Program Overview

Overview

The Law LLM by Research, MPhil, and PhD are courses of independent research under supervision. Students work on a thesis leading to the completion of an original piece of research. The thesis should present a coherent argument and advance knowledge and understanding in the chosen field.

How You'll Learn

Assessment methods depend on the modules and include a combination of:

• Thesis
• Viva

Additional assessment information:

• Applicants are asked to provide a research proposal that outlines a proposed topic of research.

Your Development

Introduction to Learning and Teaching in Higher Education

PhD students have the opportunity to enroll on the Introduction to Learning and Teaching in Higher Education (ILTHE). The ILTHE provides training and practical skills for use in demonstrating and teaching practice.

Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (HaSS) Researcher Development Programme

Each faculty offers a researcher development programme for its postgraduate research students. The programme is designed to help students:

• Perform better as researchers
• Boost their career prospects
• Broaden their impact

Through workshops and activities, the programme builds transferable skills and increases confidence. It covers:

• Techniques for effective research
• Methods for better collaborative working
• Essential professional standards and requirements

Your Future

Our Careers Service

The Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, with strong links to employers.

Quality and Ranking

• 42% of research is classified as 4* world-leading research – Research Excellence Framework 2021
• 65% increase in research power since 2014 – Research Excellence Framework 2021
• Global Top 140 University – QS World University Rankings 2026
• Global Top 160 University - Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025
• Top 200 for Law - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025
• Top 200 for Law – Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025
• Top 25 in the UK and Top 100 in the world for sustainable development – Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024

Facilities

The Law School has an extensive library situated within the School. Students also have access to an extensive range of online sources via databases such as Westlaw and Lexis/Nexis. The School offers:

• Dedicated PGR space, including study spaces
• A student common room
• A purpose-built Mooting Room

Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees for 2026 Entry (per year)

• Qualification: LLM (by research) Full time: Home students - Not set, International students - £24,400
• Qualification: LLM (by research) Part time: Home students - Not set
• Qualification: MPhil Full time: Home students - Not set, International students - £24,400
• Qualification: MPhil Part time: Home students - Not set
• Qualification: PhD Full time: Home students - Not set, International students - £24,400
• Qualification: PhD Part time: Home students - Not set

PGR Home Fee Note

For ** entry, the standard Home research fees are aligned with those set by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

Scholarships

The University supports EU and international students by providing a generous range of Vice-Chancellor's automatic and merit-based scholarships.

Entry Requirements

Academic Entry Requirements

A 2:1 honours degree and/or a master's degree, or international equivalent, in law or a related subject.

Qualifications from Outside the UK

International students must meet the equivalent academic requirements.

English Language Requirements

Select your qualification:

• IELTS
• Pearson
• Duolingo English Test
• TOEFL
• Other
• Pre-Sessional Entry - 6 weeks
• Pre-Sessional Entry - 10 weeks

Admissions Policy

This policy applies to all undergraduate and postgraduate admissions at Newcastle University.

How to Apply

Before You Start

• Start Dates: September, January
• Closing Dates: No application closing date for this course
• Specialised Application Information: Submit a research proposal with your application

Programme Codes

• Qualification: LLM (by research) Full time: 5819F
• Qualification: LLM (by research) Part time: 5819P
• Qualification: MPhil Full time: 7230F
• Qualification: MPhil Part time: 7230P
• Qualification: PhD Full time: 8230F
• Qualification: PhD Part time: 8230P

Using the Application Portal

The application portal has instructions to guide you through your application. It will tell you what documents you need and how to upload them.

Deposit

If you are an international student or a student from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland and you need a visa to study in the UK, you must pay a deposit of £1,500 or submit an official letter of sponsorship. The deposit is non-refundable but will be deducted from your tuition fees when you register.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

We offer an international academic environment with a vibrant research community.

Objectives:

• Intensive subject-specific supervision
• Training in legal research methodologies and core skills
• Opportunities to participate in research groupings within the school and engage with the student-led career development seminar series
• Develop high-quality, internationally recognized research

Outline:

Your thesis should present a coherent argument and advance knowledge and understanding in your chosen field.

Teaching:

Intensive subject-specific supervision

Training in legal research methodologies and core skills

Opportunities to participate in research groupings within the school and engage with the student-led career development seminar series

Assessment:

Thesis

Other:

Students also have access to an extensive range of online sources via databases such as Westlaw and Lexis/Nexis.