phd in law university of toronto

Osgoode’s PhD in law is a full-time advanced degree requiring research-intensive study and in principally aimed at students pursuing an academic career. It is designed to be completed in three to four years.

Prerequisites

An LLM is generally a precondition of admission to the PhD. Students without an LLM should apply initially to the Research LLM; after their first year of study they can apply to advance to the PhD.

Degree Requirements

Graduate seminar i: legal research (gs law 6610), graduate seminar ii: advanced legal research methodologies (gs law 6611).

• Study groups
• One elective course
• Extended dissertation proposal

Dissertation

• Final oral examination

The Graduate Seminar is the core course for the Graduate Program in Law. Designed to complement other courses, the seminar provides a venue for developing critical assessments of the law and facilitating students’ progress on their own research, papers and dissertation proposals. The seminar also creates an intellectual community and introduces students to Osgoode research resources.

This seminar offers a review of quantitative and qualitative methods employed in legal research. Specific sessions focus on interviewing, ethnographic methods, surveys and other quantitative methods, data collection and analysis, archival and document collection and analysis. The seminar is designed for PhD students and is completed in the winter term.

Study Groups

Students participating in study groups read and discuss a number of articles with their groups each week. The groups are not structured as courses but as venues for reflection and discourse. For doctoral students, study groups are equivalent to the comprehensive examinations required by other graduate programs.

Participation in a study group is required (for credit) in the first or second year of PhD studies, and then one year thereafter (non-credit) provided PhD students are registered full-time. Students can choose among five options, depending on their research interests and course availability:

• Regulation and Governance
• Law and Economic Relations
• Theoretical Perspectives in Legal Research
• Law and Social Justice
• Law in a Global Context

Elective Courses

PhD students can fulfil their elective course requirement through:

• a variety of graduate courses in law
• integrated courses with the JD program
• independent study
• courses in other programs

Research Outline, Ethical Review and University Guidelines

In the second term of their first year, each student must submit to the Program office a brief outline of their proposed research that has been reviewed and approved by the members of their supervisory committee. The work must be original, containing a new argument supported by research carried out by the student.

A declaration of the ethical issues around the underlying research must be made early in the student’s first year. Projects involving interactions of any kind (for example, through interviews, questionnaires, consultations or observations) require an ethics review.

Dissertations must be prepared in accordance with the Faculty of Graduate Studies thesis and dissertation guidelines .

Extended Dissertation Proposal

PhD students must submit an extended dissertation proposal (50 –70 pages) by the end of their sixth term. Students must defend their proposal in an oral exam before an examining committee (which must be done by the end seventh term).

The dissertation is a piece of original research that reflects a substantial contribution to existing legal literature. Expected to be between 300-350 pages, it should have the usual scholarly apparatus, footnotes and a bibliography prepared in accordance with the McGill Guide to Legal Citations. The dissertation should be of sufficiently high quality to warrant publication by an academic publisher or through a comparable venue.

With the permission of their supervisor and in consultation with the Graduate Program Director, PhD candidates may submit a Portfolio Dissertation in lieu of a conventional thesis. The Portfolio Dissertation must be composed of three to five articles (depending on the length and ambition of the articles) developed during the candidate’s graduate studies, published or accepted for publication, and combined with an introduction and conclusion.

Final Oral Examination

Students must succeed in an oral defence of their dissertation before an examination committee.

Time to Completion

PhD students are expected to complete all requirements within 18 terms (six years).

Residency Requirement

Students must be located such that they are able to progress on all program requirements requiring geographical availability on campus.

More Detail:

Faculty research advisors, related topics:, funding and fees, intellectual life, meet our current doctoral students, meet our phds.

Jake Okechukwu Effoduh

“This school propelled me to unearth the power of legal research in ways that have helped me uncover new insights, challenge existing paradigms and contribute to this ever-evolving landscape of scholarship.”

Deanne Sowter

“Attending Osgoode Hall Law School for my JD and PhD were two of the best decisions of my life, giving me the opportunities and skills to engage in important research supported by a thriving academic community.”

University of Toronto Faculty of Law

The information on this page was provided by the law school.

Official Guide to Canadian JD Programs

Important Information for Applicants to Ontario Law Schools

Introduction

The Faculty of Law at the University of Toronto offers unparalleled opportunities for the study of law. The Faculty is committed to creating a genuine intellectual community in which each of its members—students and professors alike—work closely in developing a deep, critical understanding of the strengths and limitations of law and legal institutions. 

Our students are highly educated, extremely diverse, and deeply committed to justice at home and around the world. Academically, they are the strongest student body in the country and are among the top in North America. Students come to our law school with an extraordinary mix of racial, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds and experiences; intellectual interests; and political commitments. 

The relatively small size of our student body, combined with its diversity, affords distinctive opportunities for the exchange of ideas among students and faculty, and fosters a sense of community at the law school.

JD Student Body in 2020–2021

• 2,204 first-year applicants
• 221 first-year students
• 643 total full time
• 9 half time
• 11 percent identify as LGBTQ+ or two-spirited
• 37 percent minority
• 56 percent women
• 70 percent were born in Canada
• 81 percent are first in their family to attend law school
• More than 50 undergraduate schools represented
• 65 full time
• 146 part time or adjunct
• 8 distinguished visitors

More than 60 full-time faculty members and visiting scholars from across the globe create an intellectually robust and exciting academic environment for the study of law. Internationally renowned for their research excellence, faculty members have published ground-breaking books with major academic publishing houses and leading articles in important national and international journals. 

Our interdisciplinary strength and intellectual diversity is reflected in many ways: in the breadth and innovation of our curriculum, in the range of our collaborative and combined programs, and in the vibrant academic workshops and lecture series held each year. The sheer size of our teaching complement supports a faculty-to-student ratio of 1:11—one of the best among law schools in North America.

JD Academic Program

Degrees, combined degrees, certificates and collaborative programs:

• JD Full-time
• JD Half‑time
• JD/MA (Criminology)
• JD/MA (Economics)
• JD/MA (English)
• JD/MA (European and Russian Affairs)
• JD/MGA (Global Affairs)
• JD/MI (Information)
• JD/MPP (Public Policy)
• JD/MSW (Social Work)
• JD/PhD (Criminology)
• JD/PhD (Economics)
• JD/PhD (Philosophy)
• JD/PhD (Political Science)
• JD/Certificate in Aboriginal Legal Studies
• JD/Certificate in Environmental Studies
• JD/Certificate in Sexual Diversity and Gender Studies
• JD/Collaborative Program in Jewish Studies

The first-year curriculum includes those courses that are common to many law school curricula:

• Constitutional Law
• Contracts Law
• Criminal Law
• Property Law
• Legal Process
• Professionalism and Ethics
• Legal Research and Writing

Several other features make our first-year program special. Each first-year law student takes one of the core courses in a small-group class of no more than 20 students. UofT also provides students a two week-long intensive course in Legal Methods before core classes begin meeting.

The courses in the second and third years are primarily electives, and are chosen from an extensive curriculum of over 100 courses. Every upper-year student must engage in an oral advocacy competition; take at least one class that focuses on the nature, source, and purpose of legal regulation (a critical perspectives course); take at least one class that focuses on international, comparative, or transnational law, a course on legal ethics, and Administrative Law. While there are no majors or minors, there are many areas of focus to explore for legal career paths.

Experiential Learning & Professional Experience

The Faculty of Law has a number of exciting programs and clinics , including:

• Aboriginal Law Program
• Centre for Innovation Law and Policy
• David Asper Centre for Constitutional Rights
• Downtown Legal Services (DLS) - criminal law
• DLS - employment law
• DLS - family law
• DLS - immigration & refugee law
• DLS - tenant housing law
• DLS - university affairs
• International Human Rights Program
• Investor Protection Clinic
• Pro Bono Students Canada

There are also a variety of international student exchange and work-abroad opportunities available in Asia-Pacific, Europe and the Middle East.

Financial Aid (Canadian currency listed)

The Faculty of Law’s tuition fees pay for all the things—world-class faculty , clinical and internship opportunities, combined-degree programs , and career services , to name a few—that allow us to offer one of the best legal educations in the world. In 2020–2021, tuition fees for one year in the full-time JD program was CAD $33,040 for domestic students (Canadian citizens and permanent residents), and CAD $54,320 for international students (study permit/student visa).

We have the highest top-line tuition among Canadian law schools. This is why we also have one of the most generous financial aid programs in Canada for domestic students. In 2019–2020, we distributed over $4.3 million in bursaries and interest loan payments to 82 percent of students who successfully applied to our aid program.

With the law school’s financial support, in 2019–2020 our first-year students receiving assistance got an average UofT Law bursary of $12,500. An estimate of the financial aid package can be obtained immediately by using our online Financial Aid Calculator . In addition, we provided more than $100,000 in funding for internships and research assistantships during the summer of 2020.

Students from the USA may use FAFSA funding for studying at the University of Toronto.

Career Services

The University of Toronto’s Career Development Office (CDO) is staffed by two full-time advisors who provide extensive consultation and information to assist students in pursuing their individual career goals. The CDO prepares students to successfully secure legal and law-related positions in Canada and elsewhere, and facilitates the on-campus recruitment visits of Canadian and American law firms. 

The CDO offers students a comprehensive program of panels and workshops, individual career counseling, interview coaching, and résumé reviews. For students seeking public interest law careers, the CDO provides a wide array of programs and resources. 

Our graduates enjoy unmatched success in securing summer, articling, and associate placements at law firms throughout Canada and the United States, as well as in industry, public interest, and government, including clerkships at all levels of Canadian courts. The law school’s strong academic reputation is well understood by prospective employers, and is reflected in the 98 percent articling placement rate we achieved in 2020. Further details are available at our Career Development Office webpage.

For first-year law students, there is guaranteed on-campus housing for:

• 27–30 rooms in Graduate House , which is a university apartment complex
• 2 apartments in Student Family Housing for students with children, or who are partnered/married/common-law. 

Other housing options include university residences, independent residences, and off-campus flats, apartments, and rooms, all within easy walking or commuting distance of the law school. Information on student housing is available from the University of Toronto Housing Service s at 416.978.8045.

Library and Physical Facilities

An extensive online collection of journals, books, case law, and legislation from all the major common law jurisdictions

A core print collection of Canadian and international texts

6 full-time law librarians

Hours: 88 hours per week during the academic year; 100 hours per week at the end of term and during exams

Access to computers, printers, and scanners

The law library staff and collections support teaching, research, and scholarship at the Faculty of Law. In addition to the key public and private law treatises from common law jurisdictions, the collection features specializations in Aboriginal law, international trade, international human rights, law and economics, and legal philosophy. Interdisciplinary research is supplemented by the rich resources of the University of Toronto library system, one of the five largest research library systems in North America.

Our physical location provides an exceptional opportunity for studying law in Canada’s largest urban centre, an exciting multicultural city of 2.8 million people with a richness and cultural diversity no other city can match. Nestled in the heart of old Toronto, bordered by the tranquil tree-lined pathways of Philosopher’s Walk, the Faculty of Law is just steps away from the provincial legislature, the Ontario Court of Appeal and Superior Courts, and the country’s largest legal and financial district. 

The uniqueness of the UT experience extends to its charming heritage buildings and classrooms. Two architecturally beautiful buildings, Flavelle House and Falconer Hall, house the classrooms that make up our law school. The Bora Laskin Law Library, named after one of the faculty’s finest scholars and the former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada (1973–1984), is housed in the award-winning, state-of-the-art Jackman Hall, opened in 2016.

Tours and Admission Information Sessions

View the video tour of the law school video tour of the law school and get your questions answered by our admissions advisors at an in-person or remote admission information session .

Admission Overview for Entry in 2021

Over 2,200 qualified candidates apply each year for the 200 places in the first-year class.

First-year courses begin in mid-late August, while upper-year courses begin in early September.

Our JD admission process is designed to identify exceptional students who will bring a broad and complex set of life experiences to the study of law. We strive to build a diverse and unique community of students who will forge lifelong friendships as they learn with, and from, each other.

Indigenous Persons of Canada and Mature Students

The Faculty has a robust access and academic support program for Indigenous students. It also admits mature students (those with five or more years of non-academic experience). Candidates should refer to the law school website for further information about these categories of admission.

Black Student Application Process (BSAP)

Black candidates are invited to use BSAP when they apply. Regardless of their admission categories (general, mature, indigenous), Black candidates can opt to apply to this stream, which aims to increase Black law student representation at UofT Law.

BSAP applicants will have their personal statements and BSAP essays reviewed by members of the Black community, including our staff, students, faculty and alumni. BSAP applicants must meet the same LSAT and academic requirements for admission that we seek from all candidates. BSAP does not have a designated quota for admission.

Admission Eligibility and Selection

For first-year admission, please note that:

• Candidates are expected to possess a minimum three years of full-time undergraduate study (by May of entry year).
• The LSAT required, alternate tests are not acceptable.
• The acceptable LSAT scores are tests from June 2016 to January 2021, inclusively.
• A test of English language proficiency (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS) is not required for JD first-year and transfer applicants. 
• Letters of recommendation are not requested, and interviews are not used for admission.
• There are no quotas for any applicant type.
• International students are given the same consideration as domestic students, and assessed on the same criteria.

We use three sources of information to assess applications.

• Law School Admission Test (LSAT) results
• postsecondary records of academic achievement
• personal essays

The review process is holistic, which means that the Admissions Committee looks at all of these factors together. The committee relies on the essays for information that cannot be conveyed by numbers. Multiple readers assess each file to get a full sense of the unique strengths each applicant will bring to the first-year class.

All applicants to the first year of the JD program must submit a LSAT score and must arrange to write the test no later than the January administration before the August start of the program. A candidate with an excellent academic record, but whose LSAT score is uncompetitive, should consider taking the test again. In cases where the LSAT has been taken more than once, an average is not used, instead, the best LSAT score is used.

We do not have a minimum LSAT score or GPA. The strongest applicants to the 2020-2021 program had LSAT scores starting at 160 and undergraduate GPAs starting at A-. Based on the whole-person approach to admission we encourage candidates to apply.

Application Deadline and Submission

The application deadline is November 1, 2020. 

Apply via the Ontario Law School Application Service (OLSAS) only. 

The Candidate Assembly Service (CAS) cannot be used for applying to the University of Toronto.

We are prepared to consider any requests to submit a late application. Please contact the JD Admissions Office for further information.

The application procedures are described on the JD Admissions website.

Contact Information

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School of Graduate Studies (SGS) Calendar

Stg, law, juris doctor / economics, doctor of philosophy, stg jd / eco phd: introduction.

The Combined Degree Program (CDP): STG, Law, Juris Doctor / Economics, Doctor of Philosophy allows a student to complete all the requirements for the Juris Doctor (JD) program and all the requirements for the PhD program (except a dissertation) in four years rather than the five years it would take to acquire them independently. In Years 5 and 6, students will complete a dissertation.

For a general description of CDPs, see General Regulations section 1.4.3 .

Law, Juris Doctor / Economics, Doctor of Philosophy www.law.utoronto.ca/academic-programs/jd-program/combined-programs/jdphd-economics www.economics.utoronto.ca/index.php/index/graduate/jdphd

Juris Doctor Program Faculty of Law Email: [email protected]

Doctor of Philosophy in Economics Program Department of Economics Email: www.economics.utoronto.ca/index.php/index/index/contact

STG JD / Eco PhD: Application Process

Applicants must apply to the Juris Doctor (JD) program, the Economics PhD program, and the CDP.

Applicants are considered for the CDP after they have secured independent admission to the JD and PhD programs.

Applicants admitted to both the JD and PhD must inform both programs of their status and request admission to the CDP.

Applicants may also be considered for the CDP while they are in Year 1 of the JD program. Interested students should contact the Faculty of Law about this before applying to the CDP.

STG JD / Eco PhD: Requirements

Minimum admission requirements.

Applicants must meet the admission requirements of the JD program , the School of Graduate Studies, and the PhD program .

Academic Path to Completion

Every CDP involves a specific combination of approved degree programs. The CDP requirements build on those of the two separate degree programs. Each CDP has a unique pattern of academic activity year by year.

Program Length

• Programs at a Glance
• Programs by Graduate Unit
• Programs by SGS Division
• Search Collaborative Specializations
• Search Combined Degree Programs
• Search Graduate Faculty Members
• Glossary of Degrees and Honorifics
• Sessional Dates
• Important Notices
• General Regulations
• Degree Regulations
• Fee Regulations
• Financial Support
• Dean's Welcome
• Mission Statement
• Graduate Studies at the University of Toronto
• PDF Calendar and Archives

Exams Know-how

PhD in Law from...

PhD in Law from Canada: A Complete Guide to Pursue PhD in Law in Canada for International Students

Canada ranks 4th globally when it comes to research opportunities which is why international students often decide to pursue PhD in Law from Canada. Canada is home to some of the finest law schools offering PhD in Law. Not only is a PhD in Law from Canada a highly remunerative career choice but also a well-respected profession with a great scope. The annual salary package for lawyers in Canada is quite good starting from 37,500 CAD and going up to 295,000 CAD and this field is characterized by a balanced demand and supply of labor.

We have prepared a guide including best universities for PhD in Law in Canada, cost of studying, scholarships, eligibility criteria, admission process, future opportunities to help you get started.

Why Study PhD in Law in Canada?

If you are looking for reasons why you should consider getting a PhD in Law from Canada, take a look at the points below:

• World-class education: Canada not only is the top choice among international students beating countries like the US and UK but also home to coveted universities. Remarkably, 12 universities in Canada rank in the QS subject rankings by Subject 2021 for Law and Legal Studies. Out of which 3 universities namely University of Toronto, McGill University and University of British Columbia rank in the top 50 globally while the remaining are placed within the top 300 category.
• Funding opportunities: There are numerous scholarships for international students in Canada which can definitely help you in reducing the costs significantly. Besides program funding you can secure financial support through Research Assistantships (RA).  You can also find fully funded law PhD in Canada which is totally a bonus point if you are looking for affordable education. International students are also allowed to work on or off-campus with a valid study permit.
• Future prospects: Adding an international doctoral degree to your resume, makes you highly employable in Canada as well as other parts of the world. It also leads your way to permanent residency in Canada. The demand for judges and lawyers in Canada between 2019-2026 is expected at 46,000 compared to 46,600 job-seekers which means the demand and supply will be stable implying good future prospects.

Suggested: Job Opportunities after Studying in Canada for International Students!

Top 6 Universities in Canada for PhD in Law

Law is a popular field of study in Canada, let us take a closer look at the top universities for PhD in Law in Canada:

• University of Toronto
• McGill University 
• University of British Columbia
• University of Ottawa
• York University
• Queen’s University at Kingston

Details about PhD programs at each of these universities is mentioned below:

1. University of Toronto

University of Toronto is the top ranking institution in Canada with a very high research output. It also ranks in the top 50 in QS subject rankings for Law and Legal Studies in 2021. It provides Doctoral of Juridical Science (SJD) with 2 admission rounds - one for general entry and the other for direct entry. The Faculty of Law also provides collaborative graduate programs that allow you to pursue PhD in Law with an interdisciplinary perspective.

2. McGill University

The Faculty of Law at McGill University offers a competitive, challenging and intense Doctor of Civil Law program with 3 specializations. Admission to this program is very selective as the university admits a new batch of only 15 students per year. This program gives you the opportunity to associate with the Centre for Human Rights and Legal Pluralism, the Paul-André Crépeau Centre for Private and Comparative Law, the Centre for Intellectual Property Policy or one of the Research Chairs at the Faculty of Law depending on your research area.

3. University of British Columbia

University of British Columbia, another leading institution in Canada offers PhD in Law through Peter A. Allard School of Law. It is a research-intensive program which will open your doors to work in the public sector, legal research, law teaching, policy development, practice of law and government service.

4. University of Ottawa

University of Ottawa is one of Canada’s top 10 research universities known for its impactful research facilitated by collaboration, innovation and interdisciplinarity. The Faculty of Law at University of Ottawa aims at developing lawyers and academicians who can operate autonomously and prove themselves in the field of law. The maximum limit for completing this program is 5 years from the registration date.

5. York University

The Osgoode Hall Law School at York University is well-known for providing affordable PhD in Law. The program accepts a very limited number of candidates therefore you need to be a competitive applicant and apply early to secure a place. All candidates are expected to complete the requirements of the program within 18 terms i.e. 6 years.

6. Queen’s University at Kingston

The Queen’s University of Kingston provides a 4-year PhD in Law program. Queen’s law programs proudly boast of high employment rates of nearly 95%. The program helps you reach the highest point in your career and understand the challenges of the ever-changing job market.

Suggested: Universities in Canada for PhD

Eligibility Criteria and Admission Requirements for PhD in Law in Canada

Before proceeding with the admission process, let us take a look at the eligibility criteria and admission requirements for earning PhD in Law from Canada:

• Master’s degree
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Canadian study permit
• Additional documents

Let us now talk about these PhD requirements in Canada elaborately:

• Master’s Degree

For seeking admission to PhD in Law in Canada, you must complete an LLB or JD along with a master’s degree in Law from recognised universities. You are expected to have a minimum overall average of B+ i.e. 75% or above in your master’s degree .

• Proof of English Language Proficiency

International applicants whose first language is not English must submit English language test scores for admission. A minimum IELTS score of 7.0 with no band less than 7.0 or TOEFL score of 100 is required for admission to PhD in Law in Canada for international students.

• Canadian Study Permit

As international students seeking admission to Law PhD in Canada, you will have to apply for a Canadian study permit. Applications for a study permit can only be submitted after receiving an admission confirmation.

Documents Required for PhD in Law in Canada

Take a look at the list of documents required for applying to PhD in Law in Canada for international students:

• Transcripts from post-secondary education
• English language proficiency tests scores
• GRE scores, if required
• Letters of reference
• Statement of Interest
• Dissertation proposal
• Writing sample
• Preference of thesis supervisor
• Copy of passport
• Proof of sufficient finances

Suggested: What is the Eligibility, Requirements & Application Process for Masters in Canada?

Compared to the number of applications received, the seats for PhD in Law in Canada is quite limited which is why barely meeting the admission requirements does not guarantee admission. Let us now take a look at the admission process for PhD in Law in Canada:

Admission Process for PhD in Law in Canada

PhD in Law in Canada is offered for the September intake. Applications for admission are available around September of the previous year and are accepted up to December 1 at most institutions. The application deadlines for doctoral degrees are mostly not flexible and must be adhered to. Once you have checked the eligibility criteria and application deadlines, the next step is applying for admission. The steps in the application process in Canada are discussed below:

• The application process will start by completing the online application available on the respective university’s website and submitting the necessary application fee.
• An essential step to apply for Phd is connecting with a supervisor, some universities require commitment from a supervisor prior to applying while others assign supervisors in the first year.
• The next step is to gather and upload all necessary documents required for admission.
• Make sure you add your referees carefully as it is an important part of the application and must be received by the specified deadline for your application to be complete.
• After submitting the application, you can track the status of your application and wait until the admission decision. Universities generally send admission decisions via email.
• If you are accepted, make sure you reply to your offer of admission within the prescribed time period and pay the tuition deposit.
• Next, you will have to proceed with the student visa application. You must check the financial support being provided by your institution and apply for funding opportunities accordingly.

Suggested: Intakes and Deadlines to Study in Canada in 2022!

Cost of Studying PhD in Law in Canada

The cost of studying for a PhD in Law in Canada includes tuition fees, cost of accommodation, food, transportation, healthcare, entertainment and personal expenses. On average, the annual tuition fee for PhD in Law in Canada is 6,955 CAD - 15,000 CAD.

The exact cost of living in Canada will depend on various factors such as your location, type of accommodation and preferences. You can assume the average cost of living to be around 10,000 CAD - 12,000 CAD per year i.e. 800 CAD - 1,000 CAD per month. The rent of accommodation makes a major difference in your cost of living. If you choose to live on-campus accommodation, the rent is around 3,000-7,500 CAD while off-campus accommodation costs around 8,000 CAD - 9,000 CAD per year.

Now as you are aware of the investment that is required to study Phd in law in Canada, let us look at the ways in which you can manage your studies within budget. Below mentioned are some of the PhD law scholarships Canada. 

Scholarships for PhD in Law in Canada

There are a lot of PhD in Law scholarships in Canada to ease your financial burden. Besides financial support provided by universities, you can apply for PhD Law scholarships in Canada. Take a look at the table below to learn about the various scholarships and eligibility criteria for the same:

Suggested: How to Finance your Studies in Canada?

Career Opportunities in Canada After PhD in Law

Law is a high yielding field because of the ever-growing demand for legal services. A PhD in Law boosts your salaries by 23% and prepares you for senior positions in an organization. 

• You can be working at private firms, public sector, educational organizations, large corporations, Government or be self-employed as a lawyer, attorney, counsel, advocate among other positions.
• Employees of the public sector receive higher salaries than those employed in the private sector. 
• The average salary of a person working in the legal field is around 144,000 CAD per year. Notably, legal professionals in Ontario have the highest average salaries of around 160,000 CAD followed by Quebec, British Columbia and Alberta. 

The popular job titles and average salaries for candidates with PhD in Law from Canada are given in the table below:

It is a well-known fact that a higher level of education directly contributes to higher earning potential. Therefore investing in a PhD in Law in Canada is definitely worth it for your future. Law is a skill-based discipline and to work as a professional in this field you need to have strong judgment, knowledge of legal matters, ability to handle clients, grit, problem-solving skills, negotiation skills, etc. If you are looking for streamlined assistance to fulfil your dream of studying in Canada, connect with our Yocket Counsellors today!

Frequently Asked Questions about PhD in Law in Canada

How long is the PhD in Law in Canada program?

The PhD in Law in Canada can be completed within 3 to 4 years.

What are the top universities for PhD in Law in Canada?

Some of the top universities for PhD in Law in Canada include University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, McGill University, University of Montreal, University of Ottawa, etc.

How much does it cost Indian students to get a PhD in Law from Canada?

The cost of PhD in Law from Canada for Indian students is between 3,95,000 INR to 8,90,000 INR annually.

Is a PhD in Law in Canada funded?

Yes, most institutions in Canada have a funding standard set for applicants of each department which must be provided to the students as program funding. You can combine this funding package with other external awards.

Is it mandatory to a LLM for admission to PhD in Law in Canada?

Yes, it is mandatory to get a LLM i.e. a Masters of Law before applying for admission to PhD in Law in Canada.

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PhD in Law In Canada: Best Doctorate Degrees & Top Universities

• Updated On December 19, 2022
• Published In Courses 📖 , Study in Canada 🇨🇦

A PhD in Law is a great prospect for students who have completed their graduate studies and are looking to take up legal research as the next step in their career. Canadian education system is known for delivering top-quality education and best-in-class career opportunities so you will benefit from excellent resources if you pursue your phd from there.

Table of Contents

Why pursue a PhD in Law from Canada?

• Great compensation: An international student of the faculty of law at some of the best law studies universities in Canada would end up earning much more than what they could in their home country.
• A well-developed legal system: Canada is a well-developed country characterised by a strong judicial system with great legal institutions in place. It becomes a lifetime opportunity for international students to practice their legal profession in this well-developed system.
• Home to top-ranking universities: Several universities of Canada are recognised as some of the best for pursuing legal studies globally, with 3 universities being ranked under 100 in the QS World Rankings. 

List of Top Universities for PhD in Law in Canada

Here is a list for all students of legal studies who are either pursuing their postgraduate degree or have already completed it. This will help aspirants who are now looking at PhD in law options in Canada—

Check Your Eligibility for 80+ Universities across Canada

Book a free counselling session and find universities where you can get an Admission!

University of Toronto (QS World Ranking 17)

The University of Toronto has a well-established reputation globally. The postdoctoral study in law encourages students to dive deeper into the subject and take up original research work that will help them gain further insights into the legal field.

After successfully completing the SJD Program (Doctor of Juridical Science) from the university, students go on to work in various fields like the private and public sector, academics, etc.

Eligibility requirements :

• Students holding a Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Master of Laws (LLM), or a Juris Doctor (JD) from a recognised university have showcased an excellent academic track record with a minimum standing of University of Toronto Grade B+ or equivalent
• Students who have demonstrated an ability to produce high-level thought and research through substantive writing.
• As per the degree requirements, students are supposed to submit a dissertation of about 90,000 to 100,000 words and pass an oral exam to complete the PhD successfully. The university also offers various scholarship and financial aid opportunities to international students that are worth exploring.

The application process is to be followed on the official website through the SGS Application Management System.

McGill University (QS World Ranking 25)

Based in the Quebec province, McGill University broadly offers three options in PhD in Law at the university: Doctoral of Civil Law – Law, Doctoral of Civil Law – Comparative Law, and Doctor of Civil Law – Air and Space Law. The application process is completely based on the website and the interlinked application portal therein. 

This program is highly selective, with a strength of about 70 highly intellectual researchers focused on nurturing their knowledge, teaching supervision, and leadership qualities. By the end of the program, an original thesis has to be submitted by every student as a part of the program requirements.

The faculty of law at McGill University is highly committed to building a strong community of highly qualified academicians in the field of law and legal studies. Driven by the same goal, the university invites its doctoral students to take part in various faculty and graduate seminars to help them explore the world of law. 

This program prepares its students well to work in think tanks, private organisations, governance roles, academic jobs, and international organisations.

University of British Columbia (QS World Ranking 42)

Having established holistic political science and legal studies faculties over the years, the University of British Columbia offers one of the best structured and delivered PhD in Law in Canada.

The program requires students to pass comprehensive exams, complete their course work within the deadlines, present and defend their dissertation proposal and also come up with a book-length dissertation that adds value to the existing literature in legal studies.

Every faculty member is approachable and offers great support and guidance to the distinguished PhD students throughout the program duration. 

All prospective international students have to complete their application on the program website and upload the required documents well within the application deadline. The deadline usually falls in the month of December.

After the PhD, the most common career pathways include policy development, legal research in legal theory and other related fields, the practice of law in courts and other suitable judicial institutions, academia, etc.

University of Montreal (QS World Ranking 111)

This university has a firm hold on new and disruptive tools of techniques of imparting education and encouraging research that makes a positive contribution to the legal discipline. Being based in a French-speaking region, it requires students to have fluency in French and English.

One unique aspect of this PhD in Law is that it offers the co-supervision of not one but two learned professors who help their students every step of the way. The PhD structure is such that it first asks students to clear exams of the subjects that they wish to then write a thesis on.

There are broadly two options:

• PhD in Law General Option that requires students to be able to complete their research project and share its results clearly and persuasively.
• PhD in Innovation, Science, Technology and Law Option that helps students acquire specialised knowledge about the role of law in promoting science and new technologies, especially in new and emerging economies of the world.

The eligibility criteria demand an LLM degree from a deemed university with an average GPA of 3.3 out of 4.3 or its equivalent. Additionally, the application procedure is supposed to be followed on the program website of the University.

Western University (QS World Ranking 294)

The PhD program in Law at the Western University is focused on equipping high-calibre legal researchers with the right tools and techniques to shape them into law professionals with unmatched knowledge and skills. This program positions its students well to take on roles in the government sector, private sector, academia, and legal policymaking.

Throughout the different terms, the students will be asked to submit a dissertation, defend it orally in front of the advisory committee, and enlist the table of contents and bibliography before submitting the final draft. After completing the first year, researchers also have to deliver at least one talk as part of the faculty every year.

All applicants should read the specific requirements for the course in detail on the Graduate Program Admissions page, clearly enlisted on the PhD program’s webpage.

So, Canada should be at the top of the list for all PhD in Law aspirants who wish to acquire advanced tools and techniques in the legal studies field.  Furthermore, you should start planning your study abroad journey from an early stage to meet all the deadlines in time. 

Need further information to get started? Visit Leap Scholar and get exploring the plethora of options available for your higher studies abroad! 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average salary   after completing a phd in law in canada.

There is no one fixed average salary for a student who has completed their PhD in Law in Canada. This is because students take up many kinds of jobs, all with different pay scales. However, the average salary can be expected to be around CAD 70,000 to CAD 82,000 for roles like research analyst and policy Analyst.

What are the job prospects   after graduating from school with a PhD in law in Canada?

After completing your PhD in Law in Canada, there are many job prospects, including policy analyst, senior legal consultant, lawyer, professor of law, etc.

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PhD Program

In this section.

• Doctoral Program Structure
• Finding a Doctoral Supervisor
• PhD Course Requirements
• Comprehensive Exam
• Language Requirement
• Prospective Graduate Students
• Curriculum & Course Information
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Ph.D. Program

The Doctoral Program in Women and Gender Studies (DWGS) offers a particular focus on feminist colonial, post-colonial, diasporic and transnational studies . The program supports diverse and multidisciplinary graduate research querying gendered, raced, sexed, and queered subjects as they are entangled in political economies and cultural formations.  In particular, WGSI has distinctive strengths in the following four areas of strength: (1) gender, sexuality and queer studies; (2) feminist cultural studies; (3) feminist studies of technology, science, environment and biomedicine; and (4) transnational political economy and critical development studies. Our core faculty brings transnational feminist commitments to the study of diverse sites and their interconnection with particular focus on Canada, the Caribbean, Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, South East Asia, East Asia, and the United States.

All admitted doctoral students will receive a minimum guaranteed finding package. Please see our financial support page for further information.  For detailed information on School of Graduate Studies funding commitments including values, number of years of funding and payment details, see the How Funding Works: Research-Stream Programs page.

Incoming and current doctoral students are encouraged to check out collaborative specializations to enhance their degree. WGSI participates in a dozen programs that provide interdisciplinary study and training.  Read more about collaborative programs here.

PhD Program

The Queen’s Law PhD program is a four-year program of advanced scholarly research and writing, culminating in a dissertation. Queen's Senate recently approved the expected length of the PhD program from three to four years.

Our students represent a broad range of research interests, and are encouraged to use a variety of research methods. Doctoral students are a key part of our vibrant intellectual community: some teach courses in the law school and work in collaboration with faculty members on research projects. They are invited to participate in faculty workshops, lectures and seminars, and engage intellectually with other students and faculty.

We welcome applications from students who have excelled in previous legal studies, normally with an undergraduate law degree (JD, LLB or equivalent) and a graduate law degree at the Masters level (LLM or equivalent).

PhD Program Requirements

First year:

• Two mandatory graduate seminars ( Legal Research Methods & Perspectives  and  Advanced Legal Research ). If similar courses have been taken at another institution different course requirements apply. 
• Graduate-level courses relevant to a student’s research topic (for credit or audit), as recommended by the student’s supervisor and in consultation with the supervisory committee.
• A course of directed reading set by the student’s supervisor and supervisory committee.

End of first semester of second year:

• An oral qualifying exam to demonstrate readiness to pursue a dissertation.
• Final dissertation proposal

Second, third, and fourth year:

• Research and write a doctoral dissertation not to exceed 80,000 words in length exclusive of footnotes, endnotes, bibliography, appendices, tabulated data, table of cases and legislation, and tables of contents.
• Defend dissertation before an examination committee

More information

The  School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs  offers a full list of learning outcomes and a pathway to PhD completion on its website.

Practicing Law in Canada

Please note that obtaining an LLM or PhD in Canada does not qualify students who do not have an LLB or JD from a Canadian university to practice law in Canada. International students who are interested in practising law in Canada should contact the  National Committee on Accreditation .

Potential Applicants

If you are a potential applicant please see our Graduate Admissions Process for information and a link to the application portal.

Applicants do not contact potential supervisors prior to applying for admission.  Normally, supervisors are assigned when we admit applicants to our Program. Our application form allows applicants to suggest potential supervisors.  If there is someone you are interested in working with, please add that professor’s name to the application form. On the Research Interests webpage , you can find potential faculty supervisors under the various research areas. Availability of supervisors depends on current supervision numbers and if sabbaticals or leaves occur.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Law (PhD)
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Canadian Immigration Updates

Applicants to Master’s and Doctoral degrees are not affected by the recently announced cap on study permits. Review more details

Go to programs search

The PhD in Law is designed to provide advanced training for outstanding graduate students who have already obtained a Master of Laws (LLM) degree or its equivalent. The PhD is a research-intensive degree that prepares graduates for opportunities in law teaching, legal research, policy development, public and governmental service, and the practice of law.

The degree requirements include course work, comprehensive exams, a dissertation proposal and defence, a dissertation, and an oral dissertation exam. Working closely with a supervising faculty member, a student in the PhD program is expected to produce a book-length piece of original legal scholarship and of publishable quality.

The PhD provides an opportunity for focused study in a chosen field of law. It does not, of itself, qualify a holder for entry to the legal profession in British Columbia or any other certification for legal practice.

For specific program requirements, please refer to the departmental program website

I first attended UBC for my Master in Laws (LLM) and then decided to stay for my PhD. In my PhD, I wanted the opportunity to work and contribute to the Centre for Feminist Legal Studies (CFLS) at the law school. The Vancouver campus was also a huge draw. Having traveled for school before, I wanted to entrench myself in the city a bit more and continue some of the community work I had started.

Maira Hassan

Quick Facts

Program Enquiries

Admission information & requirements, 1) check eligibility, minimum academic requirements.

The Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies establishes the minimum admission requirements common to all applicants, usually a minimum overall average in the B+ range (76% at UBC). The graduate program that you are applying to may have additional requirements. Please review the specific requirements for applicants with credentials from institutions in:

• Canada or the United States
• International countries other than the United States

Each program may set higher academic minimum requirements. Please review the program website carefully to understand the program requirements. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission as it is a competitive process.

English Language Test

Applicants from a university outside Canada in which English is not the primary language of instruction must provide results of an English language proficiency examination as part of their application. Tests must have been taken within the last 24 months at the time of submission of your application.

Minimum requirements for the two most common English language proficiency tests to apply to this program are listed below:

TOEFL: Test of English as a Foreign Language - internet-based

Overall score requirement : 100

IELTS: International English Language Testing System

Overall score requirement : 7.0

Other Test Scores

Some programs require additional test scores such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Test (GMAT). The requirements for this program are:

The GRE is not required.

Prior degree, course and other requirements

Prior degree requirements.

Completion of either an LLB or JD and a Masters degree.

Document Requirements

Additionally to the required documents please submit: C.V. or resume Dissertation Proposal: PhD degrees in the Allard School of Law at UBC are dissertation-based degrees involving original research. Dissertation (PhD) proposals form an important part of the admissions process and help to guide the assignment of supervisors and supervisory committees. A proposal should outline a research project that could reasonably lead to a dissertation that makes an original scholarly contribution in the chosen field of legal study. The PhD dissertation proposal is approximately 10 pages (2,500 words), excluding bibliography. Clarity of expression is important. Please upload your thesis proposal under "Writing Sample". List of possible thesis supervisors: All applicants must submit a list indicating your first and second choice for a thesis supervisor, this list should be uploaded to your application form. There is no need to secure a thesis supervisor nor is it is necessary to contact potential thesis supervisors prior to submission of an application as many faculty members prefer that applications are referred by the Graduate Committee for their review.

2) Meet Deadlines

3) prepare application, transcripts.

All applicants have to submit transcripts from all past post-secondary study. Document submission requirements depend on whether your institution of study is within Canada or outside of Canada.

Letters of Reference

A minimum of three references are required for application to graduate programs at UBC. References should be requested from individuals who are prepared to provide a report on your academic ability and qualifications.

Statement of Interest

Many programs require a statement of interest , sometimes called a "statement of intent", "description of research interests" or something similar.

Supervision

Students in research-based programs usually require a faculty member to function as their thesis supervisor. Please follow the instructions provided by each program whether applicants should contact faculty members.

Instructions regarding thesis supervisor contact for Doctor of Philosophy in Law (PhD)

Citizenship verification.

Permanent Residents of Canada must provide a clear photocopy of both sides of the Permanent Resident card.

4) Apply Online

All applicants must complete an online application form and pay the application fee to be considered for admission to UBC.

Research Information

Research facilities.

Allard Hall, the home of the Peter A. Allard School of Law, was opened in 2011. The latest technology connects the Faculty with campuses, courthouses and offices around the world, and a new, state-of-the-art UBC Law Library serves as a vital academic hub for students and the legal community. Natural light, contemporary classroom designs, expanded student service spaces, a student forum space at the centre of the building, and new research spaces are all part of the new facility. The Law Library has a research collection of approximately 225,000 volumes.

Tuition & Financial Support

Financial support.

Applicants to UBC have access to a variety of funding options, including merit-based (i.e. based on your academic performance) and need-based (i.e. based on your financial situation) opportunities.

Program Funding Packages

From September 2024 all full-time students in UBC-Vancouver PhD programs will be provided with a funding package of at least $24,000 for each of the first four years of their PhD. The funding package may consist of any combination of internal or external awards, teaching-related work, research assistantships, and graduate academic assistantships. Please note that many graduate programs provide funding packages that are substantially greater than $24,000 per year. Please check with your prospective graduate program for specific details of the funding provided to its PhD students.

Average Funding

• 1 student received Teaching Assistantships valued at $1,054.
• 2 students received Research Assistantships. Average RA funding based on 2 students was $6,313.
• 10 students received Academic Assistantships. Average AA funding based on 10 students was $4,505.
• 20 students received internal awards. Average internal award funding based on 20 students was $20,705.
• 8 students received external awards. Average external award funding based on 8 students was $20,750.

Scholarships & awards (merit-based funding)

All applicants are encouraged to review the awards listing to identify potential opportunities to fund their graduate education. The database lists merit-based scholarships and awards and allows for filtering by various criteria, such as domestic vs. international or degree level.

Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA)

Many professors are able to provide Research Assistantships (GRA) from their research grants to support full-time graduate students studying under their supervision. The duties constitute part of the student's graduate degree requirements. A Graduate Research Assistantship is considered a form of fellowship for a period of graduate study and is therefore not covered by a collective agreement. Stipends vary widely, and are dependent on the field of study and the type of research grant from which the assistantship is being funded.

Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA)

Graduate programs may have Teaching Assistantships available for registered full-time graduate students. Full teaching assistantships involve 12 hours work per week in preparation, lecturing, or laboratory instruction although many graduate programs offer partial TA appointments at less than 12 hours per week. Teaching assistantship rates are set by collective bargaining between the University and the Teaching Assistants' Union .

Graduate Academic Assistantships (GAA)

Academic Assistantships are employment opportunities to perform work that is relevant to the university or to an individual faculty member, but not to support the student’s graduate research and thesis. Wages are considered regular earnings and when paid monthly, include vacation pay.

Financial aid (need-based funding)

Canadian and US applicants may qualify for governmental loans to finance their studies. Please review eligibility and types of loans .

All students may be able to access private sector or bank loans.

Foreign government scholarships

Many foreign governments provide support to their citizens in pursuing education abroad. International applicants should check the various governmental resources in their home country, such as the Department of Education, for available scholarships.

Working while studying

The possibility to pursue work to supplement income may depend on the demands the program has on students. It should be carefully weighed if work leads to prolonged program durations or whether work placements can be meaningfully embedded into a program.

International students enrolled as full-time students with a valid study permit can work on campus for unlimited hours and work off-campus for no more than 20 hours a week.

A good starting point to explore student jobs is the UBC Work Learn program or a Co-Op placement .

Tax credits and RRSP withdrawals

Students with taxable income in Canada may be able to claim federal or provincial tax credits.

Canadian residents with RRSP accounts may be able to use the Lifelong Learning Plan (LLP) which allows students to withdraw amounts from their registered retirement savings plan (RRSPs) to finance full-time training or education for themselves or their partner.

Please review Filing taxes in Canada on the student services website for more information.

Cost Estimator

Applicants have access to the cost estimator to develop a financial plan that takes into account various income sources and expenses.

Career Outcomes

24 students graduated between 2005 and 2013: 1 is in a non-salaried situation; for 1 we have no data (based on research conducted between Feb-May 2016). For the remaining 22 graduates:

Sample Employers in Higher Education

Sample employers outside higher education, sample job titles outside higher education, phd career outcome survey, alumni on success.

Craig Bateman

Job Title Copy editor, legal researcher, and writing consultant

Employer Self employed

Robert Russo

Job Title Lecturer

Employer Peter A. Allard School of Law, University of British Columbia

Enrolment, Duration & Other Stats

These statistics show data for the Doctor of Philosophy in Law (PhD). Data are separated for each degree program combination. You may view data for other degree options in the respective program profile.

ENROLMENT DATA

Completion rates & times.

• Research Supervisors

This list shows faculty members with full supervisory privileges who are affiliated with this program. It is not a comprehensive list of all potential supervisors as faculty from other programs or faculty members without full supervisory privileges can request approvals to supervise graduate students in this program.

• Affolder, Natasha (International Environmental Law, Biodiversity Law, Law and Sustainability)
• Ahmad, Hassan (transnational tort law; interaction of domestic jurisdiction and liability principles with international law; business and human rights law; Law and political economy)
• Aloni, Erez (Law and legal practice; Law; Contracts; family law; law and sexuality)
• Arbel, Efrat (Law and legal practice; Law; Constitutional law; Gender and Law; Legal and Critical Theory; Prison Law and Policy; Refugee Law; Tort Law)
• Bakan, Joel Conrad (Constitutional Law, Legal Theory, Socio-Legal Studies)
• Benedet, Janine (Law and legal practice; Penal Law; Labor Standards and Laws; Human Rights and Liberties, Collective Rights; prostitution and pornography; sexual abuse of girls; sexual harassment in employment and education; sexual violence against women)
• Beswick, Samuel Peter (Private law; Common law; Comparative law; Torts, private obligations and product liability law; Legal theory, jurisprudence and legal interpretation; Law; Law and time; Limitations; Remedies; Tort Law; Restitution and unjust enrichment; Public authority liability)
• Bhandar, Brenna (Law and legal practice; property law)
• Biukovic, Ljiljana (Adaptation of international legal norms by national governments, the impact of regionalism on multilateral trade negotiations and the development of European Union Law,European union Law, International Trade Law, International Dispute Resolution, E-commerce, Comparative Law )
• Cheng, Jie (Comparative Constitutional Law; Chinese Law and Governance; Hong Kong and Macau Basic Laws; Land Property Law; Information Law)
• Christie, Gordon (Legal Theory, and trans-cultural tort law, Aboriginal law, Indigenous legal orders, Indigenous legal theory, Legal Theory and trans-cultural tort law)
• Clifford, Robert (Aboriginal and Indigenous law)
• Cui, Wei (Law and legal practice; Taxation; Law; Social Organization and Political Systems; Chinese administrative law; Chinese legislative system; law and development; Law and political economy; tax and development; tax policy)
• Cunliffe, Emma (Women and the law, evidence, experts, courts and media, open justice, pathology and law, criminal law, SIDS, child homicide )
• Dauvergne, Catherine (Immigration, Immigration Law, Refugee Law, Legal Theory, Globalization)
• Duff, David (Tax Law Tax Policy Environmental Taxation Charities, Tax law and policy, environmental taxation, comparative and international taxation, and distributive justice)
• Etxabe, Julen (Law and society; Literature and critical theory; History and philosophy of law and justice; Law and humanities; Legal Theory and Jurisprudence; Human Rights; Political Theory; Law and literature; Cultural Studies)
• Flynn, Alexandra (Law and society; Municipal Law; Local Governance; property law; Administrative Law; Experiential legal education; Socio-Legal Studies; Law & Cities)
• Ford, Cristie (Law and legal practice; Law; Regulation; Social, Economical and Political Impacts of Innovations; Laws, Standards and Regulation Impacts; Administrative Law; Ideological, Political, Economical and Social Environments of Social Transformations; Financial innovation and fintech; financial regulation; Legal innovation and law tech; regulation & governance theory; securities regulation; the legal profession; Innovation and the law)
• Goldbach, Toby Susan (Law and legal practice; Political Culture, Society and Ideology; Procedural Law; Jurisprudence; Comparative Law; Dispute Resolution; Judicial Politics; law and development)
• Goold, Benjamin (Law and legal practice; Law; Border Studies; Criminal Justice; Human Rights; migration; Privacy; security)
• Gordon, Sara (Law and legal practice; Intersection of psychology and mental health with the criminal justice system; Criminal law and criminal justice; Health law and policy; Legal methodology and interdisciplinary approaches)
• Grant, Isabel (Criminal Law, Constitutional Law, Psychiatry and Law)
• Harris, Douglas (Property law (except intellectual property law); Canadian history; property law; condominium law; legal history)
• Hastie, Bethany (Labour & Employment Law, Human Rights, Socio-Legal Studies, Access to Justice)

Doctoral Citations

Sample thesis submissions.

• Sustainable development : Africa's hidden and not-so-hidden contribution to its law, politics, and history
• Africanization of international investment law : reconciling sustainable development, climate action, and foreign investment in the global south
• Rethinking the Antarctic governance and legal framework through the creation of an international legal framework for mining operations in Antarctica
• Overlapping criminal offences and gendered violence : what is overlap and when is it part of the problem of overcriminalisation?
• Climate discourse polluted : a cumulative effects analysis of the fossil fuel industry’s tactics to influence public discourse
• The financialization of housing in Canada and federally-backed mortgage securitization : public risks, private benefits
• Bishops on the bench : why Constantine legislated Christian bishops into the role of judges
• Canada's criminal justice response to technology-facilitated intimate partner violence
• Towards a theory of deference in Canadian proportionality jurisprudence

Related Programs

Same specialization.

• Juris Doctor (JD)
• LLM - Master of Laws (Common Law) (LLMCL)
• LLM - Master of Laws (LLM)
• LLM in Taxation (LLMT)

Further Information

Specialization, ubc calendar, program website, faculty overview, academic unit, program identifier, classification, social media channels, supervisor search.

Departments/Programs may update graduate degree program details through the Faculty & Staff portal. To update contact details for application inquiries, please use this form .

Terri-Lynn Williams-Davidson, KC

I am Indigenous to this Province. I live in Haida Gwaii and on the territory of the Semiahmoo Nation. UBC is ideal for the location, and because it facilitates ongoing connections with my nation and homeland of Haida Gwaii.

Oludolapo Makinde

Haley Hrymak

Many of the academics I admire and look up to are at UBC. UBC is the ideal place for my work given my focus on BC, my supervisors’ skillsets, and my connection to the legal community and anti-violence sector across BC. I am also very thankful for the funding UBC has offered me to complete my...

Melanie McPhail

Growing up in the Vancouver area, I was thrilled at the opportunity of continuing my graduate studies close to home after spending over a decade in Ontario. Additionally, studying at UBC provides me with the opportunity to work with Dr. Cristie Ford, a leading scholar in regulatory governance.

Curious about life in Vancouver?

Find out how Vancouver enhances your graduate student experience—from the beautiful mountains and city landscapes, to the arts and culture scene, we have it all. Study-life balance at its best!

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School of Graduate Studies

Flexible-time phd program option guidelines, what is the flexible-time phd program option.

The flexible-time PhD program is a registration option that differs from the full-time PhD program only in design and delivery. The flexible-time PhD program option is for practicing professionals in the relevant field of study who require a modified time period and/or content delivery option to complete the requirements of their program.

The design and delivery of the flexible-time option permits continued professional practice by the student in areas related to the student’s field of research, except for short, specified periods of time. Because the option involves continued professional practice, it allows a student to complete the program over a longer period of time.

The degree requirements and program curriculum of the flexible-time PhD program option are the same. As such, students must satisfy the SGS General Regulations and Degree Regulations in the SGS Calendar, including good academic standing, supervision and candidacy regulations.

Who can offer a flexible-time PhD program option?

A flexible-time PhD program option may only be offered by a graduate unit where the graduate unit finds there is sufficient demand by practicing professionals in related fields. The option requires governance approval and an SGS Calendar entry notation. A practicing professional is currently defined in the SGS Calendar as an “active professionals who is engaged in work activities that may include consulting, community organizing, self-employment, contractual work, or equivalent. This category may include recently retired individuals who maintain professional engagement ( Degree Regulation 12.1.1.3).”

Governance Approval Requirements

Graduate units may offer a flexible-time PhD program option, approved through University of Toronto governance. Proposals to introduce the flexible-time PhD program option into an existing PhD program must be submitted, along with a revised SGS Calendar entry, and approved through University governance procedures for graduate programs as a Major Modification .

Admission Requirements

Applicants may apply to a flexible-time PhD program option in any graduate unit approved to offer this option (see Governance Approval Requirements above). Applications to flexible-time PhD program options are subject to the SGS General Regulations and Degree Regulations and must meet the same admission requirements as applicants to the full-time PhD program.

In addition, applicants to the flexible-time PhD program option must demonstrate that they are “practicing professionals”, that is, they are active professionals who are engaged in work activities that may include consulting, community organizing, self-employment, contractual work, or equivalent. This category may include recently retired individuals who maintain professional engagement. Admission to this option is subject to the availability of a supervisor.

Applicants to the flexible-time PhD program option must demonstrate that the research and proposed program of study is related to the applicant’s professional work and vice versa. In addition, they will continue their professional activities while registered in the program.

Program Requirements and Path to Completion

Students enrolled in the flexible-time PhD program option may complete the program requirements over a modified time period. As such, the graduate unit will provide a year-by-year path to completion and timeline of requirements based on the defined flexible time program length. This modified path to completion should be included in the SGS Calendar and will ensure that students are aware of dates and deadlines, and expectations surrounding progression through the program.

Year 1: Complete courses ABC 1234H, ABC 1244Y. Year 2: Complete courses ABC 1235H, ABC 1233Y. Prepare thesis proposal. Year 3: Complete course ABC 1235Y. Finalize thesis proposal, defend proposal by October 1. Year 4: Pass Comprehensive Exams. Achieve Candidacy by August 30. Year 5: Research and writing. Year 6: Research and writing. Year 7: Defend Thesis at Final Oral Examination by August 30.

Program Length: 7 years Time Limit: 8 years

Registration

Students in a flexible-time PhD program option will register full-time during the first four years and part-time during subsequent years in the program. Students are required to be registered for every session, including summers, following the first session of registration unless granted a leave of absence.

Transfers between the full-time PhD program and the flexible-time PhD program option are not permitted. A student may transfer from a master’s program into an approved flexible-time option program, with the years in the master’s program being counted as part of the PhD program.  

Fees and Funding

Students pay full-time fees for the first four years and part-time fees thereafter.  Students are expected to be self-funded.

Program Length and Time Limit

Each graduate program offering a flexible-time PhD program option will identify a program length for inclusion in the SGS Calendar entry, which normally will be five or six years. The time limit, between six and eight years, will be established through the departmental regulations. Flexible-time PhD program option students are afforded the same number of program extensions as other PhD students, with approval as required. 

Supervisor and Supervisory Committee

All doctoral students should have an identified supervisor and supervisory committee as early as possible in their program. For the flexible-time PhD program option, the time limit for constituting a supervisory committee is by the end of the first session in Year 3.

Achieving Candidacy

Candidacy must be achieved in the flexible-time PhD program option by the end of the fourth year of registration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Can a student switch from a full-time phd to a flexible-time phd program option, or vice-versa.

No. Transfers between full-time PhD programs and flexible-time PhD programs are not permitted.

What is the difference between a flexible-time PhD and a full-time PhD?

The flexible-time PhD program is an option for full-time enrolment in a PhD that offers students an extended timeline on the completion of the program requirements of the degree in order to accommodate and academically benefit from concurrent employment in the relevant field of study.

Is the flexible-time PhD program option open to all students? What do I need to apply?

The flexible-time PhD program option is available to practicing professionals in the relevant field of study, in programs where the option has been approved to offer it. In addition to the admission requirements for full-time PhD applicants, flexible-time PhD applicants must also demonstrate that they are practising professionals in the relevant field.

What is the timeline for program requirements in a flexible-time PhD program option?

The graduate unit and supervisor should develop a timeline to complete the program requirements of the degree, including dates, deadlines and expectations of progression through the program. The SGS Calendar entry will typically also provide this information.

What is the time limit for a student to complete a flexible-time PhD program?

Each graduate unit will identify a program length for the flexible-time PhD program option. The time limit is typically two years longer than the full-time PhD, will be established through departmental regulations, and will not exceed 8 years.

Are flexible-time PhD students eligible to receive a funding package?

No. Flexible-time PhD students are expected to be self-funded and pay full-time fees for the first four years and reduced fees (equivalent to part-time) thereafter.

What if a student’s employment situation changes during the flexible-time PhD program?

The definition of a ‘practicing professional’ is broad (see Admission Requirements above). The definition allows for some flexibility with professional practice arrangements that may change or evolve over the length of the program. While the flexible-time option requires demonstrated continuity, different activities can contribute to your engaged practice.

Students with concerns or questions about their situation, should​ consult with their program Graduate Coordinator or Chair.

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Kohberger's alibi disputes his location on night of Idaho student killings: Lawyers

The PhD grad student was arrested on Dec. 30, 2022, at his family's home.

Lawyers for Bryan Kohberger -- the man accused of stabbing to death four Idaho college students in November 2022 -- plan to use analysis of cellphone tower data to show he was not at the home where the killings occurred at the time police believe the crime happened, according to a new court filing.

Kohberger, a one-time Ph.D. student charged in the murders, plans to challenge the prosecutor's case with expert analysis of cellphone tower data, his lawyers said in a court filing made public Wednesday.

His lawyers argue their analysis shows Kohberger was not only not at the King Road home where four students were found stabbed to death in Nov. 2022 but that he was driving elsewhere.

"Mr. Kohberger was out driving in the early morning hours of Nov. 13, 2022, as he often did to hike and run and/or see the moon and stars. He drove throughout the area south of Pullman, Washington, west of Moscow, Idaho," Kohberger's lead attorney, Anne Taylor, said in the filing.

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Prosecutors have alleged that in the early hours of Nov. 13, 2022, Kohberger broke into an off-campus home and stabbed four University of Idaho students to death: Ethan Chapin, 20; Madison Mogen, 21; Xana Kernodle, 20, and Kaylee Goncalves, 21.

Kohberger, who at the time was a criminology Ph.D. student at nearby Washington State University, was indicted in May 2023 and charged with four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary. At his arraignment, he declined to offer a plea, so the judge entered a not-guilty plea on his behalf.

Kohberger could face the death penalty if convicted.

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After Kohberger moved to the area in June 2022, his lawyer said, his "avid" habit as a runner and hiker prompted him to explore his new surroundings -- but as the school year got busy, those hikes increasingly became "nighttime drives." Taylor added that the alibi is "supported by data from Mr. Kohberger's phone showing him in the countryside late at night and/or in the early morning on several occasions," including "numerous" pictures from "several different late evenings and early mornings, including in November, depicting the night sky."

That drive included Wawawai Park, a remote area along Snake River -- about 20 miles away from Kohberger's apartment at the time and roughly 28 miles away from the off-campus home where the killings occurred.

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To back up the defense's alibi claim, Kohberger's legal team told the court they intend to offer the testimony of their own expert "to show that Bryan Kohberger's mobile device was south of Pullman, Washington and west of Moscow, Idaho on November 13, 2022; that Bryan Kohberger's mobile device did not travel east on the Moscow-Pullman Highway in the early morning hours of November 13th," and thus his "could not" be the car captured on video traveling along the Moscow-Pullman highway near a local cannabis shop.

Further details "as to Mr. Kohberger's whereabouts as the early morning hours progressed," including analysis from their expert, "will be provided once the State provides discovery requested," Taylor wrote in the newly-released court document. "If not disclosed, [Sy Ray, their expert]'s testimony will also reveal that critical exculpatory evidence, further corroborating Mr. Kohberger's alibi, was either not preserved or has been withheld."

Wednesday's filing aligns with previous comments from the defense about Kohberger's whereabouts the night of the murder -- that he was driving around alone that night, which, they have claimed, had long been a habit of his.

After a six-week hunt, police zeroed in on Kohberger as the suspect in the murders of the students, arresting him in December 2022 at his family's home in Pennsylvania. Investigators have said they relied in part on records from cellphone towers and on surveillance video of a car seen in the area of the King Road house on the night of the killings -- part of which, they have said, includes a two-hour timespan in those after midnight hours where Kohberger's phone "stops reporting to the network, which is consistent with either the phone being in an area without cellular coverage, the connection to the network is disabled (such as putting the phone in airplane mode), or that the phone is turned off."

A trial date has yet to be set.

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