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The LLB Law degree at the University of Aberdeen offers a comprehensive legal education, exploring the historical, social, political, and economic influences that shape legal systems and govern societies. More than just learning the law, you will develop the ability to think critically and analytically, equipping you with the skills necessary to approach legal challenges like a professional.
Why Study Law at Aberdeen?
At Aberdeen, you will be guided by passionate and experienced faculty members who will challenge you with complex legal scenarios. You will gain a solid foundation in criminal, public, and private law, legal systems, contracts, human rights, family law, property law, and EU law. This diverse curriculum ensures you graduate with a well-rounded understanding of legal principles and their practical applications.
Hands-On Learning and Student Initiatives
To enhance your legal expertise, you will have opportunities to engage in mock legal debates, contribute to the student-run Law Society, publish work in the student legal journal, and gain practical experience through the community law clinic. These experiences allow you to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world legal issues and refine your advocacy and analytical skills.
1. Pro Bono Legal Work
The Pro Bono Centre at the University of Aberdeen offers students the opportunity to engage in pro bono legal work, providing free legal assistance to individuals and community groups. This initiative allows students to gain practical experience in legal research, client interaction, and case preparation.
2. Mooting and Advocacy
Students can participate in various mooting competitions, simulating real court proceedings to develop their legal argumentation and public speaking skills. The university hosts events and competitions to provide platforms for students to showcase their advocacy skills.
3. Work Placements and Internships
The university offers various legal work experience opportunities, including placements and internships with law firms and legal organizations. These experiences allow students to apply their legal knowledge in professional settings and enhance their employability.
4. Study Abroad Opportunities
The university provides opportunities for students to participate in study abroad programs, allowing them to experience different legal systems and cultures. This exposure broadens students' perspectives and enriches their legal education.
5. Aberdeen Student Law Review (ASLR)
The Aberdeen Student Law Review is a student-run academic law journal that offers students the chance to engage in legal research, writing, and editing. This platform allows students to contribute to academic discourse and gain experience in legal publishing.
⚖️ Legal Career Pathways:
Solicitor: Graduates can pursue the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) to qualify as solicitors. Aberdeen'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.Accreditation and Professional Recognition: The LLB program is accredited by the Law Society of Scotland and the Faculty of Advocates, ensuring that graduates meet the necessary standards to proceed to professional training in Scotland.Diverse Degree Options: Aberdeen offers a range of law degrees, including the standard LLB, LLB with English Law, and specialized programs like International and Comparative Law. This variety allows students to tailor their education to specific career aspirations.Accelerated Programs for Graduates: For individuals holding a prior undergraduate degree, Aberdeen provides a two-year Accelerated LLB program, facilitating a swift transition into the legal profession.International Opportunities: The Law and European Legal Studies program includes a year abroad, offering students exposure to different legal systems and enhancing their global perspective.Practical Experience: Students can engage in initiatives like mock legal debates, a vibrant Law Society, and a community law clinic, providing practical experience that complements academic learning. Strong Graduate Employability: Aberdeen law graduates have a track record of securing prominent positions within Scotland's legal system and beyond, reflecting the university's strong reputation among employers.Personalized Learning Environment: With small class sizes, the university ensures a highly personalized learning experience, fostering close interactions between students and faculty.Global Scholarship Opportunities: The Aberdeen Global Scholarship offers eligible self-funded international undergraduate students a £6,000 scholarship for each year of their program, making legal education more accessible.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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University of Aberdeen
