Law

Entry requirements

For MPhil

• First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree or an approved equivalent award

or

• Research or professional experience which has resulted in appropriate evidence of achievement

For PhD

• Postgraduate Masters Degree in a discipline which is appropriate to the proposed programme of study

or

• First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree or equivalent award in an appropriate discipline

or

• Research or professional experience at postgraduate level which has resulted in published work, written reports or other appropriate evidence of achievement

Months of entry

January, September

Course content

We welcome applications to undertake research towards MPhil and PhD degrees in Law.

Key insights into a research degree in Law

• Supervision by expert academics in constitutional law, human rights, criminal law, and political science.
• Access to specialist facilities including a mock courtroom, jury room, and vulnerable witness room.
• Opportunities to engage with the Constitutions, Rights and Justice research group and attend high-profile conferences such as Questions of Accountability.
• Flexible study options
• Tailored study pathways based on research experience and background
• Tailored supervision and support through the Researcher Development Programme (RDP)
• Strong links to the legal profession and external academic networks.

The Law MPhil and PhD programmes at the University of Worcester offer a dynamic and supportive research environment. As a postgraduate student, you will benefit from expert supervision, purpose-built facilities, and integration into a vibrant research culture that values academic excellence and societal impact. You are encouraged to pursue original research that contributes meaningfully to legal scholarship and practice. Your bespoke programme will support both theoretical and empirical approaches and foster interdisciplinary collaboration.

Careers

Career benefits of pursuing a PhD or MPhil in Law at the University of Worcester:

• Advanced legal expertise for high-level roles:
  Develop deep knowledge in constitutional law, human rights, criminal law, and political science—ideal for careers in academia, legal consultancy, policy development, and international institutions.
• Professional recognition and sector engagement:
  Participate in high-profile events such as the Questions of Accountability conference and collaborate with the Constitutions, Rights and Justice research group, enhancing your visibility and influence in legal circles.
• Practical experience and real-world impact:
  Access specialist facilities including a mock courtroom and jury room, and engage with legal professionals and external networks to bridge theory and practice.
• Flexible and tailored study pathways:
  Choose full-time or part-time study, with bespoke supervision aligned to your research experience and career goals.
• Comprehensive research training:
  Benefit from the Researcher Development Programme (RDP), which includes modules on legal research methods, planning, and professional development.
• Interdisciplinary and global relevance:
  Explore topics such as modern slavery, judicial independence, and international relations, positioning yourself to contribute to legal reform and global justice initiatives.

Information for international students

International applicants will be required to demonstrate that they have the appropriate level of written and spoken English.

For MPhil/PhD this is an IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum score of 6.0 in every component.