University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

This programme combines core vocational modules with practical skills training and a practice-based research project or dissertation. Core subjects reflect the stages of Scottish legal practice and typically include Civil Litigation, Criminal Litigation, Conveyancing and Executry, Family Law and Children, Professional Conduct and Ethics, and Practice Management. Practical skills modules cover legal research and drafting, advocacy and interviewing, negotiation, client care, law office procedures and file management, and the use of legal technology and digital resources.

Teaching is delivered through a mix of seminars, workshops, simulated client interviews, advocacy exercises in moot courts, and assessed practical tasks such as drafting, case analysis and filework. Masters-level students normally undertake a substantial practice-based project or dissertation that applies vocational learning to a real or simulated legal problem, demonstrating higher-level research, analysis and reflective practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a qualifying law degree (LLB) or an approved non-UK equivalent. Graduates of conversion courses (such as the Graduate Diploma in Law / Common Professional Examination) who have completed the academic stage for legal practice are also eligible. Typical academic entry is at least a second-class honours degree (2:2 or above), though stronger awards may be preferred where competition is high.

In addition to academic achievement, applicants should be able to demonstrate the communication and professional skills necessary for vocational training. International applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the University's standard English language requirements. The programme may also require disclosure checks where relevant to professional practice placements.

Career prospects

Graduates use this vocational qualification to progress to the next stage of legal training in Scotland, such as applying for traineeships with law firms or other employers. Common roles taken up after completion include trainee solicitor, solicitor in private practice, in-house legal adviser, legal executive, paralegal, and roles within public sector organisations or charities. The programme's practical focus and links with the profession also support transitions into specialist practice areas, consultancy, compliance and dispute resolution work.

Why study at University of Strathclyde

Strathclyde has a well-established reputation for vocational legal education and a long history of delivering the professional stage of training approved by the Law Society of Scotland. The Law School places strong emphasis on employability, with teaching informed by practising solicitors, judges and experienced academics. Students benefit from practical facilities including advocacy suites, mooting opportunities, and simulated client clinics.

The Law School maintains active relationships with local and national firms, public bodies and legal clinics across Glasgow, offering routes to work experience and professional networking. Strathclyde's central city location provides easy access to courts, legal practices and regulatory bodies, supporting the programme's hands-on approach to preparing students for legal practice.