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At York St John University, you will benefit from small class sizes, expert guidance, and practical learning opportunities that enhance your employability. Prepare for your future in law with a degree that balances academic excellence and real-world experience.
Study law through interactive lectures and workshops with dedicated staff who provide personalized support. Gain hands-on legal experience at the York St John Law Clinic, where you will work on real cases under supervision.
Choose from three study routes:
Each course incorporates practical experience throughout your studies, ensuring you develop the skills and knowledge required for a successful legal career.
Our commitment to interactive learning and intellectual challenge is reflected in student satisfaction:
1. Legal Placements and Internships
The university provides opportunities for students to undertake legal placements and internships, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world legal settings. These experiences enhance practical skills and improve employability. napier.ac.uk
2. Pro Bono Legal Clinic
Students can participate in the Edinburgh Napier Law Clinic, offering free legal advice to the public. This initiative allows students to gain hands-on experience while contributing to the community. napier.ac.uk
3. Mooting and Debating
The university encourages students to engage in mooting and debating activities, which are essential for developing advocacy skills. Participation in these activities simulates court proceedings and enhances students' oral communication abilities.
4. Work-Based Learning Projects
Students have the opportunity to participate in work-based learning projects, collaborating with external organizations to solve real-world legal problems. These projects provide practical experience and foster professional development.
⚖️ Legal Career Pathways:
Solicitor: Graduates can pursue the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) to qualify as solicitors. Edinburgh Napier Law 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.Students take three compulsory modules per semester covering foundational legal principles.Key topics include Contract Law, Criminal Law, Civil and Criminal Justice Systems, and the Law and the State.Students study three compulsory modules per semester or opt for a Study Abroad experience. Optional placement year in industry available between years 2 and 3.Subjects include Tort Law, Property Law, Law in a Global Context, and Law in Society. Explores the role of law in communities and global legal frameworksModule selection depends on the chosen route (LLB, MLaw, or MLaw Legal Practice). Optional modules run based on student interest and availability.Areas include Equity & Trusts, Medical Law, Family Law, Business Law, Intellectual Property, and Criminal Litigation. Students can choose between optional modules, a dissertation, or Clinical Legal Practice.Students complete a Dissertation across both semesters and select optional modules or Clinical Legal Practice. Specialization options include Employment Law, Corporate Governance, and Personal Injury Law.Involves one compulsory module across both semesters and additional core modules. Prepares students for legal practice and professional roles. The course is accredited by The Bar Standards Board (BSB) and The General Council of the Bar.Students gain real-world experience through legal placements, mooting, and clinical legal practice. Strong emphasis on research, advocacy, and employability skills.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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Edinburgh Napier University
