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PHD in Law at CHRIST (Deemed to be University)
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Law at CHRIST (Deemed to be University) Bengaluru?
This PhD in Law program at CHRIST (Deemed to be University) focuses on advanced legal research, contributing to the existing body of knowledge in various facets of law. In the rapidly evolving Indian legal landscape, where new legislations, judicial interpretations, and socio-economic shifts continually reshape the profession, this program equips scholars with critical analytical skills to address complex legal issues and drive meaningful impact. It differentiates itself through its interdisciplinary approach and emphasis on contemporary legal challenges pertinent to India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for legal academics, experienced advocates, and legal professionals who possess a strong foundation in law (LL.M.) and a passion for in-depth research. It caters to those seeking to pursue a career in legal academia, contribute to policy-making, or specialize in advanced legal consultancy within India. Candidates should have a keen interest in theoretical and empirical legal studies, and be committed to making original contributions to legal scholarship.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to excel as university professors, legal researchers in think tanks, policy advisors to government bodies, or specialized legal consultants in both public and private sectors in India. PhD holders in law often command higher academic positions and play pivotal roles in legal reform. Entry-level academic salaries for PhDs in India can range from INR 7-12 LPA, with significant growth potential into senior roles and specialized practice.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Legal Research Methodology- (Semester 1)
Develop a strong foundation in diverse legal research methods (doctrinal, empirical, comparative) and quantitative/qualitative analysis relevant to the Indian legal system. Actively participate in methodology workshops and seminars to refine research design skills.
Tools & Resources
Manupatra, SCC Online, LexisNexis India, Jstor, Mendeley, Christ University Library e-resources
Career Connection
Essential for robust thesis development and future roles in legal academia, research institutions, and policy analysis, enabling evidence-based legal arguments.
Engage in Critical Literature Review- (Semester 1-2)
Systematically review existing scholarship in your chosen area of law, identifying research gaps and establishing the originality of your proposed work. Practice synthesizing complex legal arguments from diverse sources to build a strong theoretical framework.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar, University digital library, Open-access legal journals, Zotero for citation management
Career Connection
Crucial for framing a compelling research proposal and thesis, and for publishing review articles, enhancing academic credibility and placement as a legal scholar.
Cultivate Academic Writing and Ethics- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing clear, concise, and academically rigorous legal writing skills. Strictly adhere to research ethics, including proper attribution, avoiding plagiarism, and understanding data privacy as per Indian regulations. Seek feedback from supervisors and peer groups.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Turnitin (university access), Bluebook/Indian Journal of Law and Technology citation style guides, University writing workshops
Career Connection
High-quality, ethical writing is fundamental for publishing in reputable journals, securing grants, and building a respected academic profile.
Intermediate Stage
Develop and Defend Research Proposal- (Year 1-2)
Work intensively with your supervisor to refine your research question, objectives, methodology, and ethical considerations. Prepare a comprehensive research proposal and present it effectively at the Pre-PhD Comprehensive Viva Voce, incorporating feedback for finalization.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor guidance, Mock viva sessions, University research department guidelines
Career Connection
A well-defined proposal is the blueprint for your thesis and demonstrates readiness for independent research, critical for academic positions and research grants.
Engage in National Legal Conferences/Workshops- (Year 2-3)
Present preliminary research findings or review papers at national-level legal conferences or workshops held in India. Network with fellow researchers, faculty, and legal practitioners to gain diverse perspectives and feedback on your work.
Tools & Resources
Conference alerts (e.g., Lawctopus, national university websites), Professional legal associations (e.g., ILI, Indian Bar Association)
Career Connection
Builds presentation skills, expands professional network, and provides valuable feedback, essential for academic visibility and future collaborations.
Explore Interdisciplinary Research Avenues- (Year 2-3)
While specializing in law, seek opportunities to integrate insights from other disciplines like economics, sociology, or technology, especially relevant to contemporary Indian legal issues such as data privacy, AI, or environmental governance.
Tools & Resources
University interdisciplinary research centres, Online courses on related subjects, Collaborations with faculty from other departments
Career Connection
Broadens research scope, enhances problem-solving capabilities for complex legal challenges, and increases attractiveness to diverse research institutions and policy roles.
Advanced Stage
Aim for High-Impact Publications- (Year 3-5)
Strategically target and publish research articles in UGC-CARE listed, SCOPUS, or Web of Science indexed legal journals. Focus on publishing at least 2-3 papers from your thesis work before final submission to bolster your academic profile.
Tools & Resources
Journal ranking lists, Supervisor guidance on suitable journals, University publication support
Career Connection
A strong publication record is paramount for securing faculty positions in top Indian universities, research grants, and demonstrating research leadership.
Prepare for Thesis Defence- (Year 5-6 (or final year))
Dedicate significant time to refining your thesis manuscript, ensuring clarity, coherence, and originality. Conduct mock viva voce sessions with supervisors and peers to prepare for the final oral defense, addressing all anticipated questions.
Tools & Resources
Thesis writing guides, University guidelines for thesis formatting, Departmental viva committees
Career Connection
Successfully defending your thesis is the culmination of your PhD journey, leading directly to the award of the degree and opening doors to academic and research careers.
Build a Professional Academic Portfolio- (Final Year of PhD)
Beyond thesis, develop a comprehensive academic portfolio including a detailed CV, research statement, teaching philosophy (if aspiring for academia), and samples of your publications. Actively participate in faculty recruitment drives and interview preparation workshops.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Professional networking platforms (LinkedIn, Academia.edu), Academic job boards in India
Career Connection
A polished portfolio and interview preparation are essential for securing desirable academic and research positions in leading Indian institutions post-PhD.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree (LL.M.) in Law with at least 55% marks or equivalent. Entrance Test followed by Interview.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (Full-time), Minimum 4 years (Part-time)
Credits: 12 (for coursework component) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
