University of York

What you'll study

This programme blends taught modules with an independent research dissertation, allowing you to combine advanced theoretical study with practical and doctrinal analysis. Typical provision follows the UK postgraduate framework with a combination of core research training, optional specialist modules and a substantial dissertation or major project.

• Core research training: modules on legal research methods, analysis of precedent, and comparative approaches to law to prepare you for the dissertation.
• Optional specialist modules: choices often include International Human Rights Law, Commercial and Corporate Law, Intellectual Property Law, Competition Law, Criminal Justice and Reform, Family Law, European and Comparative Law, Employment Law, Taxation and Policy, and Dispute Resolution/Arbitration.
• Skills-focused study: opportunities to develop advocacy, negotiation, legal writing and advanced statutory interpretation through seminars, workshops and mooting.
• Dissertation or Major Project: an extended piece of independent research supervised by a member of faculty, typically allowing in-depth work in a specialist area chosen from the taught programme.
• Teaching and assessment: delivered through lectures, small-group seminars and research supervision; assessment usually combines essays, case notes, presentations and the final dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree. Typical candidates include those with a qualifying law degree or graduates from related disciplines with demonstrable legal interest or relevant professional experience. The department considers a range of backgrounds and may require additional supporting material — for example, a writing sample, research proposal or references — from applicants whose qualifications are not directly in law.

All applicants whose first language is not English are required to demonstrate proficiency in academic English. Part-time study and flexible study patterns are available to accommodate professionals in employment.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme pursue a wide variety of careers in the legal and wider professional sectors. Common paths include:

• Progression to professional legal training routes such as solicitor or barrister pathways, or preparation for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) or equivalent professional qualifications.
• In-house legal roles and compliance or regulatory positions within business, finance and the public sector.
• Roles in international organisations, non-governmental organisations and human rights bodies, particularly for those who specialise in public or international law.
• Policy, legislative and advisory roles in government departments and think tanks.
• Academic and research careers, including doctoral study (PhD) in law.
• Careers in dispute resolution, arbitration, consultancy, legal publishing and information services.

The University of York’s careers support, alumni network and links with practitioners help graduates move into these roles, while practical elements such as mooting, placements and clinic work enhance employability.

Why study at University of York

York Law School combines a strong research culture with an emphasis on teaching quality and student support. You will work with research-active staff whose expertise spans commercial, criminal, public and international law, and benefit from interdisciplinary links across the university.

Students have access to the York Law Clinic and pro bono activities, regular seminar series and practitioner-led guest lectures, and a supportive supervisory model for dissertation work. The university’s library collections and online resources provide extensive legal material, while its central location in a historic city offers good transport links to legal centres and professional employers.

The programme’s flexible structure, range of specialist options and emphasis on both theoretical and practice-oriented skills make it suitable for those aiming for professional qualification, career change, or continued academic study.