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Our unique LLB program blends academic excellence with practical and interdisciplinary approaches, providing a comprehensive understanding of law in various contexts.
We are the only law school in the UK that adopts a problem-based learning (PBL) approach for undergraduate law programs. This modern and practical teaching method equips students with essential skills and techniques to excel as legal professionals.
Our dedicated and approachable faculty members ensure high-quality teaching, personalized feedback, and continuous support. Students collaborate closely with faculty in lectures, seminars, and extracurricular activities such as The Student Law Society and the Global Day of Action. Additionally, the Baroness Hale Legal Clinic offers free legal assistance to individuals and businesses, allowing students to gain hands-on legal experience in a supportive environment.
This degree meets the academic requirements for progressing toward professional qualification as a solicitor or barrister in England and Wales. It may also contribute to meeting entry requirements for legal practice in other jurisdictions. For further details on career pathways, refer to the Careers section.
1.Problem-Based Learning (PBL)
York Law School is the only UK law school to base its undergraduate degrees entirely on PBL. This innovative approach involves students working in groups to solve complex legal problems, fostering critical thinking, teamwork, and practical legal skills University of York.
2. Research Internship Programme
LLB students have the opportunity to engage in research internships, collaborating with academic staff on ongoing research projects. This experience provides insight into legal research methodologies and contributes to the development of academic skills .University of York+2University of York+2University of York+2
3. Placements and Internships
The university supports students in securing placements and internships with law firms, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations. These opportunities allow students to apply their legal knowledge in real-world settings and enhance their employability .
4. Mooting and Advocacy
York Law School encourages participation in mooting competitions, providing students with platforms to develop their advocacy skills. The Law Society organizes various events and sub-societies, including mooting and sports, to facilitate skill development and networking .blogs.york.ac.uk
5. Volunteering and Pro Bono Work
Students are encouraged to engage in pro bono work and volunteering, offering legal services to the community under supervision. This involvement not only benefits the public but also allows students to gain practical experience and contribute to access to justice .
6. Study Abroad and Placement Year
The LLB Law program offers an optional placement year or study abroad opportunity, enabling students to gain international experience and broaden their legal perspectives .
⚖️ Legal Career Pathways:
Solicitor: Graduates can pursue the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) to qualify as solicitors. York's offers SQE-aligned support and practical legal training.
Barrister: Those aiming for the Bar can undertake a Bar Training Course (BTC) and apply for pupillage.
Other roles include paralegal, legal executive, advocate, or tribunal officer.
📚 Further Study & Specialisation:
LLM (Master of Laws) in areas like Criminal Justice, Human Rights, or International Law
Postgraduate diplomas in legal practice, dispute resolution, or compliance
PhD or MPhil for research or academic careers
💼 Careers Outside the Traditional Legal Route:
Public sector and civil service roles, including local government and policy-making
Regulatory and compliance roles in finance, healthcare, and corporations
Charity, advocacy, and NGO work, especially in legal aid, immigration, or social justice
Careers in education, human resources, and corporate governance
🧠 Transferable Skills Developed:
Legal analysis and reasoning
Oral and written advocacy
Negotiation and mediation
Problem-solving and strategic thinking
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. 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.Innovative Problem-Based Learning (PBL) Approach: York Law School uniquely employs a problem-based learning methodology, where students collaborate in 'student law firms' to tackle real-world legal scenarios. This approach fosters practical skills and a deep understanding of law in various contextsHigh-Quality Teaching and Support: The university boasts approachable and expert tutors dedicated to delivering high-quality education, personalized feedback, and continuous support, ensuring students' academic and professional growth.Baroness Hale Legal Clinic: Students have the opportunity to gain hands-on legal experience by participating in the Baroness Hale Legal Clinic, which provides free legal advice to the community, enhancing practical skills within a supportive environment.Moot Courtroom Experience: The availability of a mock courtroom allows students to engage in mooting activities, honing their advocacy skills and understanding of courtroom procedures.Diverse Course Offerings: York provides a range of undergraduate law courses, including Law (LLB), Law and Criminology (LLB), and International Human Rights Law (LLB), catering to various interests and career aspirations.Strong Community and Supportive Environment: The law school fosters a diverse and inclusive community, encouraging meaningful relationships among students and staff, which enhances the overall learning experienceComprehensive Careers and Development Programme: York Law School offers a unique Careers and Development Programme that provides essential employability support, guidance, and opportunities to experience law in practice, preparing students for successful careers.National Recognition: The University of York is ranked 12th in the UK for Law according to the Complete University Guide 2024, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence and student satisfaction.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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