

PHD in Law at University of Lucknow


Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Law at University of Lucknow Lucknow?
This PhD in Law program at University of Lucknow focuses on advanced legal research, enabling scholars to contribute original knowledge to the vast and evolving Indian legal landscape. It emphasizes critical analysis, doctrinal research, and empirical studies across various domains of law. The program aims to foster expert legal scholars equipped to address contemporary legal challenges and influence policy-making in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for LL.M. graduates aspiring for careers in legal academia, policy research, or specialized legal consulting. It also suits legal professionals seeking to deepen their understanding, publish scholarly work, and contribute to legal reform. Candidates with strong analytical skills, a profound interest in legal theory, and a passion for in-depth legal inquiry are well-suited for this rigorous research-oriented journey.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue roles as Assistant Professors in law universities and colleges, legal researchers in think tanks, or specialized legal advisors in Indian corporate or governmental bodies. The doctoral degree significantly enhances credibility, opens avenues for higher academic and research positions, and provides a strong foundation for contributing to legal jurisprudence and policy-making within India''''s dynamic legal system.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology Fundamentals- (Semester 1 (Coursework))
Thoroughly grasp the principles of legal research methodology, including doctrinal, empirical, and comparative approaches. Actively engage in coursework and assignments to build a strong theoretical and practical base essential for your doctoral research.
Tools & Resources
University Library Resources, Legal Research Books (e.g., C.R. Kothari''''s Research Methodology), Academic Writing Workshops
Career Connection
A strong foundation in methodology is crucial for designing a robust research project, ensuring the credibility and academic rigor of your thesis, and is a prerequisite for any research-intensive career.
Develop a Focused Research Proposal- (Semester 1 - End of Year 1)
Work closely with your assigned supervisor to refine your research area and develop a comprehensive, viable, and original research proposal. This involves extensive literature review, identifying significant research gaps, and formulating clear objectives and research questions relevant to Indian legal contexts.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor Guidance, JSTOR, HeinOnline, SCC Online, Manupatra, LexisNexis India
Career Connection
A well-defined research proposal demonstrates your ability to conceive and execute original research, a key skill for academic positions, and is often a prerequisite for securing research grants.
Cultivate Advanced Academic Reading and Writing Skills- (Ongoing throughout the PhD)
Dedicate consistent time to reading scholarly articles, legal commentaries, and jurisprudential texts. Practice summarizing complex legal arguments and writing analytical essays with clarity, coherence, and an academic tone, seeking regular feedback on your drafts.
Tools & Resources
University Writing Centre, Grammarly (for proofreading), Referencing Style Guides (e.g., Bluebook, Indian Journal of Law and Society Style Guide)
Career Connection
Excellent academic reading and writing skills are fundamental for publishing research, presenting at conferences, and effective communication in academia and legal scholarship globally.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Interdisciplinary Seminars and Workshops- (Year 2 - Year 4)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, national/international law workshops, and conferences relevant to your research area. Present preliminary findings to gain diverse perspectives and refine your arguments, fostering intellectual growth and expanding your academic network.
Tools & Resources
Departmental Seminar Series, Call for Papers from Reputable Law Journals/Conferences, University Research Office
Career Connection
Networking with peers and senior academics at such events can lead to valuable collaborations, mentorship opportunities, and enhance your visibility within the Indian legal research community.
Publish in Peer-Reviewed Legal Journals- (Year 2 - Year 5)
Aim to publish at least one or two research papers in reputable, peer-reviewed national or international law journals listed in UGC CARE. This demonstrates your research capabilities, contributes to the existing body of legal knowledge, and significantly strengthens your academic curriculum vitae.
Tools & Resources
UGC CARE List Journals, Journal Finder Tools, Legal Publishers (e.g., Eastern Book Company, LexisNexis, Thomson Reuters)
Career Connection
Publications are critical for academic appointments, promotions, and establishing yourself as an authority in your chosen area of legal scholarship within India and abroad.
Seek Mentorship and Collaboration Opportunities- (Year 2 - Year 5)
Beyond your primary supervisor, identify other faculty members or external legal experts whose work aligns with your research interests. Seek their guidance, collaborate on papers, or participate in their ongoing projects to broaden your academic exposure and enhance your research skills.
Tools & Resources
Faculty Profiles on University Website, Professional Legal Associations in India, Research Networks
Career Connection
Mentorship and collaborations enrich your research, provide diverse perspectives, and open doors to future academic and professional opportunities within the Indian legal fraternity and international organizations.
Advanced Stage
Prepare for Thesis Submission and Viva-Voce- (Final Year (Year 3-6))
Focus on the meticulous drafting and editing of your thesis, ensuring it meets all academic standards, originality requirements, and university guidelines. Prepare rigorously for the viva-voce examination by anticipating questions and articulating your research contributions and methodology clearly.
Tools & Resources
University Ph.D. Guidelines, Mock Viva Sessions with Peers/Mentors, Thesis Formatting and Plagiarism Check Software
Career Connection
A well-written thesis and a confident viva performance are the culmination of your PhD, leading to successful degree conferral and validation of your expertise as a legal scholar.
Develop Teaching and Presentation Skills- (Year 3 - Final Year)
If aspiring for an academic career, gain practical teaching experience by assisting professors, co-teaching undergraduate or postgraduate courses, or delivering guest lectures. Practice presenting your complex legal research concisely and engagingly to diverse audiences.
Tools & Resources
University Teaching Assistantships, Departmental Lecture Opportunities, Public Speaking and Pedagogy Workshops
Career Connection
Teaching experience and effective presentation skills are vital for securing academic positions in law schools and performing well in university roles, making you a well-rounded and competitive candidate.
Strategize Post-PhD Career Paths- (Final Year)
Actively explore various career options beyond traditional academia, such as legal policy analysis, roles in think tanks, or specialized legal research positions in government or international organizations. Prepare your CV, research statements, and network with professionals in your target areas to understand market demands in India.
Tools & Resources
University Career Services, LinkedIn for Professional Networking, Job Boards for Legal Research/Policy Roles in India and abroad
Career Connection
Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition from your doctoral studies to a fulfilling professional role, maximizing the impact of your specialized knowledge and advanced research skills.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master’s Degree or equivalent professional degree in Law from a recognized University/Institution with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC/PWD) or equivalent grade.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (6 semesters) and maximum 6 years (12 semesters), including one semester of coursework.
Credits: 18 credits (for mandatory coursework) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHD-RM-101 | Research Methodology | Core | 6 | Meaning, Objectives, and Significance of Research, Types of Research and Formulation of Research Design, Methods of Data Collection, Tools, and Techniques, Sampling Theory, Hypothesis Testing, and Introduction to Statistical Analysis, Research Ethics, Plagiarism, Referencing Styles, and Report Writing |
| PHD-RASL-102 | Research Area / Advanced Study in Law | Core (Specialization Specific) | 6 | |
| PHD-CASSM-103 | Computer Application and / or Statistical Methods | Core | 6 | Introduction to Computers, Operating Systems, and Network Basics, Applications of MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) in Research, Utilizing Internet for Academic Research, Databases, and e-Resources, Basic Concepts of Descriptive and Inferential Statistics, Data Analysis and Interpretation using Statistical Tools and Software |




