DLaw

The DLaw is ideal for legal professionals who can demonstrate:

• at least eight years of legal practice in any jurisdiction
• a significant contribution to an area of legal practice
• leadership or innovation within their professional field
• a desire to document, evaluate, and reflect on the impact of their work
• motivation to influence the future of legal practice through research.

If you are already shaping the profession, this programme gives you the academic platform to showcase and elevate your work.

Your DLaw will centre on a major independent project, culminating in a portfolio of up to 75,000 words. This includes:

• a portfolio of evidence
• a demonstration of your professional contribution; such as case studies, original research, innovations, or leadership initiatives
• a critical reflection.

Analysing the impact of your practice in light of existing literature, theory, and contemporary legal challenges.

You’ll be supported by:

• a joint Reading–University of Law induction programme
• an annual writing retreat
• personalised, flexible research training
• expert supervision from academic and professional leaders.

• A doctorate built for legal professionals
  Designed specifically for practising lawyers with significant experience, the DLaw recognises the unique knowledge, leadership, and innovation that senior practitioners bring to their work.

• Study while you lead in practice
  The programme is intentionally structured to facilitate part-time study alongside professional commitments, enabling candidates to advance their research while continuing to shape their field.

• Showcase and elevate your professional impact
  Through a substantial portfolio, you will critically evaluate how your work has contributed to legal practice—whether through innovation, knowledge creation, research, or strategic leadership.

• A prestigious qualification from two leading institutions
  Benefit from the academic excellence of the University of Reading and the specialist legal expertise of the University of Law, with joint support, training, and supervision.

• Tailored research training for experienced practitioners
  There are no compulsory taught modules. Instead, each candidate receives a personalised Learning Needs Assessment to ensure training aligns directly with their project and career goals.

• A supportive, collaborative research community
  From induction weekends and writing retreats to access to Reading’s Doctoral and Researcher College and the University of Law Doctoral School, you’ll join a vibrant community of legal researchers and professionals.

• Make an original contribution to the legal profession through your research/portfolio
  Graduates demonstrate leadership and advanced research scholarship at the forefront of their area of practice - equipping them for senior roles, thought leadership, or academic engagement.  

The DLaw programme can be started at the beginning of Semester 1 in September or Semester 2 in February. 

The programme takes between 4-6 years to complete on a part-time basis.

• A top-tier research institution
  Reading is globally recognised for research excellence, with a strong tradition of interdisciplinary collaboration and professional engagement.
• A commitment to professional development
  We provide extensive support through our Doctoral and Researcher College, doctoral training programmes, and specialist professional development services.
• A partnership built on legal expertise
  Together with the University of Law, we offer an exceptional combination of academic rigour and practice focused insight.

The fees for the current academic year (2026/27) are as follows: 

Part-time: £16,000

Full-time: £32,000

The DLaw is more than a qualification, it is a platform for legal professionals to define, document, and amplify their contribution to the profession.

If you’re ready to shape the future of legal practice, we’d be delighted to discuss the programme with you. Contact Professor James Devenney for initial enquiries.