Legal Research

The examination method for the 30,000-word 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 the candidate.

• DPhil in Law
• DPhil in Socio-Legal Studies
• DPhil in Criminology
• MSt in Socio-Legal Research

When completing the MSt as a route into the DPhil, the material submitted for examination is also considered as part of the qualifying test for admission to the DPhil and will usually be incorporated into the DPhil thesis.

MSt students will pursue a range of career paths after completion of the doctorate. Many will take up academic posts, or pursue postdoctoral research or one sort or another. Some will enter legal practice as solicitors, barristers, advocates, and judges; others will become legal advisors advising government departments, non-governmental organisations and private companies.

The University of Oxford has an excellent careers service with which the faculty has close ties; the Careers Service organises a number of events of specific interest to students wishing to pursue a career in law, and offers one-to-one advice from members of staff with knowledge and experience specific to the legal sector.