Program Overview

Overview of the Law PhD Program

The Law PhD program at the University of Kent is a research-focused degree that allows students to explore a wide range of topics in law. The program is designed to provide students with the opportunity to engage in critical and interdisciplinary scholarship, and to develop their research skills and expertise.

Key Information

• Study mode: Full-time or part-time
• Duration: 3 to 4 years full-time
• Start date: September
• Location: Canterbury

About the Course

The Law PhD program at the University of Kent is a world-class research degree that offers students the opportunity to work with leading academics in the field. The program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their research, and to make a meaningful contribution to the field of law.

Entry Requirements

• A first or good second class honours degree in law or a relevant subject
• A Master’s degree which incorporates a separate dissertation component is strongly recommended
• Particular attention will be paid to the demonstrated ability to undertake a sustained piece of academic research and writing
• All applicants are considered on an individual basis and additional qualifications, professional qualifications and relevant experience may also be taken into account when considering applications

International Students

Please see the University's International Student website for entry requirements by country and other relevant information. Due to visa restrictions, students who require a student visa to study cannot study part-time unless undertaking a distance or blended-learning programme with no on-campus provision.

English Language Entry Requirements

This course requires a Very Good level of English language, equivalent to a high B2 on CEFR. Details on how to meet this requirement can be found on the University's English Language requirements webpage.

Funding

Postgraduate research is a fantastic opportunity and significant investment in your future, enabling you to expand your knowledge, skills and career options – all while making a meaningful impact and contribution to an area you are passionate about. At Kent, we also recognise the significant financial investment that comes with postgraduate study, and we offer a range of scholarships for our postgraduate researchers, to help keep your mind on your studies, and off your finances.

Fees

The 2025/26 annual tuition fees for this course are:

• UK: £5,006 (full-time), £2,503 (part-time)
• EU: £19,300 (full-time), £9,650 (part-time)
• International: £19,300 (full-time), £9,650 (part-time)

Research Areas

The Law School has a number of research centres and groups that focus on particular areas of law, including:

• Criminal Justice
• Critical Commercial Law and Business Law and Regulation
• Critical Obligations
• Environmental Law
• European and Comparative Law
• Gender and Sexuality
• Governance and Regulation
• Healthcare Law and Ethics
• International Law
• Law and Political Economy & Law and Development
• Legal Theories and Philosophy
• Property Law

Staff Research Interests

Kent’s world-class academics provide research students with excellent supervision. The Law School is recognised for the international quality of its research, with expertise across many areas of law. Profiles for each member of academic staff and their research interests are listed on the School’s website.

Your Future

Employability is a key focus throughout the University and at Kent Law School you have the support of a dedicated Employability and Career Development Officer together with a broad choice of work placement opportunities, employability events and careers talks. Details of graduate internship schemes with NGOs, charities and other professional organisations are made available to postgraduate students via the School’s Employability Blog.

Career Support

Whether you want to get ahead in your current career, change lanes, or kickstart a new one – we are here to help you realise your ambition. Our friendly team is on hand to help you with any queries you have.