2. The University of Southampton School
of Law has forged an excellent reputation
with prospective employers and within
the professions, both nationally and
internationally.
If you choose to study at Southampton, you will work with
internationally respected academics and experience world-
leading research as it happens. Our wide selection of postgraduate
programmes offer you the chance to benefit from intensive teaching
while building on the skills and knowledge gained during your first
degree.
Our teaching is student focused, dynamic and intellectually stimulating,
supported by superb electronic legal resources that enable all our students
to access materials from around the world. Contents
We have built a reputation as one of the leading law schools in the UK. Our Studying in the School of Law 4
teaching was declared “excellent” by the Government’s Quality Assurance
LLM (Master of Laws) Pathways 4
Agency and we are one of only 11 law schools to have 95% or more of our
research output regarded as being of “international standard or above”. Master of Laws 5
Many of our academic staff are leading authors who have written definitive Commercial and Corporate Law 7
books and articles that are shaping the law today. Their ground-breaking European Law 9
research has contributed to a vast array of module choices across our
European and Comparative Property Law 11
postgraduate degree programmes.
International Business Law 12
At Southampton, we are proud of our excellent facilities and the services International Law 13
that we guarantee to all our students. Whether you need advice on paying
Information Technology and Commerce 14
tuition fees, help finding an obscure book, access to the internet or
language lessons, we have the technology, services and resources to ensure Maritime Law 17
that your time with us is rewarding and productive. New MSc Crime Analysis 19
New Distance Learning Programme
Information Technology and
Telecommunications Law LLM 20
Research at the School of Law 21
PhD Programme 22
Southampton 25
The University of Southampton 26
International students 28
Making an application 30
Careers 33
How to find us 34
2 3
3. Studying in the School of Law The LLM (Master of Laws)
Structures
All of our programmes consist of a set of taught
studies that reflect the reality of decision making and
problem solving activities in today’s legal environment.
The LLM (Master of Laws) is an internationally recognised
modules assessed by coursework and exams,
Learning alongside other students postgraduate law degree. Our LLM pathways draw on the
plus a final dissertation. Research skills sessions
Throughout your time with us you will be working
and supervision by our staff provide you with the
alongside fellow students from a wide range of cultural highly-acclaimed research strengths of our academic staff that
support you need to approach your independent
and geographical backgrounds. This is a powerful
research in a structured way. These sessions are
resource and we are particularly keen to encourage
are at the cutting edge of international and national legal
designed to develop study skills and a suitable plan
for your independent inquiry.
you to set up learning networks with other students
that may extend beyond the time of your study at
reform and development.
How will you learn? Southampton.
Your understanding of the subjects covered and your You will register for an LLM (general) or a named - EU litigation and European private law
E-learning
ability to use the knowledge and skills gained will be LLM from our choice of pathways: - European land law
E-learning facilities are provided through a learning
aimed at promoting your academic and professional - European trusts, succession and private taxation
environment called ‘Blackboard’ which enables access - LLM (Corporate and Commercial Law)
development. - International commercial arbitration
to many additional resources and supporting learning - LLM (European Law) - International business taxation
You will experience group work, recognised as materials.
- LLM (European and Comparative Property Law) - International law of the sea
vital in your development when looking forward
Student support service for learning - LLM (International Business Law) - International marine and European
to, or continuing in, a professional role. You will be
We will help support your learning needs throughout environmental (liability) law
supported in learning how to form and maintain group - LLM (International Law)
your time of study. We will provide an induction - International protection of human rights
cohesiveness to achieve clearly defined outcomes, such - LLM (Information Technology and Commerce)
programme as well as individual support in study skills, - International trade law
as a report, a group presentation or a combination of
where appropriate. You will also be allocated a tutor to - LLM (Maritime Law) - Internet law
both reflecting approaches you experience in the work
support your academic development. - Law of unjust enrichment
place. You will also be presented with different case Our LLM Master of Laws gives a choice across the full - Legal regulation of fraud and money laundering
range of our modules – providing a flexible academic - Marine insurance
programme which can be tailored to suit your own - Secured commercial financing
individual interests. You will develop your powers - World Trade Organisation law and regional
of analysis, legal reasoning and writing skills while economic integration
exploring four interesting and varied subjects. In
Visit our web site for fuller descriptions of the
today’s competitive market our programmes offer you
modules on offer.
the chance to enhance your knowledge and develop
your skills, preparing you to compete with the best to Key facts
secure your chosen career. Start date: Early October
Assessment Programme duration: Full-time 1 Year
Assessment is by coursework and exams, plus a final Part-time 2 Years
dissertation on an agreed topic.
Entry requirements: An upper second class Bachelor’s
Choice of four modules: degree in law or an equivalent degree. Account may also
- Admiralty law be taken of practical experience within the relevant field
- Carriage by air of study
- Carriage of goods by sea Language requirements: See page 31
- Commercial conflicts of laws and international litigation
- Comparative civil liberties Studying in the School: See page 4
- Comparative competition law Fees: Visit the School web site
- Comparative intellectual property law
- Comparative land laws of Europe
- Corporate governance
The recently refurbished
Hartley Library
The Hartley Library, Highfield Campus
4 5
4. You will develop an in-depth Commercial and Corporate Law
understanding of the ever-changing LLM
world of commercial and corporate law
while benefiting from the highest quality
research-led teaching. The subject matter is challenging, interesting
and relevant to the global trade environment in
Choice of four modules:
- Carriage by air
which we live. We have an excellent reputation and - Carriage of goods by sea
relationships within the professions and are based - Commercial conflicts of laws and international litigation
within easy train access of London and the world’s - Comparative competition law
top global firms and employers. - Comparative intellectual property law
This postgraduate programme gives you the time - Comparative land laws of Europe
to develop your powers of analysis, legal reasoning - Corporate governance
and writing skills while exploring the challenges of - EU litigation and European private law
transactional commercial law. You can choose from - European land law
a broad range of module options, which enables you - European trusts, succession and private taxation
to select a programme of study that is tailored to your - International commercial arbitration
individual needs and interests. As a result, you will be - International marine and European environmental
equipped with the vital tools to rival the best in the (liability) law
competitive international market for lawyers. - International tax law
- International trade law
The programme is aimed at graduates, attracted to - Internet law
problem solving and academic rigour, who intend - Law of unjust enrichment
to work in the competitive world of commercial and - Legal regulation of fraud and money laundering
corporate law. The programme will also meet the needs - Marine insurance
of those already working in commercial practice who - Secured commercial lending
want to move into a new specialism, or broaden and - World Trade Organisation law and regional economic
expand their current knowledge of commercial law. integration
Assessment Visit our web site for fuller descriptions of the
Assessment is by coursework and exams, plus a final modules on offer.
dissertation on an agreed topic. Key facts
Start date: Early October
Programme duration: Full-time 1 Year
Part-time 2 Years
Entry requirements: An upper second class Bachelor’s
degree in law or an equivalent degree. Account may also
be taken of practical experience within the relevant field
of study
Language requirements: See page 31
Studying in the School: See page 4
Fees: Visit the School web site
6 7
5. With in-depth knowledge of this European Law
complex area of the law, you will be well LLM
positioned to work at the cutting-edge of
policy-making and legal practice
in the European Union. As part of the largest market in the world, the
effects of European law are all around us. Detailed
Choice of four modules:
- Commercial conflicts of laws and international
knowledge of the EU’s structure and the rulings litigation
of the Court of Justice of the European Union - Comparative civil liberties
is crucial for all practising lawyers. Our LLM - Comparative competition law
programme offers you the chance to acquire a - Comparative intellectual property law
valuable specialism, leaving you well positioned to - Comparative land laws of Europe
pursue the many job opportunities where detailed - Corporate governance
knowledge of European law is required. To meet - EU litigation and European private law
your, or your employer’s needs, the programme - European trusts, succession and private taxation
can also be tailored to suit your own particular - International commercial arbitration
requirements and interests. You can, for example, - International marine and European environmental
combine your chosen specialist areas, such as (liability) law
competition law, with more general subjects such - International tax law
as European private law. - International trade law
On this programme you will study in detail key aspects - Internet law
of EU law. The School offers considerable strength in - Legal regulation of fraud and money laundering
this area with research staff actively involved in the - Secured commercial lending
School’s Centre for European Law, covering all the core - World Trade Organisation law and regional economic
areas of EU law; the work of the European Court of integration
Human Rights; and the protection of civil and political Visit our web site for fuller descriptions of the
rights in Europe. modules on offer.
Assessment Key facts
Assessment is by coursework and exams, plus a final Start date: Early October
dissertation on an agreed topic.
Programme duration: Full-time 1 Year
Part-time 2 Years
Entry requirements: An upper second class Bachelor’s
degree in law or an equivalent degree. Account may also
be taken of practical experience within the relevant field
of study
Language requirements: See page 31
Studying in the School: See page 4
Fees: Visit the School web site
8 9
6. The School of Law is leading the way in European and Comparative
the field of European land law, with the first Property Law LLM
postgraduate course in England devoted
specifically to land law in its European and
comparative aspects. Europe is developing as a market in terms of
land through continental and cross-border
Choice of four modules:
- Commercial conflicts of laws and international litigation
transactions, the migration of people from one - Comparative civil liberties
country to another and the rapid rise in the - Comparative competition law
purchase of second homes. Developing a thorough - Comparative land laws of Europe
knowledge and understanding of land law, which - Corporate governance
underpins so many of these transactions, is - EU litigation and European private law
therefore vital for professionals working in related - European land law
fields. - European trusts, succession and private taxation
The School of Law is leading the way in the field - International commercial arbitration
of European land law, with the first postgraduate - International marine and European environmental
course in England devoted specifically to land law (liability) law
in its European and comparative aspects. This - International tax law
programme offers the opportunity to study a unique - International trade law
combination of subjects that are taught by highly - Law of unjust enrichment
respected academic researchers who are acknowledged - Legal regulation of fraud and money laundering
specialists in the field. As a result, you will gain a - Secured commercial lending
unique qualification and you will be well-placed to Visit our web site for fuller descriptions of the
pursue your chosen career with specialist and in-depth modules on offer.
knowledge of this important area. Key facts
This programme will appeal to solicitors who Start date: Early October
advise private and commercial cross-border clients;
associated professionals such as bankers, estate agents Programme duration: Full-time 1 Year
and development advisors; academic comparative Part-time 2 Years
lawyers from the UK and English speakers from Europe Entry requirements: An upper second class Bachelor’s
as well as recent law graduates from UK and European degree in law or an equivalent degree. Account may also
universities. be taken of practical experience within the relevant field
Assessment of study
Assessment is by coursework and exams, plus a final Language requirements: See page 31
dissertation on an agreed topic.
Studying in the School: See page 4
Fees: Visit the School web site
10 11
7. International Business Law International Law
LLM LLM
The capacity to apply business law is a highly Choice of four modules: International law is no longer simply a matter for Choice of four modules:
sought after skill in today’s competitive, and - Carriage by air diplomats and international organisations but it - Carriage by air
increasingly interdependent, legal world. Our - Commercial conflicts of laws and international litigation is impacting increasingly on the lives of ordinary - Commercial conflicts of laws and international litigation
programme will provide you with an opportunity - Comparative competition law citizens. Organisations now have to consider the - Comparative civil liberties
to expand your knowledge of business law, will - Comparative intellectual property law wider issues of international law whether in the - Comparative competition law
develop your analytical, evaluative and research - Comparative land laws of Europe context of international human rights and conflict - Comparative intellectual property law
skills and ultimately maximise your career - Corporate governance resolution, the environment, or in a business and - Corporate governance
opportunities. - European land law commercial environment. - International commercial arbitration
We offer a comprehensive range of modules that cover - EU litigation and European private law Our LLM in International Law offers an excellent - International protection of human rights
international trade law, business law, competition law, - European land law professional development opportunity for those - International law of the sea
corporate governance, Intellectual Property (IP) and - European trusts, succession and private taxation working in, or wishing to move into, specialist - International marine and European environmental
legal regulation. - International commercial arbitration areas such as international aid and development, (liability) law
- International marine and European environmental international relations, and international security. - International protection of human rights
While our students are typically law graduates, (liability) law - International tax law
this programme will also be of interest to business - International tax law This programme, led by eminent researchers in the - International trade law
and legal professionals working in the national and - International trade law field, also places graduates well to compete for the - Internet law
international commercial sector. The programme will - Internet law many career opportunities that arise in related areas, - World Trade Organisation law and regional
leave graduates well prepared for careers in private - Law of unjust enrichment such as public service, journalism, international economic integration
practice, industry, international organisations, or in - Legal regulation of fraud and money laundering business, and academia where a broad understanding
Visit our web site for fuller descriptions of the
government service. - Secured commercial lending of international legal issues is required.
modules on offer.
Assessment - World Trade Organisation law and regional economic Assessment Key facts
Assessment is by coursework and exams, plus a final integration Assessment is by coursework and exams, plus a final Start date: Early October
dissertation on an agreed topic. Visit our web site for fuller descriptions of the dissertation on an agreed topic.
modules on offer. Programme duration: Full-time 1 Year
Part-time 2 Years
Key facts
Start date: Early October Entry requirements: An upper second class Bachelor’s
degree in law or an equivalent degree. Account may also
Programme duration: Full-time 1 Year be taken of practical experience within the relevant field
Part-time 2 Years of study
Entry requirements: An upper second class Bachelor’s Language requirements: See page 31
degree in law or an equivalent degree. Account may also
be taken of practical experience within the relevant field Studying in the School: See page 4
of study Fees: Visit the School web site
Language requirements: See page 31
Studying in the School: See page 4
Fees: Visit the School web site
12 13
8. With a sound understanding of this Information Technology
important area of law and a readiness to and Commerce LLM
apply that knowledge commercially, you will
be well equipped to compete for careers in
the corporate and business world. The LLM in Information Technology and
Commerce is a programme designed to bring
Choice of four modules:
- Commercial conflicts of laws and international litigation
together the all-important aspects of commercial - Comparative competition law
law with the ever increasing impact of information - Comparative intellectual property law
technology law. - Corporate governance
This programme provides a comprehensive grounding - EU litigation and European private law
in the legal and regulatory environment in which - International commercial arbitration
this technological change is taking place. You will - International tax law
have the opportunity to choose from a broad range of - International trade law
subject areas and tailor the programme to your own - Internet law
individual needs and interests. You will develop an - Law of unjust enrichment
in-depth understanding of the legal response to these - World Trade Organisation law and regional economic
changes and the reasons why the law is moving in a integration
particular direction. With a sound understanding of Visit our web site for fuller descriptions of the
this important area of law and a readiness to apply that modules on offer.
knowledge commercially, you will be well equipped Key facts
to compete for careers in the corporate and business
world. Start date: Early October
Assessment Programme duration: Full-time 1 Year
Assessment is by coursework and exams, plus a final Part-time 2 Years
dissertation on an agreed topic. Entry requirements: An upper second class Bachelor’s
degree in law or an equivalent degree. Account may also
be taken of practical experience within the relevant field
of study
Language requirements: See page 31
Studying in the School: See page 4
Fees: Visit the School web site
14 15
9. This prestigious programme attracts Maritime Law
students from across the world who are LLM
taught by internationally-renowned
experts working at the very forefront of
the development of maritime law in the Maritime law is an immensely rewarding area of
legal research and explores the basic principles
Choice of four modules:
- Admiralty law
UK and globally. of contract, tort and property alongside the
fundamentals of the shipping and commodity
- Carriage by air
- Carriage of goods by sea
markets. It also cuts across the boundaries of - Commercial conflicts of laws and international litigation
public and private law. - Comparative intellectual property law
The School of Law offers the UK’s leading postgraduate - Corporate governance
legal qualification in maritime law. This prestigious - International commercial arbitration
programme attracts students from across the world - International law of the sea
who are taught by internationally-renowned experts - International marine and European environmental
working at the very forefront of the development (liability) law
of maritime law in the UK and globally. The - International tax law
internationally acclaimed Institute of Maritime Law - International trade law
is an integral part of the School and the Institute’s - Internet law
staff make a major contribution to teaching on the - Marine insurance
programme. - World Trade Organisation law and regional economic
integration
Graduates from this programme are recruited by many
Visit our web site for fuller descriptions of the
of the leading maritime law firms in the UK and abroad
modules on offer.
and in the shipping industry.
Key facts
Assessment
Start date: Early October
Assessment is by coursework and exams, plus a final
dissertation on an agreed topic. Programme duration: Full-time 1 year
Part-time 2 years
Entry requirements: An upper second class Bachelor’s
degree in law or an equivalent degree. Account may also
be taken of practical experience within the relevant field
of study
Language requirements: See page 31
Studying in the School: See page 4
Fees: Visit the School web site
16 17
10. This programme combines the areas of MSc Crime Analysis*
social science, psychology, geography, law, *subject to approval
and research analysis.
The MSc in Crime Analysis is a new inter- Programme Structure
disciplinary programme aimed at individuals This is a new programme, subject to approval and change.
seeking to develop their knowledge of the Visit our website www.southampton.ac.uk/law for more
subject area in order to enhance employment current details.
opportunities within law enforcement, Geographic
Information Systems (GIS) communities, Core modules:
consultancies, private and public sectors. -Understanding the Crime Event
The MSc programme, which is provided by members -Analysing Crime
of the University’s Institute of Criminal Justice, Example of optional modules, choice of two:
combines the areas of social science, psychology, -Analysing international data-organised crime,
geography, law, and research analysis, topics in which trafficking, terrorism etc
there is considerable expertise across several parts of -The analysis of financial data
the University and in partner organisations. -Analysis of Telecommunications data
The programme is aimed mainly at individuals with -Analysis of open source information
some prior knowledge of the subject area but wishing -Local partnership data
to obtain a broad overview of the subject with scope for -Threat and risk assessment
specialisation in topics of specific interest. Potential -Geographical analysis
employment could be within national and local law The course will be structured mainly in one week
enforcement, or geographical information systems/ teaching blocks to take into account of the needs of those
science (GIS) communities, consultancies, national registered on a part–time basis.
and local government, private and public sectors. Key facts
These are major growth areas highlighting a need for a
Start date: Early October
substantial increase in training in the subject area.
Programme duration: Full-time 1 Year
Assessment
Part-time 2 Years
Assessment is by coursework and exams, plus a final
dissertation on an agreed topic. Entry requirements: Normally a good honours degree
or degree equivalent with some professional experience.
Language requirements: See page 31
Studying in the School: See page 4
Fees: Visit the School web site
18 19
11. Information Technology and Research at the School of Law
Telecommunications Law LLM The School of Law at the University of
Southampton, established in 1952, is renowned
The Institute for Law and the Web at Southampton
investigates the legal issues, problems and
for first class legal research which is linked to opportunities associated with the Internet, the Web
(New programme available by distance learning) student teaching, the supervision of postgraduate and digital technology, key areas such as information
research students and consultancy work. technology law, e-commerce, IT law and public policy,
Links with Government, industry and the legal web science, and intellectual property law. If you
professions are closely maintained. It was are interested in interdisciplinary research relating
From the earliest days of the computer, legal issues Choice of four modules: confirmed in the recent 2008 Research Assessment to the web ILAWS also has links with the Doctoral
have been identified as of central importance. As - Legal aspects of information security Exercise that 95% of the School’s research output Training Centre in Web Science, which offers a four-
the machine permeates more and more aspects - e-commerce law was of international quality, a percentage achieved year program; an interdisciplinary MSc, followed
of everyday life, so the legal dimensions have - Liability in the information society by just 10 other Law Schools in the UK. by a three year PhD which is co-supervised between
increased. The prime goal of this LLM programme - Telecommunications law the University’s School of Law and the world-leading
is to reflect upon some of the most important legal Research Expertise
- Intellectual property law School of Electronics and Computer Science. In 2010-11
consequences of the information revolution. All full time members of our academic staff are active members of the ILAWS team will be offering a new
- Access to public sector information
researchers across a broad spectrum of legal subjects distance learning LLM in IT and Telecoms Law.
The transition from the offline to the online world has Key facts in public, private, domestic and international law,
posed fundamental challenges for the law to address. and many are leading authors and experts in their The Institute of Criminal Justice examines issues
For example, the ease with which transactions may Start date: Early October
respective fields. We also host a number of prestigious relating to criminal analysis, and to the balance
take place across national boundaries via e-Commerce Programme duration: Full-time 1 Year law centres and we welcome applications from between order and control of crime on the one hand,
with perhaps software or media products or other Part-time 2 Years motivated individuals who wish to pursue an interest and the protection of civil liberties on the other. In
content being supplied direct over the Internet, (plus dissertation) within the broad fields of law that align with the addition to a newly proposed MSc in Crime Analysis,
poses questions both for contract regulation and for interests and expertise of our staff. To get an idea of our we also run a series of successful conferences in the
regulatory supervision. Intellectual property issues Entry requirements:
staff and their wide range of research interests visit our field.
and expanding broadband capacity are also allowing An Upper Second Class Bachelor’s Degree in Law (or a
degree with a substantial legal component) is normally website at www.southampton.ac.uk/law/research.
more and more forms of data to be exchanged on a Our Centre for Law, Ethics and Globalisation has
global basis. The emergence of file sharing websites required. Mature applicants without formal qualifications Research Centres been established in response to the growing demand
is widely seen by copyright owners as facilitating but relevant work experience are also encouraged to The Institute of Maritime Law was founded in 1982 for wide-ranging, critical thinking on the processes
copyright infringement on a massive scale. apply to give focus to an existing interest in maritime and of globalisation and its impact on all aspects of social
international trade law. It is internationally acclaimed life and relations. The Centre aims to foster public
If you are a law graduate, lawyer or IT specialist, where Language requirements: discussion, enhance local, national and international
6.5 IELTS (or equivalent), see our web site for details for its teaching in maritime law, and is the research
traditional classroom patterns of attendance are not dialogue and relations and provide a focal point for
base of many of the leading maritime lawyers in the
suitable, and you seek to equip yourself with the skills Fees: Visit the School web site cutting-edge research amongst our highly diverse
world. Close connections are also maintained with
and knowledge to formulate and apply law in today’s research community.
other leading maritime lawyers, academics, maritime
information society, you will find this distance learning
law associations and international organisations based Our European Law Network explores core areas of
programme of considerable interest and appeal.
all over the world. In addition to supervising PhD European Union (EU) law including the examination
Assessment students, we also offer our world renowned three-week of the evolution of the EU as an entity operating within
Each module is divided into four study themes. You will ‘Short Course’ in Maritime Law, and other courses on the international context, and also with particular
be required to submit a reflective essay, demonstrating topical subjects for practitioners and other participants expertise in comparative antitrust law, commercial
your research on each topic, at the end of each theme. in the maritime industry. arbitration and litigation, consumer law and
You will also submit a 5,000 word assessment at comparative tort law.
the end of each module. For the award of LLM the
successful completion of the four modules will be The Health Ethics and Law Network conducts
followed by a 15,000 word final dissertation. research into the nature of law, its processes of
production, and impact on society through examining
specific examples in Health Care Law and Ethics.
20 21
12. Research paths: PhD
Doctoral study takes place in a stimulating Where will it take me/what can I do with a PhD
research environment and you will be expected One of the greatest benefits of a PhD, and the purpose
to make an independent and transforming of research, is ultimately to produce an original
contribution to your chosen area. If you are contribution to knowledge. A PhD can often open doors
ambitious, and highly motivated, with a particular to positions in higher management and will qualify
research question or topic already in mind and are you to teach and carry out research at a university or to
able to explore this through independent study, work or lead research groups in industry, government
then our PhD programme may be suitable for you. or public sector where a high level of advanced research
expertise in a specialist area is required. . A thriving
Support and training
post-doc community operates right across the campus
The core resource for research in the School of Law
at Southampton working in many critical areas of
is the people. You will be actively supported and
university research and teaching.
mentored by your supervisor and advisor, along with
additional collegiate support from other members Key facts
of the School’s academic staff. We have a dedicated Programme duration:
Reading Room, and an excellent law library. The Full-time 24 - 48 months
University maintains a Graduate School to enhance Part-time up to 72 months
your learning and personal development and
provide opportunities for you to work with others Start date: There is no University deadline for
across the University disseminating, debating and applications for research programmes; however you are
engaging in local, national and international research advised to apply early (normally by June for admission
developments. They are also able to provide financial in the next academic year) if you need to secure a UK
support to research students through funded projects visa, arrange sponsorship, apply for funding or find
and individual activities such as conference attendance accommodation
and travel. The World University Network can also Entry requirements: Upper second-class honours degree
support research students for short study periods or equivalent in law. If you are an international student
abroad. www.soton.ac.uk/gradschools/ you also need to demonstrate an adequate level of English
All of our full-time research students are allocated language proficiency. You will need to provide us with
office space with a personal desk and storage, evidence that you have achieved an overall score of 7.0 or
individual networked PC providing access to all above on IELTS (or equivalent)
university e-resources, and free printing facilities. You Fees and funding:
The Student Union Café will meet regularly with your supervisor for academic Please visit the School website
support and supervision, and have the opportunity www.southampton.ac.uk/law
to attend courses in research methodology and legal
scholarship. Further information:
Doctoral study takes place in a stimulating research environment Assessment
Telephone +44 (0)23 8059 3447 or
email us at postgrad.law@southampton.ac.uk
and you will be expected to make an independent and You will need to demonstrate satisfactory progress
at the end of each year. Your supervisor will complete
transforming contribution to your chosen field. If you are bi-annual reports to monitor how you are progressing
against your agreed targets, and training and
ambitious, and highly motivated with a particular research development activities.
question or topic already in mind and are able to explore this
through independent study then our PhD programme may be
suitable for you.
22 23
13. Southampton is one of the leading
student cities in the UK, it has centuries of
history, wide open green spaces, fresh air
and sparkling sea views.
Southampton has plenty to keep you busy, Enviably green
including its premier shopping facilities, a lively Southampton fully justifies its claim to be one of
nightlife, and an abundance of sport and leisure the UK’s greenest cities and offers a wide variety of
facilities. sporting and leisure opportunities, both to watch and
participate in. You can see football at the St Mary’s
A world port
stadium in the city centre, catch up on county and
This maritime city has played a significant role in
touring Test teams at Hampshire’s County Cricket
mapping today’s modern world. In 1415 Henry V’s
Ground (the Rose Bowl), and enjoy some of the
forces sailed from here to the Battle of Agincourt; in
country’s best municipal golf courses.
the sixteenth century the Pilgrim Fathers set sail from
Southampton in the Mayflower to settle in America; Southampton Common spreads across 326 acres of
and in World War II, the city was the embarkation point managed woodland, skirting the University campuses
for the D-Day landings. and reaching deep into the heart of the city. Left to
nature’s devices, the Common is a place of pure natural
The home port for many ocean liners, from the ill-
beauty, peace and quiet, and a welcome respite from the
fated Titanic to Queen Mary 2, and more recently
hustle and bustle of city life.
Independence of the Seas, Southampton has held a
special place in trans-Atlantic sailing, and has been Timeless destinations
associated for many years with ocean racing. This The New Forest National Park and sandy beaches of
major world container port, with the shoreline studded Bournemouth and Poole are just nearby. The Wessex
with marinas and waterfront developments is also region is a landscape of extraordinary beauty, with
home to the internationally renowned Southampton traces of ancient civilisations in every meadow and
Boat Show. hill-top.
Southampton’s history is not just dependent on the Getting around
sea. In the nineteenth century its reputation as a spa The city has superb transport links, with access to
town attracted literary figures such as Jane Austen. Its continental Europe by air, ferry, and train. It takes
stunning medieval city walls are also among the best in just over an hour to get to London by train, while the
the UK. cathedral cities of Winchester and Salisbury are
City-slicking even closer.
Small enough to feel like home, yet big enough to satisfy
all appetites Southampton is a friendly and welcoming
city. Over 3,400 international students study here from
around 130 different countries, adding to the city’s
cosmopolitan culture.
Vibrant by day and night, you’ll find that the city centre
offers enough pubs, clubs, theatres and galleries, “Southampton's a vibrant and happening city. There’s
museums and cinemas, to keep you occupied and always something happening and it caters for the needs
entertained around the clock. of everyone. It is truly multicultural in that sense”.
Southampton’s coastal location
presents many opportunities
for recreation
24 25
14. The University of
Southampton
The new Hartley Library extension
The University is a member of the prestigious Campus facilities Sports facilities Accommodation
Russell Group of 20 major UK research universities www.susu.org www.sportrec.soton.ac.uk www.accommodation.soton.ac.uk
and is a top 15 UK research university with a Campus facilities for students are among the best in The £8.5 million Jubilee Sports Centre on the Highfield Accommodation in a University hall of residence is
global reputation for leading-edge research and the country. The refurbished Students’ Union ensures Campus comes complete with a 25m swimming pool, guaranteed to all postgraduate students: for UK and EU
innovation. a range of places to eat great food, hear top bands, see badminton and squash courts, and fitness studio. Our students, without dependants, for the first year of the
the latest films, and get information and advice. The new £4.3 million outdoor sports facilities have eight programme only; and for overseas and Channel Islands
The University of Southampton was established in
Highfield Campus is home to the Nuffield Theatre, tennis courts, two floodlit synthetic turf pitches and a students, without dependants, for the full normal
1952, and since then it has continued to grow and
Turner Sims Concert Hall and John Hansard Art number of grass pitches. Being located on the coast, we duration of the programme. To qualify, you will need
flourish. We are ranked in the top 100 universities in
Gallery. There are also banks, bookshop, post office, are in a position to offer an unrivalled range of water to meet all academic conditions stated in your formal
the world – one of only 17 UK universities to make the
a choice of cafes and restaurants, a minimart, travel sports for people of all abilities. The University has offer letter and the residence application deadline. The
top 100 in the World University Rankings published in
centre, and a day nursery for children on campus. fostered British University champions in sailing and University’s Accommodation Service also has a good
The Times Higher Education Supplement 2008.
Postgraduate students enjoy also the facilities of the windsurfing, and a number of our alumni competed supply of shared private rented properties.
We have a spirit of entrepreneurship that is firmly Staff Social Centre on site. in the Beijing Olympics. The University has its own
The Students’ Union
embedded in our culture, which helps to set us apart boat-yard on the River Itchen, close to the Wessex Lane
Library www.susu.org
from other universities. It is this environment that halls.
www.southampton.ac.uk/library The Southampton University Students’ Union, known
makes studying here a unique and exciting experience.
The Hartley library, which recently had £12 million Getting around Southampton as SUSU, is run by students for students. It has an
In the latest assessment by the Quality Assurance extension and refurbishment, is one of the leading www.unilink.soton.ac.uk important role in giving a voice to the student body,
Agency, which monitors the standards for teaching research libraries in the UK and is very well equipped. The University’s award-winning Uni-link bus service as well as being the hub of the social scene at the
in the UK, we were awarded the highest level of Facilities include a state-of-the-art Learning Centre, connects all the Southampton campuses and halls of University.
achievement for the standard of our educational with consultation rooms, ‘walk in’ internet access, a residence with the city centre and local and regional
provision. language study area with computers linked to a range transport links, including Southampton airport.
of language software, a popular café and a lounge
for more relaxed study. We also have an extensive
law library giving you access to all our computer-
based legal facilities (including Westlaw, LexisNexis
Professional and Justis).
26 27
15. International Students
We offer a comprehensive range of support Interactive Platform Support for International Students Pre-sessional English courses (either four or eight
services for international students, including www.soton.ac.uk/isoton/ www.info.susu.org weeks) provide language tuition, study skills for
an International Office, a Student Advice and You can listen to podcasts, send your comments to To help you settle in quickly we hold an International learning in English, and induction to UK academic and
Information Centre, International Student YouTube, take a virtual walking tour of the University Students’ Induction Week for new international social culture.
Advisers, and a Centre for Language Study. of Southampton plus more all through our iSoton students just before the start of the academic year. Many students who have already satisfied the English
portal. This event will help you to familiarise yourself with language condition of study also choose to take these
the University and to meet other students and make courses to get the wider benefit they offer.
The International Office
friends before the start of your programme.
www.soton.ac.uk/international
Ongoing free English language courses run also
The International Office works as a central During the induction you will also meet staff from throughout the year. Other language courses are open
coordination point for the international activities the Student Union Advice and Information Centre to all students wishing to gain a competence in another
of the University of Southampton. They are here (SUAIC). SUAIC is where you will find the University’s language, either as part of a degree or for pleasure.
to inform potential students and partners of the two full time advisors and two International Student
University and to make the processes and experience of Advisors. The SUAIC staff are available five days a week Practising your religion
joining the University as simple as possible. to answer (confidentially) any queries you may have on People of many religious beliefs live in Southampton
issues such as loans, opening bank accounts, council and you may wish to become involved in a local group
The International Office can assist you with any queries
tax, insurance, housing rights, working in the UK and or a group based at the University. There is a Christian
you may have before you make a decision to apply or
academic issues. SUAIC also provides information on Chaplaincy and a Muslim Prayer Room on the Highfield
come to Southampton. They can also provide you
specialist food shops and useful contacts. Campus. SUAIC can provide information on these and
with details of international education fairs that the
other religious groups in the city.
University will be attending so that you can have a face- Centre for Language Studies
to-face discussion with a University representative. www.lang.soton.ac.uk/cls
“My classes were enthused by the knowledge and
To ensure a smooth arrival at Southampton for new The Centre for Language Studies provides a range of
expertise of world-leading academics at the cutting
international and European students, the International English Language courses for those students who need
edge of their field. I would come out of my classes
Office run a free of charge Meet and Greet service to improve their language skills as a condition of entry.
inspired and with a unique understanding of the law
you couldn’t get from anywhere else” from London Heathrow Airport before the start of the
UK Alumnus academic year and the Welcome Programme.
28 29
16. Making an application
Entry requirements consideration of your application. You will also need to
As well as academic qualifications and practical supply supporting documents, either online or by mail
experience, we look for evidence of your interest in to the School of Law (see page 34 for contact details).
the programme and an understanding of the rigorous
What is the application deadline?
demands of postgraduate study. The normal entry
Applicants are strongly advised to apply early, ideally
requirement for our postgraduate programmes is a
by mid June. Later applications may be successful,
upper second-class undergraduate degree in Law,
but may not be concluded in time for Registration.
although in some instances a non-law degree may be
Accommodation in Halls of Residence is not
acceptable. We will also take into account practical
guaranteed for late applicants. International students
experience within the relevant field of study. We are
will require extra time in order to complete all visa
committed to assessing all applications on individual
requirements.
merit.
Equal opportunities
What are the English language requirements?
We are committed to a comprehensive policy of
The University wants to ensure that all students enjoy
equal opportunities in which individuals are selected
the full benefits of their study experience. Applicants
and treated on the basis of their relevant merits and
whose first language is not English and who do not
abilities.
have a degree from a UK university will be required to
provide evidence of competency in English by reaching References
7.0 or above in an approved test such as IELTS. You should provide two references on your suitability
Students with a IELTS of 6.5 (or equivalent) will be for postgraduate study. At least one of the references
required to attend a six-week pre-sessional course on should be from an academic referee who has taught you
English legal and language skills. For further details at your most recent university. The second reference
see our website: www.southampton.ac.uk/law. could be a second academic or employment reference.
Your English language certificate should normally have Personal or character references should usually be
Meeting in one of the Hartley been obtained within the last two years prior to the additional to the two references described above.
Library’s break out rooms application. Further details, including information on Enclosures
countries exempt from this requirement, can be found You are encouraged to enclose all the following
by visiting www.soton.ac.uk/international. documents when making your original application.
Try before you buy: Visit us to find out more about the wide How do I apply? - Academic transcript of courses and marks
Applications are made using our online application - Bachelor’s degree certificates
range of programmes available and see what postgraduate life at form. Details regarding this process and other
- Other degree certificates, if applicable
useful information can be found by visiting
Southampton has to offer. We offer a variety of opportunities to www.soton.ac.uk/postgraduate. - Two references on headed paper and/or with the
official seal/stamp of the university or company
get a feel for what we can offer including postgraduate study fairs, When applying online you can save a partially
- Ethnic origin form
completed application and return to it as many times
visit days, campus tours, university open days and self-guided as you need before submitting. Paper applications, - CV or Resume
if required, can be requested from the University’s - Statement of purpose (reason for choosing the study
walking tours. The International Office can also organise tours for website and returned to the Registry Services when programme), or research proposal if relevant
completed.
- English test result (if appropriate)
students from outside the EU. You are requested to complete all questions in full. - Professional qualification certificates (if appropriate)
Delay in returning full documentation will lengthen
the application process and may ultimately delay full
30 31