Doctoral research at Leiden Law School means research at the highest level.

In order to obtain a doctorate degree independent and original research is carried out under the guidance of supervisors. This period of research generally takes 4 years in the case of a full-time appointment as a PhD candidate. The results of the research are presented in a doctoral thesis. In addition to conducting PhD research, you will follow an individual training plan. Some PhD candidates have a small proportion of teaching duties.

The Graduate School of Legal Studies provides a targeted research and training infrastructure and a doctoral research quality care and control system, offers a wide range of support services, and stimulates social exchange between PhDs.

The Pre-PhD Programme is embedded in the Graduate School.