With the rising number of universities providing law degrees in the UK’s capital, finding the best law Universities in London has become more taxing than ever.
London is the place of some of the most prestigious universities in the world, and this is no exception when it comes to law schools. Law is a highly respected and challenging field, and studying at a top-ranked law university in London can be a game-changer for your career prospects.
London has a rich legal history, with some of the country’s oldest and most prestigious law schools, making it an excellent destination for aspiring law students.
This article explores the best law universities in London, including their programs, rankings, and notable alums. We will also delve into each university’s unique features and how they stand out. With so many great law universities in London, deciding which one is the right fit for you is challenging.
Table of contents
- Which Country is Best for Law Study?
- How Much Does Law Study Cost in London?
- Is it Hard to Study Law in London?
- Is Studying Law in UK Worth it?
- Best Law Universities in London
- London School of Economics and Political Science
- University College London
- Kings College London
- The SOAS School of Law
- Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) School of Law
- City, University of London The City Law School
- Birkbeck, University of London School of Law
- University of Westminster Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities
- University of Law London Bloomsbury campus
- University of London (UoL) School of Law
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Discover More
- References
Which Country is Best for Law Study?
There are many countries with great law programs for international students. However, according to the 2022 QS World University Rankings by Subject, the United States and the United Kingdom are among the top countries for law study. And London is one of the most preferred destinations for international students.
Regardless, choosing the best country for law study depends on various factors such as personal preference, career goals, financial resources, language proficiency, and cultural adaptability. Some of the top countries for law study include:
United States: The US has some of the most prestigious law schools in the world, such as Harvard Law School, Yale Law School, and Stanford Law School. The US legal system is also influential globally, and studying Law in the US can open up many career opportunities.
Australia: Australia has a vibrant legal profession and a diverse legal system. The University of Canberra, the University of Sydney, and the University of New South Wales are some of the top law schools in Australia.
Canada: Canadian law schools are renowned for their high-quality education and focus on practical legal skills. The University of Montreal, the University of British Columbia, and McGill University are some of the top law schools in Canada.
Even so, this article focuses on the best law universities in London. Because London, and the UK, as an extension, are known for their rigorous academic standards and common law legal system, which many countries follow worldwide. The University College London, the City University of London, and the LSE are among the top law universities in London.
How Much Does Law Study Cost in London?
According to the University of Law website, one of the best law universities in London, the cost of studying Law in London can vary depending on your program type and duration.
For example, the tuition fee for the LLB (Hons) Law degree program at the University of Law ranges from £15,100 to £18,600 per year, depending on the campus location and the program’s start date. The total cost of the three-year program can range from £45,300 to £55,800.
For the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) program, the tuition fee ranges from £10,000 to £12,250, depending on the campus location and the program’s start date. The total cost of the one-year program can vary from £10,000 to £12,250.
It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change and may not include additional expenses such as accommodation and textbooks. You should check with your law school for the most up-to-date information on tuition fees and other costs.
Is it Hard to Study Law in London?
Is it hard to study Law in London? Technically, yes and no.
Studying Law in London, or anywhere else, can be challenging due to the rigorous coursework, extensive reading, and critical thinking required. However, the difficulty level can vary depending on your academic background, study habits, and time management skills.
Law is a demanding and intellectually challenging subject that requires a great deal of commitment and hard work. Thus, you must read and analyse complex legal texts, write well-reasoned arguments, and participate in class discussions and debates.
Moreover, studying at any of the best Law in London may present additional challenges, such as adjusting to a new academic environment and language barriers for international students.
Nonetheless, law schools in London typically offer a supportive academic community with experienced faculty, dedicated support staff, and a range of resources to help students succeed.
You also have the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities such as moot courts, legal clinics, and pro bono work, which can enhance your practical skills and experience.
While studying Law in London is challenging, it is also a rewarding and fulfilling experience if you are passionate about the subject and committed to your studies.
Is Studying Law in UK Worth it?
Definitely. What other profession is more multidisciplinary and rewarding than Law? And what country offers a better degree in Law than the UK? Just a few, of course.
Studying Law in London is worthwhile for those pursuing a legal career. London has a well-respected legal system and many prestigious universities that offer high-quality law programs.
However, whether or not studying Law in the UK is worth it depends on your circumstances and goals. Some factors to consider are the following:
Cost: Studying in the UK can be expensive, especially for international students who may have to pay higher tuition fees. You should carefully consider the financial implications of studying Law in the UK and whether the potential benefits outweigh the costs.
Career aspirations: If you want to pursue a legal career in any of the best law universities, studying Law in London may provide valuable experience and connections. However, if you plan to practice Law in a different country, consider whether a UK law degree will be recognised and accepted.
Personal preferences: Studying abroad can be an exciting and enriching experience, but it may only be for some. Consider whether you are comfortable living and studying in a different country and culture.
Whether studying Law in the UK is worth it depends on your circumstances and goals. You must thoroughly research and consider all the factors above before deciding.
Best Law Universities in London
London is one of the choicest legal centres in the world, with a rich legal education and practice history. As a result, the city is home to some of the best law universities in the world. In this article, we have arranged a list of London’s ten best law universities based on their academic reputation, research excellence, employability of graduates, and overall student experience.
We base our rankings on various sources, including academic, employer reputation, and student satisfaction surveys from The Guardian. We have also considered factors such as the quality of faculty, the breadth and depth of the curriculum, the availability of experiential learning opportunities, and the university’s overall reputation in the legal community.
- University College London (UCL) Faculty of Laws
- London School of Economics (LSE) Department of Law
- King’s College London (KCL) Dickson Poon School of Law
- SOAS School of Law
- Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) School of Law
- City, University of London The City Law School
- Birkbeck, University of London School of Law
- University of Westminster Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities
- University of Law London Bloomsbury campus
- University of London (UoL) School of Law
London School of Economics and Political Science
LSE is one of the top law universities in London, and its law school consistently ranks as one of the best law universities in London, in the UK and worldwide.
Globally, The LSE law school has a strong focus on international Law and offers a range of courses and opportunities for students to engage with legal issues on a global scale. The law school’s faculty comprises experts in their respective fields, including international Law, human rights, corporate Law, and more.
LSE offers several unique programs within its law school, including a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) program that includes a year of study abroad and a Master of Laws (LLM) program that allows students to specialise in various areas of Law.
Graduates of the LSE law school have gone on to successful careers in various fields, including law firms, government agencies, NGOs, and academia. The school also has a strong alum network that is beneficial for networking and career opportunities.
University College London
The University College London is a globally renowned school in London well known for its academic excellence and research-led teaching.
UCL Law School has a solid national and international reputation for producing exceptional lawyers and legal scholars. The school consistently rates in the top 10 law schools globally.
The admission process for Law at the London School of Economics (LSE) is highly competitive, and applicants must meet rigorous academic and personal requirements to secure a place in the program. The LNAT test is one of the compulsory academic requirements of pursuing a law degree at this institution.
UCL Law School’s curriculum is innovative and challenging, with many courses covering traditional and emerging law areas. The school also offers many opportunities for students to gain practical experience through internships and clinical programs.
The institution’s diverse and distinguished faculty comprises leading legal scholars, practitioners, and policymakers. Students benefit from their expertise, insights, and dedication to teaching and mentoring.
Geographically, UCL Law School is in the heart of London, a vibrant and cosmopolitan city home to some of the world’s leading law firms and international organisations. This position provides students unparalleled opportunities to network, gain practical experience, and launch their legal careers.
Kings College London
In the 2021 QS World University Rankings, King’s College London ranks 5th and 3rd in Law by the Guardian. The law school has an outstanding faculty with expertise in various areas, including commercial, human rights, and International Law. Many faculty members are leading scholars in their respective fields and actively engage in cutting-edge research.
Generally, KCLlaw school has a strong international focus, with students and faculty worldwide. This global outlook reflects in the curriculum, which includes comparative and international law courses.
King’s College London law school has a strong track record of producing graduates who go on to successful careers in the legal profession. The law school has close ties with law firms and other legal organisations, providing students excellent networking opportunities.
The SOAS School of Law
The SOAS School of Law is one of the top law universities in London. The institution focuses on Law in developing countries and emerging markets. SOAS School of Law offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, including LLB, LLM, PhD programs, short courses and professional development programs.
The law school’s faculty includes leading scholars and practitioners in international Law, human rights law, commercial Law, and environmental Law. The faculty strongly focuses on research and actively addresses legal challenges facing developing countries and emerging markets.
SOAS School of Law has a diverse student body, with students from all over the world. This provides a unique opportunity for you to learn from a range of perspectives and to engage in cross-cultural dialogue.
The law school has a solid commitment to social justice and human rights. UCL offers a range of opportunities for students to engage in pro bono work and clinical legal education. The law school also links with NGOs and other organisations working on legal issues in developing countries and emerging markets.
Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) School of Law
QMUL is a member of the reputable Russell Group of research-intensive universities and consistently ranks among the top 60 law universities in the world. Its law school also rates in the top 10 in London for law research quality.
QMUL School of Law attracts a diverse student body worldwide, providing a rich and dynamic learning environment. The institution is located in the heart of London, one of the world’s most diverse and exciting cities, offering countless opportunities for networking and cultural experiences.
The school of Law boasts a faculty of leading scholars and practitioners in various legal fields. You benefit from the expertise and experience of these faculty members, who actively engaged in cutting-edge research and practice.
QMUL School of Law makes an ideal location for you because of its excellent record of graduate employment, with graduates going on to successful careers in Law, business, government, and academia. The school also has a strong alum network, providing valuable connections and opportunities for students and graduates.
City, University of London The City Law School
If you are looking for a school outside the Russells, then the City, University of London Law School might be one to consider. City, University of London is in the heart of London, one of the world’s leading financial and legal centres. This means you can access many legal resources and opportunities, including internships and networking events with top law firms.
The City Law School has a diverse student body, with students from over 100 countries. This creates a multicultural and inclusive learning environment where you can learn from various perspectives and cultures.
The institution has a team of experienced and highly qualified faculty members who are experts in their fields. They bring real-world experience and knowledge to the classroom, ensuring you receive a high-quality legal education.
City, University of London has a strong track record of preparing students for successful careers in Law. The City Law School has a dedicated careers service, which provides students with a range of support and advice to help them achieve their career goals.
Birkbeck, University of London School of Law
Birkbeck, University of London, is a renowned institution with a long-standing reputation for academic excellence. The university’s law program is no exception and consistently ranks among the top law schools in London.
Birkbeck offers a flexible study schedule that allows you to pursue your degree while working or managing other commitments. Evening classes are available, making it an excellent option if you have a busy schedule.
BU London School of Law faculty are experienced, legal professionals and experts. They are dedicated to providing high-quality education and practical skills you can apply in the real world.
The University of Westminster, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, has a strong reputation for high-quality teaching, research and facilities. Prestigious academic rankings, including the QS World University Rankings, recognise the institution.
The faculty offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across various disciplines, such as anthropology, history, Law, media, politics, psychology and sociology.
The institution provides a global outlook and offers opportunities to study abroad. You also engage in international research and attend conferences and seminars. You will find its strong links with employers, work placements, internships and mentoring programmes, enabling your future career.
Like the other prestigious law universities, UW is in the heart of London, offering students a wealth of cultural, social and professional opportunities.
University of Law London Bloomsbury campus
The University of Law is renowned for its academic excellence. For four years, the institution has ranked the top university for overall student satisfaction in the National Student Survey.
The Bloomsbury campus is located in the heart of London. It provides easy access to various legal firms, courts, and other legal institutions, making it an ideal location for students who want to pursue a career in Law. The University of Law offers various programs, from undergraduate degrees to professional qualifications, allowing students to tailor their education to their career aspirations.
University of London (UoL) School of Law
UoL School of Law offers a range of flexible study options, including online and distance learning programs, which can be tailored to suit your needs and schedule.
The School of Law has a strong track record of producing successful graduates pursuing rewarding careers in Law and related fields.
Overall, while the job market for law graduates in London can be competitive, there are opportunities for you if you are well-prepared and have the skills and qualifications employers seek.
Frequently Asked Questions
The job market for law graduates in London can be competitive, but it is relatively easy to get a law job in London. The availability of law jobs can vary depending on the economic situation, the demand for legal services, and the area of Law you wish to practice in.
London is a significant legal centre with a diverse range of law firms, corporate legal departments, and public sector organisations that employ lawyers. There are also opportunities to work in the judiciary, legal aid, or non-profit organisations.
However, competition for the most prestigious law firms or sought-after practice areas is intense. Therefore, excellent academic credentials, relevant work experience, and a strong network of professional contacts are advantageous in the job market.
To enhance your job prospects as a law graduate, you may need to consider additional qualifications, such as a Master of Laws (LLM) degree, professional certification, or specialised training in a specific area of Law. Networking, internships, and work experience during law school can also help you secure a job in the legal field.
The length of a law degree in London can vary depending on your program type and study mode.
For example, the standard length of an LLB (Hons) Law degree program in the UK is three years for full-time study and four years for part-time study. Some universities may also offer accelerated LLB programs, which you can complete in two years of full-time study.
But, if you’re a graduate of a non-law discipline going for a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL), the program typically involves one year of full-time or two years of part-time study.
Conclusion
After completing an LLB or GDL, you can pursue a Legal Practice Course (LPC), a professional qualification required to practice Law in England and Wales. You can complete the LPC program in one year of full-time study or two years of part-time study.
Overall, the length of a law degree in London ranges from one to four years, depending on the program and mode of study. It’s important to note that law schools’ program lengths and structures vary. So you should check with the specific institution for more information.
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References
- The Guardian – Best Law Universities in London
- Times Higher Education – The Best Universities by Degree
- The Complete University Guide
