The Ph.D. in Law is a high-level academic programme designed for scholars and professionals seeking to make a profound impact in the legal field. It focuses on original research, advanced theoretical understanding, and critical engagement with contemporary legal challenges. Candidates will explore legal principles at the deepest level, contribute to the development of new legal theories, and influence policy and practice locally and internationally. This programme prepares graduates to become thought leaders in academia, judiciary, policy-making, and global advocacy.
This doctoral programme provides an intellectually stimulating environment for advanced legal research in diverse fields of law. It combines rigorous theoretical study with practical analysis of evolving legal systems, supported by expert supervision from leading academics and practitioners. Students will develop strong methodological, analytical, and academic writing skills while contributing original research to the legal discipline. The course is designed to enhance the ability to address complex legal problems with innovative, research-driven solutions that have national and global relevance.
AWARD TITLE
Ph.D
START DATE
September 2025
DURATION
3 years
STUDY MODE
Full-time
CAMPUS
Nigeria, Lokoja
Learning Methods
Supervised independent research on a specialised legal topic
Seminars and workshops with leading legal scholars
Research methodology and advanced legal theory training
Opportunities for conference participation and academic networking
Interdisciplinary collaboration with related fields such as political science and human rights
Assessment Structure
Submission of original doctoral thesis
Oral defense (viva voce) of research findings
Evaluation of published journal articles and conference papers
Continuous assessment through research progress reports
Peer and faculty review of academic contributions
Advanced Legal Research Methodology: Comprehensive training in research design, data analysis, and scholarly writing specific to legal studies.
Comparative Constitutional Law: In-depth analysis of constitutional frameworks and governance systems across jurisdictions.
International Human Rights Law: Exploration of global human rights principles, enforcement mechanisms, and advocacy strategies.
Jurisprudence and Legal Theory: Critical study of the philosophical foundations of law and justice.
Public International Law: Examination of legal norms governing relations between states and international entities.
Law and Economic Development: Analysis of the relationship between legal systems and socio-economic growth.
Criminal Justice and Penology: Advanced study of criminal justice systems, punishment, and rehabilitation.
Intellectual Property and Technology Law: Research on emerging legal challenges in innovation, creativity, and digital governance.
Environmental and Climate Change Law: Investigation of legal frameworks addressing environmental protection and sustainability.
Transnational and Comparative Commercial Law: Study of cross-border trade laws and comparative commercial regulations.
Graduates of this programme are equipped for roles such as:
University Professors and Academic Researchers
Senior Legal Consultants and Policy Advisors
International Legal Experts and Advocates
Judges and Senior Judicial Officers
Leaders in Governmental and Non-Governmental Organisations
Authors of Influential Legal Publications
A Master’s degree in Law (LL.M or equivalent) from a recognised institution
Demonstrated research capability through a strong academic record and publications (where applicable)
Submission of a well-developed research proposal in a relevant area of law
Satisfactory performance in an interview or departmental assessment
Candidates applying for admission into the postgraduate programme shall satisfy the general University requirements in addition to providing the following:
National Identification Number (NIN)
The course fees you’ll pay and the funding available to you depends on factors such as your nationality, location, personal circumstances and the course you are studying. Visit the links below and scroll down to find the Postgraduate section.
Find out about grants, bursaries, scholarships and living costs in our postgraduate taught fees and funding section.
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