How long does it take to get a PhD in law in Canada?
Asked by: Mrs. Betty Pacocha MD | Last update: October 30, 2025Score: 4.1/5 (19 votes)
The Queen's Law PhD program is a four-year program of advanced scholarly research and writing, culminating in a dissertation. Queen's Senate recently approved the expected length of the PhD program from three to four years.
How long does it take to get a PhD in law?
The average Ph. D. in Law program takes three to four years to finish and may take longer depending on if the students is enrolled part-time or full-time. A doctoral degree in law may also be earned alongside a Juris Doctorate as a dual degree program.
How much does it cost to get a PhD in law in Canada?
Cost of Studying PhD in Law in Canada
On average, the annual tuition fee for PhD in Law in Canada is 6,955 CAD - 15,000 CAD.
Is it harder to get a PhD or law school?
Yes, grad school requires learning new approaches, new theories, new ways of thinking. Some of this even makes your head spin. But it simply doesn't require the same radical realignment that law school does. What you learned as an undergraduate applies to grad school — but not so much to law school.
How long does a PhD take in Canada?
Graduate program options
In Canada, your master's studies can include a thesis, practicum, research paper or a course‑based program. PhD and doctoral degrees involve 3 to 5 years of study, including a thesis. This usually is pursued after completing your master's degree.
How long does it take to get a phD in Canada?
Can I finish PhD in 2 years in Canada?
Length of a PhD in Canada
Most courses require at least three years of full-time study and research. Some students may study for longer. You can usually register for up to six years.
Can you skip masters and do PhD?
Achieving a PhD without first earning a master's degree is indeed possible, and in many fields, it is a relatively common occurrence. However, it is important to be aware of potential obstacles that may arise when pursuing this route.
Is a juris doctor higher than a PhD?
No, a JD is not equivalent to a PhD. PhDs require research, independent study, and thesis components that JDs do not. While PhD holders are considered doctors, JD holders are not.
What is the hardest law degree to get?
The hardest law school to get into is Yale Law School, with an acceptance rate of 5.5%. Followed by: Stanford Law School: 7% acceptance rate. The University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School: 3.8% acceptance rate.
Can you be a lawyer without a PhD?
In four states—California, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington—you can become a licensed attorney without attending law school at all. In three other states—Maine, New York, and Wyoming—one can substitute an apprenticeship for one or two years of law school.
How long is a PhD in law in Canada?
Queen's Senate recently approved the expected length of the PhD program from three to four years. Our students represent a broad range of research interests, and are encouraged to use a variety of research methods.
Which Canadian law school is easiest to get into?
- University of Manitoba Robson Hall Law School – 16.1%
- University of New Brunswick Faculty of Law – 12.9%
- University of Ottawa Law School– 12.14%
- University of Saskatchewan College of Law – 11.25%
- University of Victoria Faculty of Law – 10.7%
Are PhD fully funded in Canada?
Yes, several Canadian universities offer fully funded PhD scholarships in Canada, covering tuition fees and providing a stipend for living expenses. These scholarships can significantly ease the financial burden of pursuing a PhD.
Which PhD in law is best?
- PhD in Jurisprudence.
- PhD in Administrative Law Studies.
- PhD in International Law Studies.
- PhD in Technology Law Studies.
- PhD in Business Law Studies.
- PhD in Criminal Justice.
- PhD in Criminal Law Studies.
- PhD in Dispute Resolution Studies.
What is the highest degree for a lawyer?
Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD)
A Doctor of Juridical Science degree is considered the highest level of a law degree and is designed for professionals who are looking to gain an advanced legal education after earning their JD and LLM.
How long is Harvard law PhD?
Students will ordinarily be enrolled for at least four years (8 terms) in Harvard Griffin GSAS. They must complete at least 16 half courses to receive their PhD.
Is law easier than doctor?
Each path demands extensive education and a commitment to rigorous training before becoming a qualified professional. Although both law and medical schools present their unique challenges, it's generally accepted that medical school demands a higher level of intense coursework and thorough training.
What is the most prestigious law degree?
Stanford University Law School
Stanford University Law School is in Stanford, California. Along with being California's top law school, Stanford is also the nation's top-ranked law school. Stanford Law School has a competitive acceptance rate of 6.88%. Stanford Law School is known for its collegial culture.
Which year of law is the hardest?
Law school is an academic challenge; most students agree the first year (“1L” year) is the most difficult.
Can a JD call themselves a Doctor?
Committee has held that the use of the J.D. is proper, and the use of the title "Doctor" is proper in reputable law lists, on academic occasions and in academic circles when in accordance with the customs of the school and when dealing with lawyers and others abroad in countries in which lawyers are referred to as " ...
Do you call someone with a PhD Doctor?
A doctoral degree (PhD) is a degree that one earns after a master's degree. A PhD entitles a person to use the title doctor.
What is a law PhD called?
The Doctor of Jurisprudence (Juris Doctor or J.D.) is the professional doctorate degree that is usually required for admissions to post-graduate studies in law.
What is the quickest doctorate degree to get?
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) degrees can be completed in two to three years. They are two of the shortest doctoral degrees available because they focus on practical application and don't require the large amount of research and dissertations that longer programs include.
Is it better to get a Masters before a PhD?
Although it's not usually a requirement, earning a master's degree before applying to a Ph. D. or other doctoral program can be a good way to get accustomed to graduate-level coursework while gaining valuable research experience and connections in your field.
How much does a PhD cost?
The University of Southern California: School of Education estimates that their online Doctoral degree in Education would only cost up to $37,333. St. Thomas University estimates that their online Doctoral degree in Education would take as little as 40 months full-time and cost up to $50,000.