Doctor of Philosophy in Law (Research)

//Doctor of Philosophy in Law (Research)
Doctor of Philosophy in Law (Research) 2024-09-08T10:20:34+08:00

This program is designed for individuals interested in pursuing legal studies through research. It offers candidates the opportunity to enhance the skills and knowledge they have acquired during their undergraduate law studies. Candidates will be supervised by appointed faculty members who are experts in relevant fields. Supervisors will guide candidates in developing the necessary skills to conduct independent research and produce robust findings on their chosen topic.

Explore exciting research fields such as:

  • Constitutional Law
  • International Law
  • Human Rights
  • Cyber Law
  • Maritime Law
  • Criminal Law
  • Corporate Law
  • Banking and Finance Law

Programme Code         : L402 (MQA/FA10870)
Medium of Instruction  : English/Arabic/Malay
Programme Option     : Full Time/Part Time
Programme Type        : Research

Program Education Objective (PEO):

  1. A scholar capable of conducting original and in-depth research, as well as writing intensively by applying relevant knowledge and skills for continuous professional development. Utilizing digital and numeracy skills to enhance scholarship and explore entrepreneurial opportunities in the field of Law, both locally and internationally, through the integration of Naqli and Aqli knowledge (PLO1, PLO2, PLO4, PLO5, PLO7).
  2. A respected scholar with sustainable practices and interpersonal skills, who can become a reference expert in the field of Law, proficient in convincing and effective communication and argumentation (PLO3, PLO6, PLO8).

Programme Learning Objective (PLO):

  1. Developing new and original ideas/ijtihad or expanding existing ideas and concepts in law.
  2. Conducting intensive and in-depth research and writing aimed at advancing academic scholarship in the field of law.
  3. Demonstrating intellectual competence and interpersonal skills to become a reference expert in law.
  4. Critically evaluating issues within the field of Law using scientific skills.
  5. Adapting practical skills to foster innovative ideas in the field of law.
  6. Producing original and well-researched papers and theses in line with academic and ethical standards.
  7. Exhibiting the ability to expand knowledge through lifelong learning with an entrepreneurial mindset in the law sector.
  8. Demonstrating leadership qualities through effective communication and collaboration with peers and stakeholders.

Duration of Studies:

Min. Semester Max. Semester
Full Time 6 12
Part Time 8 16

Fee Structure:

1st Semester
(RM)
2nd Semester 2
(RM)
3rd – 6th Semester
(RM)
7th and Consequent Semester
(RM)

Local Student

(Full TIme)

2,527.00 1,787.00 2,287.00 1,787.00

Local Student

(Part TIme)

2,267.00

1,527.00 2,027.00

1,527.00

International Student 4,015.00 3,275.00 3,375.00

3,275.00

ACADEMIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

  • Holds a Master’s Degree in Law (research), Master’s Degree in Comparative Law (research), or Master’s Degree in Syariah (research) from Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM); or
  • Holds a Master’s Degree in Law through coursework or mixed mode with a minimum CGPA of 2.5; or
  • Holds a Master’s Degree in Law through research.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

A. All International applicants are required to meet the following University’s English Language requirement before registering in the program:

  • TOEFL with minimum score of 600 (paper based) or its equivalent in online based or home based; or
  • IELTS with minimum score of 6.0; or
  • MUET with minimum score of Band 4

B.  Malaysian applicant shall show evidence of proficiency in the English Language based on the following criteria:

  • TOEFL minimum score 550 (paper based), 180 (computer – based) or 64 (internet – based); or
  • IELTS minimum score of Band 5; or
  • MUET minimum score of Band 3; or
  • Graduated from institutions that use English as the main medium of instruction, AND will be required to sit for University English Proficiency Test (UEPT) with minimum score Band 3; or
  • Graduated in the field of Teaching of English as a Second Language (TESL), English Language Studies (ELS) and equivalent from a university recognised by the Senate;
  • A native speaker of English.

C. Malaysian applicant who intends to write his/her thesis in Arabic will be required to fulfil the criteria as below:

  • TOEFL minimum score 500 (paper based) 150 (computer – based) or 52 (internet – based); or
  • IELTS minimum score of Band 4; or
  • MUET minimum score of Band 2; or
  • UEPT minimum score of Band 2. or
    *UEPT only valid for Malaysians (82nd JKPSU Meeting)

An applicant who does not fulfil any of the criteria (A), (B) & (C) will be allowed to register conditionally and is required to fulfil the criteria within 24 months (for Ph.D. students).

A PhD in Law is an advanced academic degree that offers extensive career opportunities across academia, research, legal practice, policy development, and consultancy. Graduates with a PhD in Law typically pursue careers that require deep expertise in legal theory, policy analysis, or specialized legal research. Here are some key career paths for someone with a PhD in Law:

1. Academic and Research Careers

  • University Professor or Lecturer: A PhD in Law is the gateway to a career in academia. Professors or lecturers teach courses in law schools and supervise research projects in areas such as constitutional law, international law, human rights, or legal theory.
  • Researcher in Legal Studies: PhD holders can work as researchers in academic institutions, think tanks, or legal research centers, conducting specialized studies in legal theory, policy, or comparative law.
  • Director of Legal Research Institutes: Leading or managing legal research centers, focusing on areas like international law, corporate law, or public law, and driving research agendas that impact legal developments.
  • Author or Editor of Legal Textbooks and Journals: Writing and publishing books, academic articles, or editing legal journals that contribute to legal scholarship in specific fields like human rights, international law, or intellectual property.

2. Policy Development and Government Roles

  • Policy Advisor or Legal Consultant: PhD graduates can serve as advisors to governments, advising on legal reforms, public policy, or legislative development. This can include drafting laws or reviewing policy proposals for consistency with legal frameworks.
  • Government Legal Counsel: Serving in national or regional governments, providing legal advice on matters of national law, constitutional issues, or international treaties.
  • Legal Analyst for Law Reform Commissions: Contributing to the development and reform of laws in various sectors by working with law reform commissions or policy institutes.
  • International Legal Advisor: Advising governments or international organizations on legal aspects of foreign policy, treaties, and international agreements.

3. Judiciary and Legal Services

  • Judge or Magistrate: A PhD in Law enhances your qualifications for senior roles in the judiciary, particularly in courts that deal with complex legal cases, constitutional issues, or international law.
  • Legal Consultant or Senior Legal Advisor: Providing specialized legal advice in a particular area of law, such as constitutional law, human rights law, or environmental law, for law firms, corporations, or governments.
  • Public Prosecutor or Legal Counsel: Taking on high-level prosecutorial roles, especially in complex legal cases, international law violations, or public interest litigation.

A PhD in Law provides the expertise required for leadership positions in legal practice, academia, government, and international organizations. It allows for specialization in niche areas and is essential for those seeking to influence policy or lead complex legal projects.