University of Western Australia

What you'll study

The PhD in Law at the University of Western Australia is a research degree in which you will produce an original thesis that makes a clear contribution to legal scholarship. You will work under the guidance of one or more academic supervisors to develop a research question, undertake sustained investigation, and present your findings in a substantial written thesis. Your programme will typically include:

• Independent research: primary and secondary legal research leading to a thesis on a focused topic.
• Research methods and theory: training in qualitative and/or quantitative methods, doctrinal analysis, comparative law, empirical legal studies or interdisciplinary methodologies as appropriate to your project.
• Advanced substantive law: in-depth engagement with specialist areas such as constitutional and administrative law, commercial and corporate law, environmental and natural resources law (including mining and energy), international law and human rights, indigenous and comparative law, intellectual property, and criminal law, depending on the candidate's focus.
• Milestones and research training: confirmation of candidature, annual progress reviews, ethics approval where required, and opportunities to present work at seminars and conferences. Some candidates may undertake coursework units or attend workshops to support research skills.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on the quality and feasibility of the proposed research and the availability of appropriate supervision. Typical requirements include:

• A relevant honours degree with a significant research component or a master's degree by research (or equivalent) in law or a closely related discipline, with a strong academic record.
• A clear research proposal outlining the research question, methodology, contribution to knowledge and a provisional bibliography.
• Identification of potential supervisors within the UWA Law School whose expertise aligns with the proposed topic; willingness of staff to supervise is required.
• Evidence of research training and skills, and for international applicants, demonstrated English language proficiency to the standard required by the University.
• Compliance with UWA's admissions procedures, including referees' reports and any institutional clearances for ethics or funding where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates of a PhD in Law pursue careers across academia, public policy, the judiciary, and specialist practice. Common paths include:

• Academic and research positions at universities and research institutes, including teaching and publication-led careers.
• Senior legal and policy roles in government, intergovernmental organisations, think tanks and non-government organisations where advanced research skills are valued.
• Leadership and specialist advisory roles in industry sectors that intersect with law, such as resources and energy, environment, Indigenous affairs, and intellectual property.
• Appointments as legal advisers, tribunal members or judicial officers for those combining doctoral research with professional legal qualifications and practice experience.

Why study at University of Western Australia

The UWA Law School offers a research environment with experienced supervisors across a broad range of legal fields and strong links to the legal and policy community in Western Australia and beyond. Research candidates benefit from the University’s research training support, access to extensive legal collections and digital resources, and opportunities to join seminars and events that foster interdisciplinary exchange.

UWA’s location in Perth means proximity to significant industry sectors—such as resources, energy and environmental management—and to state and federal legal institutions, which can provide empirical material, industry partnerships and placement opportunities relevant to many doctoral projects. The Law School supports postgraduate researchers through structured milestones, skills training, and encouragement to publish and present work internationally, making it a suitable choice for candidates aiming for high-quality, impactful legal research careers.