Before applying for our PhD programme, please read our What to expect during your PhD guide.
1. Is a PhD at the University of Reading right for you?
2. Check our entry requirements
To be accepted on our PhD programme, you'll need a master's degree or equivalent, in a course with a substantial element of law.
If you are from outside of the UK, you will also need an IELTS score of 7.0, or above, with at least 6.0 in the four sub-sections, or equivalent.
For more information on entry requirements, visit our Doctoral and Researcher College website.
3. Select your topic
You should first determine whether your proposed project is suitable for study at PhD level. The project must also be feasible within the resources and time frame available to you; it should also address a perceived 'gap' in the literature and, most importantly, be of interest to you.
To study at the University of Reading your proposed PhD should relate to the research interests of a member of staff in the School of Law. Please view our Find a PhD supervisor page to make sure that we have supervisory capability in your chosen field.
It is not essential to communicate directly with the School before submitting your application, but many candidates find it helpful. Should you need further guidance, or if you would like information about our termly online Research proposal writing and funding opportunities information session, please contact our PGR administrator Elizabeth Wyeth.
Please read the Doctoral and Researcher College's guidance on how to write a research proposal before submitting your application.
4. Make an application
Once you have identified a research area of interest with a potential supervisor, please apply using the PhD and professional doctorate online application system.
This allows you to complete the necessary information and attach copies of relevant documents, including the details of two appropriate referees and relevant certificates.
Although you'll be working with a specific department or supervisor, all PhD applications must be made centrally. The University will acknowledge your application and then pass it on to our school.
Although most new students join the PhD programme in September, it's possible to start your studies at any point during the academic year.