Different Types of Law Courses to Study in the UK and Specialisms

Law is a demanding and intellectually rigorous field of study, but the career opportunities available after graduation make the effort highly rewarding. Law graduates in the UK can pursue a wide range of professional pathways, including commercial law, corporate law, criminal law, international law, and specialist advisory roles across both the private and public sectors.

The average starting salary for a law graduate in the UK is approximately £25,000–£32,000 per year, depending on the employer, location, and area of practice. To become a successful lawyer in the UK, students must demonstrate strong analytical ability, critical thinking skills, attention to detail, and excellent communication.

A wide range of law courses in the UK provide students with a deep understanding of legal systems, core principles, and specialist practice areas. Explore the options below and arrange a free consultation with StudyIn to begin your application.

Types of Law Courses in the UK

Bachelor of Laws (LLB)

The LLB (Bachelor of Laws) provides a comprehensive legal education for students aiming to become solicitors or barristers. It develops analytical thinking, legal reasoning, and problem-solving skills, while introducing students to key areas of English and international law.

Most LLB programmes in the UK are three years in duration. The first year focuses on understanding the English legal system and core legal concepts. In later years, students may choose optional modules aligned to their interests, meaning they can begin developing specialist expertise. Modules typically include criminal law, contract law, property law, public law, international law, human rights law, corporate law, environmental law, and more.

Master of Laws (LLM)

The Master of Laws (LLM) is a prestigious postgraduate degree designed for graduates who wish to deepen their specialist legal knowledge. Students may focus on areas such as commercial law, corporate governance, human rights, international trade law, intellectual property, or financial regulation.

LLM students benefit from expert academic supervision, specialist research facilities, and exposure to both UK and international legal frameworks. The programme is particularly suited to students seeking academic, advisory, or senior professional legal careers.

Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) / Postgraduate Diploma in Law (PGDL)

The GDL/PGDL is an intensive one-year law conversion course designed for students who have completed a degree in another discipline and wish to transition into law. It condenses the essential elements of a full law degree into a shorter study period, providing strong grounding in key legal subjects.

Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) Preparation Courses

The SQE is now the primary route to qualifying as a solicitor in England and Wales. Students must complete SQE1 and SQE2 assessments alongside qualifying work experience. Many UK universities and law schools offer specialist SQE preparation programmes to support students through this process.

Bar Training Course (BTC)

The Bar Training Course (previously known as the BPTC) prepares graduates to practise as barristers in England and Wales. Applicants normally require at least a 2:2 degree in law, or a non-law degree alongside a law conversion course such as the GDL/PGDL.

Popular Law Course Specialisations

Students can choose from a wide variety of specialist fields, depending on their professional ambitions:

• Admiralty (Maritime) Law: Regulates international shipping, navigation, and maritime disputes.
• Business / Company Law: Governs commercial transactions, corporate structures, and financial regulation.
• Constitutional Law: Focuses on governance systems, political power, and legal rights.
• Criminal Law: Involves defending or prosecuting individuals or organisations accused of crime.
• Environmental Law: Addresses the regulation and protection of natural resources and ecosystems.
• Health Law: Covers medical ethics, regulatory frameworks, and patient rights.
• Intellectual Property Law: Protects innovations, creative works, and digital content.
• Corporate Law: Manages governance, mergers, acquisitions, and compliance issues.
• Commercial Law: Applies to trade, commerce, and transactions between individuals and businesses.
• Human Rights Law: Focuses on equality, justice, and protection of civil liberties.
• International Law: Governs relations between countries, treaties, and global institutions.

Top Five Law Schools in the UK

1. London School of Economics (LSE)

LSE Law School consistently ranks among the top law schools globally. Students benefit from small-group teaching, international perspectives, and strong employer connections.

2. University of Oxford

Oxford Law Faculty offers one of the most competitive and respected legal educations internationally. Its BA in Jurisprudence is recognised as a qualifying law degree, while postgraduate law programmes attract scholars from across the globe.

3. University of Cambridge

Cambridge Law Faculty is one of the oldest and most prestigious law schools in the world. Its BA Law Tripos, LLM, and MCL programmes are globally respected, and students benefit from world-class academic leadership and research.

4. Durham University

Durham Law School is one of the UK’s most respected legal institutions, known for high-quality teaching, outstanding graduate outcomes, and strong employment links. Students study within a collegiate university environment with excellent academic support.

5. University College London (UCL)

UCL Laws is internationally recognised for research excellence and innovation in legal education. It consistently ranks among the UK’s leading institutions for law.

Law Entry Requirements in the UK

Entry requirements vary depending on the university and level of study. As guidance:

• LLB (Undergraduate)
  Many UK universities require completion of Standard XII with strong academic grades. Typical requirements range from 70–90% depending on the Board and institution. Some universities may also require specific subjects or scores in English.
• LLM (Postgraduate)
  Applicants normally need a recognised bachelor’s degree in law with marks equivalent to a UK 2:1 or 2:2 Honours degree (usually 55–65% or above depending on the institution). Some universities will consider students with a non-law degree if relevant modules or work experience are demonstrated.
• English Language Requirements
  Most universities require IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall with minimum component scores. Equivalent tests such as PTE or TOEFL may also be accepted.

Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as applications are assessed holistically based on grades, personal statement, academic references, and relevant experience.

Study Law in the UK

Studying law in the UK offers international students world-class academic training, exceptional career prospects, and exposure to one of the most influential legal systems in the world. Whether your goal is to become a solicitor, barrister, legal consultant, academic, or policy specialist, the UK offers unparalleled opportunities.

Speak to a StudyIn counsellor today to explore law courses, understand entry requirements, and begin your application using our services.

FAQs

How many years does it take to study law in the UK?

Most LLB degrees take three years. Postgraduate pathways such as the LLM or PGDL typically take one year of full-time study. Professional training routes then follow depending on whether you choose to become a solicitor or barrister.

What qualifications do I need to study law?

For undergraduate study, students usually need strong school-leaving grades such as A-Levels or Standard XII. For postgraduate study, a recognised bachelor’s degree is required. English language proficiency must also be demonstrated.

Can Indian students study law in the UK?

Yes. UK universities welcome Indian students at all levels of legal study. Students should meet academic and English language entry criteria and follow the standard international application process.

How much does an LLB cost in the UK?

For international students, LLB tuition fees typically range from £15,000 to £30,000 per year, depending on the university and location. Fees at leading institutions and London-based universities may be higher.