Law

What would I study and how do courses differ?

A Law degree provides an excellent foundation of legal knowledge that will stand you in good stead as a lawyer (solicitor or barrister). You do not have to do an undergraduate Law degree to be a lawyer and may ‘convert’ from a good first degree in another subject through professional examinations (Graduate Diploma in Law).

What are typical entry requirements?

Check whether or not your university of choice requires the LNAT in addition to A Levels. Here, you will be advised of when registration for the test opens (usually late August/early September) and those universities which require and access practice papers. The more competitive universities, such as Cambridge, Oxford, Durham and UCL, require A*AA-AAA at A Level. Entry requirements for other Russell group universities typically require at least AAA.

Are there any essential or recommended A Levels?

A Levels which demonstrate analysis and argument, excellent writing skills, the ability to read and absorb a quantity of reading material at one sitting, and strong skills of reason are recommended. Theology, Philosophy, English and History are ideal. Modern Languages are useful, and especially if you intend to practise Law. A second language is useful to a lawyer and demonstrates ability to analyse language. Economics, Maths and even a Science show skills of logic, calculation and analysis.

Which are the best universities for Law?

Cambridge, Oxford, Durham, UCL and LSE are competitive. Some will offer Joint Honours with French or Spanish Law, for example.

Is there any special advice for Oxbridge applicants?

The LNAT is required by Oxford but not Cambridge. The Cambridge Law Test is designed and used by most of the Cambridge Colleges.

What is important for my personal statement or interview?

Be prepared to discuss issues of Law in the media and your reading in your personal statement, and in a way that shows intelligent analysis of points of Law you will have encountered.

Suggested reading list:

Law and Modern Society - P S Atiyah, Oxford, 1995 Learning the Law - Glanville Williams and A T H Smith, Sweet and Maxwell, 2010 The Law Machine - Marcel Berlins and Clare Dyer, Penguin, 2000 Getting into Law - Carl Lygo, Trotman, 2010 The Rule of Law - Tom Bingham (Senior Law Lord, Lord Bingham) What About Law? - Barnard, O’Sullivan and Virgo

Do I need to do work experience?

Yes – demonstrate an interest in the justice system / commercial world.

Which jobs can I do with Law?

A degree in Law goes much further than preparing you for a career as a barrister or solicitor. A degree in Law is ideally suited for Banking, Accountancy, Business, Industrial and commercial Management, Journalism, Local Government and the Civil Service.