phd law melbourne

PhD and research degrees

• Macquarie Law School, Michael Kirby Building
• 17 Wally's Walk, Wallumattagal Campus
• Macquarie University NSW 2109
• T: +61 (2) 9850 8585

More about our research degrees

For more information about research degree candidature visit

Our centres and projects

Information on our research centres, projects & partnerships

Coutelle and Joint PhD programs

Learn about Macquarie’s Cotutelle and Joint PhD programs

A vibrant and collaborative research environment

Develop your research expertise in a vibrant research environment that encourages collaborative excellence.

Macquarie Law School is a recognised leader in interdisciplinary and intradisciplinary legal education and research. Our ethos focuses us on purpose and justice to create innovative and action-orientated research in a vibrant and collaborative environment.

We encourage deep research engagement, and our international and diverse cohort of postgraduate research students from Australia and around the world, are supported by our strong global links with the legal profession and the wider legal and policy communities.

Our programs

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Master of Laws (Research) program (MRes) at Macquarie Law School stimulate careers in a broad range of sectors including academia, research, policy, the legal professions, government, and NGOs, by equipping our students with cutting-edge research skills and expertise.

Macquarie Law School’s research environment helps our students thrive, and in completing their research theses, make a substantial research contribution to their area of study.

Our graduate researchers

Our inspiring cohort of graduate researchers play an active role in Macquarie Law School’s research culture.

The graduate research community hail from diverse research backgrounds and jurisdictions to undertake their research studies at Macquarie Law School. They receive support through:

• our monthly research skill seminars
• active seminar program, and
• the Graduate Research Academy .

We welcome students with a passion for research, a commitment to collaborative excellence, and with research interests aligned with our research clusters at Macquarie Law School.

• Search our list of Macquarie Law School postgraduate research supervisors and familiarise yourself with our research degrees , research centres and labs, and subject experts.
• All applicants must apply online with the Graduate Research Academy for entry into the Macquarie Law School PhD or Master of Laws (Research) program.
• Lean more about how and when to apply, admission requirements and more.

Learn about our current graduate researchers , and their theses.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at Macquarie Law School requires applicants to meet these minimum requirements .

You must also demonstrate your suitability for entry to the program by providing evidence of the required level of English language proficiency. Macquarie Law School requires an IELTS score of 7.0 overall, and a minimum of 6.5 in any category.

Program structure

The PhD requires a minimum of three and a maximum of four years full-time study and submission of a research thesis, usually not exceeding 100,000 words. You'll be supervised by experts in your chosen area, who will help you develop insights and critical legal research skills in a supportive and stimulating environment.

Compulsory coursework includes research ethics, research methods and data management.

Learn more about the PhD program structure .

Thesis by publication

Thesis by publication is another important avenue, particularly for legal practitioners to obtain a PhD award. Find out more about thesis by publication .

Confirmation of candidature

Ongoing enrolment in the doctoral program requires confirmation of candidature six months full time equivalent into your PhD.

The purpose of confirmation of candidature is to provide PhD and MPhil Candidates with an early peer review and substantial feedback on their progress, in a supportive environment. Learn more about the the Faculty of Arts confirmation of candidature .

More information:

• discover graduate research scholarships
• review fees and costs .

Master of Research

The Master of Research (MRes) is Macquarie University's two-year (equivalent full-time) research training pathway program to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Master of Philosophy (MPhil).

Learn more about the MRes Year 1 (BPhil) and MRes Year 2 program .

MRes Year 2

If you hold an Australian Bachelor (Honours) degree, or a Masters degree with research training, you may be eligible to apply for direct entry to the MRes Year 2 Program. Visit the How to Apply page to learn more.

There are three major assessments in Year 2 of the MRes:

• literature review (confirmation of candidature) – 5%
• RF2 conference presentation (10 minutes + 5 min Q&A) – 5%
• thesis – 90%.

MRes applications should be accompanied by a brief research proposal (1 - 5 pages) identifying:

• the research topic
• research questions
• methodology
• literature review.

All applicants must  apply online for entry into the Macquarie Law School MRes program. Additional information for Law students interested in undertaking an MRes can be found at the Faculty of Arts MRes page .

Scholarships, funding, internships, and cotutelle applications 

We offer a number of local and international postgraduate research scholarships , including partnerships with other organisations.

If you intend to apply for a scholarship, we recommend visiting Graduate Research Scholarships .

Please check this list of important dates for information on scholarship and application deadlines.

Indigenous graduate research scholarships

Macquarie Law School also offered PhD bundle scholarships will provide the opportunity for Indigenous candidates to complete both a Master of Research degree (MRes Year 2) and a PhD in Macquarie Law School. Find out more about Indigenous graduate research scholarships .

Cotutelle and joint PhD

Entry requirements for cotutelle and joint PhD are the same as for the Doctor of Philosophy.

Macquarie Law School has an excellent track record of Cotutelle and Joint PhDs and is committed to providing the highest quality research, training, supervision and support.

Learn more about our core strategic partners for cotutelle and joint PhDs.

Industry collaboration

Internship opportunities

The Graduate Research Academy also supports graduate researchers to undertake internships with external stakeholders. Learn more about graduate research industry engagement .

Industry collaboration and engagement

We facilitate collaboration between our graduate researchers, expert supervisors and leading strategic partners. Learn more about industry collaborations with Macquarie University .

Research support funds

Graduate researchers have access to grants and funding at Macquarie University to cover expenses relating to the conduct of their HDR research or fieldwork.

There are two levels of funding available to graduate researchers:

• Macquarie University  Postgraduate Research Fund (offered for activities that add value to a research project).
• Faculty administered funding (offered for other research-based expenses).

See more information about HDR grants and funding and the Graduate Research Academy .

See some of the Law School’s current graduate researchers, and learn about their thesis.

Our research community

You’ll have access to a dynamic and inclusive community while undertaking your research degree.

The PhD in Law is an opportunity for you to engage in high-quality independent research as part of an extended research project. 

Program description

The PhD in Law is an opportunity for you to engage in high-quality independent research as part of an extended research project. The PhD degree requires submission of a thesis of not more than 100,000 words that makes a substantial contribution to learning in the field of law. Each candidate has a supervisory panel of academics. Students are encouraged to participate in the activities of the ANU College of Law, and would most often be based on campus and study full-time.

Mode of delivery

The research outcome of a PhD degree is a thesis of not more than 100,000 words. During their study, candidates are assessed against milestones which include: annual plans (completed 3 months after commencement and then annually); annual reports; a thesis proposal review; and an oral presentation.

Research students at ANU must fulfil the minimum residency requirements specified in the Australian Government’s  Research Award Rules 2017  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. ANU also 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. For further information, please refer to the Guidelines For Externally Based Students on the ANU Law  Apply online  page. Approval to study externally cannot be guaranteed.

ANU Law will provide a suitable work space and computer on the ANU campus in Canberra. All students will have access to Wattle (Web Access to Teaching & Learning Environments), the University’s online learning platform.

One of the world's top 20 law schools Times Higher Education Rankings (2024)

Five-star maximum rating for student demand, teaching quality, student–teacher ratio and staff qualifications Good Universities Guide 2022

Graduating from ANU Law will see you join a prestigious and highly recognised alumni network .

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.

Make an enquiry

Call and chat to a member of our Future Student Experience team.

Apply for Doctor of Philosophy in Law as a domestic or international student.

Course guide

View the Doctor of Philosophy in Law course guide for more information.

Entry requirements

The minimum entry requirements are: English language proficiency, and at a minimum, a bachelor's degree with first or upper second class honours, usually in law. Admission into this program is highly competitive and we therefore prioritise applicants with a first class honours degree. We favour applicants who also have a masters degree with a high grade point average.

The level of English language required for Law is high, see How to Apply . 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.

ANU has the highest level of graduate employability of any Australian university.

In addition, graduating from ANU Law will see you join a prestigious and highly recognised alumni network of over 20,000 professionals in Australia and around the globe.

Academic experts

Each candidate has a supervisory panel of academics, usually drawn from the ANU College of Law’s experts .

With particular expertise in constitutional and administrative law , international law , environmental law , migration law, governance and national security , our academic staff are frequently called on by parliamentary committees, peak bodies, professional associations and the media for analysis, advice and guidance on the law, and what might be done to improve it.

Many of our expert research staff are also award winning teachers who are are always accessible and work closely with you to ensure you successfully complete your studies. We have created a supportive and nurturing environment in which you can thrive.

Admission to practice

A PhD in Law will not provide a basis for admission to practice.

ANU currently enrols domestic research students under the Research Training Scheme (RTS) which is funded by the Commonwealth Government. RTS funded students are not required to contribute to the cost of their tuition for the duration of their program.

International students are required to pay the cost of their tuition for the duration of their program. The annual fee for international students (2018) is $40,416.00.

Fees for the PhD program are also available on the Programs and Courses website.

Scholarships

ANU funds and administers a range of scholarships for graduate research degree programs, especially for domestic students. See our HDR scholarships page for information on these scholarships and their deadlines.

More information on ANU costs and fees , and scholarships and support is available on the central ANU website.

For more information on the Australian education system please go to the government websites MyUniversity and StudyAssist .

We have prepared detailed information on how to apply to do Higher Degree Research at ANU Law , including information on scholarships, putting your application together, applying online and commencement. Please read through these instructions thoroughly.

Programs and courses

For information on admission requirements, fees, courses, electives, suggested study patterns and more see Programs and Courses.

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Develop advanced research skills that will prepare you for a career in which systematic and critical analytical skills are highly valued.

You're viewing program information for local students.

RMIT considers you a local student if you are:

• a citizen or permanent resident of Australia, or
• a New Zealand citizen, or
• a person seeking asylum who holds either a: Temporary Protection Visa (TPV), or Safe Haven Enterprise Visa (SHEV) or Bridging Visa E or Humanitarian Stay (Temporary) visa or Temporary Humanitarian Concern Visa.

Asylum seekers who reside in Australia and study onshore are required to pay international onshore tuition fees for higher education courses.

If you are unsure or hold a different visa type, please contact  Study@RMIT for more information.

Not a local student?

You're viewing program information for international students..

RMIT considers you an international student if you are:

• intending to study on a student visa, or
• not a citizen or permanent resident of Australia, or
• not a New Zealand citizen, or
• not a a person seeking asylum who holds either a: Temporary Protection Visa (TPV), or Safe Haven Enterprise Visa (SHEV) or Bridging Visa E or Humanitarian Stay (Temporary) visa or Temporary Humanitarian Concern Visa.

If you are unsure or  hold a different visa type, please contact  Study@RMIT for more information.

Not an international student?

Not applicable

Research Training Scheme

See admissions

AU$36,480 (2024 annual)

In this PhD program you will develop advanced research skills that will prepare you for a career in academia and other settings in which systematic and critical analytical skills are required.

This PhD degree may be undertaken in a project or thesis mode.

The GSBL Law academics can provide research supervision in a wide range of topic areas such as:

• Dispute resolution, Mediation, Legal education
• Employment law, Workplace relations law, Workplace regulations and policy, Collective bargaining, Workplace dispute resolutions, Comparative labor law
• Taxation law and policy, Equity law, the Law of trusts, Wills and estates, Succession law, Commercial law, corporate law and banking law
• Law and technology, internet law, artificial intelligence and law, robot law, blockchain law
• Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), Mental health advance directives, Coercion and recovery, Therapeutic jurisprudence, Mental health tribunals, Comparative law, Regulatory governance
• Energy law, Environmental law, Renewable energy and climate law, Law and regulation, Electricity market regulation, Business and Human Rights, Corporate Accountability, Labour Regulation in Developing Countries, Labour Conditions in Supply Chains, Transnational Human Rights Mechanisms
• Criminal law and policy, Criminal justice, human rights in places of detention, Prisons and punishment, Criminal records and other collateral consequences of conviction, Criminal law and gender
• Law and politics, Constitutional law, Administrative law
• Intellectual Property Law, WTO Law, International Human Rights Law
• Labour law, Employment security, Industrial relations
• Sports law, International commercial arbitration law, Jurisprudence, International law, Contract law, Tort law, Company law

How you will learn

RMIT's  Swanston Academic Building  is the base for your business research career.

The building's features include:

• interactive lecture and tutorial spaces, lectorial theatres, small-group rooms and
• other innovative spaces to support enterprise formation.
• Formal learning areas interspersed with retail and social spaces and scenic outlooks over the city of Melbourne.
• wireless connection to printers, the web and specialist learning resources
• the School of Graduate Research office
• 5 Star Green Star Rating for Australian Excellence in sustainable design.

The result is a stimulating environment to encourage creative and intellectual activity among a variety of users.

Research in the Graduate School of Business and Law

Research in the school is focused on information technology, information management, information systems and logistics and supply chain management issues. The School has a strong record of achievement in PhD training with a current enrolment of 80 higher degree students.

Research at RMIT

Time spent on research.

Full-time candidates are expected to commit at least four days per week (or at least two days per week for part-time candidates) to their research. The academic year is 48 weeks.

Regular contact with your supervisor

A schedule of meetings with your supervisor/s must be established to assess progress against milestones and timely completion.

Resources, facilities and support

You will have access to the Learning Hub and other online and digital resources through the myRMIT student portal.

You will be part of an active research community and have access to resources and workshops to help you succeed.

Business Research Office

The Business Research Office supports candidates, supervisors in the College of Business. It is the central office responsible for coordinating and disseminating information about funding opportunities and research-related activities. Prospective researchers are invited to  contact the Business Research Office  to discuss potential candidature.

School of Graduate Research

The School of Graduate Research works with Schools to further support candidates during their postgraduate research degree.

Guiding the development of the College of Business, both nationally and internationally, is an  Industry Advisory Board  of high-profile executives. The Board creates a strategic bridge between the latest in technology and design thinking and business.

Learning outcomes

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the  learning outcomes .

Electives and course plan

You will undertake the PhD program under the supervision of an appointed research supervisor.

The PhD program is structured to enable you to:

• Complete a compulsory research methods course
• Receive training in research integrity and ethics
• Select studies in qualitative and quantitative research techniques
• Complete a thesis/project which demonstrates your contribution to the field and your ability to communicate complex research for peers and the community to an international standard.

Research Integrity modules

You are required to complete the online modules:

• Research integrity
• Copyright and intellectual property
• Data management and copyright.

You may need to complete an ethics module to ensure your research is ethical and responsible.

Research Methods

The compulsory course Introduction to Research Methods introduces you to research methods commonly used in business disciplines. It helps you explore and discuss how to plan and scope a research project, frame appropriate research questions, write research proposals, and understand 'mixed methods’ approaches to conducting and documenting your research. It is taught in large discipline groups.

Research Techniques

Electives in qualitative or quantitative research techniques are available once data collection has begun. You can use your own data to explore different research analysis techniques. Your supervisor will help decide when you should take these electives.

Co-curricular activities

You are encouraged to participate in activities offered by the university, College and School according to your needs and interests.

This PhD may be undertaken in a project, thesis by publication or thesis mode. Prospective candidates should discuss these modes of submission with their potential supervisor/s prior to application.

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

*The maximum duration of the PhD program is 4 years full-time and 8 years part-time. However, candidates are expected to complete their program within 3-4 years full-time equivalent and 6-8 years part-time equivalent.

*The maximum duration of the PhD program is 4 years full-time. However, candidates are expected to complete their program within 3-4 years full-time equivalent.

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

Graduates will be able to pursue an academic career in a university or be employed in senior leadership and management positions in government, non-government organisations and corporations.

As a researcher, your mastery of the discipline evidenced through a substantial and rigorous research project and other contributions to your field of specific interest can make a real difference to society.

Minimum requirements for admission

Prerequisites, selection tasks.

The minimum requirements for admission to a PhD program are:

• a bachelor degree requiring at least four years of full-time study in a relevant discipline awarded with honours. The degree should include a research component comprised of a thesis, other research projects or research methodology courses that constitute at least 25% of a full-time academic year (or part-time equivalent). The applicant must have achieved at least a distinction average in the final year;  or
• a master degree that includes a research component comprised of at least 25% of a full-time academic year (or part-time equivalent) with an overall distinction average or a master degree without a research component with at least a high distinction average;  or
• evidence of appropriate academic qualifications and/or experience that satisfies the Associate Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research Training and Development or nominee that the applicant has developed knowledge of the field of study or cognate field and the potential for research sufficient to undertake the proposed program.

At RMIT a grade of distinction represents academic achievement of 70% or higher and a high distinction is 80% or higher.

If you are a current master by research candidate, you are able to apply for a transfer to a doctor of philosophy program through the process prescribed in the  RMIT Higher Degree by Research policy .

These entrance requirements are the minimum academic standard you must meet in order to be eligible to apply for the program. You will need to complete a selection task as part of your application.

A selection process will be conducted in conjunction with the School and supervisors you nominate.

For further information on the steps you need to take to apply for a research program see  How to apply – Research programs .

English language requirements

Research proposal and supervisor.

You must attach a substantive research proposal that is 2 to 5 pages in length which articulates the intent, significance and originality of the proposed topic using the following headings:

a) title / topic b) research questions to be investigated in the context of existing research/literature in the area c) significance and impact of the research d) methodology / research tasks required to undertake the research e) particular needs (e.g. resources, facilities, fieldwork or equipment that are necessary for your proposed research program, if applicable).

Your application will not be considered if you have not discussed your research topic with a proposed senior and associate supervisor or joint senior supervisors. You must provide the names of the academic staff in the school you have applied to and with whom you have discussed your proposed research.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

• IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
• TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
• Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit  English language requirements and equivalency information .

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus Certificate at  RMIT English Worldwide .

You can gain entry to this program from a range of RMIT four year  Bachelor and Honours degrees  or  Postgraduate  or Masters by Research programs.

Fee summary

Fee information for masters by research and doctorate (PhD) programs.

If you are an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or New Zealand citizen you may be eligible for a Research Training Scheme (RTS) place where your tuition costs are funded by the Commonwealth Government under the RTS and you have full exemption from tuition fees.

Acceptance in an RTS place is very competitive and places are granted on the condition that you meet annual progress requirements and complete within the allotted time for your program and your status as a part-time or full-time candidate.

This means a maximum of 2 years for a full-time Masters by Research or 4 years for a PhD (or the equivalent part-time).

Contact the School of Graduate Research for more information.

The  student services and amenities fee (SSAF)  is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

In addition to the SSAF there may be  other expenses  associated with your program.

Income tax deductions

Candidates may be eligible to apply for income tax deductions for education expenses linked to their employment. See the  Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website  for more information.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

The annual tuition fee for 2024 is AU$36,480.

The total indicative tuition fee for 2024 commencement is AU$151,680.

International applicants

• Fees information  for international candidates looking to study at RMIT's Melbourne campuses.
• PhD  and  masters by research  fees for international candidates studying offshore. 

Other costs

Important fee information.

Find out more details about  how fees are calculated  and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a  refund  as a continuing international student.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information.

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

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RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

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• Melbourne Law School
• Peter McMullin Centre on Statelessness

PhD Scholarships

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS

The Peter McMullin Centre on Statelessness (PMCS) welcomes applications from suitably qualified scholars for a place in the Melbourne Law School’s (MLS) PhD program for commencement in 2025. The successful candidate will be working under a supervisory team which will include PMCS academic staff, MLS academic staff affiliated with the Centre, and/or a co-supervisor from another University of Melbourne faculty if appropriate.

Applications are particularly encouraged from people with lived experience of statelessness.

Applications close on Friday 26 July

The successful candidate will be embedded in the Centre on Statelessness and benefit from its research intensive and collegial environment. The candidate will be expected to take part in the life of the Centre, and attend seminars, workshops, and reading groups.  There may be the opportunity for successful candidates to undertake paid part-time work with the PMCS during the PhD.  Melbourne Law School offers a collegial environment for PhD students, including a comprehensive orientation program, a weekly Research Support Program, three graduate research colloquia per year and an active Graduate Students Association. Involvement in the University of Melbourne’s interdisciplinary PhD program in Migration, Statelessness and Refugee Studies provides another support network in a multi-disciplinary environment. Successful candidates may also apply for a competitive MLS Teaching or Research Fellowship, which includes teacher training and mentoring, teaching and administrative experience.

General information on studying the Doctor of Philosophy Degree (PhD) in Law at Melbourne Law School can be found here.

Doctoral Project

Research proposals should identify an innovative research question relevant to the themes of the Centre on Statelessness. The work of the Centre encompasses a wide range of research methodologies, and proposals may outline conventional legal techniques of analysis, propose theoretical projects or projects based on empirical study (or a combination of these methods).  Interdisciplinary project proposals are welcome. Proposals are invited on a wide range of topics.  You can view current doctoral projects here .

Stipend and Benefits

Scholarship recipients undertaking a doctoral degree at the Peter McMullin Centre on Statelessness will be awarded:

• Full fee offset for up to four years
• An annual stipend of AUD $38,500 (tax free) (2025 full-time study rate). The scholarship is available for a maximum period of 3.5 years pro rata. The living allowance may be indexed annually and includes limited paid sick, maternity and parenting leave.
• A relocation allowance of AUD $2,000 may be granted for candidates who need to move from outside Victoria or AUD $3,000 for candidates who need to move from outside Australia.
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) Single Membership for international students who require a student visa to study in Australia.

Details on terms and conditions of this scholarship can be found here .

Furthermore, scholarship recipients will be eligible to apply for up to AUD $7,500 research support funding (for example to support fieldwork and conference travel) over the course of their candidature and a host of other MLS initiatives.

Eligibility

Applicants must be eligible for acceptance by the University of Melbourne into a PhD program. This scholarship is conditional upon acceptance into the PhD program at the Melbourne Law School, and the applicants need to meet the entry requirements of the Law School PhD program which can be found here . Applicants must also:

• have not completed a PhD previously.
• be able to commence their PhD in 2025   – with a preferred start date in February 2025.

Application Process

Applications for the Peter McMullin Centre on Statelessness PhD scholarship must be submitted with clearly identified titles as listed below by Friday 26 th of July :

• Curriculum vitae, including publications, if relevant
• All prior undergraduate and graduate academic transcripts (must include grading scale)
• Research proposal, including methodology, adhering to the guidelines listed here
• Statement outlining reasons for seeking to participate in the Peter McMullin Centre's program at Melbourne Law School (maximum 250 words)
• Information on prior research completed (eg. Honours thesis, Masters thesis)
• Evidence of meeting the University’s English language requirements , if required
• The details of two referees. To maintain confidentiality, the details of your chosen referees must be sent to [email protected] who will contact the referees directly.

Address your completed application to Professor Michelle Foster, and submit it here .

Successful candidates will be instructed to submit their final application paperwork through Melbourne Law School by Friday 4 th October 2024.

Important Dates

Monday 29 April 2024:

PhD Scholarship application submission opens

Friday 26 July 2024:

Application submission closes

Monday 9 August 2024:

Shortlist of applicants created

Monday 12 - Friday 23 August 2024:

Shortlist interviews

Friday 30 August 2024:

Successful candidate notified and requested to submit University of Melbourne Graduate Research Application Form online

Friday 4 October 2024:

Successful candidate submits University of Melbourne GR Application online

Late November 2024:

Forrmal offer

February 2025:

Candidature commences

Information Session

For those interested in applying, there will be an information session on May 27th 2024, 4.00-5.00pm AEST (via Zoom) to answer your questions. Please register here if you would like to attend.

You can find further information about applying for a PhD through Melbourne Law School here .

Direct enquiries about the Peter McMullin Centre on Statelessness to: [email protected]

Direct enquiries about the application process to: [email protected]

Please submit your application here .

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Ph.D.- Law (501AA) // Entry and participation requirements

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About this course

• Attributes, outcomes and skills
• Course structure

Coordinator

Associate Dean, Research

Melbourne Law School Office for Research 185 Pelham Street The University of Melbourne VIC 3010 Australia

Telephone: + 61 3 8344 8946

Email: [email protected]

Web: www.law.unimelb.edu.au/graduate-research

Entry requirements

The criteria for assessing applicants' eligibility for PhD candidature are:

• Minimum qualifications Applicants are normally required to have completed at least a four-year honours degree at H2A standard from an Australian university, or a qualification or combination of qualifications considered by the RHD Committee to be equivalent.
• Minimum level of academic achievement Applicants should have achieved an overall H1 (80-100%) or H2A (75-79%) grade in the relevant honours or Masters degree.
• Relevance of the degree The completed degree must be in an area that is relevant to the intended PhD, including sufficient specialisation such that the applicant will have already developed an understanding and appreciation of a body of knowledge relevant to the intended PhD.
• Evidence of research ability Applicants are normally required to have completed a research project/component that accounts for at least 25% of their year's work at 4th year or at Masters level.
• Currency of applicant's knowledge of the discipline The applicant's degree(s) and/or professional experience must demonstrate that their knowledge of the discipline in which they plan to undertake their research higher degree is current.
• Assessment of level of suitability Based on interview or other verbal communication, an assessment should be made of the level of understanding, motivation and time commitment of the student for the proposed program of study. For example, a full-time student would be expected to devote at least 40 hours a week and a part-time student about half of this.

Applicants must also meet the University's English Language requirements .

Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)

All PhD candidates are required to complete the equivalent of at least 12 months full-time (24 months part-time) advanced study and research in the University unless studying at an outside institution approved by the Research Higher Degrees Committee (RHDC). The RHDC will not approve entirely distance supervision or entirely on-line supervision for research higher degree students. Throughout their candidature candidates are expected to attend the University in order to benefit from planning, conducting and writing up their research within a University community and environment. The residency requirement is deemed especially important during the period of probationary candidature. During probationary candidature the student is expected to interact on a regular basis with the supervisor, the department (including staff and other research students) and the University, so as:

• to build the skills and knowledge necessary to carry out the proposed research program;
• to acquire an understanding of the standards and requirements for a PhD awarded by the University;
• to make use of support programs and facilities provided by the University throughout candidature.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability will impact on meeting the requirements of this course are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support .

Last updated: 30 January 2024

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Graduate Coursework

Juris Doctor

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• Course code:   MC-JURISD

Course overview

The Melbourne Juris Doctor (JD) is a graduate law degree that has set a benchmark for legal education in Australia. You may apply if you already have an undergraduate degree in a discipline other than law, will complete an undergraduate degree in a discipline other than law in the year you apply, or if you have a law degree from an overseas jurisdiction.

Graduating with an undergraduate degree in another discipline, followed by a graduate degree in law, will give you a higher level of qualification than a traditional double degree.

The Melbourne JD equips you with the skills and knowledge to take a leading role in a range of careers including legal practice, business, government and community organisations.

You will be taught by respected academics who are recognised as national and international experts in their fields. They will draw on legal research and practice to deliver an intellectually challenging and practically focused degree.

Your JD experience will be as much about your fellow students as your teachers. You will study in seminar-style, discussion-based classes on campus with students from a range of undergraduate and cultural backgrounds, adding new perspectives and approaches to your learning.

The degree commences with an orientation program and an intensive summer subject prior to Semester 1, making it easier to get to know your classmates, develop friendships and build your network.

You will be supported to develop your legal skills by the Ian Malkin Centre for Legal Academic Skills. The Centre offers a range of workshops, small group skills classes, one on one consultations, and study guides that are designed to support your learning outside the classroom.

You can also take advantage of other educational, professional and social opportunities offered at Melbourne Law School, including clinics, internships, mooting, witness and mediation competitions, and international exchanges.

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Related study areas

• Arts, humanities and social sciences
• Social and political science
• Specialist legal study