Course summary
The PhD Law programme offers you comprehensive research training, provided by globally-renowned legal experts. Ranked third in the UK for legal research excellence (REF 2021), our academics provide you with guidance and supervision of your own independent research project. Join a vibrant and intellectually stimulating research community, supported by a wide range of Research Centres. As a postgraduate researcher, you'll be immersed in the dynamic academic life of the Law School participating in research events such as the Scholar's Seminar Programme and our annual Postgraduate Research Showcase. You may also have the opportunity to gain valuable teaching experience through part-time roles within the Law School. To support your academic journey, we offer funding for travel and conference attendance. If your research interests lie in socio-legal studies, you may wish to consider beginning with our MSc in Socio-Legal Studies, an ESRC-recognised programme designed to provide a strong foundation for doctoral research.
Assessment method
https://www.bristol.ac.uk/study/media/postgraduate/admissions-statements/2026/phd-law.pdf
How to apply
International applicants
The University of Bristol welcomes applications from international students and accepts a wide range of qualifications for postgraduate study. If you study or have studied at a university outside the UK, please select the relevant page for further information on qualifications, scholarships and education representatives in your country/region: bristol.ac.uk/international/countries.
Entry requirements
A minimum of an upper second-class honours degree in law (or equivalent) and normally at least a merit at master's level (or equivalent). Alternatively, a first-class honours degree in law (or equivalent) and evidence of ability to conduct independent and original research. See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website: https://www.bristol.ac.uk/international/countries/
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £5106 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £5106 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £5106 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £5106 | Year 1 |
| Channel Islands | £5106 | Year 1 |
| EU | £21900 | Year 1 |
| International | £21900 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.
For more information, please view the programme page on our website.
Sponsorship information
The Faculty of Arts, Law and Social Sciences has an allocation of MSc + PhD and PhD-only ESRC scholarships. The length of these scholarships will be dependent on training needs and can vary, with the shortest generally being three years and six months (PhD only). Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students: https://www.bristol.ac.uk/students/support/finances/
Provider information
University of Bristol
Beacon House
Queen’s Road
Bristol
BS8 1QU