Law - Research

The PhD in Law is the highest degree offered by the School of Law and Criminology. By definition, it is intended to be a qualification obtained after rigorous and original research that contributes to the state of legal scholarship. Towards that end, the structured PhD programme offers a framework which facilitates independent research, whilst providing milestones for measuring progress.

Candidates should ordinarily have a masters degree in law. Candidates with a 1st class undergraduate degree will be considered in exceptional cases. Applicants must have a recognised primary degree which is considered equivalent to Irish university primary degree level. Minimum English language requirements: Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study. The requirements specified are applicable for both EU and International applicants. For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/study-maynooth/how-apply/english-language-requirements Maynooth University's TOEFL code is 8850. Potential candidates should: a) Identify a member of staff as a potential supervisor, and discuss their area of interest. b) Submit a research proposal and CV to the proposed supervisor. After receiving provisional approval, a formal application may be made (see How to Apply).