Do UK Law Professors Generally Have PhDs?
Despite the increasing prevalence of requiring PhDs for academic positions, the landscape of UK law professorship has been undergoing a transformation. Herein, we explore the trend and implications of PhD requirements in the legal academia of the UK.
Transitioning to Academia and the Need for PhDs
With a career in law behind me and a recent transition into academia, it has become evident that a doctorate has become a standard requirement. My experience as a lawyer was enhanced by two master's degrees in law, but the pursuit of a PhD is now a necessary step for even the most junior academic roles.
The transition from a practicing lawyer to an academic is marked by this significant requirement. My journey involved returning to university to write a thesis that, coincidentally, few will ever read outside of my examiners. This trend is reflected in the increasing number of younger professors holding doctorates, while older professors without PhDs are a dwindling demographic.
Some, like myself, question the necessity of this trend. It can be argued that practical experience in the legal profession could bring greater value to academic positions compared to those solely from academia. However, biases and personal perspectives can influence these views, leading to a mix of opinions.
Diversity of Teaching Roles in Law
Interestingly, the teaching of law courses does not always require a PhD. Different academic roles and teaching responsibilities are filled by individuals with varying levels of qualifications. For instance, BSc, BA, LLB, and LLM courses are often taught by practicing lawyers or individuals who balance legal professional experience with academic instruction.
Many District and Circuit Judges continue to practice while also contributing to legal education. Although they may not hold advanced degrees beyond their bachelor’s level and professional qualification, their practical legal expertise can be highly beneficial in the classroom.
It is not uncommon to find individuals with PhDs in law, particularly those who focus on academic research. However, those with dual roles as academic and practitioner, like the former supervisor of my doctoral program, may opt for another terminal degree such as the LLD (Doctor of Laws).
The Absence of JD in UK Legal Education
The lack of a JD (Juris Doctor) degree in the UK is significant, as legal education traditionally begins at the undergraduate level with the LLB (Bachelor of Laws). The absence of the JD as a first professional degree is natural given the emphasis on the LLB as the primary qualification for those entering the legal profession.
Since the JD only exists in some countries like the United States, the PhD in law emerges as the pinnacle of academic achievement for legal scholars and academics, reflecting the terminal nature of legal research and education in the UK.
Overall, the evolving requirements for UK law professors highlight the need for a balance between academic expertise and practical experience in the legal profession. As the trend towards PhDs in law continues to grow, it is crucial to consider the diverse benefits that both types of qualifications can bring to legal academia.
Conclusion
While the requirement for PhDs among UK law professors is becoming more prevalent, it is important to recognize the value of practical legal experience. The future of law academia may benefit from a flexible approach that values both research and real-world legal knowledge.