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Why Choose Law at SOAS?
The SOAS Law degree cultivates highly skilled, socially conscious, and critically engaged graduates who use their legal knowledge and expertise to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the wider world. Our unique approach to legal education ensures that you not only develop core legal competencies but also gain a global perspective, essential for navigating today’s interconnected legal landscape.
A Global Approach to Law
In an era where legal issues transcend national boundaries, traditional law degrees may not fully equip students for the complexities of modern legal practice. At SOAS, we take a comparative and interdisciplinary approach, helping you develop a distinctive skill set that goes beyond conventional legal education. You’ll explore international, transnational, and regional legal frameworks, preparing you to address pressing global legal challenges effectively.
Exceptional Rankings and Reputation
SOAS is recognized globally for its excellence in legal education and research:
✔ 14th in the UK for Law (QS World University Rankings 2024)
✔ 11th in the UK for Academic Reputation (QS World University Rankings 2024)
✔ Ranked 1st in the UK for research publications (Research Excellence Framework - REF 2021)
✔ School of Law ranked 6th in the UK for research quality (REF 2021)
A Unique Learning Experience
At SOAS, you will be part of a diverse and intellectually stimulating academic environment. You’ll gain critical insights into global legal systems, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and be encouraged to challenge traditional perspectives. Our emphasis on social justice, human rights, and international law ensures that you graduate not only as a legal expert but also as an advocate for change in the legal profession and beyond.
Experiential Learning Opportunities
SOAS integrates hands-on legal training into its curriculum, providing students with opportunities to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts:
Clinical Legal Education Programme: Students engage with partner organizations to develop legal skills across various areas of law, enhancing employability and promoting access to justice. SOAS
Pro Bono Law Clinics: Students collaborate with practicing lawyers on actual cases involving human rights and civil rights, offering services free of charge to clients.
Comparative and International Law Focus: The curriculum includes modules like 'Legal Systems of Asia and Africa,' encouraging a global perspective from the outset.
⚖️ Legal Career Pathways:
Solicitor: Graduates can pursue the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) to qualify as solicitors. SOAS'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.Comprehensive Understanding of English Law: The LLB program provides a solid foundation in the core elements and principles of the English legal system, equipping students with essential analytical skills for a demanding law degree.Diverse Combined Honours Options: SOAS offers Combined Honours degrees, allowing students to study law alongside another subject. This interdisciplinary approach enables the development of a specialist pathway tailored to individual interests and career aspirations.Year Abroad Opportunities: The LLB with Year Abroad program enables students to study at partner institutions, primarily in the Global South, providing a unique perspective on international legal systems and enriching the academic experience. Focus on Legal Systems of Asia and Africa: SOAS specializes in the legal systems and challenges of the developing world, offering expertise in human rights, international law, environmental law, and international trade, providing a global context to legal studiesResearch Excellence and Specialized Centers: The School of Law hosts research centers such as the Centre for East Asian Laws, Centre for Law and Conflict, and Centre for Islamic and Middle Eastern Law, offering students opportunities to engage in specialized research and broaden their legal perspectives.Pro Bono Opportunities: Students have access to Pro Bono law clinics, working alongside practicing lawyers on real cases involving human and civil rights, gaining practical experience and contributing to the communityGlobal Recognition and Accreditation: The LLB program is recognized as a Qualifying Law Degree by the Law Society of England and Wales and the Bar Standards Board, satisfying professional requirements for legal training. Diverse Career Prospects: A SOAS law degree opens doors to various careers, including legal practice in the UK and overseas, business, government, and the third sector, reflecting the program's versatility and the institution's strong reputationSolicitor – 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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SOAS University of London
