Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD)
Program code 9031
This is a professional doctorate that combines research with coursework. Approved applicants must complete four courses from the postgraduate range of courses, except fundamental or Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice (GDLP) courses, followed by a thesis of 65,000 words. Each candidate has a supervisor and at least one other adviser.
Program structure
Four courses (6 units per course) from a selected range of postgraduate courses completed at distinction average followed by a 65,000 word thesis.
Duration
The degree will normally be completed in four years of full-time study or equivalent part-time study. Please note that some scholarships are for a maximum of 3.5 years at present with a possible extension.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements are a first class or upper second class honours degree in law or equivalent qualification. Alternatively entry can be gained from the Master of Laws program.
Session dates
When enrolling in postgraduate coursework as part of the SJD (Doctor of Juridical Science), it is important to enrol as close to the commencement of the first course as possible. Scholarship holders may be limited to certain start dates (check the scholarship award conditions for details. Some scholarships have a start date from the 1 January to 31 March each year).
Assessment & attendance
ANU has a PhD Attendance Requirements Policy which describes these requirements. If you are approved to study externally (via distance), the minimum attendance on campus is 4 weeks each year.
You must obtain a distinction average in the coursework portion of the program before proceeding to the thesis portion of the degree.
The research outcome of the SJD is a 65,000 word thesis. Each year Candidates are are assessed against milestones which include:
- Annual Plans (completed 3 months after commencement and then annually)
- Annual Reports
- Thesis Proposal Review (based on your initial research proposal submitted at the pre-application stage)
- Oral Presentation
- Mandatory Activity Program courses
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 (including the compulsory coursework) for the duration of their program. The annual fee for international students (2012) $27,312.00. View more information about fees.
How to apply
International and domestic students can apply online using Program Code 9031.
We prefer online submission because it is more secure and ensures a faster assessment of your application.
Domestic students: use this form (PDF 314 KB) to help you to prepare for the online application process.
International students: use this form (PDF 320KB) to help you to prepare for the online application process.
Courses
The four compulsory courses are to be chosen in conjunction with your supervisor.
