Research degrees in Law, PhD, MPhil

Undertaking an MPhil or PhD
Nottingham Trent University offers opportunities to study for an MPhil or PhD by research in all its academic schools. Supervision is available by full-time or part-time study, and can sometimes be provided by distance learning.

Supporting your studies
Carrying out research for a PhD, MPhil or ProfD requires different skills from undergraduate or taught postgraduate study. You will mostly work on your own research project, but we also emphasise the importance of regular meetings with your supervisory team.

The team consists of a director of studies (who will usually have expertise in your subject area) and at least one other supervisor selected for their complementary expertise such as relevant research methods.

The Graduate School Team will support you from your initial enquiry, through the application process and the various stages of your degree, until your viva voce examination and subsequent graduation. Once you begin your studies, you will have induction sessions to introduce you to the University, help you settle in and meet other researchers.

Researcher training
In addition to studying for a research degree, students undertaking traditional route PhDs will participate in researcher training. This combines general research training with specific topics associated with your discipline. The training focuses on the requirements of external research funding bodies and government requirements.

We also provide a structured programme of transferable skills training and career development. This is informed by the work of Vitae, the national organisation which support researchers throughout their careers.

Researchers in the Law School have interests in a diverse range of legal topics and use a variety of methodologies, both doctrinal and socio-legal. We have three research groups in the Law School:

• The Centre for Business and Insolvency Law
• The Centre for Legal Education
• The Centre for Conflict, Rights and Justice

Contact us using the details provided under the How to Apply tab if you wish to discuss whether we could offer supervision for your topic.

Support and supervision
During your research you will be supported by a dedicated supervision team with both specialist knowledge in your field of activity and experience of successful doctoral supervision. You will also have full access to student support centres, financial advice, careers advice, language support, disability support, counselling and an accommodation service.