Research Training
Theory and Methods
A course consisting of weekly two-hour seminars is offered in the Michaelmas and Hilary terms, followed by student presentations in Trinity term.
The course is compulsory for all newly-enrolled graduate students.
Further details, including seminar topics and readings, can be found in the Graduate Student Handbook.
Research Seminar Series
The Centre convenes research seminars during Michaelmas and Hilary terms, normally weekly in Michaelmas term. Here, papers are presented by research staff, members of other departments within the University, and speakers from other universities. Attendance is mandatory for first-year students. The seminars help students to gain an understanding of what constitutes a socio-legal approach to research and how different types of theoretical and methodological frameworks can be applied. The series also provides an opportunity for students and staff to meet and discuss issues of common interest and maintain the research community.
Students’ Socio-Legal Discussion Group
This is organised by students and provides an opportunity for them to make presentations, discuss the progress of their research, and invite external speakers. Attendance is highly recommended. Information is distributed by the Centre’s student representatives.
Conferences and Seminars
In addition to the weekly seminars, events are held throughout the year, which students are encouraged to attend. Details are widely circulated.
Additional Classes
The training pathway in socio-legal research offered by the Centre is part of Oxford University’s Grand Union Doctoral Training Partnership. Some methodology courses arranged by the Doctoral Training Centre are open to all students.
There are also on-line lectures sponsored by ESRC projects. See NCRM video resources
Some Centre students find it useful to attend methodology classes offered elsewhere in the University, such as in the Department of Politics and International Relations Departmen (DPIR)t, the Said Business School, the Centre for Criminology, and the Department of Sociology. See the Social Science Division's Researcher Development pages for details. Students should discuss with their supervisor whether any of these might be useful for their particular project.