Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The PhD degree requires submission of a thesis of not more than 100,000 words and makes a substantial contribution to learning in the field of law. Each candidate has a supervisory panel of three academics. Students are encouraged to participate in the activities of the ANU College of Law - this may include teaching where appropriate, for which there are tutorships available.

Duration

4 years full-time (note that some scholarships are for a maximum of 3.5 years at present with a possible extension). If part-time study is approved, the maximum duration is 8 years.

Entry requirements

The minimum entry requirements are:

English language proficiency and a bachelor's degree with first or upper second class honours degree, usually in law, from an Australian university, or a Masters in Law (LLM) with a distinction average (70+%), or, a qualification equivalent or superior to these as determined by the Program Director.

The level of English language required for Law is high. If you are an international student, you must provide a current IELTS or TOEFL certificate as proof of your competency. The tests can be arranged through the British Council or the Australian Embassy in your country. See the ANU Policy for English language (English language requirements for Law).

Session dates

Applications are welcome throughout the year.

Successful applicants can begin at any time.

Scholarship holders may be limited to certain start dates (check the scholarship award conditions for details)

Assessment & attendance

Research students at the Australian National University must fulfill the minimum residency requirements specified in the Research Award Rules (PDF 396KB) unless approval has been obtained for a reduced period of attendance, or the student is externally based. Applicants should make a detailed case for any reduced period of attendance, preferably at the time of application. For further information, please refer to the Guidelines For Externally Based Students. If you are approved to study externally (via distance), the minimum attendance on campus is 4 weeks each year.

The research outcome of the PhD is a 100,000 word thesis. Each year candidates are assessed against milestones which include:

Annual plans (completed 3 months after commencement and then annually);
Annual reports;
A Thesis proposal review (based on your initial research proposal submitted at the pre-application stage); and
An oral presentation

Fees

ANU currently enrols domestic research students under the Research Training Scheme (RTS) which is funded by the Commonwealth. RTS funded students are not required to contribute to the cost of their tuition for the duration of their program. In 2012, students who exceed the maximum time for completion of their program under the RTS will be given an exemption scholarship with a $0.00 tuition fee charged.

The annual fee for international students (2012) $27,312.00.

View more information about fees.

ANU has a range of research scholarship opportunities