Your PhD in Law Starts Here
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PhD Programme in Legal Research – Graduate School of Law (GGSL)
The Graduate School of the Faculty of Law (GGSL) at the University of Groningen offers a structured, internationally oriented PhD programme for researchers in law. In cooperation with the University of Groningen Graduate School (GGS), the GGSL provides a comprehensive training trajectory that guides PhD candidates from the start of their research until the public defence of their dissertation.
Training and Development
The programme combines interdisciplinary courses offered by the GGS with legal research-specific training provided by the GGSL. PhD candidates follow courses appropriate to their research phase and disciplinary focus, ensuring a balance between general academic skills and subject-specific expertise.
Research Environment
PhD candidates at the GGSL are part of an active academic community consisting of doctoral researchers, senior staff, and supervisors. The programme encourages critical reflection, interdisciplinary perspectives, and open exchange of ideas as part of scholarly development.
Initial Phase
During the first three months, candidates prepare a detailed research proposal. This proposal must be approved by the Faculty’s Scientific and Ethics Committee, in addition to the supervisors. In this period, PhD candidates are generally exempt from teaching duties, which allows them to concentrate on the development of their project.
Evaluation and Progress
At the end of the first year, progress is assessed by the GGSL Director. The assessment is based on the approved research proposal, the Training and Supervision Plan (TSP), and initial research output (for example, a draft chapter, article, or report). Together with the supervisors, the candidate discusses the evaluation during a review meeting. The continuation of the PhD trajectory is decided on the basis of this assessment.
Ongoing Supervision and Academic Development
Throughout the programme, candidates receive supervision from their promotor and daily supervisor. They participate in research groups, attend and present at national and international conferences, and are encouraged to publish in academic journals. In this way, the programme supports both academic development and integration into the wider research community.
Your Experience Matters
Every two years, the University of Groningen conducts a university-wide survey to assess PhD candidates’ motivation, satisfaction, and training environment. We use this feedback to continuously improve our support and training.
Curious about how PhD candidates experience the programme? Read the latest PhD Survey 2023.