Enter OTP
4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
University of EdinburghThis degree is perfect if you want to combine a solid foundation in law with a global outlook. You’ll study how legal systems work in Scotland, the UK, and beyond, while also exploring the political forces that shape today’s international relations. It’s designed for students who are curious about justice, power, and global change.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
Your first year gives you the essentials: how the Scottish legal system works, how contracts are formed, and how families and states are regulated under the law. At the same time, you’ll explore politics on both a local and global scale, learning how big ideas like democracy, conflict, and globalisation affect international relations.
Year 2
In second year, things go deeper. You’ll tackle subjects like criminal law, property law, and rights within the UK and Scotland. Alongside this, you’ll dive into international relations theory and explore political thinkers who shaped the way we understand power and society.
Year 3
Now you start specialising. You can choose from advanced law subjects such as commercial law, criminology, or international law, while in international relations you might study global security, political economy, US foreign policy, or human rights. This year also prepares you for independent research through advanced writing or research design courses.
Year 4
Your final year is where everything comes together. You’ll take advanced options in both law and international relations, and you’ll complete a major dissertation—your chance to focus on an area that excites you most, whether in law or IR.
Focus Areas
Law, Legal Theory, Politics, International Relations, Global Security, Human Rights
Learning Outcomes
You’ll graduate with sharp legal reasoning, an ability to critically analyse international issues, and the research and writing skills to succeed in both professional and academic settings.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
The law part of the degree is accredited by the Law Society of Scotland. If you want to qualify as a solicitor in Scotland, you may need to take a few extra courses to meet professional requirements—but this joint programme keeps that option open.
Reputation (Employability & Rankings)
Ranked 13th in the world for Law (Times Higher Education, 2024)
Ranked 21st globally for Law & Legal Studies (QS World Rankings by Subject, 2025)
Studying at Edinburgh means joining one of the world’s most respected law schools, with centuries of history and a strong reputation among employers worldwide.
At Edinburgh, studying Law and International Relations is never limited to lecture halls—it’s about immersing yourself in real-world contexts. From day one, you’ll engage with resources that sharpen your practical skills, whether that’s through simulated legal practice, global political debates, or hands-on research. The programme is designed so you don’t just study the theory of law and international affairs—you experience how these disciplines operate in today’s interconnected world.
You’ll have access to world-class libraries, digital platforms, and societies that encourage debate and teamwork. Plus, opportunities such as mooting competitions and international exchange programmes let you apply your learning in professional and global settings. Here’s how your learning becomes truly experiential:
Mooting and Legal Skills Training – Take part in structured legal debates where you argue cases before judges, building confidence in advocacy and public speaking.
Internships & Pro Bono Opportunities – Gain experience working with legal charities, NGOs, and research centres connected to Edinburgh Law School and the School of Social and Political Science.
Parliamentary & International Relations Engagement – Benefit from Edinburgh’s strong links with the Scottish Parliament, international organisations, and policy think tanks, which often host guest lectures and offer research collaboration.
Digital Learning Tools – Access specialised legal and political science databases, legal research platforms like Westlaw and LexisLibrary, and digital archives for international relations case studies.
Global Exchange & Study Abroad – Explore opportunities to study in partner universities around the world, enhancing your global perspective on law and politics.
Law & IR Societies – Join the vibrant Law Society or Politics and IR Society, where you’ll collaborate on projects, attend guest speaker events, and participate in career networking.
Library & Research Facilities – Make use of the University’s extensive Main Library, the Law Library, and the Centre for the Study of International Relations, which provide unparalleled resources for independent research.
Graduate Outcomes Summary
This degree opens doors in both the legal and international fields. Whether you’re aiming for a career as a trainee solicitor, policy analyst, international NGO officer, or even working in journalism or media, you’ll graduate with the knowledge and skills to make a real impact—locally and globally.
You’ll have plenty of options after graduation, and here’s why:
Progression & Future Opportunities:
Get help finding the right path—during and after your degree
Edinburgh’s award-winning Careers Service will be by your side from day one—and stays available for up to two years after you graduate. Whether you want help landing internships, preparing for interviews, or figuring out your next move, they’ve got you covered.
Great outcomes for grads
Edinburgh is ranked top 10 in the UK for graduate employability, and among the top 25 universities worldwide recognised by global employers. Many of our law graduates go straight into work or further legal training—with top firms, international organisations, or major companies.
Strong links to the real world
Through Edinburgh Innovations, you can explore entrepreneurship, join real-world projects, or even launch your own business idea. The Law School also runs a Career Opportunities Programme with regular events, industry speakers, and networking chances to help you connect with employers.
Your degree, your edge
The LLB is fully accredited by the Law Society of Scotland. If you complete the necessary courses, you can move on to the Diploma in Professional Legal Practice—your next step towards becoming a solicitor or advocate in Scotland. Plus, your international relations training adds a global perspective employers value.
What our grads go on to do
Many go on to work in the legal field, others move into areas like finance, international development, or public policy. A good number also take roles with global organisations such as the United Nations or European Union. It’s a flexible degree that gives you options—wherever you want to go.
Further Academic Progression:
If you’re interested in continuing your studies after graduation, there are plenty of pathways. Some students move straight into the Diploma in Professional Legal Practice, while others pursue a Master’s degree, PhD, or even take up postgraduate study abroad. Whether you want to deepen your legal expertise or branch further into global affairs, Edinburgh gives you a strong foundation to build on.
A level from A*A*A to A*AA, English Language and English Literature GCSE, both at A or 7, are accepted in place of A level English.American Board ACT score of 27 or higher, plus two AP exams at grade 4 or above, OR SAT score of 1290 or higher (with at least 650 in Reading/Writing and 620 in Math), plus two AP exams at grade 4 or above, OR Three AP exams at grade 4 or above.CBSE Students (India) Around 80% overall in your Class XII exams, With at least 75% in three key subjects, including English.IELTS Academic: total 6.5 with at least 5.5 in each component. The university do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet its English language requirements.TOEFL total 92 with at least 20 in each component. The university does not accept TOEFL MyBest Scores to meet its English language requirements.If you were unable to take AP then a minimum 3.3 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale, or equivalent, in your US High School Transcript.LawDiplomacyGovernmentPolicy-making Global organisations
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