Â鶹ԭ´´

The MPhil in Law is a one-year research master’s degree during which you will write a 25,000- to 30,000-word dissertation. The course can either serve as a qualification in its own right or a route into the DPhil in Law.

Prior to 2018-19, the MPhil was exclusively for students who had completed the BCL, Magister Juris, or MSc in Law and Finance and students who had not first completed these degrees were instead admitted to the MSt in Legal Research. From 2018-19, the restrictions on MPhil admission were removed, so all suitably qualified graduates were eligible for admission, and the MSt was absorbed into the MPhil.

Students undertake the faculty’s course in legal research methods during their first two terms. This provides training in legal research methodology, but will also expose you to the diversity of intellectual challenges involved in legal scholarship and will serve as a forum of peers in which you will be able to discuss the methodological challenges involved in your own research.

Throughout the period of your studies, you will work with an assigned supervisor who will meet regularly with you to discuss your work and provide feedback and advice. You will also be able to take part in a range of seminar programmes and discussion groups, affording plentiful opportunities for interaction with your peers and academics working in the same or related research areas to yours.

Candidates must submit the completed dissertation by 1 August. The examination method for the thesis is the same as that used for the DPhil – two examiners are appointed who read the thesis and hold an in-depth oral examination, known as a viva voce, with you. The examiners will then write a report which may either recommend that you be awarded the degree, or awarded the degree with a distinction grade, or should be given the opportunity to re-submit for the degree within a further term.