Studying law in England is the dream of many young people who want a career in a dynamic and prestigious legal environment. The UK education system offers high-quality law programs that are internationally recognised. What is it like to study law in the UK, what are the requirements, application deadlines, costs and possible career paths after graduation?
What are law studies in the United Kingdom like and what are the requirements?
Studying law in the United Kingdom begins with a Bachelor of Laws (LLB), which usually takes three years. The study program covers basic areas of law, such as civil, criminal, constitutional and international law. Students can also choose elective courses that allow them to specialize in specific areas of law.
Entry requirements for law studies in the UK vary from university to university, but usually include:
- high results in secondary school leaving examinations (e.g. A-levels in the UK or their equivalents in other countries);
- good references and cover letter;
- knowledge of English confirmed by a certificate (e.g. IELTS or TOEFL).
When should I apply to become a law student in England?
Application deadlines for law studies in England are usually set by UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). Applications for most courses must be submitted by January 15 of the year in which you plan to start your studies. However, some universities, especially those in the Russell Group, may have earlier deadlines. The schools we cooperate with directly give us the opportunity to apply after official recruitment. Remember to apply directly to the school with us at least a month before the start of the school year for visa reasons. Students living in the British Isles with resident status can apply with us until the start of the school year for a given school year.
How long does it take to study law in the UK?
The standard UK law degree program lasts three years, leading to an LLB degree. For those who wish to continue their legal education, Master of Laws (LLM) programs are also available, which take an additional year. After completing an LLB degree, graduates can also opt for professional courses such as the Legal Practice Course (LPC) for future solicitors or the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) for future barristers.
How big is the cost of law studies in London??
Studies in England are paid. Tuition fees for students with resident status or British Passport (UK) status are usually around £9,250 per year and are funded by Student Finance England. International students face higher costs, which can range from £15,000 to £30,000 per year, depending on the university and study program. Additionally, you need to factor in the cost of living, which can be quite high in cities like London.
Studying in England can be expensive, but there are ways to finance it. Our company will help you take advantage of the available loan options: Tuition Fee Loan and Maintenance Loan for people living in the British Isles.
What are the law school careers in England and Wales?
After completing a law degree in England, graduates have a wide range of career paths to choose from. They can work as:
- Barrister
- Solicitor
- Barrister’s clerk
- Civil Service administrator
- Patent attorney
- Licensed conveyancer
Graduates of English law schools are valued all over the world, which opens the door to work in international law firms and government institutions. Our experts will help you choose the best field and law study programs tailored to your professional aspirations. UNIQ STUDY HUB – Your path to medical success starts here!
A Short Comparison of Law Studies in the UK vs. Europe
Studying law in the UK and across various European countries differs in several respects. In most European countries, including those in the EU, law studies tend to follow a five-year structure, often culminating in a Master of Laws (LLM) degree. In contrast, in the UK, a basic law degree (LLB) typically lasts three years, after which students must undertake additional professional training, such as the Legal Practice Course (LPC) or Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC), to qualify as a solicitor or barrister. Another notable difference is the approach to specialization. In many European countries, students choose a specialization during their master’s studies, focusing on areas such as criminal, civil, or international law.In the UK, students have the flexibility to choose optional courses during their undergraduate (LLB) studies, allowing them to explore different areas of law early on.
Additionally, the legal systems in the UK and continental Europe diverge significantly. Most European countries, such as Germany, France, and Spain, follow a civil law system, which is codified and relies heavily on written laws and statutes. The UK, however, follows a common law system, where judicial precedents and court decisions play a crucial role in shaping legal outcomes.
Also check a wide range of fields of study that is offered by University studies in the UK:
- Medical studies in England
- Architecture studies in England
- Art studies in England
- Acting studies in England
- Music studies in England
With us students can also start the University studies in England without a high school diploma.
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