The ELGU Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is a two-year research degree for students wishing to undertake advanced, independent research in law, governance or an interdisciplinary field.
Working under the guidance of an individual supervisor, MPhil candidates develop and pursue an original research project while building advanced skills in research methodology, academic writing and scholarly communication.
Students become part of the wider ELGU and EPLO academic community, with opportunities to participate in seminars, lectures, conferences and academic events and to engage with an international network of scholars and practitioners.
The programme combines independent research with structured academic training, providing a strong foundation for careers requiring advanced research expertise or for progression to doctoral study.
Research Areas
MPhil candidates may undertake research in:
- Law and Legal Studies
- Governance Studies
- Interdisciplinary research spanning law, governance and related fields
Research topics and supervision are subject to the availability of an appropriate member of the ELGU faculty.
Supervision
Each successful applicant is assigned a supervisor whose expertise aligns with the candidate's proposed area of research.
ELGU's international faculty brings together scholars and practitioners from across Europe and the wider world, allowing candidates to pursue research across different legal traditions, jurisdictions and areas of specialisation.
Subject to the availability of appropriate supervision, research may also be undertaken in a range of languages.
A Flexible Research Degree
The MPhil is designed to offer flexibility and international mobility without requiring continuous residence on campus.
Candidates may be required to attend research training sessions at EPLO premises in Greece and to participate in seminars, lectures and other academic activities identified in consultation with their supervisor.
Research training introduces candidates to advanced research methods and provides opportunities to develop skills in teaching, tutoring and the presentation of academic research.
Candidates are also encouraged to present their research at academic conferences and participate actively in the wider research community.
The programme culminates in the submission of a thesis of up to 50,000 words, followed by an oral defence before an international examination panel.
Combining the MPhil With Employment
While continuous residence is not required, the MPhil demands a substantial and sustained commitment to independent research.
Candidates who intend to combine their studies with professional employment should be able to demonstrate that they can devote sufficient time to their research and make appropriate progress towards completion within the required timeframe.
Why Pursue an MPhil at ELGU?
Individual Research, International Supervision
Develop your own research project with the guidance of a supervisor selected according to your academic interests and area of specialisation.
An International Research Environment
Join a community of scholars working across law, governance and related disciplines, drawing on the academic networks of ELGU, its partner universities and the EPLO.
Flexibility and Mobility
Pursue advanced research without a continuous residency requirement while remaining actively engaged in the academic life of ELGU.
Develop as a Researcher
Strengthen your expertise in research methodology, academic writing, teaching and scholarly communication while completing a substantial independent research project.
A Pathway to Doctoral Research
The MPhil provides excellent preparation for candidates considering progression to a PhD in Law, Governance or a related discipline.
