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It’s ideal for students who are interested in how justice works, how legal decisions are made, and the role of law in shaping everyday life. Unlike a full Law degree that leads directly to legal practice, Legal Studies focuses more on legal theory, legal systems and the relationship between law and other disciplines like politics, history, sociology and criminology. It’s a great option for those interested in law but unsure about becoming a solicitor or barrister.
What Is Legal Studies Like at University?
Legal Studies courses examine how laws are made, interpreted and applied. You’ll study core areas like constitutional law, criminal law, human rights, international law and the philosophy of law. You may also explore legal ethics, law and society, or law and technology. The course typically includes analysis of case law and legal texts but is often less focused on professional legal training and more on the broader context of the law. Many programmes allow you to combine Legal Studies with other subjects such as politics, criminology, or international relations.
How Long Does It Take and What Are the Options?
In the UK, Legal Studies is usually offered as a three-year BA or BSc degree. Some universities offer it as a standalone degree, while others offer it as part of a joint honours course. Legal Studies is sometimes a route into law conversion courses like the SQE preparation or postgraduate study in human rights, international law or legal research. It can also serve as strong preparation for careers that involve policy, justice or advocacy.
How Will You Be Taught and Assessed?
You’ll learn through lectures, seminars, case discussions and independent reading. Legal texts, statutes and landmark cases form the basis of many discussions. Some courses offer mooting or debating opportunities, though this is more common in full law programmes. Assessment may include essays, written exams, research projects, case studies and group presentations. You may also complete a dissertation or extended project in your final year.
What A Levels or Subjects Do You Need?
There are usually no strict subject requirements for Legal Studies, but useful subjects include:
Law (if offered at your school or college)
Politics
History
Sociology
Philosophy or Religious Studies
English
BTECs in Public Services or Applied Law may also be accepted, depending on the university. Strong reading, writing and analytical skills are important. You don’t need to have studied law before, but an interest in justice, current affairs or ethics will help you stand out.
What Skills Will You Develop?
Legal Studies helps build a strong foundation of academic and transferable skills such as:
Understanding of legal systems, processes and institutions
Critical thinking and logical reasoning
Research and analysis of legal materials
Argument development and evaluation
Essay writing and legal communication
Ethical and social awareness
Understanding of rights, governance and the rule of law
These skills are highly useful in law, government, policy, education and many other fields.
What Can You Do With a Legal Studies Degree?
While Legal Studies is not a qualifying law degree in the UK, it still opens many doors. Career paths include:
Policy adviser or researcher
Paralegal or legal assistant (with further training)
Local government or civil service roles
Charity or human rights work
Campaigns and advocacy
Journalism or legal writing
Graduate roles in finance, education, HR or public services
If you want to become a solicitor or barrister, you’ll need to complete further legal training after your degree. In England and Wales, this means taking the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) or the Bar Course if you’re pursuing a career at the Bar. Legal Studies provides a strong base for this, especially if you choose law-focused modules.
Studying Legal Studies Abroad
Legal Studies is offered around the world, often under the name Law and Society or Legal Studies. It’s widely available at universities that combine law with liberal arts or social science education.
USA
In the US, Legal Studies is typically a major within a four-year Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science. It’s common for students to take this route before applying to law school. Courses explore constitutional law, criminal justice, ethics, and political theory. Universities like UC Berkeley, NYU and the University of Wisconsin have strong reputations in this area.
Canada
Canadian universities such as the University of Toronto and Carleton University offer Legal Studies or Law and Society programmes. These are usually four-year degrees that explore the legal system, social justice and human rights. Graduates may go on to law school or enter public policy, advocacy or government.
European Union
In Europe, Legal Studies is often part of interdisciplinary programmes. Many English-taught options exist in the Netherlands, Sweden and Germany. These degrees often take three years and can include a focus on international or EU law, law and politics or human rights. Programmes are ideal for students interested in legal systems without necessarily becoming practising lawyers.
Australia
In Australia, Legal Studies is typically a major within an Arts or Social Science degree. Universities like Monash and the University of Sydney offer flexible programmes with a focus on legal institutions, philosophy of law and public policy. Legal Studies is often paired with politics or criminology.
New Zealand
New Zealand universities such as Victoria University of Wellington and the University of Auckland offer Legal Studies as a major, often with the option to combine it with political science or sociology. Courses include legal theory, justice studies and the role of law in society.
Studying Legal Studies abroad offers insights into different legal systems and international perspectives, which can be especially useful if you're interested in global justice, policy or comparative law.
Is Legal Studies the Right Course for You?
Legal Studies is a great option if you’re curious about how laws shape society and want to understand justice from a broad, interdisciplinary perspective. It suits students who enjoy reading, debating and exploring big ethical and political questions. Whether you're considering a future in policy, advocacy, journalism, government or law, a degree in Legal Studies gives you a solid intellectual foundation and a wide range of career options.
