University of Leicester

What you'll study

This programme covers the core subjects required of a qualifying law degree alongside pathway modules that support progression to a Juris Doctor or other postgraduate law study. In the early years you study foundational modules such as Contract Law, Tort Law, Criminal Law, Public/Constitutional Law, Land Law, Equity & Trusts, Legal Method and EU/International Law. Later years allow you to specialise with options in Company and Commercial Law, Family Law, Human Rights, Evidence and Procedure, Intellectual Property, Commercial Dispute Resolution and Clinical Legal Education.

Practical skills are integrated through mooting, negotiation and advocacy exercises, a legal research/dissertation project, and opportunities to undertake pro bono work via the university’s legal advice and outreach activities. The JD Pathway elements emphasise comparative legal reasoning, US-style case analysis and legal writing to prepare students who plan to pursue a Juris Doctor or other international postgraduate law programmes.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed a secondary school qualification equivalent to UK A-levels or an appropriate international qualification. Typical offers are competitive and based on academic achievement; mature applicants and those with non‑standard qualifications are considered on an individual basis. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency through an approved English language qualification (for example, an IELTS or equivalent) at a level appropriate for degree-level study.

Selection also takes into account personal statements and references. Some applicants may be invited to interview or to provide additional evidence of suitability for a law degree and the JD pathway.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme are well placed to progress to professional legal training or a range of law‑related careers. Common next steps include further professional qualifications (for example routes to qualification as a solicitor or barrister, or postgraduate conversion and vocational training), undertaking a Juris Doctor in jurisdictions where it is relevant, or pursuing an LLM or research degree.

Career roles occupied by alumni include solicitors and barristers, paralegals and legal executives, in‑house counsel, compliance officers, policy advisors, civil servants, NGO and international organisation staff, and roles in business development, banking and dispute resolution. The programme’s practical focus and employability support also suit graduates aiming for careers in academia, consultancy or public policy.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester Law School offers research‑led teaching and a supportive learning environment with access to practical legal training opportunities. As a law degree that fulfils the academic component required for professional legal training in England and Wales, the course combines doctrinal study with skills development such as mooting, negotiation and client interviewing.

Students benefit from a strong employability service, pro bono projects and links with local and national legal organisations. The JD Pathway provides extra academic and skills preparation for students intending to pursue a Juris Doctor or other international postgraduate law qualifications, making the degree particularly suitable for those with global career ambitions.