Law (Research)

Founded in 1901, the Department of Law and Criminology at Aberystwyth University bases itself on a long, reputable and increasingly varied experience of legal education and academic work. Over the years a large number of well-known legal academics have taught in the department and Aberystwyth law graduates have made their mark in a range of subsequent careers. The Department is confident in its distinctive identity and reputation for high quality teaching, linked to vigorous research activity and carried out in a stimulating and friendly environment. Students benefit from a mature and well-stocked library and generous and up-to-date information technology provision.

A research degree within the Department of Law and Criminology at Aberystwyth University gives you the opportunity to explore a specific legal or criminological topic of your choosing under the supervision of leading researchers in their field.

You can study for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in most major areas of law and a number of more specialised topics on either a full-time or part-time basis.

The Department of Law and Criminology is always keen to welcome research students, who make an important contribution to the Department and University. The Department prides itself on the high standard of supervision provided for postgraduate students. You will find that your supervisor takes a keen interest in your progress, and is always on hand to offer encouragement, guidance and advice.

In recent years many postgraduate students from the Department of Law & Criminology have published their research in the form of books and articles, and members of staff are always happy to give advice to students about publication. There have also been several publications as a result of joint research projects between staff and postgraduates.

Research Training

Research Training is provided to all postgraduate research students, and it is an institutional requirement that appropriate training be provided for research students in accordance with the requirements of either the ESRC or Arts and Humanities Research Board (AHRB), depending on the subject matter and methodology of your research project.

Requirements for completion for the PhD

The degree of PhD requires a substantial thesis of approximately 80,000-100,000 words. The thesis will be written under the supervision of a member of staff of the Department. Those studying on a full-time basis will also take a course on research skills and strategy to assist them in acquiring the skills which are necessary for academic legal research. If your research project falls within the area of socio-legal studies or criminology you will be required to complete the ESRC-approved Faculty Research Training Programme. This is undertaken in your first year of PhD study and provides training in quantitative and qualitative research methodology and social science research needs.