The PhD in Law is a stricto sensu graduate program offered in a distance learning (online) modality, with a duration of 36 to 48 months and a total workload of 1,800 hours. The program aims to train high-level researchers and faculty members capable of producing original legal knowledge and applying legal theories in national and international contexts, taking into account human rights, public policies, ethics, and legal innovation.
General Objective:
To train Doctors of Law capable of producing relevant scientific research, engaging in higher education teaching, and advising public, private, and international organizations on complex legal matters.
Specific Objectives:
- Develop competencies in advanced legal research, including qualitative, quantitative, and comparative methodologies.
- Promote critical analysis of classical and contemporary legal theories.
- Prepare students for higher education teaching, with innovative pedagogical methodologies.
- Encourage the publication of articles in national and international legal journals.
- Prepare professionals to work in governmental organizations, NGOs, courts, law firms, and international institutions.
Duration:
36 to 48 months
Mode of Study:
Distance learning (online)
Curriculum Structure
Organization:
The program is structured into 36 credits distributed across compulsory courses, elective courses, research seminars, and the Doctoral Thesis.
| Compulsory Courses | Credits | Workload |
|---|---|---|
| Theory and Philosophy of Law | 4 | 60h |
| Advanced Legal Research Methodology | 4 | 60h |
| Constitutional Law and Public Policies | 4 | 60h |
| International Law and Human Rights | 4 | 60h |
| Advanced Seminars in Law | 4 | 60h |
| Total | 20 credits |
| Elective Courses (choose 2) | Credits | Workload |
|---|---|---|
| Advanced Administrative Law | 4 | 60h |
| Criminal Law and Criminology | 4 | 60h |
| Civil Law and Protection of Persons | 4 | 60h |
| Business and Corporate Law | 4 | 60h |
| Digital Law, Technology, and Innovation | 4 | 60h |
| Total (chosen) | 8 credits |
| Research Seminars | Credits / Workload |
|---|---|
| Participation in study groups, workshops, conferences, and scientific publication activities | 4 credits | 240h |
| Doctoral Thesis (Mandatory) | Credits / Workload |
|---|---|
| Development of an original and unpublished thesis in the field of Law, with public defense before an examining committee | 12 credits | 1,140h |
Teaching Methodology
Interactive online modality, with synchronous and asynchronous classes. Emphasis on legal research, critical analysis, case studies, and academic debates. The program encourages scientific publication in national and international legal journals.
Evaluation System
Assessment through exams, academic papers, and participation in seminars. Minimum publication of 2 scientific articles in indexed journals. Public defense of the Doctoral Thesis as the final requirement.
Graduate Profile
The Doctor of Law will be able to produce original and relevant legal research; serve as faculty in higher education institutions; advise courts, law firms, public organizations, and international institutions; analyze and propose innovative legal policies; and contribute to the development of Law in national and international contexts.
Certification
Upon completion of all compulsory and elective courses, research seminars, and the approval of the public defense of the Doctoral Thesis, the student will be awarded the title: PhD in Law.
