Law Degree LLB

A Law degree is one of the most respected qualifications in the UK, offering a route into the legal profession as well as careers in business, politics, public service and beyond. Studying Law develops analytical thinking, argumentation and research skills while giving you a strong foundation in legal principles, systems and practice.

Course Structure

A qualifying Bachelor of Laws (LLB) usually lasts three years full time, or four years if combined with a placement year or study abroad. Many universities also offer a Law with… option, allowing you to combine Law with subjects such as Business, Criminology or Politics.

Teaching includes lectures, small-group tutorials, seminars, workshops, moots (mock trials) and independent research. Assessment is typically through essays, problem questions, exams, presentations and a final-year dissertation or research project.

Typical Modules Might Include

Year 1 – Foundations of Law

• Contract Law

• Criminal Law

• Public Law (Constitutional & Administrative Law)

• English Legal System and Legal Skills

• Law of Tort

Year 2 – Core Legal Principles

• Land Law

• Equity and Trusts

• EU Law (where applicable)

• Human Rights Law

• Legal Research Methods

  
  

Year 3 – Specialisation and Advanced Study

• Company and Commercial Law

• Employment Law

• Family Law

• International Law

• Intellectual Property Law

• Dissertation or extended research project

Students interested in becoming solicitors or barristers will study the seven Foundations of Legal Knowledge, which are required for professional training.

Useful A-Level or BTEC Subjects

Entry requirements vary, but useful subjects include:

• A levels: Law (though not essential), History, Politics, Sociology, English Literature or Philosophy.

  
  

• BTECs: Applied Law or Business may be accepted, often with strong grades.

  
  

• International Baccalaureate: Subjects like History, English and Global Politics are well regarded.

  
  

• Law degrees value essay-based subjects that develop analytical thinking and argumentation.

  
  

What Makes a Strong Application

• Law courses are highly competitive. A strong application should include:

  
  

• Excellent academic performance, particularly in essay-based subjects.

  
  

• Work experience, such as shadowing solicitors, volunteering at Citizens Advice, or taking part in debating or mock trial competitions.

  
  

• A personal statement that demonstrates strong reasoning skills, interest in justice and motivation for studying Law.

  
  

• Extracurricular activities that showcase leadership, critical thinking and communication skills.

  
  

Transferable Skills You Will Develop

A Law degree develops a wide range of transferable skills, including:

• Analytical thinking: Interpreting complex information and arguments.

  
  

• Communication: Presenting clear, logical arguments in writing and speech.

  
  

• Problem-solving: Applying legal principles to real-life scenarios.

  
  

• Research: Gathering and evaluating evidence from multiple sources.

  
  

• Time management: Balancing heavy reading and deadlines.

  
  

• Negotiation and persuasion: Building cases and influencing outcomes.

  
  

• These skills are valued in law and across business, government and the non-profit sector.

Wider Reading: Recommended Books for Aspiring Law Students

To show initiative and strengthen your application, here are four accessible books for prospective law students:

“Letters to a Law Student” by Nicholas McBride – A practical and engaging introduction to studying Law at university.

“What About Law?” by Catherine Barnard, Janet O’Sullivan and Graham Virgo – Introduces key areas of law in a student-friendly way.

“Eve Was Framed” by Helena Kennedy – A powerful account of how the legal system treats women.

“The Rule of Law” by Tom Bingham – An insightful exploration of why the rule of law matters in society.

Typical Pay After Graduation

Law graduates who continue into professional training can expect strong earning potential.

• Solicitors: Trainee solicitors typically earn £25,000–£45,000, rising to £60,000+ after qualification. In top London firms, newly qualified solicitors can earn £80,000–£100,000+.

  
  

• Barristers: Pupillage salaries range from £20,000–£45,000. Experienced barristers can earn from £50,000 to well over £200,000 depending on specialism.

  
  

• Other careers: Law graduates working in business, government or consultancy typically earn £25,000–£40,000 in entry-level roles, with strong progression opportunities.