LLB Law

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Southampton

Program Overview

The LLB Law at the University of Southampton is designed for students who want to understand how the law shapes society and influences real-world decisions. It’s perfect for those who are passionate about justice, reasoning, and developing skills to argue, analyse, and solve complex problems — preparing you for a successful career in law or beyond.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In your first year, you’ll build a strong foundation in the core principles of law and the English legal system. You’ll explore key modules such as Contract Law, Criminal Law, and Public Law, gaining insight into how legal rules are created and applied. This year focuses on developing essential legal research, writing, and advocacy skills.

Year 2
The second year deepens your understanding of how law interacts with society and business. You’ll study areas like Tort Law, Land Law, and Equity & Trusts, while also exploring optional subjects such as Human Rights Law or Commercial Law. Through seminars and case studies, you’ll strengthen your analytical ability and start thinking like a legal professional.

Year 3
In your final year, you’ll apply your learning to specialist and contemporary legal topics. Modules may include Company Law, International Law, and Family Law. You can also choose an independent research project or dissertation, where you’ll investigate an area of law that truly interests you, guided by experienced academics and practitioners.

Focus Areas: Contract Law, Criminal Law, Tort Law, Human Rights, International Law, Legal Research and Advocacy.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates will be able to critically evaluate legal frameworks, apply legal reasoning to real cases, conduct professional research, and communicate complex ideas with clarity and precision.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): This degree is a Qualifying Law Degree (QLD), recognised by the Bar Standards Board (BSB) and the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) — providing a direct route to becoming a solicitor or barrister.

Reputation (Employability & Rankings): The University of Southampton is ranked among the UK’s top 20 universities (Guardian University Guide 2025) and is part of the prestigious Russell Group, known for its excellence in legal education and graduate employability.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Global Legal Clinic
The Global Legal Clinic offers students the opportunity to engage in experiential learning through real-world legal cases, providing free legal advice to the community. This initiative allows students to develop practical skills and gain insights into various areas of law.
Pro Bono Activities
Students can participate in various pro bono activities, including clinics focused on areas such as employment law, family law, housing law, and business law. These activities enable students to apply their legal knowledge in practical settings while serving the community.
Internships and Placements
The university facilitates internships and placements with law firms and organizations, providing students with hands-on experience in the legal profession. These opportunities enhance employability and allow students to apply their academic learning in professional environments.
Mooting and Advocacy
Students have the chance 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.
International Opportunities
The university offers options for studying abroad, allowing students to experience different legal systems and cultures, enriching their global perspective and enhancing their understanding of international law.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Studying Law at Southampton opens doors to a wide range of careers. Many graduates go on to become solicitors, barristers or legal consultants, while others find exciting roles in government, finance, policy, and corporate sectors. The degree gives you a strong foundation that employers trust — so you’ll have the freedom to shape a career path that genuinely fits you.

You’ll also be supported every step of the way:

Career support from Day 1: Southampton Law School runs a structured Careers & Employability programme, offering mooting, negotiation workshops, pro bono experience, and opportunities to shadow senior members of the judiciary.
Real-world experience: You can gain hands-on legal exposure through the Law Clinic and take part in national mooting and negotiation competitions.
Placement option: The Year in Employment lets you work full-time for a year while remaining enrolled — perfect for building contacts and a strong CV.
Strong employment outcomes: Government data shows that 15 months after graduating, Southampton LLB graduates typically earn around £25,000, rising to over £31,000 after five years, with 98% in employment.
Industry recognition: The LLB is an officially recognised Qualifying Law Degree — approved by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and Bar Standards Board — meaning it keeps its value long after graduation.
Wide career possibilities: Graduates commonly work as:
- Solicitors or barristers (after professional training)
- Legal or compliance advisers
- Civil service, policy and government roles
- Risk, consulting or corporate law positions
- Media, publishing and communication roles

Further Academic Progression

After finishing your LLB, you’ll have several routes to continue your studies:

Pursue professional qualification to become a solicitor or barrister through the formal UK training pathways.
Study a specialist LLM in areas such as International Law, Maritime Law, Corporate Law or Human Rights.
Branch into interdisciplinary fields with postgraduate study in business, public policy, ethics, or international relations to broaden your career options.