Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This programme combines advanced substantive law options with practical, practice‑oriented skills training. Core taught elements typically include modules on civil litigation, criminal litigation, property law, professional conduct and ethics, and commercial practice, together with professional skills such as drafting, advocacy, client interviewing and negotiation.

Students complete a research methods module and a substantial research project or dissertation on a topical legal practice issue, allowing you to explore an area of specialism in depth. The course emphasises experiential learning through simulated client interviews, advocacy workshops, drafting clinics and assessed practical exercises that mirror everyday tasks undertaken by solicitors and legal advisers.

• Advanced substantive law options relevant to practice (e.g. commercial, family, property, employment)
• Professional skills and practice workshops (drafting, advocacy, negotiation, client care)
• Research methods and a supervised dissertation or practice‑based project
• Ethics, professional conduct and regulation
• Opportunities for clinic work, mooting and simulated court exercises

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a qualifying law degree (LLB) or a recognised non‑law degree with a law conversion qualification (such as the Graduate Diploma in Law or equivalent). Applicants with substantial relevant legal or professional experience may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis. All applicants must meet Bournemouth University’s requirements for English language competence if English is not their first language; acceptable evidence can include recognised language test results or equivalent qualifications.

Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining reasons for study and relevant experience, and references. Where appropriate, applicants may be invited to an interview or to provide examples of written work.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme progress into a range of legal and compliance roles. Common destinations include trainee solicitor positions, paralegal and legal assistant roles, in‑house legal teams, regulatory and compliance posts, and roles in dispute resolution and alternative dispute resolution providers. The course also prepares graduates for careers in legal consultancy, policy work, and further academic research.

The practical focus of the programme and its skills assessments are designed to make graduates ready for professional training contracts or employer recruitment processes, and graduates often benefit from the university’s careers support, placement links and local legal networks.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University emphasises practical, professionally relevant legal education delivered by staff with practitioner experience and research expertise. The law school offers hands‑on learning through legal clinics, mooting and simulated courtroom facilities, enabling students to practise the real‑world skills employers expect.

The university maintains connections with local and regional law firms, in‑house legal teams and regulatory bodies, providing opportunities for networking, guest lectures and placements. Students also benefit from dedicated employability support and a campus environment that supports collaborative learning and cross‑disciplinary projects.