CANADIAN STUDENTS AND THE EXETER LAW SCHOOL
Gold
STUDYING AT THE UNIVERSITY OF EXETER
Each year we welcome students from Canada, and we currently have around 100 Canadian students studying at all levels with us at the University of Exeter, with many of those students based in the Exeter Law School.
The University of Exeter is a member of the prestigious Russell Group. It has over 30,000 students and our international focus and thriving multi-national community of staff and students from over 150 countries ensures you will receive a warm welcome if you choose to study with us here at Exeter.
Many Canadian students seek to study Law in the UK and the University of Exeter can offer a range of programmes and extra-curricular opportunities as a first step to qualification in both Canada and England/Wales.
Programmes most popular with Canadian students
Graduate LLB (our fast track, two-year programme)
LLB Law
LLB English Law and French Law/ Master 1 (Maîtrise en Droit)
We also offer an LLB Law and Business° and a BBL Bachelor of Business and Laws at our Penryn Campus in Cornwall°
Please note that the contents of this brochure is relating to studying at our Streatham Campus in Exeter. Visit our website for further information on studying at our Penryn Campus in Cornwall: exeter.ac.uk/law/cornwall
We’re delighted you’re considering studying with the University of Exeter Law School. The combination of academic excellence and skills development opportunities means that our students are recognised for their flexibility and employability within the legal profession and beyond. Our European, international and interdisciplinary perspectives are supported by a cosmopolitan team of academics while our innovative, research-led teaching informs our internationally renowned programmes.
Professor Caroline Fournet
Head
of the
Exeter Law School
GRADUATE LLB
Students can undertake a fast track, two-year accelerated conversion programme which leads to a qualifying LLB law degree.
Ideal for graduates from a wide range of disciplines seeking to change direction and embark on a rewarding career in law.
Our LLB programmes provide an excellent start to a legal career if that is your goal, equipping you with the knowledge and skills that will support you towards the next steps to professional legal qualification. This includes the ‘foundations of legal knowledge’ subjects required for the academic stage of qualification as a barrister. If you plan to qualify as a solicitor or barrister, after you graduate you will need to comply with the further training and other requirements of the Solicitors Regulation Authority or the Bar Standards Board, or the relevant regulatory body in the country in which you intend to practice.
You can apply for a two-year visa to work in the UK after completing your degree, giving you the opportunity to gain practical, international work experience.
We have an excellent track record for graduate employment. We have a dedicated University Careers Service and an annual Law Fair attracting exhibitors from large international, national and local law firms and employers.
You will benefit from our excellent relationship with members of the legal profession, including many of our alumni, who are in regular contact with students through activities such as workshops, skills sessions, mooting, pro bono work, networking, internships, shadowing and mentoring.
Core modules:
Constitutional and Administrative Law
Criminal Law
European Union Law
Land Law
Law of Torts
The Law of Contract
Trusts
Plus a wide range of vocationally-orientated options in subjects such as Canadian Constitutional Law: Foundations; Human Rights Law; Commercial Law; Company Law; Family Law; Public International Law; Medical Law and Bioethics; Employment Law; Law of Evidence; or to write a dissertation on a specific Canadian speciality.
Scholarships available
The Graduate LLB scholarship (Canada) consists of a fee reduction of £2500 in the first year of the programme and, as long as a 2:1 average is achieved in Year 1, £2500 in the second year.
Please see page 5 for more information.
FUNDING
For Canadian students starting the Graduate LLB in September 2025 we are offering a fee reduction of £2,500 in Year 1 and £2,500 in Year 2 (providing a 2:1 average is achieved in Year 1).
To be eligible for the scholarship candidates must be Canadian, need to have received an offer and accepted a place for the Graduate LLB at the University of Exeter for the academic year starting September 2025.
Further details of the scholarship can be found on our website:
PROFESSIONAL PLACEMENT
LLB with Professional Placement
Spending up to a year carrying out a professional placement with a law firm, in-house legal team or industry as part of your degree programme is an invaluable opportunity. You will develop and deepen your understanding of business and legal or industry practices. The programme is designed to provide a first-hand understanding of a professional working environment through the enhancement of key transferable skills such as working with others, problem solving and communication. This unlocks a world of experience that allows you to develop essential employability and interpersonal skills that relate to your degree and future career. If, as a graduate, you intend to undertake the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE), your placement year can also count towards your qualifying work experience.
You will take full responsibility for finding and organising your placement in a legal or business setting of your choosing (either in the UK or abroad), with preparation, support and approval from the University. This is a great way to demonstrate to employers your adaptability, commercial awareness, independence and resourcefulness.
Previous placement students have secured placement years with a wide range of high-quality employers, including Hugh James, EDF, Nissan, BT, Williams Advanced Engineering, Devon & Cornwall Police and Hawksmoor Investment Management.
Global law firm Reed Smith LLP also offers up to 5 places at Reed Smith annually. Placement students will develop skills relevant to a future career in law, especially in the field of legal innovation. These placements are awarded, after a competitive application process, to high achieving students following completion of their first year of study.
More details can be found on our website: exeter.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/law/ law_placement
MOOTING
The University of Exeter boasts an excellent, and growing, mooting programme, which provides undergraduate and postgraduate students with the opportunity to participate in a broad range of competitions. Exeter enjoys an international reputation for mooting and our students have been successful in competitions all over the world. Mooting is a vital part of every law student’s education. Whether you intend to practice as a solicitor or a barrister, the advocacy skills that a moot teaches are invaluable.
Mooters have a dedicated mini-library hosted at the Exeter Law School at their exclusive disposal. This contains books on mooting and public speaking, as well as specialised monographs on the topics relevant to the ongoing mooting competitions. We also have dedicated staff at the library devoted to helping our mooters with their research. You’ll receive coaching from staff and present your arguments before volunteer judges in a purpose-built moot court.
Negotiation
Negotiating is a key skill in every lawyer’s repertoire. The University of Exeter’s negotiation programme is designed to enhance the student’s skills through a variety of pathways. Students have the opportunity to compete for the University team and represent Exeter at the annual CEDR (Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution) regional competition in Bristol. Students interested in further skill building sessions may join the student negotiation group that hosts an internal competition with mini skills sessions.
PRO BONO
Community Law Clinic
The University of Exeter Community Law Clinic is an award-winning student-led law clinic offering free legal advice to individuals who are otherwise unable to access justice.
The Clinic provides legal advice in the areas of housing, employment, and immigration as well as general civil litigation. There are serious barriers for litigants in person unable to afford private legal representation navigating the legal system. The Clinic seeks to assist clients with identifying and addressing their legal needs.
The Clinic provides students an enriching educational offering. Students develop key skills of client interviewing, drafting, and research, either as part of a module or summer volunteering. The 30 unit module provides a clinical opportunity allowing students to actively work on cases under supervision of solicitors and barristers as part of their law degree.
More details on each programme can be found on our website: exeter.ac.uk/law/community/ communitylawclinic
“My personal tutor strongly recommended taking up this opportunity in my final year of the Graduate LLB program. I was thrilled because the clinic allowed me to develop practical legal skills such as client interviewing. I have taken my academic knowledge and applied it to a real-world situation. I have found this extremely beneficial and provided a significant stepping-stone to prepare me for a future career as a lawyer. Additionally, an enticing part of the Justice Clinic is that the work you do with the clinic counts towards your work experience on your CV.
I have had the opportunity to work for a criminal defence law firm for the past three years however, the Justice Clinic has allowed me to gain experience in other areas such as, immigration, land and contract law. I would 100% recommend the Exeter Justice Clinic to any student pursuing a legal career. It not only provides you the opportunity to apply your legal knowledge to a real-life situation, but you also develop the critical practical skills essential to be an effective lawyer.”
Keegan, Graduate LLB student
“The Exeter Community Legal Clinic has provided me with the perfect opportunity to have a glimpse of what working in the legal field would be like. I have been supervised by some of the best solicitors in the southwest of England and have had hands on experience of real-life cases where I am currently making a difference. What makes the clinic valuable to me is the interaction with real clients and the emphasis on legal research from different pathways be it immigration, housing or employment. I have been able to gain value experience in client interviewing which has also enhanced my critical thinking and problem-solving skills.”
William, Graduate LLB student
ACCREDITATION AND YOUR CAREER
SUPPORTING YOUR TRANSITION BACK TO CANADA
England and Canada are both common law systems so much of what we teach is similar. Wherever possible we integrate examples and links to Canadian law into the core law curriculum.
Canadian students who take an LLB programme at the University of Exeter can return to practice in Canada by applying for admission to a law society in a Canadian jurisdiction through taking exams through the National Committee for Accreditation (NCA). The NCA issue a Certificate of Qualification upon successful completion.
Whilst studying at Exeter it is possible to attend webinars and sessions with the NCA. You will be able to opt to study Canadian Constitutional Law as well as write your dissertation on a specific Canadian law issue. We also host sessions with Canadian alumni who are now in practice in Canada to talk you through their own experiences. Our Canadian Law Society will provide further information.
CANADIAN LAW SOCIETY
At Exeter there is a vibrant Canadian Law Society run by members of the Students’ Guild. Their aim is to create a community for Canadian and non-Canadian, law and non-law students. They organise various activities and events through the year and play a key part in helping with the transition from Canada to the UK.
They also help students who want to move or return to Canada upon graduation with postgraduate career options. They organise events and socials where members can interact with other CLS members and other societies.
THRIVING AT THE UNIVERSITY OF EXETER
At the University of Exeter, we believe your education is more than just lectures and exams. It’s a voyage of discovery, driven by your passions and enabled by our dedicated support. We carefully foster a vibrant community where your voice matters, not just in the classroom, but in shaping the very core of your university experience.
Be heard, be involved
We actively invite your participation in crucial decisions about your academic journey. Through student communities, focus groups, and our Students’ Guild, you have the power to influence curriculum development, resource allocation, and campus initiatives. We listen, we feedback, ensuring your university experience is tailored to your needs and aspirations.
Your success is our mission
We understand that every student’s path is unique. Whether you come from a disadvantaged background, are a mature learner, or have joined us from across the globe, we will support your individual journey. Our virtual and physical Student Information Desk (SID), plus localised information points and hubs, will provide dedicated and focused support to ensure you thrive.
Innovative teaching
Our world-leading academics bring teaching to life by exposing you to new perspectives and sharing the latest discoveries as they happen. You will receive exceptional teaching, plus academic support via our personal tutor system.
Tech-powered learning
We work hard to make sure our IT infrastructure seamlessly integrates digital tools into your studies. Access virtual learning environments, online collaboration platforms, and dedicated software packages from practically any device, anywhere. Our Digital Hub will support you through every aspect of your digital life on campus.
Your pocket companion
Our innovative student app puts campus life at your fingertips. Access course materials, track your timetable, find support services, connect with peers, and explore our vibrant university, all from your smartphone. It’s your personalised gateway to everything university life has to offer.
Library services
Our extensive libraries, many open 24/7 during term time, offer an unrivalled wealth of resources, from the Lasok Law Library (based in the Forum Library on the Streatham Campus) online journals and databases to specialist collections, quiet study spaces, and the unique Bill Douglas Cinema Museum. Expert librarians are available to guide your research and find the information you need for your studies.
Community at our heart
We’re more than just a university: we’re a warm and welcoming community where connections flourish. Join our vibrant societies and clubs, explore diverse cultural events, or volunteer your time to make a difference. From sports teams to music ensembles, academic societies to social groups, there’s a place for everyone to belong and contribute.
MEET OUR ALUMNI
Why did you choose to study at Exeter?
I was brought to Exeter by the allure of studying in the English countryside. Coming from Canada, I was looking for a new experience balanced with a university with a strong academic track record. Exeter offered a wonderful English experience without the high cost of living in London and the chance to attend a Russell Group University with a solid academic ranking. Exeter was the perfect match.
What did you enjoy most?
The campus was beautiful, the students were friendly and I had the chance to make life long friends from all around the globe and all walks of life.I enjoyed the close-knit community Exeter Law School offered and the wonderful staff who always had time for a quick chat. No matter how busy they were, they always had time to chat and offer helpful advice.
What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?
Since leaving Exeter, I have been working at one of Canada’s Top 10 Injury law boutique firms. I work with catastrophically injured individuals and help them navigate a complicated and often confusing legal system across Ontario, Canada’s largest Province. As a lawyer in Ontario, I work both in the courtroom and outside. I am a Barrister and Solicitor. I ensure injured clients receive the best possible assistance during the litigation of their injury claims.
Kanon Associate Lawyer, Bergeron Clifford LLP
What did you enjoy most about Exeter?
The quality of teaching and the availability of professors to take questions and discuss the subject matter was a significant highlight of my time at Exeter. The professors are knowledgeable and keen to develop every student’s ability to “think like a lawyer”.
What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?
I was fortunate enough to be offered a training contract with Ropes & Gray LLP after completing my second year of law school. Ropes & Gray fully sponsored my Legal Practice Course, following which I completed my training contract, which took two years. Upon finishing this process I was called to the Bar in England & Wales and moved back to Canada, where I now practice law at Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP, which is one of Canada’s “Seven Sister” law firms. At Osler, my area practice is Restructuring & Insolvency law.
What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?
One of the most important skills you can learn while in law school is communication. Lawyers require a very strong degree of communication skills (both written and oral) in order to convey their arguments or draft agreements to solve complex issues.
What advice would you give to current and future students?
If you are thinking of applying to Exeter, do it. There are so many great opportunities Exeter provides. If you are worried about living abroad, don’t be. There is something for everyone here and the University is incredibly inclusive and welcoming. You will make some amazing friends from around the world and you will always encounter new things. Attending Exeter is a unique experience that surrounds your academic studies.
Justin
Associate
Lawyer, Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP
Why did you choose to study at Exeter?
I chose to study at Exeter because of its prestigious international rankings, exceptional student experience, comprehensive support services, and vibrant campus culture. Despite the challenging climb of hills, the beautiful gardens and scenic landscapes provided a picturesque backdrop for both learning and living.
Exeter Law School, in particular, stood out with its impressive faculty and an inspiring, supportive learning environment. I wholeheartedly recommend Exeter Law School to anyone who will listen.
What
did you enjoy most?
As an international student, what I cherished most were the incredible people I met. I formed lifelong friendships at Exeter and developed a deep appreciation for the campus, the city, and my programme. I look back on my time at Exeter with great fondness and pride.
in Waterloo and the Centre for International Governance Innovation. My specialization includes corporate law, privacy, technology, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance.
In addition to my professional work, I volunteer with my local law society and am an active advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?
What I enjoyed most about my programme was the unparalleled support and resources available, which far exceeded my experience at my Canadian university. The structure of the workshops, recorded lectures, and the additional programmes and events on offer created an enriching and supportive learning environment. The faculty members were incredibly supportive, providing personalized guidance and fostering a collaborative atmosphere that significantly enhanced my learning experience.
The biggest highlight for me was participating in the judicial shadowing scheme. This experience allowed me to observe barristers and judges in action, providing invaluable insights into the practical application of the law and its impact on individuals. Seeing the legal process up close and understanding the human element involved was profoundly inspiring and reinforced my passion for the legal profession.
What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?
Since graduating from Exeter, I have gained valuable experience working at Gowling WLG LLP in Waterloo and the Centre for International Governance Innovation. My specialization includes corporate law, privacy, technology, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance.
In addition to my professional work, I volunteer with my local law society and am an active advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Corporate Counsel, Home Hardware Stores Limited
STUDENT LIFE
There’s more to university than just studying. The friends you will make and the experiences you will have outside of the lecture theatre all help to shape your university experience.
The majority of Canadian students studying with the Exeter Law School tend to choose our LLB Law or Graduate LLB, which are based at our Streatham Campus in Exeter. If you are unable to visit us in person then you can take a virtual tour on our website: exeter.ac.uk/study/campuses/streatham
Our campus
Our Streatham Campus in Exeter is one of the most beautiful in the country with lakes, parkland, woodlands and gardens for you to enjoy throughout the year and has a vibrant and welcoming student community.
The campus is just a 15-minute walk away from the city centre or you can take advantage of the regular bus service that runs between the campus and the city centre. Exeter is also a bike-friendly city with traffic-free cycle routes and an electric bike hire scheme. With good air, rail and road links we are less than two and a half hours away from London.
Student societies
With such a large campus and student community, there is always something you can get involved with. The Students’ Guild has over 200 societies ranging from sport to Faith/Worldview to music,
so there is lots for you to get involved in. As well as the activities organised by the student societies, the Law School also hosts social events where students and staff can get to know one another. These have included film nights, coffee mornings, and quiz nights.
Exeter itself is a culturally rich and welcoming city with an array of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants alongside award-winning museums, independent theatres and cinemas. You can spend your free time visiting historical sites like the cathedral, castle and the underground passages or relax with friends on the beautiful quayside, maybe even take a boat trip.
Beyond the city, you will be spoiled for choice for places to visit and things to do. You can go fossil hunting on the Jurassic Coast, walking or cycling in Dartmoor or Exmoor National Parks or visit award-winning beaches on The English Riviera.
Welcome Week
Before your first term begins, join us for a fun-filled Welcome Week. This is your chance to get to know the campus and local area, learn more about your course, explore our diverse societies and sports, and discover the University’s support services. Plus, it’s the perfect opportunity to make new friends.
Meet our students
Become part of our community before you even arrive on campus. Follow @ExeterUniLife on Instagram, where our students share their university experience and top tips to help you make the most of your degree.
Students’ Guide
Want to get an insight into what it is like to live, socialise and study at the University of Exeter? Check out our Students’ Guide. Written entirely by current students and alumni, it is filled with their advice, photos and memories from their time at Exeter.
exeter.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/prospectus
Travel
Exeter Airport is an international airport located in East Devon, close to the city of Exeter, with direct links to a number of EU destinations as well as within the UK. It also offers onward flights (via Dublin, Ireland) to Boston, Chicago, Newark, New York, Toronto and Washington.
exeter.ac.uk/visit/directions
OUR LOCATION
Bristol 1 hr by train from Exeter
2.5 hrs by train from Exeter
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