By forexlibrary 
Do you think you might like a career as an academic in law? Are you convinced that this is the right career path?
This article will cover the most important information you need to know to be a law professor in
How do you become an academic
Nearly all academic jobs in Australia require that you have a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) or are on the way to completing one. This is often after completing an undergraduate program such as a Bachelor of Laws (Honours). Other requirements for academic positions include teaching experience and leadership experience.
A PhD can be done in almost any area you wish, including economics, law, biochemistry, and engineering.
You will need to have a PhD in law, or another related field, to become a law professor. It doesn’t mean that you have to be an admitted lawyer. However, it is good to have some experience in practice if you are interested in research areas such as the criminal trial process.
Getting into a PhD
Although it can be difficult to get into a PhD program, it is possible. Students who have completed at least Class IIA Honours in the Bachelor of Laws (Honours) are most likely to get into a PhD program. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t have this class. You can still apply for a PhD program if you show relevant research experience.
Some examples of relevant research experience include:
publishing academic articles in peer-reviewed journals
preparing research reports for industry, business or government
Work experience in which you can show that you can plan and execute a project with high independence.
You have a better chance of getting a scholarship if you have more research experience.
A Master of Philosophy (or MPhil) is another way to secure a job as a law professor. It has less stringent requirements. You can then transfer to the PhD program from here.
Finding and writing your research proposal
You should first find one or two academics to supervise you when accepted to the PhD program. The Law School website has a list of potential law supervisors.
It is best to search for academics whose research interests align with yours. Some academics may even advertise PhD positions on UQ’s websites and social media accounts. Although it might seem difficult to approach a supervisor, you will have met academics while studying at UQ Law School.
Sending an email is the best way to contact a potential supervisor once you have identified them. You can also drop by their office during normal office hours (often listed in their profile span>
Yvonne BreitwieserFaria, a doctoral student studying international law, believes that finding the right supervisors is crucial.
She says, “After all you have to work together for 3-4 years.”
“The same applies to deciding on a research topic – it’s not worth spending years researching something that you aren’t passionate about.”
Although it is helpful to know what interests you before approaching a supervisor, you don’t have to decide on a specific topic. They can help you narrow your interest, decide on a feasible project, and write your research proposal. Don’t worry if you aren’t sure what to do.
What can you expect from a PhD
Supporting yourself financially and funding a PhD
It would help if you thought about the income you will have while studying for your PhD before submitting your application. Although it might seem overwhelming, there are many options.
Some students may also be paid to do research or tutoring. Students can also apply for scholarships such as the UQ Research Training Program Scholarship or school-funded options.
A PhD is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling things you will ever do. It’s the first step to becoming a law professor.