while the second emphasizes the practical cluster, but the difference will be a matter of degree, since in theory and in practice it is hard (and probably unwise) to treat the two clusters as entirely separate. Cases around which discussions will be organized may include ongoing litigation in the Deepwater Horizon case, Massachusetts v. EPA, Aguinda v. Chevron Texaco, Spur v. Del Webb, Euclid v. Ambler, Ghen v. Rich, Keeble v. Hickeringill, etc. 

This course introduces students to the study of law and law’s relation to politics and economics in both theoretical and practical terms. We will begin with a discussion on the nature of law, economics and politics, and proceed to investigate how different interpretations of these three terms lead to remarkably different conclusions regarding the proper relationship between and among them. We will begin by asking “What is law?” This will be followed by “What is economics? and “What is politics?” Is law divinely ordained? Is it a human invention? What is the role of reason in the realm of law? We will ask similar questions regarding the nature of both economics and politics.  Ultimately we will try to situate a complex understanding of both law, economics and politics into the larger framework of American social and political life.

Required Core Courses

This course explores the legal process and procedures followed in our systems of civil and criminal justice. Topics will include the components of due process, adversarial legalism and the roles of attorneys, judges, prosecutors, and professional ethics, and the core elements of civil and criminal systems.

The American Common Law System I is one of two courses which conveys what is distinctive about the common law approach as a legal methodology and as a reflection and commentary on the history and politics of the American experience, from the early colonial period to the 21st century world of globalized commerce, human rights concerns and environmental and social justice. The course examines the history and sources of the common law, common law modes of legal rhetoric, argument, and communication skills and transformation and adaptation of the common law achieved through social justice and law reform movements.  The weekly discussion sections will focus on the development of legal writing, research and critical reasoning skills necessary to solve legal problems, particularly in the context of predictive written communications to various audiences.  The American Common Law System I course will focus primarily on Contract Law and Tort Law in the American legal system.

The American Common Law System II is one of two courses which conveys what is distinctive about the common law approach as a legal methodology and as a reflection and commentary on the history and politics of the American experience, from the early colonial period to the 21st century world of globalized commerce, human rights concerns and environmental and social justice. The course examines the history and sources of the common law, common law modes of legal rhetoric, argument, and communication skills and transformation and adaptation of the common law achieved through social justice and law reform movements.  The weekly discussion sections will focus on the development of legal writing, research and critical reasoning skills necessary to solve legal problems, particularly in the context of predictive written communications to various audiences.  The American Common Law System II course will focus primarily on Property Law and its intersections with Torts and Contract Law in the contemporary American legal system.

This course will teach Masters of Legal Studies students how to find legal authorities relevant to legal problems; how to analyze a legal issue using facts and law; and how to communicate legal analysis logically and concisely.  This course consists of research exercises; writing exercises, including letters and legal memoranda; and more complex research and writing assignments.  Students will work in groups and individually to learn the fundamentals of good writing and editing skills.

The MLS Law & Economics concentration courses are designed and taught by Freedom Center faculty and visitors including David Schmidtz , Allen Buchanan , Thomas Christiano , Saura Masconale , Simone Sepe and more.

• Mahindra University
• Campus & Facilities
• Our Success Stories
• Undergraduate Programs
• Postgraduate Programs
• Ph.D. Programs

Executive Education

• Working Professionals Program
• Admissions 2024-25
• Vision & Mission
• Founder & Chancellor
• Our Vice Chancellor
• University Leadership
• Governing Body
• Board of Management
• Offices & Services
• Artificial Intelligence Program
• Biotechnology Program
• Civil Engineering
• Computation & Mathematics
• Computational Biology
• Computer Science Engineering
• Electronics & Computer Engineering
• Electronics and Communication Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Mechatronics Engineering
• Nanotechnology Program
• VLSI Design and Technology
• Aerospace Engineering
• Electrical Engineering and E-Mobility
• 5-yr Integrated M.Tech. in Biotechnology
• B.A. LL.B. (Honours)
• BBA LLB (Honours)
• Computer Aided Structural Engineering Program
• Systems Engineering
• AI and Data Science
• VLSI Design and Embedded Systems
• Autonomous Electric Vehicles
• Transportation Engineering
• Computational Mechanics
• M.Tech. in Biomedical Data Science
• Smart Grid and Energy Storage Technologies
• 3 Years LLB (Hons.)
• Executive MBA
• M.A. EDUCATION PROGRAM
• PhD in Engineering
• Ph.D. in Educational Studies
• Decision Sciences
• Information Science and Technology
• Ph.D. in Life Sciences
• Part-time Phd Rules
• Ph.D. in Humanities and Social Sciences
• PhD in Media and Communication
• École Centrale School of Engineering
• School of Law
• School of Management
• Indira Mahindra School of Education
• School of Media
• School of Design Innovation
• Future Schools
• Research Advisory Council
• Research Areas
• Centers of Excellence and Labs
• Sponsored Research Programs
• Research Based Consultancy
• Publications and Patents
• Publication & International Journals
• Invited Guest / Lectures Delivered
• Campus Life
• Infrastructure
• Internships
• Higher Education
• Alumni Success Story
• Student Grievance and Redressal Committee
• Internal Complaints Committee
• Anti-Ragging Committee
• Ph.D. Supervisors List
• Calendar & Credits
• Code of conduct
• Moodle Link
• Incubation Program
• Mahindra E-Cell
• Our Mentors
• Open Enrolment Programs
• Custom Design Programs
• Live Online Programs
• Simulation based Learning Programs
• B.Tech in Biotechnology Program
• B.Tech in Computational Biology
• Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence

MU Ticketing

• Media Releases
• Policies at MU
• Social Initiatives
• Alumni Testimonials
• Chat with an Ambassador
• icpeev-2023

Download Brochure

Ph.d. in law.

The Doctor of Philosophy Programme (Ph.D.) offered by the School of Law (SOL), Mahindra University is strategically aimed at fostering high-quality research that contributes to the creation of new knowledge. Our standards are aligned with international benchmarks, encompassing rigorous processes, assessment criteria, and a commitment to excellence. These Ph.D. regulations draw from the guidelines established by the University Grants Commission (UGC).

Predominantly, this programme requires ten semesters (Five Years) rigorous research work in the respective law and its interdisciplinary disciplinary domains. The first year would require the Ph.D. candidate to go through a set of prescribed course work, which shall be followed by an initiation to research and comprehensive examination, along with evidence-based actual research work carried out under a Ph.D. Adviser from the respective field.

Mahindra University is a pioneer in its innovative educational systems, transforming teaching and learning to develop trained law professionals engaged in positive progress. School of Law aiming to make a difference to the legal profession and practice by providing a diverse and flexible curriculum and pedagogy, touching on several aspects of domestic, international law appraising the students of the latest trends in academia and practice.

Ph.D. Entrance Test Syllabus for Law

Ph.D. (Law) Domains

Constitution law and administrative law, corporate law and business law, international law, technology law, air and space law, maritime and defence law, ready to enroll.

Fulfill your dreams by being a part of Mahindra University

© 2023 Mahindra University. All Rights Reserved.

Study at MU

Student resources, login portals.

Under Graduate Program

Post graduate programs, phd programs.

Entrepreneurship & Innovation

Life sciences, artificial intelligence.

Mahindra University Survey No: 62/1A, Bahadurpally Jeedimetla, Hyderabad – 500043 – Telangana, INDIA

040 – 67135100

Admission Related Enquiries

[email protected]

Career Related Queries

[email protected] or 040-67135160

General Enquiries

[email protected]

Branding Enquiries

[email protected]

[email protected]

Login Portal

Media Release

icpeev-2024

Please enter a valid name

Please enter a valid email

Phone number

Please enter a valid Phone Nummber

Designation

Please enter a valid Designation

Submit your Enquiry

Why Lawyers are Embracing the Liberal Arts

The liberal arts, which encompass the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, are foundational to legal practice.

The  Master of Liberal Arts (MLA)  at the University of Chicago brings together a community of accomplished professionals who want to expand their knowledge by engaging with influential texts, eminent faculty members, and thoughtful peers. It is no surprise that many of these students are lawyers.

The liberal arts, which encompass the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, are foundational to legal practice. Whether they practice civil, criminal, or corporate law, attorneys need to be persuasive communicators and careful researchers who can see issues from multiple angles, develop ironclad arguments, and navigate difficult ethical conflicts. It is for this reason that, as preparation for law school, the American Bar Association (ABA)  encourages aspiring lawyers  “to pursue an area of study that interests and challenges you, while taking advantage of opportunities to develop your research and writing skills. Taking a broad range of difficult courses from demanding instructors is excellent preparation for legal education.”

Through the  MLA experience , practicing attorneys reignite their passion for wide-ranging education as active members of a diverse community of adult learners. They strengthen and build on the skills cultivated through years of practicing law by investigating big questions about human lives, the societies we form, and the natural world.

The MLA inspires lawyers to think rigorously about new ideas and to pursue fresh possibilities in their lives. Here’s how.

Enhanced Skills and Important Ideas

A  liberal arts curriculum  builds knowledge and skills that are relevant to attorneys and to anyone who’s interested in better understanding the world around them. MLA students broaden their horizons by completing courses in fields such as literature, philosophy, film, history, sociology, biology, and physics. They critically analyze texts and synthesize concepts from multiple disciplines, crafting arguments and communicating complicated ideas through discussion and writing.

Rather than passively absorbing information from a professor, UChicago MLA students participate in Socratic dialogue. They come to a class session having read influential, intellectually provocative texts and prepared to express their individual points of view. For attorneys like Lee Greenfield, this is an ideal format for investigating new fields of inquiry and enhancing the skills they’ve developed through years of legal practice.

Lee is an antitrust lawyer who has represented and counseled international organizations in a variety of industries like tech, aviation, and shipping. As a graduate of UChicago Law who earned his Juris Doctor degree after studying business as an undergrad, his prior schooling didn’t provide an opportunity for an in-depth exploration the humanities. Decades later, his interest in literature and desire for personal growth motivated him to return to the University as a liberal arts master’s student and study topics ranging from fiction to bioethics.

“The MLA program, with its varied curriculum, is a great way to have academic experiences that I had little of when I was going through school the first time,” Lee explained.

Rekindling a Passion for Learning

When Angela Larimer was an undergraduate at the University of Illinois, she prioritized her interests in poetry and broadcast journalism. She completed a double bachelor’s degree in English literature and rhetoric and went on to become a teacher. However, her own courtroom experience during divorce proceedings inspired her to rethink her career path and start preparing for the LSAT. She earned a JD at DePaul College of Law and embarked on a legal career. 

As Angela split her time between representing clients at her family law practice and caring for children at home, she found there was little time to keep up with the intellectual and artistic pursuits that brought her joy.

“I gave everyone exemplary service, but gave myself nothing,” she said.

By enrolling in the UChicago MLA, Angela was finally able to dive back into reading great books, grappling with ideas, and writing poetry. Courses could be challenging, but she now had a structure that unlocked her creativity. She even submitted a new poem as a final project for one of her courses. 

An MLA program with a choice of concentrations offers students paths to focus on the subjects that interest them most. At UChicago, the  optional concentrations  include Literary Studies, Ethics and Leadership, and Tech and Society. The Literary Studies track is ideal for people like Angela who want to dive back into their love for reading and writing in a structured environment where they can discuss texts with thoughtful peers who share their enthusiasm.

Meanwhile, other lawyers — like  Joseph Monaghan , a partner at Holding Redlich Lawyers — may seek professional growth through the Ethics and Leadership concentration. Students in this concentration analyze leadership styles, create decision-making frameworks, and explore subjects like corporate responsibility and maintaining team morale.

“As a midcareer professional whose role is increasingly focused upon leadership and management, I wanted to undertake further study and the MLA with its concentration in ethics and leadership was a perfect fit,” Joseph said.

A Vibrant Community of Learners

One of the greatest advantages of an MLA program is participating in a community of learners who come from very different educational and professional backgrounds. Just as non-lawyers sometimes earn a Master of Legal Studies to become more capable of navigating the areas where their own professions overlap with the law, a liberal arts graduate degree helps attorneys tackle questions they might have never explored otherwise. By respectfully sharing their individual points of view, peers help each other better understand the course material and sharpen their arguments. 

When Lee engaged with the  UChicago MLA community  of accomplished individuals who work in diverse fields, he soon began looking at important issues in a new light.

 “The program is making me a better-rounded person, with perspectives I had lacked, and, for me, that is the great value,” he said. “I have already learned a tremendous amount from my professors and classmates, who have a huge range of perspectives.”

Angela appreciated how the MLA program let her step away from her usual professional circles and hear from people who have succeeded in very different pursuits. Joining a learner community brought her into conversations that she found fulfilling and illuminating.

“I need to make time to talk to intelligent people about topics outside of the law,” she said.

Lawyers’ work is demanding and often requires them to become deeply familiar with highly specialized areas of the legal code. An MLA program gives them the tools to consider the bigger picture and think about what they do in new contexts. 

“Education keeps our minds alive, which keeps our bodies alive,” Angela said. “It sustains you and gives you joy in life.”

About the University of Chicago Master of Liberal Arts

The University of Chicago  Master of Liberal Arts  welcomes a diverse community of accomplished professionals to participate in a transformative educational experience. Our students develop their skills in leadership, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication by engaging in live seminar discussions guided by eminent faculty members with expertise in multiple disciplines.

Customize the online MLA to fit your goals by choosing from three optional concentrations. You can complete all the requirements online or visit us on campus for UChicago’s week-long, immersive residential seminars, held twice a year. 

  Contact us  to learn more about how our program can help you achieve your professional goals.

Related Blog

Celebrating an Ambitious Learning Adventure

The Graham School recognized its latest MLA graduates at Spring 2023 Diploma Ceremony.

What Can You Do with a Master of Liberal Arts?

The world around us is undergoing profound transformations, and organizations of all kinds are being compelled to adapt.

In the AI Era, Is a Liberal Arts Degree Obsolete?

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping our world, presenting both awe-inspiring advancements and potential concerns.

Is an MLA Right for You?

Take a short quiz to find out how the UChicago MLA fits your goals and which of our optional concentrations could be the best choice for you.