Locations
Streatham Campus, Exeter and Cornwall Campus, near Falmouth. Distance learning and split site study modes are also available.
Programme overview
This postgraduate research degree programme is designed for lawyers wishing to achieve academic recognition based on their professional profile and practical expertise. The programme is normally undertaken on a part-time basis alongside professional work.
Members of the School of Law have a very wide range of research interests and MPhil or PhD supervision can be arranged in most fields of legal study. There is particular expertise in European and international law, commercial and common law, English legal history and professional legal studies. There is an active programme of research seminars, with weekly talks given by visiting speakers, staff and postgraduates.
The degree of PhD in Legal Practice will be awarded on the basis of a portfolio of legal practice. The portfolio should be a minimum of 50,0001 and a maximum of 100,0001 words in length and comprise two parts:
Part 1: an introduction to and summary of a case study (or up to three case studies) drawn from your professional legal work in litigation or any other appropriate area of practice (not exceeding 25 per cent of the total word length);
Part 2: a reflective commentary analysing the significance of the legal issues explore and critically assessing the implications and wider context of the professional work undertaken (at least 75 per cent of the total word length). In writing this commentary you will be expected to relate the subject matter of the case study/studies to the existing body of knowledge within the field.
To reflect the unique nature of the programme there is no standard period of study, though the maximum is seven years (part-time). A study plan will be tailored to suit your individual needs.
Supervision
You will be assigned appropriate supervisors, under whose guidance the programme of research through practice will be advanced and portfolio compiled. Supervisors will liaise with you on the nature and scope of the practical work included, and advise on the technical requirements for the degree.
1Excluding bibliography and appendices.
