phd on energy law

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• Energy and Climate Change Law Institute

PhD programme

Phd application.

• Current PhD topics

The Energy & Climate Change Law Institute accepts PhD students in all areas related to energy law. We have a growing number of PhD students at the Energy & Climate Change Law Institute researching a range of on energy topics. PhD students are encouraged to participate in all of the activities of the institute from teaching, supervising LLM dissertation students and speaking at conferences. Attendance at the energy fundamentals is open to our PhD students .

The institute considers our PhD students to be a central part of our research programme in particular on the future challenges facing the energy sector. Of particular interest are research projects on the impact of the energy transition and climate change disputes. Please consult the profiles of the energy law academics for areas of interest. For more information or to discuss PhD plans, contact Ms Norah Gallagher at [email protected] .

Find out more about the PhD programme.

A candidate interested in pursuing a PhD at The Institute should contact the relevant academic to discuss their research proposal. We cannot guarantee an offer will be made but this will help with refining your chosen research topic. Please note that there are a number of funding opportunities available to PhD students at Queen Mary University of London each year.

Current Topics

Current topics of our PhD students include:

• The Evolution of a Global Perspective in International Energy Law (submitted April 2020 pending viva)
• Legal Risks for Financing Electricity Power Generation Assets
• The Myth of “State Contract” in the Energy Industry: Empirical Gap Between the Intentions of Parties and the Interpretation of Contracts by Arbitral Tribunals
• Property Rights, Indigenous Peoples and Foreign Investment: An International and Constitutional Law Study of the Mexican Energy Reform
• Harnessing Iranian oil and gas for sustainable development: a socio-legal approach
• State Liability in Investment Treaty Arbitration for Separatist-Committed Acts

I was delighted to be awarded the inaugural Energy Law PhD scholarship in 2016 after completing the LLM in Energy and Natural Law Resources at the ELI. With the support of the ELI I was able to spend some time in the USA to conduct empirical research on the evolution of international energy law. During my three years, my research became more focused on inter-disciplinary themes on the transition to sustainable energy; environmental, social, & governance issues; energy justice; and the role of technology in shaping a more sustainable energy future. I had the opportunity to work as a teaching and research assistant as well as speak at international forums around the world. The experience was challenging but fun and informative. — Tedd Moya Mose, PhD Student

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Giants in the Field

The Energy Law Program at Texas Tech University School of Law is built on a tradition of excellence.

The Energy Law Program was founded in 1969 by renowned Professor Richard W. Hemingway, author of several seminal texts on oil-and-gas law and a pioneer in teaching energy law. Hemingway served as the Texas editor of The American Oil and Gas Reporter and authored The Law of Oil and Gas .

Professor Owen Anderson is now a Professor and Distinguished Oil and Gas Scholar for the Kay Bailey Hutchison Center for Energy Law and Business at the University of Texas School of Law. He is also the Eugene Kuntz Chair Emeritus and the George Lynn Cross Research Professor Emeritus at the University of Oklahoma College of Law, but he was instrumental in shaping our Energy Law Program as the Jack F. Maddox Professor of Law from 1988 to 1992. Professor Anderson is co-author of International Petroleum Transactions , Hemingway Oil and Gas Law and Taxation , and Cases and Materials on Oil & Gas Law .

Following in Professor Hemingway's footsteps and serving with Professor Anderson during his brief tenure was Professor Bruce M. Kramer, co-author of several important books that have become the definitive references for energy lawyers: The Law of Pooling and Unitization , The Law of Oil and Gas: Cases and Materials , and Williams & Meyers, Oil and Gas Law (since 1996). Professor Kramer taught at Texas Tech University School of Law from 1974 to 2007 and continues to hold the title of Maddox Professor of Law Emeritus.

Professor William Keffer joined the Texas Tech University School of Law faculty in 2014, after thirty years of practice in the oil-and-gas business with ARCO, Gardere Wynne Sewell LLP, and his own office in the specialty practice of oilfield-pollution litigation, as well as having served two terms in the Texas legislature. Appointed in 2012, he also serves as a member of the Texas delegation to the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission. Professor Keffer's emphasis on practice and increasing students' awareness of, and exposure to, the oil-and-gas industry has greatly contributed to the growth and development of the Energy Law Program at the law school. Our objective is to make Texas Tech the premier law school in this area of practice.

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William R. Keffer Professor of Practice Janet Scivally and David Copeland Endowed Professor of Energy Law Director, Energy Law Programs (806) 834-3178 [email protected]

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Fall 2023 • Course

Climate and Energy Law and Policy

Prerequisites: None for JD students. LLM students need to have taken at least one environmental law or energy law course (including Environmental Law, Natural Resources Law, or Contemporary Issues in Oil and Gas Law: Fracking, Takings, Pipelines, and Regulation) or Administrative Law.

Exam: No Exam

This course focuses on the complex interaction of U.S. climate law and U.S. energy law, two different fields that have historically been governed by separate and sometimes seemingly contradictory goals and imperatives. The difficult question at the heart of the course is whether the two fields can be reconciled: can we imagine a legal and regulatory regime that could address the critical challenge of climate change while also providing reliable and affordable energy in an equitable manner that is also consistent with national security goals? With that framing in mind, we will cover the following topics: the history of U.S. climate law and policy (including major legislative efforts such as the American Clean Energy and Security Act and the Inflation Reduction Act), significant federal climate rules (including greenhouse gas standards governing the power, auto, and oil and gas sectors) and important related Supreme Court decisions; the history of international climate agreements from the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change to the Paris Agreement; the foundations of energy law, including the Federal Power Act and the role of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the States in the production and transmission of electric power on the nation’s grids; the different regulatory regimes governing production of coal, oil and gas, and nuclear power; the transition to cleaner sources of energy including renewable energy and the opportunities and challenges the transition presents; the role of the oil and gas industry historically in climate politics and its potential role in the energy transition; the geopolitics of energy and the implications of the energy transition for U.S. national security; and the different strategies currently being pursued for advancing the energy transition including legislation, litigation, regulation, capital shifts, and activism. Over the course of the semester, we will be joined by several guests who will speak to these issues, including officials from past administrations and the Biden administration.

Evaluation: Evaluation will be in the form of 9 short but substantive and analytically rigorous comment papers of 750 words each on the assigned materials (students can choose which 9 topics they wish to write on with certain limitations requiring the papers to be spread across the semester) and one 12-page final paper on a topic of their choice related to the materials due at the end of the Fall exam period.

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The University of Delaware has the distinction of having the first doctoral and master's degrees in the combined fields of energy and environmental policy (ENEP) in the United States. ENEP is a STEM program and ​has earned international recognition as one of the three best graduate programs in the field. 

The ENEP degrees in the Joseph R. Biden, Jr. School of Public Policy and Administration are administered with the support of five colleges at the University: Agriculture and Natural Resources, Arts and Science, Business and Economics, Engineering , and Earth, Ocean and Environment. The degrees are intended for individuals who wish to focus their graduate programs on interdisciplinary study of the field of energy and environmental policy through the development of an interdisciplinary understanding of the interactions of society, resources, and the environment. 

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Candidates who successfully complete the doctoral ENEP degree are prepared for rewarding academic or professional careers in sustainable energy and water development, environmental protection, climate change policy and green economics. Careers include energy and environmental planning, policy analysis, management and administration, and research in the public, private and non-profit sectors. Graduates of the program will be qualified to assume positions in universities, governments, international agencies, research and policy institutions, consulting firms, energy utilities, and corporate departments with responsibilities in energy and environmental matters.

The Ph.D. in Energy and Environmental Policy has three components: a 21 credit core curriculum , the development of a research area and the dissertation proposal involving at least 24 credit hours, and the writing of the dissertation.

UCL Energy Institute MPhil/PhD

London, Bloomsbury

UCL Energy Institute delivers world-leading learning, research and policy support on the challenges of climate change and energy security. Our multidisciplinary research programme and strong industry links provide an excellent foundation for your Energy PhD study. Our graduates are employed by the world's foremost academic, industry and governmental institutions.

UK tuition fees (2024/25)

Overseas tuition fees (2024/25), programme starts, applications accepted.

Research degree students start their programme in BSEER in September or January each academic year. Starting at other times is by exception where a strong justification is made.

• Entry requirements

A minimum of an upper second-class UK Bachelor's degree and a Master's degree, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard, in a relevant subject, is essential. Exceptionally: where applicants have other suitable research or professional experience, they may be admitted without a Master's degree; or where applicants have a lower second-class UK Honours Bachelor's degree (2:2) (or equivalent) they must possess a relevant Master's degree to be admitted. We expect any successful application to include a sufficiently strong and convincing proposal, and those holding a Master's degree are typically well prepared to provide one. Relevant work experience is highly desirable.

The English language level for this programme is: Level 2

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

If you are intending to apply for a time-limited visa to complete your UCL studies (e.g., Student visa, Skilled worker visa, PBS dependant visa etc.) you may be required to obtain ATAS clearance . This will be confirmed to you if you obtain an offer of a place. Please note that ATAS processing times can take up to six months, so we recommend you consider these timelines when submitting your application to UCL.

Equivalent qualifications

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website .

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below. Please note that the equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on this page (e.g. upper second-class). Where a specific overall percentage is required in the UK qualification, the international equivalency will be higher than that stated below. Please contact Graduate Admissions should you require further advice.

About this degree

Most energy problems are multidisciplinary in nature, spanning science, engineering and the social sciences. UCL Energy Institute brings together different perspectives in energy demand, energy supply, and energy systems research, transcending boundaries between academic disciplines to create world-leading research and policy support on the challenges of climate change, energy security, and social justice. 

As an MPhil or PhD student with us, you will conduct your own original energy related research. If you have a research idea that falls within our research themes, an MPhil/PhD at UCL Energy Institute could be the right path for you. To get started with your application, follow the four step process on our ‘ How to apply for an Energy MPhil/PhD ’ page.

Who this course is for

This MPhil/PhD is for applicants with a strong interest or background in energy issues who want to do multi-disciplinary research to solve societal problems and explore innovative solutions. For example, if your energy interests are at the intersection of policy and science; engineering and economics; or the social sciences and technology, this PhD could be for you. It is suitable for both recent Master’s graduates as well as early or mid-career professionals.

What this course will give you

Studying with us is about excelling at your own field of study, being exposed to new perspectives and methodologies, and developing communication and networking skills. PhD students are core to our activities and are a key priority in terms of current and future state-of-the-art energy demand, energy supply and energy systems research here in the UK and around the world.

We are part of The Bartlett School of Environment, Energy and Resources , home to four specialist sustainability-focussed Institutes in UCL’s Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment. Our degree programme offers students a unique opportunity to work alongside world-leading researchers across our School’s sustainability foci, giving you the opportunity to develop your research skills and opening new career opportunities in the broad field of environment, energy and resources.

We offer a world-leading research environment. In the latest national research assessment ( REF 2021 ), our Faculty were number one for Research Power in the built environment, with 91% of our Faculty’s research was deemed ‘World Leading’ and ‘Internationally Excellent’. Much of our research is undertaken in partnership with government and industry to ground it in real-world impact.

The foundation of your career

The UCL Energy Institute aims to train highly employable graduates who are equipped with the required analytical capability, research knowledge, management skills, and professional values to become leaders and entrepreneurs in their chosen field. Leadership, communication, teamwork, language and business skills are refined in the high-quality multidisciplinary research environment through our taught programmes, workshops, and internal and external seminars.

Alumni Views

“About a year before I finished, I saw that the British Energy regulator, Ofgem, was advertising for someone with the same experience and skill set I’d been developing over my Masters and then PhD… I feel very confident that my PhD played a major role in making sure I was qualified for the role and hope that it will help me progress with my career in future too.” Moira Nicolson, UCL Energy Institute PhD Graduate  

Employability

A PhD indicates a highly qualified researcher, capable of independent analytic thought. It is essential for those interested in pursuing careers in academia, and it is also a highly regarded qualification for those wishing to attain senior management positions in industry, non-profit and public sector organisations, and consultancies. Our alumni have gone on to careers in academic teaching and research as well as industry and policy organisations.

Supervision and mentorship is available from world-leading researchers with national and international contacts and collaborations across government, industry, non-profit and academic sectors. These links provide real opportunities to network and collaborate with a variety of external partners. Students have the opportunity to showcase their research at national and international conferences with support from the programme. Our students also gain access to networking events, career workshops, and national and international seminars held by the UCL Energy Institute and other institutes within the school. Students also sometimes self-organise their own networking initiatives, seminars, and workshops.

Teaching and learning

Initially, you will be registered for the MPhil degree. If you wish to proceed to a PhD, you will be required to pass an 'Upgrade' assessment. The purpose of the upgrade is to assess your progress and ability to complete your PhD programme to a good standard and in a reasonable time frame.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) consists of a piece of supervised research, normally undertaken over a period of three years full-time or five years part time. Assessment is by means of a thesis, which should demonstrate your capacity to pursue original research based upon a good understanding of the research techniques and concepts appropriate to the discipline.

Full-time PhD research involves full-time study. You should expect to dedicate around 35 hours per week to your work. You should meet frequently with your supervisors and engage with the departmental and UCL communities more widely through events, training, and networking opportunities.

Research areas and structure

• Energy and the Built Environment
• Energy and Economics
• Energy and Engineering
• Energy and Health
• Energy and Human Dimensions
• Energy and Policy
• Energy and Resources
• Energy and Transport

Research environment

"I very much enjoyed doing the PhD, particularly as I had great support in a truly multi-disciplinary environment, and had the freedom to design and develop my own topic. The knowledge and skills that I gained during the PhD were an important part of helping me to put theory into practice through my current position" - Peter Warren, UCL Energy Institute PhD graduate

UCL Energy Institute is helping to build a globally sustainable energy system through training future energy leaders, innovative multidisciplinary research and impactful collaborations governments and industries. We have a large PhD cohort working on a wide range of projects across energy demand, energy supply, and energy systems. Our staff and students have a passion to make the world a better place, and a commitment to creating and communicating evidence to achieve this goal.

We offer a world-leading research environment. In the latest national research assessment ( REF 2021 ), our Faculty were number one for Research Power in the built environment, with 91% of our Faculty’s research was deemed ‘World Leading’ and ‘Internationally Excellent’.

All students are initially registered for an MPhil degree. Those studying full-time for a PhD undertake a formal “upgrade process” between 9-18 months, including a presentation and viva, and if successful are registered as PhD students. Students have up to two upgrade attempts.   The PhD programme normally lasts a minimum of three years. Once you have completed this period, you are able to apply for  “Continuing Research Status” (CRS), with no further fees, if your studies are sufficiently advanced and you meet the CRS entry criteria. Some funders instead offer four-year scholarships with no possibility of entering Continuing Research Status. You can submit a thesis for assessment in an oral viva at the conclusion of your studies either at the end of  the 3 years,  the end of your funded period or during CRS.

Part-time students follow the same programme as full-time students, except that the programme length is five years, with up to two additional years in Continuing Research Status, and the first upgrade attempt normally takes place after 15 months of initial registration.

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble accessable.co.uk . Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing team .

Fees and funding

Fees for this course.

Route code RRDEERSENR01

The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Where the programme is offered on a flexible/modular basis, fees are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees .

Additional costs

As a research student, your additional costs may include expenses such as books, conference attendance and field research, in the UK or overseas.

Our Faculty provides financial support to students through The Bartlett Student Conference Fund, Bartlett Doctoral Initiative Fund and Bartlett External Training Fund. Our School also provides the BSEER Student Development Fund where enrolled students can apply for financial support. However, please note that these funds are limited and available through competition. You can find out more on our MPhil/PhD scholarships and funding page.

For more information on additional costs for prospective students please go to our estimated cost of essential expenditure at Accommodation and living costs .

Funding your studies

The Bartlett Promise Scholarship is a long-term project from our Faculty to attract students from a broader range of backgrounds and tackle the lack of diversity in the built environment. Please see the UK PhD scholarship page for more information on eligibility eligibility criteria, selection process and FAQs. You can also find out more about on our website.

We occasionally have funded studentship opportunities. These are advertised on the UCL-wide Funded Research Opportunities page. If you would like funded studentship opportunities sent to you via email, please register your interest in studying with us.

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website .

Bartlett Promise PhD Scholarship

Deadline: 19 May 2024 Value: Full fees, plus £19,668 maintenance (Normal duration of programme) Criteria Based on financial need Eligibility: UK

UCL Research Opportunity Scholarship (ROS)

Deadline: 12 January 2024 Value: UK rate fees, a maintenance stipend, conference costs and professional development package (3 years) Criteria Based on both academic merit and financial need Eligibility: UK

Prospective MPhil/PhD applicants are encouraged to send an informal research enquiry before applying. This should be sent directly to the academic you would like to supervise you. Please refer to the staff list on the department website  and see UCL's  Institutional Research Information Service  (IRIS) for staff profiles. Please attach to your e-mail a referenced research proposal of around 1,000 to 2,000 words and your curriculum vitae (CV).

Further details on how to apply to an MPhil/PhD can be found on the  UCL Graduate Admissions  website.

Please note that you may submit applications for a maximum of two graduate programmes (or one application for the Law LLM) in any application cycle.

Choose your programme

Please read the Application Guidance before proceeding with your application.

Year of entry: 2024-2025

Got questions get in touch.

Bartlett School of Environment, Energy and Resources

[email protected]

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Doctor of Philosophy in sustainable energy

About the doctor of philosophy degree.

Today’s global energy transitions demand leaders who can seamlessly navigate interwoven technical, societal, and environmental challenges. The newly established PhD in sustainable energy, offered on ASU’s Tempe campus, transcends the boundaries of traditional methodologies and disciplinary viewpoints to achieve a sustainable energy future.

Students in the degree program will conduct collaborative cross-disciplinary research integrating energy science with societal and policy insights. Drawing upon emerging knowledge and deep historical insights, and integrating information from the physical, biological, and social sciences, students will explore and contribute to sustainable solutions that address urgent energy challenges now and in the future.

Graduates will be prepared to bridge diverse domains and communities, fostering socio-technical innovation and developing sustainable energy solutions and policies.

Admission requirements

Students may be admitted to the PhD in sustainable energy program with either a bachelor’s or a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution or the equivalent of a US bachelor’s degree from an international institution officially recognized by that country. Applicants from diverse educational and professional backgrounds are encouraged.

Learning outcomes

PhD in sustainable energy graduates will have an advanced understanding of the dynamics and complexity of global energy systems and will be able to lead others in research providing adaptive solutions to specific sustainable energy challenges. In addition to the common learning outcomes, PhD in sustainable energy students will be able to:

• Use their analytical and theoretical knowledge to elucidate and contextualize complex, transdisciplinary issues surrounding energy.
• Contribute to the body of knowledge of complex energy systems through transdisciplinary research.
• Function within the science-policy nexus with a unique understanding of issues and proposing innovative solutions.
• Produce a portfolio of research accomplishments in complex energy systems that will position them to be competitive for employment opportunities in academia, industry, and government.

If admitted with a bachelor’s degree, students must complete a minimum of 84 semester hours. If admitted with a master’s degree, they must complete a minimum of 54 hours.

Requirements and electives

Courses and electives, core courses.

SOS 571: Sustainable Energy I: Technologies and Systems (3 credits) This is the first in a sequence of foundational courses (571, 572, and 573) in the graduate program for sustainable energy. This course provides a primer on the scientific, technological, and social aspects of energy. It has three core modules: (1) primer on the physics of energy, (2) a review of power systems and electricity generation technologies, and (3) a review of transportation systems and fuel/vehicle technologies. Although the class focuses on energy technology, it also incorporates discussions of the human dimensions of energy systems.

SOS 572: Sustainable Energy II: Transitions (3 credits) This course follows the thread of energy transitions through every aspect of our lives. It stresses the technological, economic, social, and political contexts of energy transitions. It addresses energy use throughout history, the influence of energy on quality of life, how energy use has influenced the process of urbanization and how considerations of access to and control of energy sources shapes geopolitical strategies.

SOS 573: Sustainable Energy III: Futures Analysis, Negotiation and Governance (3 credits) This course provides a basis for understanding the intersection of social, political, cultural, economic, and technical dynamics of existing and emerging energy system possibilities, emphasizing the roles of human decision-making as well as new scientific and technological developments. It emphasizes the development of sophisticated competency in several broad thematic capacities that are required to understand, engage with, and provide thought leadership in the ongoing challenge of creating and cultivating sustainable energy systems.

SOS 574: Sustainable Energy Analytics in Context (3 credits) This course will address the primary metrics, data sources, and methodologies used to measure sustainable energy, including how they are used to track progress toward sustainability goals and shape public policies. It covers the metrics for comparing the cost, efficiency, social equity and environmental impacts of various energy sources, and issues pertaining to product life cycle evaluation. These metrics provide the foundation for assessing the relative merits of various energy and production options based on a variety of possible criteria. In addition to imparting factual knowledge for quantitatively evaluating a multiplicity of energy sources and systems and their impact on the environment, it will build skills in research, comparative analysis and critical thinking that will catalyze a lifetime of engagement with the complex and evolving issues surrounding sustainability.

SOS 575: Sustainable Energy Research Seminar (1 credit) This is a seminar-based course for Sustainable Energy doctoral students focusing on research skills for transdisciplinary energy research. The seminar has a different focus in the Fall and Spring. In the Fall, the course focuses on research methods. In the Spring, the course focuses on the process of generating research ideas and writing effective research proposals.

SOS 589: Community of Scholars (1 credit) This seminar provides the opportunity to develop new skills, to foster cohort building, to interact with other students and faculty in the School of Sustainability, and to network and build support with the alumni network.

Have a question about the PhD in sustainable energy?

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Energy Transition Law with Dissertation, LLM

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Energy Transition Law with Dissertation

Introduction.

Study energy and environmental law to an advanced level at the University of Aberdeen. Our Law School is ranked 9th in the UK for Law by the Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024.

Study Information

Study options.

This LLM degree programme seeks to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to consult in energy transition law and policy matters. Our staff have expertise and specialisms in environmental and climate change law, as well as in energy law relating both to the fossil fuels sector and renewable energy.

Law has a central role to play in enabling the shift to low carbon energy whilst maintaining energy security and the transition to environmentally sustainable economic development. The law in these areas undergoes frequent and extensive change as experience grows and we respond to the difficulties we are currently encountering.

Studying alongside legal experts in these areas, you will be immersed in the grounding concepts of energy transition law. With a unique choice of topical energy and environmental courses including ‘Renewable Energy Law’ to ‘Downstream Energy Law’, you will benefit from an advanced understanding and sharpened critical analysis across many key areas.

The programme will be of great interest to those who wish to equip themselves with the knowledge required to meet the challenges of the existing sectors of energy and environment, and the wish to play a pivotal role in the adaptation of current corporate policies during a time of great change. It may also appeal to practitioners who wish to acquire or update their legal knowledge in these fast moving areas.

Programme Fees

Compulsory courses.

This course provides students from diverse legal and educational backgrounds with a common understanding of the core research, analytical, and writing skills which will be required for LLM-Taught courses. The course is delivered as a series of five interactive lectures with two individual assessments designed to encourage critical thinking and provide opportunities for early feedback. It also incorporates a library workshop to provide students with hands-on experience with the resources available for course and dissertation work.

This course, which is prescribed for all taught postgraduate students, is studied entirely online, takes approximately 5-6 hours to complete and can be taken in one sitting, or spread across a number of weeks.

Topics include orientation overview, equality and diversity, health, safety and cyber security and how to make the most of your time at university in relation to careers and employability.

Successful completion of this course will be recorded on your Enhanced Transcript as ‘Achieved’.

Optional Courses

Four optional courses must be selected. Two should be selected from semester 1 and two from semester 3.

30 Credit Points

The transport and supply of hydrocarbons (oil and gas) and electricity is essential for modern civilisation. If energy cannot get to the consumer, then energy security is threatened and economic development may be restricted.

These challenges are important in the context of the liberalisation of these sectors, especially the restructuring of these industries from monopolies to competitive markets. This course explores the law and policy framework governing the movement and distribution of energy, particularly within a liberalised market, in an era of climate change. Topics covered include market liberalisation, energy security, gas sales and transport, and market regulation.

The complex interaction between investment protection and the sovereign right of states to regulate has been most acute in the energy sector. On the one hand, investors require strong guarantees that states will respect the “rules of the game” that constitute the basis of their investments. On the other, states can be tempted to interfere with foreign energy investments because of their strategic and social importance. This course aims to analyse if existing investment disciplines and international investment protection framework, are adapted to the specific regulatory risks that investors face in the energy landscape of the 21st Century and how best to avoid disputes and manage them.

The compulsory dissertation provides the opportunity to research and explore in more detail a specific legal area of your choice.

60 Credit Points

Between May and mid-August students prepare a 10,000 word dissertation on a topic of their choice related to their specialist LLM programme. Students are instructed through the delivery of a preparatory lecture, two supervisory meetings and a two hour dissertation planning workshop in a small group setting. Students are expected to spend considerable time on independent research throughout the course of the dissertation module, including; preparation of dissertation plan, amendment of plan in accordance with supervisory comments, preparation for the dissertation workshop, and, of course, in the final 10,000 word dissertation itself.

The course deals with the regulation of international activities regarding energy and the environment. The course will consider the international legal framework regarding energy sources, and it will look at the various legal instruments at the global and regional level as well as the key actors that are involved in regulation. It will also examine environmental issues that correspond to the generation and use of energy in the international context and the responses relating to environmental protection of soil, water, air, atmosphere and species.

A transition from reliance on fossil fuels to low-carbon renewable energy is essential for mitigating climate change and for making energy supplies more sustainable. The course considers the challenges and concerns that this fundamental change in the nature of energy supplies gives rise to, and explores laws role in addressing them. The course examines the legal regimes for promoting renewable energy at international, EU and UK levels, and considers how law can be used to address significant constraints on the growth of renewable energy including difficulties with grid access and public opposition to wind energy development.

The course examines the relationship between development management and utilisation of energy and natural resources, law, ethics, governance, and development at the national and international levels on the one hand and poor/variable developmental outcomes, particularly the resource curse phenomenon, on the other hand. The course then proceeds to apply advanced academic and experiential knowledge to formulate the fundamentals for overarching legal frameworks that will enable the good exploitation and development of energy and natural resources, thereby producing enduring benefits for all key stakeholders. The course is multidisciplinary in approach and with some experiential engagement with industry, governments/regulators, and non-governmental perspectives.

All candidates must take the following courses:

Four optional courses must be selected. Two should be selected from semester 1 and two from semester 2.

Available Programmes of Study

Please note: Students staring their LLM programme in January write their Dissertation project during the Summer semester.

Duration: 12 months full-time. 24 months part time.

We will endeavour to make all course options available; however, these may be subject to timetabling and other constraints . Please see our InfoHub pages for further information.

Fee Information

Additional fee information.

• Fees for individual programmes can be viewed in the Programmes section above.
• In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips. Any additional fees for a course can be found in our Catalogue of Courses .
• For more information about tuition fees for this programme, including payment plans and our refund policy, please visit our InfoHub Tuition Fees page.

International Applicants

Further Information about tuition fees and the cost of living in Aberdeen

Funding Opportunities

The CB Davidson Fund provides limited financial support for postgraduate students within the Law School. It offers financial support to graduates in law from outside the UK to study in Aberdeen and to students and graduates of the University of Aberdeen who wish to travel outside of the UK for research purposes. Awards will not exceed £2,500 and in most instances will be less.

Scholarships

Self-funded international students enrolling on postgraduate taught (PGT) programmes will receive one of our Aberdeen Global Scholarships, ranging from £3,000 to £8,000, depending on your domicile country. Learn more about the Aberdeen Global Scholarships here .

To see our full range of scholarships, visit our Funding Database .

Related Programmes

You may also be interested in the following related postgraduate degree programmes.

• Energy Transition Law with Professional Skills
• General Law
• Oil and Gas Law with Dissertation
• Oil and Gas Law with Professional Skills

How You'll Study

Learning methods.

• Individual Projects

Assessment Methods

By course work, by written examination, or by a combination of these, as prescribed for each course. The degree of LLM shall not be awarded to a candidate who fails to achieve a CGS grade of D3 or above in the specified dissertation course, irrespective of their performance in other courses: such candidates may, at the discretion of the Examiners, be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate.

Why Study Energy Transition Law with Dissertation?

• This highly regarded Master’s programme deals with two of the most serious challenges which confront the world today: maintaining the availability of secure and affordable energy whilst addressing the global environmental deterioration and climate change that threatens humanity’s well-being. Law has a central role to play in addressing both challenges.
• The School of Law is ranked Top 10 in the UK by the Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024).
• Designed by experts in their field, the programme provides the ideal opportunity for professional development in a specialist area of law.
• Add a sought after and attractive specialisation to your qualifications.
• Acquire detailed and cutting edge knowledge about the current position with energy transition law, and an understanding of how this is likely to change.
• Explore and gain greater knowledge of the interconnections between energy and environmental law at international, European and national level.
• Researchers at Aberdeen are at the forefront of environmental innovations which have changed environmental protection in other industries globally.
• There are over 40 nationalities within the School of Law postgraduate community, therefore you will benefit from a programme with a truly international outlook.

Interested in this programme?

Entry requirements, qualifications.

The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.

Normally a 2(1) honours degree in Law (or another related discipline) or equivalent. Relevant practical experience will also be beneficial.

Document requirements application:

• All subjects you studied and marks you achieved in your degree(s).
• A detailed personal statement explaining your reasons for choosing this programme.
• CV/Resume optional.
• Reference letter from your university discussing your academic ability.

Foreign-language students need a minimum of IELTS at 6.5 overall with 6.0 or above in writing and in reading and 5.5 or above in listening and in speaking.

Please enter your country to view country-specific entry requirements.

English Language Requirements

To study for a Postgraduate Taught degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:

IELTS Academic:

OVERALL - 6.5 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 6.0; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0

OVERALL - 90 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 21; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21

PTE Academic:

OVERALL - 62 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59

Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:

OVERALL - 176 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 169; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169

Read more about specific English Language requirements here .

Document Requirements

You will be required to supply the following documentation with your application as proof you meet the entry requirements of this degree programme. If you have not yet completed your current programme of study, then you can still apply and you can provide your Degree Certificate at a later date.

• Information about visa and immigration requirements

Aberdeen Global Scholarship

Eligible self-funded post graduate taught (PGT) students will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Explore our Global Scholarships, including eligibility details, on our dedicated page.

You will gain knowledge to practice energy and environmental law as a consultant or you can consider joining energy and environmental companies to assist them to meet their regulator requirements for submission of permits from various governments around the world.

(Please note, this is not a qualifying law degree).

Specialty courses to improve your employability

Our broad range of niche courses focus on specific areas of industry and use current examples that will prepare you for your career. 

A Top 10 UK Law School

We are ranked Top 10 in the UK for Law by the Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024.

Top 10 for Energy Law programmes

We are listed in LLM Guide's Top 10 List of Energy Law programmes 2023.

Our Experts

This programme is delivered by experts from our Aberdeen University Centre for Energy Law (AUCEL)

Information About Staff Changes

You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. Staff changes will occur from time to time; please see our InfoHub pages for further information.

TAYLOR LIBRARY

The School of Law has its own dedicated law library, Taylor Library , which is located within the Law School building, offering access to the Law collection, Official Publications and the European Documentation Centre.

Get in Touch

Contact details.

• Call Us +44 (0)1224 274260
• Enquire Now Using an online form

PhD in Public Policy

• Mission and Learning Outcomes
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• PhD Faculty
• Energy Policy Faculty
• Environmental Policy Faculty
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• Current PhD Students
• Economic Policy

Energy Policy

• Environmental Policy
• International Policy
• Law, Crime and Policy
• Rural Policy
• Science and Technology Policy
• Social Policy

You are here

The Energy Policy concentration includes courses that address policy and politics, institutions, markets, economics, technologies, and human impacts; and requires students to complete their MPP essay or PhD dissertation on a topic related to energy policy.

This concentration provides students with a broad knowledge of US energy policy and institutions, how these impact the development of energy markets, and the major and emerging technologies and resources currently in use and under development. 

The Energy Policy Concentration Advisor is  Professor David Bernell .

Energy Policy Faculty available for PhD Student Committees.

OSU Energy Initiatives:

OSU Sun Grant Program in Biomass Energy:  http://sungrant.oregonstate.edu/

Pacific Marine Energy Center:  https://www.pmec.us

ECON 566 - Economics of Traditional and Renwable Energy [4 credits]

PPOL 541 - Energy, Climate and Society [4 credits]

PPOL 544 - Collaborative Governance [4 credits]

PPOL 547 - Integrated Approaches to Food-Water-Energy-Climate [4 credits]

PS 573 - U.S. Energy Policy [4 credits]

PS 574 - International Energy Policy [4 credits]

PS 578 - Renewable Energy Policy [4 credits]

PS 555 - The Politics of Climate Change [4 credits]

PS 575 - Environmental Politics and Policy [4 credits]

PS 577 - International Environmental Politics and Policy [4 credits]

Contact Info

Email: [email protected]

College of Liberal Arts Student Services 214 Bexell Hall 541-737-0561

Deans Office 200 Bexell Hall 541-737-4582

Corvallis, OR 97331-8600

liberalartsosu liberalartsosu liberalartsosu liberalartsosu CLA LinkedIn

School of Public Policy

300 Bexell Hall 2251 SW Campus Way Corvallis, OR 97331-8600 Phone:  541-737-5371 Staff Directory

PhDs in CEPMLP

The research topics of our PhD students cover a wide range of issues relating to energy and natural resources, and often require multi-disciplinary methodologies

The PhD programme at CEPMLP

With well over 50 PhD students at any one time, we have established ourselves as the leading institution in the field for this type of high-level research.

We take a multidisciplinary approach to research and scholarship so as to prepare you for the wide-ranging challenges of the energy and natural resources industries.

We provide two supervisors for each PhD student, who could be specialists from different disciplines, and also organise fortnightly PhD seminars for you to present your research work. This means that you will be able to enhance your skills in presentation and communication, and also benefit from the comments on your research by academics and fellow students.

You will also be encouraged to present your research work at academic and professional workshops nationally or internationally, to expand the impact of your research and also to obtain insights from leading specialists in the field.

Destination of our graduates

PhD students must complete their studies within a maximum of four years.

Our PhD graduates usually join academia, energy and mining companies, law firms, consultancies, governments, and international organisations (e.g. the OPEC Secretariat, the World Bank, and the UN agencies).

Research outputs

You will be encouraged to engage with your peers and the wider academic and professional community throughout your time in Dundee.

A large number of PhD theses completed at the Centre are subsequently published as monographs and/or articles in academic and professional journals. Some PhD researchers even publish articles in peer-reviewed journals while they are still in Dundee, either alone or jointly with their supervisors, and thereby contribute to the development of a vibrant research and academic culture at the Centre.

Dr Janet Xuanli Liao is the director of the PhD programme in Social Sciences.

How to apply

To apply applicants should normally have a good taught Masters degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline from a recognised university. 

Applicants should apply via our Direct Application Service

As part of their application package, candidates should supply a 5-10 page outline of their proposed research topic (general area of interest). This will enable the Director of the Programme to confirm that the proposed topic lies within the field of interest of the Centre and that adequate supervisory arrangements are in place from the outset. The main priority for the Centre is that the student is adequately supervised and is able to progress at a satisfactory rate throughout the duration of the PhD.

Sophie Harris and Vikki Watson Centre for Energy, Petroleum and Mineral Law and Policy School of Social Sciences University of Dundee Dundee DD1 4HN Tel +44 (0)1382 384459 or +44 (0)1382 386100 [email protected]

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Top LL.M. Programs for Energy Law 2023

Looking to deepen your expertise in the dynamic realm of energy law? An LL.M. in Energy Law offers a strategic pathway to navigate the intricate legal landscape governing the global energy sector. Governments worldwide wield regulatory power over energy, shaping laws ranging from fossil fuel extraction to renewable energy initiatives. As environmental concerns gain prominence, the intersection of energy production and environmental regulations creates a demand for specialized legal professionals.

By pursuing an LL.M. in Energy Law, students delve into multifaceted facets of the energy industry, staying abreast of regulatory evolutions, economic dynamics, and pivotal industry shifts. Programs often explore emerging trends like clean energy regulations and evolving land use policies, equipping graduates with comprehensive knowledge to address contemporary challenges.

Career opportunities abound for LL.M. graduates in Energy Law, spanning the public sector, private law firms with energy-focused practices, and influential non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international bodies. Gain the expertise to shape the future of energy law with a top-tier LL.M. program tailored to meet the demands of today's energy landscape. Explore our curated list of the Top 10 LL.M. Programs for Energy Law to discover leading institutions at the forefront of energy law education.

Established in 1977 amidst the North Sea Oil boom, Dundee’s Centre for Energy, Petroleum and Mineral Law offers LL.M. programs covering various facets of the energy sector. These include Energy Law in Policy, Petroleum Taxation and Finance, and Mineral Law and Policy. One notable aspect of Dundee’s LL.M. programs is the incorporation of internships, providing students with practical experience in their chosen field. These internships offer opportunities for hands-on learning, allowing students to gain insights into the complexities of energy regulation, finance, and resource management. Dundee University's Center for Energy, Petroleum and Mineral Law stands as a long-standing institution in the field of energy legal education, offering students a comprehensive understanding of the legal frameworks governing the energy industry.

The KBH Energy Center at UT Austin is renowned for its diverse research portfolio, spanning an array of energy topics ranging from decarbonization initiatives to the environmental impacts of gas pipelines and land use policies. This breadth of focus reflects Austin’s position at the forefront of energy discourse, addressing pressing issues that resonate globally. For students interested in energy law and related fields, UT Austin offers an LL.M. concentration in Global Energy, International Arbitration, and Environmental Law. This specialized program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate complex legal challenges in the energy sector, preparing them for impactful careers in areas such as international arbitration, environmental advocacy, and energy policy. Moreover, students have the opportunity to contribute to UT’s energy-related journals, including the Texas Journal of Oil, Gas, and Energy Law. These platforms allow aspiring legal scholars to engage in scholarly discourse, share insights, and shape the conversation surrounding key energy law issues.

Situated amidst the oil-rich North Sea, Aberdeen University offers a prime location for students to immerse themselves in the complexities of the energy sector. As a dynamic and transitioning energy hub, Aberdeen provides a unique backdrop for studying energy law and policy. At the Aberdeen University Centre for Energy Law, students have access to cutting-edge research and resources that delve into pertinent energy issues. Those interested in energy law can pursue a specialized LL.M. program in Energy Transition Law. This program delves into the evolving legal landscape surrounding the transition to sustainable energy sources, equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complex challenges of the energy transition. Additionally, Aberdeen University collaborates with other institutions including the University of Groningen, the University of Oslo, and the University of Copenhagen to offer the part-time North Sea Energy Law program. This collaborative initiative provides students with a holistic understanding of energy law within the context of the North Sea region, fostering interdisciplinary perspectives and practical insights.

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Vermont, Vermont Law School's Institute for Energy and the Environment stands as a beacon of research excellence at the intersection of energy and the environment. Leveraging insights from this esteemed research center, Vermont Law School offers a premier LL.M. program in Energy Law. Faculty members associated with the Institute for Energy and the Environment bring their expertise to Vermont Law School's LL.M. program, providing students with insights into the legal intricacies of the energy sector and where it intersects with the law. As one of the top programs in the United States specializing in energy law, Vermont Law School's LL.M. curriculum is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to address pressing energy law issues.

Located in the heart of one of the world’s largest oil and gas hubs, Houston, the University of Houston Law Center (UHLC) offers a prime location for LL.M. students seeking proximity to energy industry action. With over 5,000 energy firms in the region, Houston provides a dynamic environment for studying the intersection between energy, law, and policy. Houston is also home to one of the top Energy LL.M. programs in the US: UHLC's LL.M. program in Energy, Environment, and Natural Resources Law. The program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the intricate policies governing energy production, transportation, and utilization. Through rigorous coursework and practical experiences, students gain insights into the legal frameworks shaping the energy landscape. At UHLC, students also benefit from the Environment, Energy & Natural Resources Center, a renowned research institution exploring the intersection of energy production and environmental impacts. The center publishes "Energy Insights" regularly, featuring research contributions from students and faculty, providing valuable insights into contemporary energy law issues.

For students looking to focus on the legal overlap between climate and energy, Berkeley Law is perhaps one of the best schools in the world. LL.M. students at Berkeley Law have the opportunity to deepen their expertise in energy and clean technology through a certificate in Energy and Clean Technology. This program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate complex legal issues in the rapidly evolving landscape of clean energy and sustainability. The LL.M. and associate energy certificate leverage insights from the school’s Center for Law, Energy & the Environment (CLEE), where research and events delve into the intricate relationship between climate, energy, and sustainable land use. Through cutting-edge research and engaging events, CLEE fosters a vibrant intellectual community dedicated to addressing pressing environmental challenges.

Melbourne Law School offers a one of the best Energy LL.M. programs in the world, focusing on Energy and Resources Law. This LL.M. provides students with a comprehensive understanding of key topics in the field. From energy regulation to mineral law, students explore diverse facets of the energy and resources sector, gaining insights into the legal frameworks shaping these industries. At Melbourne Law School's Centre for Resources, Energy and Environmental Law, students have access to cutting-edge research and expertise in the field. As one of the few research centers hosted by a law school in Australia dedicated to resources, energy, and environmental law, the Centre serves as a hub of innovation and scholarship. LL.M. students at Melbourne Law School benefit from a dynamic learning environment that combines academic rigor with practical relevance. Through coursework, research opportunities, and engagement with industry practitioners, students are equipped to tackle complex legal challenges in the energy and resources sector.

Since the school is situated on the Groningen Gas Field—the largest natural gas field in Europe—LL.M. students can see directly how energy laws work in the real world. Groningen offers an LL.M. in Energy and Climate Law; and, in partnership with several other law schools, offers a part-time LL.M in North Sea Energy Law. The school also hosts the Groningen Centre of Energy Law, which is the largest energy law research center in the Netherlands.

Calgary stands as a beacon of excellence in the realm of natural resources, energy, and environmental law, offering one of the best Energy LL.M. programs in Canada, which is tailored to meet the evolving needs of the industry. With its LL.M. specialization in Natural Resources, Energy, and Environmental Law, Calgary distinguishes itself as one of Canada's premier destinations for advanced legal studies in the energy field. At the heart of Calgary's expertise lies the Canadian Institute of Resources Law, a renowned research institution dedicated to advancing knowledge and understanding in natural resources law. Through symposia, publications, and collaborative initiatives, the Institute fosters dialogue and innovation, solidifying Calgary's position as a thought leader in the space.

One of the best Energy LL.M.s in the UK is QMUL’s LL.M. in Energy and Climate Change Law LL.M., which looks at energy law topics from an international, interdisciplinary perspective. The program is run through the school’s Energy and Climate Change Law Institute, which organizes events and produces research in the field.

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The LLM in Energy Law degree program is designed for students who have already earned a law degree and wish to pursue intensive study and training in the field of energy law. Students can complete the 30-credit program in as little as 12 months but can take up to five years to obtain their degree. Applications to Vermont Law and Graduate School's​ LLM in Energy Law program is open to any person who has completed a Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited institution or the international first law degree equivalent.

Program Description

Vermont Law and Graduate School offers over 50 courses in energy and environmental law and policy—the widest range of courses offered by any law school in the world—giving students the freedom to design a curriculum that matches their personal objectives. The VLGS faculty who specialize in energy law are affiliated with the law school's highly respected Institute for Energy and the Environment , which offers students opportunities to do practical work in the energy field and to meet and learn from energy experts who collaborate on institute projects with VLGS faculty. Students in the LLM in Energy Law program participate in a special LLM seminar focusing on advanced research topics in environmental and energy law. Online learning opportunities are available for students who wish to pursue a LLM in Energy Law.

At A Glance

Program Center: Institute for Energy and the Environment Location:  Online, on-campus or a hybrid of both Credit Requirements:  30 credits

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Texas A&M University Catalogs

Energy law-environmental and energy law and policy - certificate.

The Certificate in Energy Law - Environmental and Energy Law and Policy is designed for environmental energy industry professionals (including experts who work in clean energy environments such as wind and solar power, environmental engineers, and renewable energy consultants and specialists) to deliver specialized legal training for an in-depth understanding of the industry’s changing complex legal and commercial aspects. 

This graduate-level Certificate in Energy Law - Environmental and Energy Law and Policy will prepare new and experienced environmental energy industry professionals to effectively address complex legal and policy challenges in the environmental energy sector. Specifically, participants will be exposed to (i) important Federal and state laws, regulations and policies in the environmental energy sector, and (ii) advances in theory and practice, as well as applications of law, regulation and policies through case studies through a module-based structure. Individuals who complete the program will be able to synthesize scenarios, practice, and legal regulation in the environmental energy sector, providing analysis or judgments for consideration to organizational leadership with a nuanced perspective.

The Certificate in Energy Law - Environmental and Energy Law and Policy provides an industry-responsive curriculum with a focus on energy and environmental law as it applies to policies, business, and economic factors. Courses are offered online to provide a flexible schedule for working professionals. Interactive coursework includes case study assignments and regular interaction with classmates through zoom meetings, videos, audio casts, chat rooms, discussion boards, and group breakout sessions.

This program is approved for delivery via asynchronous distance education technology.

For more information, please go to  law.tamu.edu .

(a) Students enrolled in the Masters of Legal Studies degree program or the Master of Laws degree program at Texas A&M University School of Law and earning the Certificate in Energy Law-Environmental and Energy Law and Policy concurrently with the degree program and (b) students who have previously earned a degree from Texas A&M University School of Law are required to take two other elective courses in lieu of the required courses listed.

Students who are licensed to practice law in the United States or who hold a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an ABA-accredited law school are required to take two additional courses in lieu of the required courses listed.

Students who are foreign-educated lawyers possessing a degree equivalent to the JD are required to take one additional elective course in lieu of LAW 618 Contract Law and Strategies.

Students enrolled in the Masters of Legal Studies degree program or the Master of Laws degree program at Texas A&M University School of Law and earning the Certificate in Energy Law-Environmental and Energy Law and Policy concurrently with the degree program must have applied for graduation for the degree program in the semester in which the Certificate is to be awarded and must successfully complete the semester credit hours as indicated on their degree plan.

PhD Energy Law

M.phil and m.phil/phd (energy law).

Admission Requirements for M.Phil and M.Phil/PhD Degree in Energy Law are as follows:

• Candidates with relevant and applicable LL.M degree can proceed to M.Phil or M.Phil/PhD.
• Candidates may be required to take and pass an approved combination of 800 level courses.
• Candidates will be required to carry out an original research and submit a dissertation on a topic chosen in consultation with the supervisor and approved by the University Senate.

Admission Requirements for PhD Degree (Energy Law)

Entry into the PhD programme shall be on a competitive basis. The following are the criteria for admitting students to the programme:

• Admission is open to candidates who have attained a minimum average of 60% in any of the relevant and LL.M (Energy Law) degree programmes.
• Candidates for the M.Phil Degree Programme of the University of Ibadan who have satisfied the course requirements for the degree and have been permitted by Senate to upgrade their registration on the basis of satisfactory progress in research.

Regulations Governing the Award of the Degree

Examinations shall be conducted in accordance with existing regulations of the Postgraduate School, University of Ibadan. To qualify for the award of PhD, the following conditions must be fulfilled. The candidate must sit for and pass all the compulsory courses as well as any combination of one set of elective courses. The candidate must also satisfy all other requirements of the postgraduate school governing the award of the PhD degree. The two elements of the Centre's academic activities are course work and thesis writing.

Preference will be given in the selection process to women and those who are being sponsored by industry, or any other organization

LBJ School PhD candidate is leveraging sustainable energy policy for global development

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The Movers & Change- Makers series highlights some of the upcoming graduates of the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs who are set to make an impact in both their policy areas and communities. These leaders exemplify The University of Texas at Austin's core values of learning, discovery, freedom, leadership, individual opportunity and responsibility , gaining the Know-how to change the world through their studies at the LBJ School.   

Vivek Shastry is a PhD candidate whose journey is marked by a profound commitment to leveraging energy policy for international development. Hailing from Bangalore, India, Shastry’s path to the forefront of sustainable energy advocacy is characterized by a blend of academic excellence, grassroots engagement , and a relentless drive to affect positive change in marginalized communities.   

Shastry returned to India after completing his dual master’s degree at the UT Austin School of Architecture in Sustainable Design and Community and Regional Planning. He began working with SELCO Foundation, a Bangalore-based clean energy non-profit, for three years at the intersection of energy and development. This firsthand understanding of the challenges and opportunities at the local level inspired Shastry to bridge the gap between academic discourse and practical solutions through a Ph.D. program at the LBJ School.   

Shastry’s passion for public affairs is rooted in his personal experiences and observations of the transformative power of sustainable energy.   

“I am passionate about facilitating development and well-being through sustainable energy. As I travel around rural regions in many countries, the most basic community needs, such as access to primary healthcare, quality education and stable employment, all get affected by a lack of access to reliable electricity,” Shastry said. “By enabling these services through clean energy, there is an opportunity to rapidly facilitate a better quality of life for these communities while achieving the much-desired carbon emission reductions as an added benefit.”  

In addition to his academic pursuits, Shastry is actively engaged in public service and community activism. As a core member of the PhD Advisory Board and student representative on the internal review committee at the LBJ School, he works tirelessly to amplify the voices of his peers and enhance the academic experience for incoming students.     

Looking ahead, Shastry’s aspirations extend beyond academia. He envisions a career dedicated to transformative initiatives that uplift historically disadvantaged communities. He currently serves as a Senior Research Associate at Columbia University’s Center on Global Energy Policy and leads initiatives such as the North x South Series, a platform for knowledge exchange on energy topics among countries in the global north and global south. He also leads a project mapping productive uses of renewable energy in refugee camps in northern Kenya. “I aspire to develop and lead transformative initiatives that bring about tangible, sustainable development to historically disadvantaged and vulnerable communities globally.”  

Shastry’s academic achievements have been recognized through prestigious fellowships such as the J.J. Pickle Doctoral Fellowship and the University Graduate Continuing Fellowship. These accolades and his unwavering dedication to making a difference position him as a driving force in energy policy and international development. As Shastry prepares to graduate, he is poised to leave an indelible mark on the world stage, embodying the ethos of leadership and responsibility instilled by his alma mater.  

For more information on the Ph.D. in Public Policy , visit our degree programs page.

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