This course prepares higher degree research students for their research project by providing a basic understanding of the requirements of a research thesis, the skills students will need to develop and the range of methodologies and critical frameworks used in legal research. Students will participate in seminars that help them develop their research questions, design their research project, and prepare a research proposal.  In the final weeks of the course, students will be given an opportunity to present their draft proposal and to comment on the work of another student.

The course is compulsory for all newly enrolled PhD, SJD and LLM by Research students. In the case of PhD students, satisfactory completion of the course will constitute a requirement for PhD confirmation.  PhD students will still be required to satisfy all of the other conditions set for confirmation of their candidature.