Keele University

What you'll study

This programme integrates master's-level legal modules with focused SQE preparation. Core postgraduate modules typically include advanced topics in public law, commercial and contract law, criminal justice, and legal theory, alongside a module on research methods and a substantial dissertation or major research project. SQE-focused learning covers the substantive foundations tested in SQE1 (core legal knowledge subjects such as contract, tort, property, equity and trusts, criminal law and procedure, constitutional and administrative law, EU/UK constitutional law, and professional ethics) and practical, skills-based preparation for SQE2 (client interviewing, advocacy, drafting, case and matter analysis, legal research and written advice).

• Core academic units: advanced study of legal doctrine, research methods, and a dissertation or major project.
• SQE1 preparation: systematic coverage of core legal knowledge subjects with formative assessment and exam technique practice.
• SQE2 preparation: practical legal skills workshops, simulated client work, advocacy and drafting clinics, and assessment practice designed to mirror the format of the SQE2 assessments.
• Optional electives: students may choose from modules such as corporate law, employment law, human rights, environmental law, family law or international commercial law to tailor study to career aims.
• Clinical and experiential learning: mooting, negotiation exercises, and opportunities to work with the university’s legal clinic or external placements where available.

Entry requirements

Applicants will normally hold an undergraduate degree. Typical applicants have a qualifying law degree or a non-law degree combined with a legal conversion (such as a GDL) or relevant legal work experience. Keele may consider applicants with equivalent professional experience or alternative qualifications on a case-by-case basis. For international applicants, a recognised English language qualification is normally required (for example an overall IELTS score with a minimum in each component consistent with postgraduate study). Applicants aiming to progress to SQE assessments should check the specific academic and regulatory requirements for SQE registration.

Career prospects

Graduates use this programme to progress towards qualification and practice as solicitors in England and Wales via the SQE route. The combination of academic depth and practical SQE skills preparation also supports careers in in-house legal teams, compliance, legal consultancy, policy and government, NGOs and international organisations. Other common roles include paralegal, legal researcher, or further academic study (PhD). The practical training, mooting and clinic experience on the programme enhance employability by developing client-facing, advocacy and drafting skills valued by law firms and corporate employers.

Why study at Keele University

Keele University offers a supportive campus environment with small-group teaching and personalised supervision for postgraduate research and coursework. The law programme benefits from staff active in legal research and professional practice, and from opportunities for practical skills development through mooting, negotiation and the university’s legal clinic. Keele emphasises interdisciplinary study and student wellbeing, with access to library resources, careers services and established employer links that help students prepare for the SQE and wider legal careers. The programme is designed to balance rigorous academic study with structured, practice-focused preparation for the solicitor qualification pathway.