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PHD in Law at JAIN (Deemed-to-be University)
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Law at JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) Bengaluru?
This Law PhD program at JAIN University, Bengaluru, focuses on advanced legal scholarship and original research, contributing significantly to India''''s dynamic legal landscape. It emphasizes comprehensive coursework in research methodology and specialized legal theories. The program is designed to cultivate experts capable of addressing complex legal challenges and shaping policy, meeting the growing demand for highly skilled legal researchers and academicians in the Indian market.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for legal professionals, academicians, and scholars holding an LL.M. degree or equivalent, seeking to delve deeper into specific areas of law. It caters to those passionate about legal research, desirous of contributing to legal theory and practice, and aspiring for careers in legal academia, policy-making, or specialized legal consulting within India. Candidates with strong analytical and critical thinking skills are particularly well-suited.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to become leading experts in their chosen legal domains, opening doors to careers as university professors, legal researchers, policy advisors, and advanced legal consultants. In India, entry-level academics might earn INR 6-10 LPA, while experienced professionals in policy or research can command INR 15-30+ LPA, with significant growth trajectories in government, judiciary, and corporate legal sectors. The degree also aligns with requirements for various professional certifications and governmental positions.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology Fundamentals- (Year 1 (Coursework Phase))
Thoroughly engage with the ''''Research Methodology'''' coursework. Focus on understanding diverse legal research methods, ethical considerations, and academic writing standards essential for rigorous scholarly work. This foundational knowledge is crucial for developing a sound research proposal.
Tools & Resources
UGC CARE Listed Journals, SSRN, J-STOR, LexisNexis India, Manupatra
Career Connection
A strong methodological base is indispensable for all research-oriented careers, from academia to legal policy, ensuring credibility and effectiveness in future roles.
Identify and Refine Research Area- (Year 1)
Actively explore various legal domains, read extensively, and engage with faculty mentors to pinpoint a specific, impactful, and feasible research topic. Begin preliminary literature reviews to understand existing scholarship and identify gaps in the chosen ''''Subject Area''''.
Tools & Resources
Research seminars and workshops within JAIN University, Faculty consultation hours, Online legal databases
Career Connection
Early specialization allows for deep expertise development, making a candidate highly attractive for specific academic or industry positions later on.
Cultivate Critical Thinking and Legal Argumentation- (Year 1-2)
Participate in departmental seminars, workshops, and moot court activities (if applicable to advanced legal research) to sharpen analytical skills and present coherent legal arguments. Engage in peer reviews to enhance critical evaluation capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Departmental research forums, Conferences hosted by JAIN University, Legal debate clubs
Career Connection
These skills are fundamental for publishing, teaching, and influencing legal discourse, key outcomes for PhD graduates in Law.
Intermediate Stage
Develop a Robust Research Proposal- (Year 2)
Work diligently with your supervisor to craft a detailed and well-structured research proposal, clearly outlining your research questions, objectives, methodology, and anticipated contributions. Prepare thoroughly for the proposal defense and incorporate feedback effectively.
Tools & Resources
JAIN University''''s Research Advisory Committee guidelines, PhD cohort peer review groups, Supervisory meetings
Career Connection
A strong proposal demonstrates research independence and foresight, critical for securing research grants or academic positions post-PhD.
Engage in Extensive Literature Review and Data Collection- (Year 2-3)
Undertake comprehensive reviews for your ''''Review of Literature'''' paper and begin systematic data collection for your thesis. Attend national and international legal conferences to present preliminary findings and network with experts in your field.
Tools & Resources
University Library legal databases (EBSCO, Westlaw, SCC Online), Field visits for empirical data, Conferences like Indian Society of International Law (ISIL) events
Career Connection
Presenting at conferences builds a researcher''''s profile and provides opportunities for collaborative projects, enhancing visibility for future roles.
Publish in Reputable Legal Journals- (Year 2-4)
Aim to publish at least one or two research papers derived from your PhD work in UGC CARE listed or other peer-reviewed national/international legal journals. This establishes your scholarly credibility and strengthens your academic CV.
Tools & Resources
JAIN Law Review, Other institutional law journals, Legal writing workshops
Career Connection
Publications are a cornerstone for academic recruitment and promotions in Indian universities, signifying research output and expertise.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Thesis Writing and Argumentation- (Year 3-5)
Dedicate significant time to writing your thesis, ensuring logical flow, rigorous analysis, and original contribution to legal scholarship. Regularly seek feedback from your supervisor and refine your arguments.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly Premium, Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, Regular supervisor meetings, Thesis writing workshops
Career Connection
A well-written, impactful thesis is your primary credential for academic and high-level research positions, showcasing your ability to conduct and communicate advanced research.
Prepare for Thesis Defense and Viva-Voce- (Year 4-6)
Thoroughly prepare for your pre-submission seminar and final viva-voce examination. Be ready to articulate your research, defend your methodology, and discuss the implications of your findings before a panel of experts.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions with peers and faculty, Review of previous PhD viva experiences, Deep understanding of your thesis content
Career Connection
Successfully defending your thesis is the final step to earning the degree and demonstrating your readiness for independent scholarly work, crucial for any post-PhD career.
Network and Explore Post-Doctoral Opportunities- (Year 4-6)
Actively network with academics and practitioners in your field through conferences, workshops, and professional associations (e.g., Bar Council of India, Indian Law Institute). Explore post-doctoral fellowships, teaching positions, or research roles, and prepare your job application materials.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Academic job portals (e.g., indeed.com, university career pages), Professional legal associations in India
Career Connection
Proactive networking and career planning during the final stages are vital for a smooth transition into a desired academic or research career path within the Indian legal ecosystem.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master’s Degree (LL.M. or equivalent professional degree) with at least 55% marks in aggregate or its equivalent grade ''''B'''' in the UGC 7-point scale (50% for SC/ST/OBC non-creamy layer/Differently-abled, or Master''''s degree obtained prior to Sep 19, 1991).
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (Full-Time)
Credits: 12 (for coursework phase) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50% (for coursework examination), External: 50% (for coursework examination)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHD-LAW-C01 | Research Methodology | Core (Common for all disciplines) | 4 | Introduction to Legal Research and its Types, Formulating Research Questions and Hypotheses, Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods in Law, Data Collection Techniques (Case Study, Doctrinal, Empirical), Legal Citations, Academic Writing, and Research Ethics |
| PHD-LAW-C02 | Subject Area | Core (Discipline-specific) | 4 | |
| PHD-LAW-C03 | Review of Literature | Core (Discipline-specific) | 4 |
