BestUniversitiesCanada

4 Best Law PhD Universities in Canada

Ranked by our transparent composite score, with QS rankings, tuition fees and entry requirements.

4 universities · ranked best first

how we rank
1
UC University of Calgary logo

University of Calgary

Calgary, Alberta · Public University

★ 65 QS World #182 Star rating 5 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
CAD 30,000 – CAD 48,000/yr
Founded
1966
2
UO University of Ottawa logo

University of Ottawa

Ottawa, Ontario · Public University

★ 64 QS World #189 Star rating 5 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
CAD 34,000 – CAD 55,000/yr
Founded
1848
3
OC OCAD University logo

OCAD University

Toronto, Ontario · Public University

★ 51 Star rating 4 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
CAD 24,000 – CAD 34,000/yr
Founded
1876
4
SM Saint Mary's University logo

Saint Mary's University

Halifax, Nova Scotia · Public University

★ 45 Star rating 3 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
CAD 18,000 – CAD 28,000/yr
Founded
1802

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best universities in Canada for PhD Law?

Based on our composite ranking, the top choices include University of Calgary, University of Ottawa, OCAD University. See the full ranked list above with QS positions, tuition fees and entry requirements.

How much does a PhD in Law cost in Canada?

Tuition varies by university and is indicative on each profile — public universities are generally the most affordable, while private and international branch campuses charge more. Scholarships can reduce costs significantly.

Can international students study Law in Canada?

Yes. Most programmes are taught in English and open to international students, who apply for a study permit through IRCC after accepting an offer.

How are these universities ranked?

We use a transparent composite score combining QS World/Asia positions, Canada’s star rating, academic breadth, internationalisation and student support — never paid placement. See our ranking methodology for the exact weights.

Studying Law at PhD level in Canada

Canada is a popular, affordable destination for Law at PhD level, with provincially accredited programmes taught in English at both public and private universities, plus international branch campuses. The universities above are ordered by our composite ranking score, which combines QS World and QS Americas positions, Canada’s star rating, academic breadth, internationalisation and student support — with no paid placement.

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