PROFESSIONAL TRAINING OF LEGAL SPECIALISTS AT THE PHD LEVEL IN THE EUROPEAN UNION COUNTRIES: CONTENT AND STRUCTURE OF STUDY PROGRAMS

Abstract

The article analyzes the content and structure of PhD study programs for PhD training in law implemented at higher education institutions in European Union countries. The relevance of the study is determined by the need to comprehend contemporary trends in doctoral legal education within the context of the integration of the European Higher Education Area and the European Research Area, as well as by the necessity to employ positive foreign experience in the process of modernizing the national system of training research personnel. The study examines the organizational and content characteristics of selected doctoral programs in law, including the “Doctor of Philosophy in Business Law” program (France), the “Doctor of Philosophy in European and International Law” program (Czech Republic), and the “Doctor of Philosophy in Law” program (Italy). It has been established that PhD training in law at EU universities is characterized by a strong research orientation, interdisciplinarity, and a focus on developing the capacity for independent scientific inquiry. Considerable attention is paid to fostering methodological research culture, analytical thinking, academic communication skills, publication activity, and international scientific cooperation. It has been found that study programs combine a structured curricular component with individual research work, participation in research projects, academic seminars, conferences, and international internships. Important features of contemporary doctoral legal education include flexibility of individual learning trajectories, internationalization of the educational process, the application of interdisciplinary approaches to the study of legal phenomena, and an orientation toward the practical implementation of research outcomes. It is emphasized that the content and structure of doctoral programs in law are aimed at developing a high level of scientific and professional competence among candidates, as well as their readiness for academic careers, expert and analytical activities, and participation in legal policymaking at both national and international levels.