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The Department of Law and Criminology at Royal Holloway is known for its high-quality research and teaching. Studying Law here will allow you to explore the fundamental principles of justice, equity, and equality within the framework of English and European law. This degree is ideal for those aspiring to become barristers or solicitors, as well as for individuals with a keen interest in the legal system and the creation and enforcement of laws. It also equips you with a diverse range of transferable skills highly valued across various industries.
You will examine how different laws apply to various legal issues, helping you understand how the law regulates agreements between individuals and governs the relationship between individuals and the state. In addition to gaining essential legal skills such as research and oral presentation, you will have the flexibility to explore specialist areas of law. Optional modules include family law, medical law, company law, and international law, alongside criminology topics such as terrorism, sentencing and penal policy, and gender and crime.
Our research-driven approach ensures that students engage with cutting-edge materials, thought-provoking debates, and expert-led teaching. With small class sizes and individual attention, you will have the opportunity to develop expertise in a specialist field while benefiting from a flexible and supportive learning environment.
1. Voluntary Work in the Community Module
This module allows students to engage in voluntary work with local charities and community organizations. Students undertake 60 hours of voluntary work alongside a module on knowledge and skills for volunteering, providing them with practical experience and enhancing their employability. Royal Holloway, University of London
2. Blended Learning Approach
Royal Holloway employs a blended learning approach, combining traditional lectures with access to smart technology and a variety of learning and experiential activities outside of lectures. This approach aims to enhance students' learning experiences and develop transferable skills. Royal Holloway, University of London
3. Focus on Employability
The Department of Law and Criminology emphasizes the development of transferable skills and employability. The school promotes the use of experiential learning and a wrap-around education focusing on learning outcomes and enhanced transferable skills through the integration of placement schemes into the curriculum. Royal Holloway, University of London
⚖️ Legal Career Pathways:
Solicitor: Graduates can pursue the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) to qualify as solicitors. RHLU'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.Highly Employable Graduates – Equips students with transferable skills for careers in law, criminal justice, and policy research. Practical Legal Experience – Opportunities in mooting, negotiation workshops, interviewing competitions, and the Legal Advice Centre.Strong Industry Connections – Networking events and law fairs with top employers, including law firms, the Crown Prosecution Service, and the National Crime Agency. Specialized Legal Options – Wide range of elective subjects, including family law, medical law, company law, international law, and criminology topics.Balanced Research & Teaching – High-quality teaching from subject leaders, using cutting-edge materials and engaging debates. Flexible Pathways to Qualification – Recognized as a qualifying law degree for both the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) and barrister trainingComprehensive Legal Training – Develops expertise in common law doctrines, legal research, critical analysis, and communication skills. Adaptable Curriculum – Regular course updates ensure students receive the best learning experience and industry-relevant education.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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Royal Holloway University of London
