LLB in Law

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Reading

Program Overview

The LLB in Law at the University of Reading offers a strong foundation in legal principles while helping students build the analytical and critical thinking skills needed for a successful legal career. This program is ideal for students who want to understand how the law shapes society, develop advocacy and reasoning skills, and prepare for a range of professional legal pathways or related fields such as business and public policy.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
Students begin by exploring the core principles that underpin the legal system in England and Wales. Modules such as Contract Law, Criminal Law, and Public Law help students develop an essential understanding of legal reasoning, case analysis, and statutory interpretation. Through small-group tutorials and case-based learning, students begin building their argumentation and problem-solving abilities early on.

Year 2:
In the second year, students deepen their expertise through advanced modules like Tort Law, Land Law, and EU Law. These subjects introduce complex areas of regulation and rights, allowing students to critically evaluate how laws function in practice. They also have opportunities to choose from optional modules such as Family Law or Commercial Law, tailoring their studies to specific interests and career goals.

Year 3:
The final year allows students to refine their legal specialism and apply their knowledge through real-world learning experiences. Modules such as Equity and Trusts and Company Law are complemented by a range of electives like Human Rights Law, Environmental Law, or International Law. Many students also undertake an independent research project or dissertation, supported by academic experts, to demonstrate their mastery of legal analysis.

Focus Areas: Contract Law, Criminal Law, Public Law, Tort Law, Land Law, EU Law, Equity and Trusts, Human Rights Law

Learning Outcomes: Critical legal reasoning, strong research and advocacy skills, ethical understanding of law in practice, and the ability to apply complex legal principles to real-world contexts.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): This degree is a qualifying law degree (QLD) that meets the academic stage of training required by the Bar Standards Board and the Solicitors Regulation Authority in England and Wales.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Reading’s School of Law is ranked among the UK’s leading law schools for teaching quality and graduate employability, with many alumni progressing to roles in top law firms, government, and international organizations.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Reading, the LLB Law program is designed to give students far more than just theoretical knowledge — it’s about turning legal learning into real-world impact. Through practical experience, case simulations, and exposure to real legal environments, students develop advocacy, analytical, and research skills that mirror professional legal practice. From courtroom exercises to hands-on community projects, the program ensures every student builds the confidence to apply legal principles effectively in society. Here, learning extends beyond the classroom into the world of law itself:

Legal Advice Clinic: Students work with real clients under supervision, providing free legal advice to the local community and gaining first-hand experience in client handling and case analysis.
Mooting and Negotiation Competitions: These activities allow students to argue cases before judges, develop persuasive speaking skills, and refine logical reasoning in simulated courtroom settings.
Placement Opportunities: The School of Law partners with local firms, NGOs, and government bodies, giving students access to internships and practical experience in real legal workplaces.
Specialised Legal Research Centres: Students can get involved with centres like the Centre for Commercial Law and Financial Regulation and the Centre for Human Rights, learning from academics leading international research.
Mock Courtroom and Study Spaces: Access to the university’s modern mock courtroom and law library provides a professional environment to practise advocacy, research legal precedents, and prepare for real-world scenarios.
Technology in Law: Training includes the use of digital legal databases and modern research software to enhance students’ ability to navigate complex legal information efficiently.

Through this blend of academic depth and hands-on learning, students graduate with the skills, confidence, and professional insight to thrive in the modern legal field.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the University of Reading’s LLB Law program are highly regarded for their strong legal knowledge, critical thinking, and professional readiness. The degree opens doors to a range of careers both within and beyond the legal field, allowing students to work in roles such as Solicitor, Barrister, Legal Advisor, Compliance Officer, Policy Analyst, or Corporate Consultant. Thanks to the university’s practical learning approach and close links with employers, students leave well-prepared for the next stage of their professional journey.

Here’s how Reading supports your career development and long-term success:

Dedicated Careers Support: The University’s Careers Service and the School of Law’s professional development team help students find internships, legal placements, and graduate roles through tailored career guidance and networking events.
Strong Industry Partnerships: Reading’s Law School collaborates with legal firms, public institutions, and organisations such as the Thames Valley Police and local chambers, offering valuable professional exposure.
Professional Accreditation: The LLB meets the academic requirements for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) and Bar training courses, ensuring long-term professional value.
Graduate Outcomes: Reading Law graduates consistently secure positions in top legal practices, government agencies, and corporate sectors, or choose to advance into postgraduate study.
Reputation and Employability: The University of Reading ranks highly for graduate employability and is known for producing skilled, ethically minded professionals who contribute meaningfully to society.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the LLB, graduates can progress to the LLM in Law, the Legal Practice Course (LPC), or the Bar Training Course (BTC) to qualify as a solicitor or barrister. Others may choose to pursue advanced study in international law, commercial law, or human rights, deepening their expertise and expanding career opportunities worldwide.