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Durham Law School is a globally recognized leader in legal education and research. Our top-ranked LLB serves as the first step toward qualifying as a solicitor or barrister.
This research-driven degree offers a comprehensive understanding of the law of England and Wales, along with legal research and practice. With a variety of optional modules, you can tailor your studies to specialize in public or private law, including international law.
The Law School is home to leading research centres and groups, with all teaching staff actively engaged in research that directly informs the curriculum. This ensures a dynamic and intellectually stimulating learning experience that keeps pace with real-world legal developments.
Students benefit from state-of-the-art learning facilities, including a moot court, dedicated workrooms, and a pro bono room, providing an immersive legal environment. Additionally, ten law-related student societies offer extensive extracurricular opportunities beyond the classroom.
For those seeking an international perspective, our LLB offers the option to study abroad for a year at one of our partner institutions. These placements are competitive, extending the program from three to four years for selected students.
With a rigorous academic curriculum, outstanding facilities, and a supportive learning environment, the program equips graduates with the legal and transferable skills needed for a career in law, as well as opportunities in business, government, and academia.
Pro Bono Projects
Durham Law School offers a variety of pro bono initiatives, allowing students to engage in real-world legal work while serving the community. These projects provide practical experience and contribute to access to justice efforts.
Mooting and Advocacy
Students have the opportunity to participate in mooting competitions and advocacy training, essential for developing legal argumentation and public speaking skills. These activities simulate real court proceedings, offering practical experience in legal practice.
Research Opportunities
The Law School is home to several research centres and groups, providing students with opportunities to engage in legal research projects. These centres focus on various areas of law, allowing students to contribute to ongoing legal research and scholarship.
International Exposure
Durham Law School has established agreements with international institutions, offering students opportunities for internships and exposure to global legal practices. These experiences enhance students' understanding of international law and its application.
Student Societies and Activities
The Law School supports a range of student societies and extracurricular activities, allowing students to develop leadership skills and network with legal professionals. These activities complement academic learning and contribute to personal and professional development.
Postgraduate Study:
LLM in specializations such as commercial law, international law, human rights, or intellectual property.
PhD in Law for those pursuing an academic or research career.
Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) for non-law graduates seeking a career change.
Specialized diplomas in areas like arbitration, banking law, and mediation.
Legal Careers:
Comprehensive preparation for becoming a Solicitor or Barrister, with pathways like the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) and Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC).
Employment at leading law firms such as Linklaters, Clifford Chance, and Allen & Overy.
Opportunities to secure pupillages at renowned chambers like Blackstone and 4 New Square.
Corporate Sector:
Roles in corporate law, commercial litigation, banking law, and in-house counsel positions with multinational corporations.
Opportunities in financial services, real estate law, and insurance law.
Public Sector & International Law:
Careers in public law, government, and international organizations such as the UN or EU.
Opportunities in human rights, environmental law, and public policy.
Global Career Opportunities:
Durham’s prestigious reputation and global alumni network open doors to international careers in London, New York, Hong Kong, and Brussels.
Applying for an LLB in the UK requires strong A-levels (AAB–BBB) or equivalent, a UCAS personal statement, a reference, and possibly the LNAT. IELTS 6.5–7.0 is needed for international students.Law graduates can specialise through an LLM or postgraduate studies in fields like International Law, Human Rights Law, Corporate Law, Intellectual Property, Criminal Law, Environmental Law, Cyber Law, Tax Law, Health Law, and Maritime Law. Interdisciplinary options include an MBA, MPP, IR, Criminology, or Human Rights, expanding career opportunities.Strong Employability Support – The school prioritizes career preparation, offering resources to help students stand out in the job market.Durham Employability and Legal Skills Award (DELSA) – An online program designed to develop essential legal and professional skills.Exclusive Employer Engagement – Leading law firms visit Durham and host online events to promote career and internship opportunities.Diverse Career Pathways – Graduates secure roles as solicitors, barristers, consultants, and legal professionals in top organizations.High Graduate Employment Rate – 91% of 2020-21 graduates were in employment or further study within 15 months (HESA Graduate Outcomes).Competitive Salaries – Durham Law graduates earn an average starting salary of £28,000.Opportunities Beyond Law – Alumni work in government, the Civil Service, NGOs, and financial institutions.Global Recognition – Durham Law School is ranked among the world’s top 50 (QS 2023) and 6th in the UK (Complete University Guide 2024).Solicitor – Requires passing the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) and a two-year Qualifying Work Experience (QWE)Barrister – Requires completing the Bar Course (BTC/BPC) and a one-year pupillage in chambersLegal Executive – Qualify via CILEx (Chartered Institute of Legal Executives)Paralegal – Assisting lawyers without full solicitor/barrister qualificationJudge – Requires years of legal practice before applying to the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC)Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) Lawyer – Prosecuting criminal cases on behalf of the governmentIn-House Legal Counsel – Providing legal advice to businesses banks or NGOsGovernment Legal Service (GLS) Lawyer – Advising UK government departmentsHuman Rights Lawyer – Specializing in cases related to justice equality and freedomCriminal Lawyer – Defending or prosecuting in criminal casesCorporate Lawyer – Handling mergers & acquisitions and company law mattersIntellectual Property Lawyer – Advising on trademarks patents and copyrightsFamily Lawyer – Specializing in divorce or child custody and domestic disputesEmployment Lawyer – Advising on workplace disputes and contractsImmigration Lawyer – Helping clients with visas or asylum and citizenship issuesReal Estate Lawyer – Handling property transactions and disputes
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Durham University
