Earlier, doing a PhD was considered something only full-time students or college teachers could do. People believed that if someone wanted a PhD, they had to leave their job, sit in a university campus for many years, and study day and night. For lawyers especially, this was very difficult. A lawyer earns daily by practice. Leaving work for research was almost impossible.
But times have changed.
Today, many lawyers, law teachers, and working professionals are choosing part-time PhD in Law. This means they can continue their work and study at the same time. Because of this flexibility, interest in part-time PhD courses is increasing fast in India.
What Is a Part-Time PhD in Law?
A part-time PhD in Law means:
- You do research, just like a full-time PhD student
- You get a PhD degree, same value
- But you do not need to stay on campus daily
- You attend classes, meetings, or research discussions on selected days, weekends, or online
- You can continue your job, practice, or teaching
In short, it is made for people who cannot stop earning but still want to study deeply.
Why Lawyers Are Choosing Part-Time PhD?
There are many reasons.
First, money matters.
Most lawyers cannot afford to sit at home for 4–5 years without income. A part-time PhD allows them to earn and study together.
Second, experience helps research.
A lawyer who works in court daily understands real legal problems. When such a person does research, it becomes more practical and meaningful.
Third, career growth.
Many law colleges prefer teachers with PhD degrees. A lawyer with PhD gets better chances in teaching, research, and academic jobs.
Fourth, self-respect and knowledge.
For many professionals, a PhD is not just a degree. It is about understanding law deeply and contributing something valuable to society.
Which Colleges Are Offering Part-Time PhD in Law?
Many well-known universities are now offering part-time PhD in Law.
Some popular names are:
- Christ University
- Symbiosis Law School, Pune
- Amity University
- Manipal University
- BR Ambedkar College of Law
These institutions have noticed that working professionals are genuinely interested in research, so they have opened flexible options.
Earlier, only a few students applied. Now, the number has increased many times.
Why the Number of Students is Increasing
Earlier, in some colleges, only 3–4 students joined part-time PhD in a year. Now, in the same colleges, 30–40 students are enrolling.
Why?
Because people now understand that:
- A PhD does not mean sitting idle
- Research can be done slowly but sincerely
- Practical knowledge + research is powerful
Many lawyers say that earlier they wanted to do a PhD but life did not allow it. Now, part-time courses have opened the door.
Who is Doing Part-Time PhD in Law
Mostly, these people join:
- Court-practising lawyers
- Law college teachers
- Legal advisors in companies
- Government legal officers
- People working in NGOs, policy work, or social justice
These are not fresh students. Most are experienced people who want to go deeper into law.
How Long Does a Part-Time PhD Take?
Usually:
- Minimum: 3 years
- Maximum: 5–6 years
This depends on:
- Research progress
- University rules
- How much time the student can give
There is no shortcut. Even part-time PhD needs patience and discipline.
Fees: Is It Very Expensive?
Fees depend on the university.
In many private universities:
- Around ₹40,000 per semester
- Some charge slightly more, some less
Compared to foreign education or quitting a job, this is manageable for working professionals.
Is Part-Time PhD Equal to Full-Time PhD?
Yes.
The degree value is the same.
The research work, thesis, and evaluation are also serious. The only difference is time flexibility, not quality.
Many professors say that part-time scholars sometimes perform even better because they bring real-life experience.
Important Point: Bar Council Rules
The Bar Council of India does not allow part-time LLB or LLM.
But PhD is different.
Part-time PhD is allowed because it is research-based, not classroom-based like basic law education.
So, anyone planning part-time PhD should already have proper law degrees.
Is Part-Time PhD Easy? (Truth)
No. It is not easy.
Because:
- You manage work + family + research
- You must read a lot
- You must write regularly
- No one will push you daily
It needs self-discipline.
But for those who truly love law and learning, it is worth it.
Why This Trend Is Good for India
Earlier, research was limited to classrooms. Now, real working people are contributing.
This means:
- Better legal research
- Practical solutions
- Stronger education system
- More knowledgeable teachers
When a village lawyer, small-town teacher, or first-generation learner earns a PhD, it inspires many others.
Final Words (From the Heart)
Part-time PhD in Law is not about showing off a degree.
It is about learning while living, growing while working, and thinking deeply while staying connected to reality.
For many village boys and girls who dream big but cannot leave their responsibilities, this path is a blessing.
Education should adjust to life — not the other way around.
And part-time PhD in Law is proving exactly that.
