Types of Law Degrees in the UK: Which One is Right for You?

The UK is one of the best places in the world to study law, as its legal system has shaped many others across the globe. A law degree from the UK is respected everywhere and helps students build strong careers both in the UK and abroad.

World-Famous Legal System

The UK follows the common law system, which is used in over 60 countries, including India, Canada, and Australia. 

Clear Career Routes

The UK has a very structured system. Students can choose to become solicitors through the SQE or LPC, or barristers through the BPTC, with each route clearly explained.

Shorter Study Time

An undergraduate law degree (LLB) in the UK usually takes just 3 years, compared to 4 or more in many other countries. For non-law graduates, fast-track options like the GDL make it possible to switch into law quickly.

Law degrees in the UK include options more than just LLB and LLM. It offers a variety of specializations too you can choose from as per your interests. Below is a list of all the types of law degrees the UK has to offer:

• LLB (Bachelor of Laws)
• LLM (Master of Laws)
• GDL (Graduate Diploma in Law)
• LPC (Legal Practice Course)
• BPTC (Bar Professional Training Course)
• QLTS (Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme)
• SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Examination)
• MA Law (Master of Arts in Law)
• MPhil/PhD in Law

Below, we’ve explained all the major types of law degrees available in the UK, along with their specializations:

LLB (Bachelor of Laws)

The LLB in the UK is the most common undergraduate law degree and is usually the first step for students starting their legal education. It provides a strong foundation in core areas like contract law, criminal law, and constitutional law. Students can choose to specialize in areas such as Business Law, International Law, Criminal Law, or Human Rights Law, depending on their interests and career goals. 

The LLB typically takes three years to complete, or four years if combined with a year abroad or another discipline. The program also covers subjects like tort law, property law, equity and trusts, and European Union law. Many universities integrate practical training such as mooting, legal research, and writing, preparing students for further qualifications like the SQE or BPTC.

Popular skills for LLB (Bachelor of Laws)

Here are the main skills needed to succeed in an LLB program:

• Legal research and analysis
• Critical thinking and logical reasoning
• Written and verbal communication
• Negotiation and advocacy skills
• Attention to detail and problem-solving
• Time management and organization

Eligibility criteria for LLB (Bachelor of Laws)

Here are the important eligibility criteria for pursuing an LLB in the UK:

• Completion of high school/secondary education with strong grades (e.g., A-levels with grades AAA-AAB or equivalent such as IB 36-38 points).
• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5-7.5 overall or TOEFL 92-110, depending on the university).
• Some universities may require the LNAT (National Admissions Test for Law).
• Personal statement and academic references as part of the UCAS application.

Average salary of LLB (Bachelor of Laws)

Below are a few positions LLB graduates can pursue along with their average annual salaries:

• Solicitor: £45,000 - £70,000 (₹54L - ₹84L)
• Barrister: £50,000 - £80,000 (₹60L - ₹96L)
• Legal Advisor: £40,000 - £65,000 (₹48L - ₹78L)

LLM (Master of Laws)

The LLM in the UK is a postgraduate degree designed for students who already hold a law qualification and want to gain advanced expertise. It allows students to focus on specific areas of interest and is highly valued for international careers. Students can choose to specialize in areas such as Corporate Law, Intellectual Property Law, International Trade Law, or Environmental Law, depending on their career goals and academic interests. 

The program typically takes one year to complete full-time, or two years part-time, and involves in-depth study, research, and often a dissertation in the chosen area of law. Many universities also offer opportunities for practical exposure through internships, workshops, and collaboration with international law firms. This makes LLM a strong platform for global legal practice.

Popular skills for LLM (Master of Laws)

Here are the main skills needed to succeed in an LLM program:

• Advanced legal research and analytical skills
• Expertise in specialized areas of law
• Critical thinking and problem-solving
• Effective written and verbal communication
• Cross-cultural and international legal understanding
• Project and time management skills

Eligibility criteria for LLM (Master of Laws)

Here are the important eligibility criteria for pursuing an LLM in the UK:

• A law degree (LLB or equivalent) from a recognized university
• Some programs may accept applicants from related fields if they have relevant experience or qualifications
• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS 7.0-7.5 overall or TOEFL 100-110, depending on the university)
• Submission of academic transcripts, references, and a personal statement

Average salary of LLM (Master of Laws)

Below are a few positions LLM graduates can pursue along with their average annual salaries:

• Corporate Lawyer: £55,000 - £90,000 (₹66L - ₹1.08Cr)
• Legal Advisor: £40,000 - £65,000 (₹48L - ₹78L)
• Human Rights Lawyer: £35,000 - £55,000 (₹42L - ₹66L)

GDL (Graduate Diploma in Law)

The GDL in the UK is a conversion course designed for students who have completed a non-law undergraduate degree but wish to pursue a legal career. It condenses the core content of an LLB into a one-year full-time program (or two years part-time), covering essential areas such as contract law, criminal law, constitutional law, tort law, and EU law. Although it does not offer specializations, the GDL equips students with the foundational legal knowledge needed to progress to professional qualifications like the LPC or SQE for solicitors, or the BPTC for barristers. The course also includes practical exercises such as mooting, case analysis, and legal writing to prepare students for the professional stage of law.

Popular skills for GDL (Graduate Diploma in Law)

Here are the main skills needed to succeed in a GDL program:

• Quick legal research and analytical thinking
• Adaptability to condensed learning
• Written and oral communication skills
• Time management and organization
• Problem-solving and critical thinking

Eligibility criteria for GDL (Graduate Diploma in Law)

Here are the important eligibility criteria for pursuing a GDL in the UK:

• Completion of a non-law undergraduate degree from a recognized university
• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5-7.5 overall or TOEFL 92-110)
• Personal statement and academic references may be required

Average salary of GDL (Graduate Diploma in Law)

Below are a few positions GDL graduates can pursue along with their average annual salaries:

• Solicitor (after LPC or SQE): £45,000 - £70,000 (₹54L - ₹84L)
• Barrister (after BPTC): £50,000 - £80,000 (₹60L - ₹96L)
• Legal Advisor: £40,000 - £65,000 (₹48L - ₹78L)

LPC (Legal Practice Course)

The LPC in the UK is a professional qualification required for those who wish to become solicitors in England and Wales. It focuses on practical legal skills, including client interaction, drafting, negotiation, advocacy, and case management, preparing students for the realities of legal practice. Students can specialize in areas such as Corporate Law, Property Law, Family Law, or Commercial Law, depending on their career aspirations. 

The LPC typically takes one year full-time or two years part-time and is often followed by a two-year training contract with a law firm. The course includes both classroom learning and practical exercises as well as client interviews, drafting exercises, and negotiation workshops.

Popular skills for LPC (Legal Practice Course)

Here are the main skills needed to succeed in an LPC program:

• Client communication and interpersonal skills
• Legal drafting and documentation
• Negotiation and advocacy
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Commercial awareness and business understanding
• Time management and professional ethics

Eligibility criteria for LPC (Legal Practice Course)

Here are the major eligibility criteria for pursuing the LPC in the UK:

• Completion of an LLB degree, GDL, or equivalent law qualification.
• English language proficiency (IELTS 7.0-7.5 overall or TOEFL 100-110, depending on the university).
• Some law schools may require references, a personal statement, or an interview

Average salary of LPC (Legal Practice Course)

Below are a few positions LPC graduates can pursue along with their average annual salaries:

• Solicitor (trainee/qualified): £45,000 - £70,000 (₹54L - ₹84L)
• Legal Advisor: £40,000 - £65,000 (₹48L - ₹78L)
• Corporate Lawyer: £55,000 - £90,000 (₹66L - ₹1.08Cr)

BPTC (Bar Professional Training Course)

The BPTC in the UK is designed for students who wish to become barristers. It emphasizes practical skills such as advocacy, courtroom procedure, legal research, and professional ethics, preparing students for the bar. Students can specialize in areas like Criminal Law, Family Law, Employment Law, or Public Law, depending on their career goals. 

The course typically takes one year full-time or two years part-time and includes intensive training in oral and written advocacy, negotiation, and drafting pleadings. Many programs also cover mock trials and assessments to make sure students are ready for pupillage and professional practice.

Popular skills for BPTC (Bar Professional Training Course)

Here are the main skills needed to succeed in a BPTC program:

• Advocacy and public speaking
• Legal research and case analysis
• Negotiation and mediation
• Drafting legal documents and pleadings
• Professional ethics and courtroom etiquette

Eligibility criteria for BPTC (Bar Professional Training Course)

Here are the important eligibility criteria for pursuing the BPTC in the UK:

• Completion of an LLB degree or GDL (for non-law graduates).
• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS 7.0-7.5 overall or TOEFL 100-110).
• Some universities may require academic references and a personal statement.
• Completion of the Bar Course Aptitude Test (BCAT) for some programs.

Average salary of BPTC (Bar Professional Training Course)

Below are a few positions BPTC graduates can pursue along with their average annual salaries:

• Barrister: £50,000 - £80,000 per year (₹60L - ₹96L)
• Legal Advisor: £40,000 - £65,000 per year (₹48L - ₹78L)
• Solicitor (after LPC/SQE, if chosen): £45,000 - £70,000 per year (₹54L - ₹84L)

QLTS (Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme)

The QLTS allows lawyers who are already qualified in other countries to become solicitors in England and Wales. It tests legal knowledge and practical skills to ensure candidates meet UK standards. This is a transfer qualification, so there are no specializations. 

The course usually involves preparation for assessments that cover law practice, professional conduct, and client work. Passing the QLTS allows international lawyers to work in law firms, in-house teams, or other legal roles across the UK.

Popular skills for QLTS (Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme)

Here are some key skills needed to succeed in QLTS:

• Understanding UK law and regulations
• Legal drafting and clear communication
• Problem-solving in legal cases
• Client management and professional conduct
• Time management and attention to detail

Eligibility criteria for QLTS (Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme)

Here are the main requirements to take the QLTS:

• A law qualification and practice experience from another country.
• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS 7.0-7.5 or TOEFL 100-110 if required).
• Passing the QLTS assessments (Multiple Choice Test and Objective Structured Clinical Examination)

Average salary of QLTS (Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme)

Here are some jobs QLTS-qualified lawyers can do and their average annual pay:

• Solicitor (qualified via QLTS): £45,000 - £70,000 per year (₹54L - ₹84L)
• In-house Counsel: £50,000 - £85,000 per year (₹60L - ₹1.02Cr)
• Compliance Officer: £40,000 - £70,000 per year (₹48L - ₹84L)

SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Examination)

The SQE is the new route to becoming a solicitor in England and Wales and is gradually replacing the LPC. It has two stages of exams that test both legal knowledge and practical skills needed for professional practice. Since it is a standardized assessment, there are no specializations. 

The SQE also includes practical tasks such as client advice, drafting legal documents, and case management exercises. Completing the SQE allows candidates to qualify as solicitors and practice in law firms, in-house teams, or other legal roles across the UK.

Popular skills for SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Examination)

Here are the main skills that help candidates succeed in the SQE:

• Strong understanding of UK law
• Legal drafting and document preparation
• Communication and client handling
• Problem-solving and analytical thinking
• Time management and organization

Eligibility criteria for SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Examination)

Here are the key requirements to take the SQE:

• Completion of a law degree, GDL, or non-law degree with relevant work experience.
• Passing both SQE1 (knowledge) and SQE2 (practical skills) exams.
• Proof of English language proficiency is required.
• Completion of two years of qualifying work experience (QWE).

Average salary of SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Examination)

Here are some jobs SQE-qualified solicitors can do and their average annual pay:

• Solicitor (after SQE qualification): £45,000 - £70,000 per year (₹54L - ₹84L)
• Corporate Lawyer: £55,000 - £90,000 per year (₹66L - ₹1.08Cr)
• Legal Researcher / Consultant: £32,000 - £50,000 per year (₹38.4L - ₹60L)

MA Law (Master of Arts in Law)

The MA Law in the UK is an accelerated postgraduate course designed for students from non-law backgrounds who want to gain legal knowledge. It provides core training in essential legal areas while allowing students to explore special subjects. Students can specialize in fields such as International Law, Corporate Law, Criminal Law, or Human Rights Law. 

The course takes one year full-time or two years part-time and includes both academic study and practical exercises to prepare students for a legal career or further qualifications like the SQE. MA Law programs also focus on developing skills in legal analysis, research, and argumentation.

Popular skills for MA Law (Master of Arts in Law)

Here are the key skills that help students succeed in MA Law:

• Understanding core legal principles
• Legal research and writing
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Clear communication and presentation skills

Eligibility criteria for MA Law (Master of Arts in Law)

Here are the main requirements to take the MA Law:

• A non-law undergraduate degree from a recognized university.
• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5-7.5 or TOEFL 92-110, depending on the program).
• Academic transcripts, personal statement, and sometimes references

Average salary of MA Law (Master of Arts in Law)

Here are some jobs MA Law graduates can do and their average annual pay:

• Legal Advisor: £40,000 - £65,000 per year (₹48L - ₹78L)
• Compliance Officer: £40,000 - £70,000 per year (₹48L - ₹84L)
• Policy Analyst / Legal Consultant: £36,000 - £60,000 per year (₹43.2L - ₹72L)

MPhil/PhD in Law

The MPhil and PhD in Law in the UK are advanced research degrees for students who want to pursue academic, policy, or specialist legal careers. They involve independent research under supervision and allow students to contribute to new legal knowledge and thinking. Students can focus on areas such as Constitutional Law, Human Rights Law, International Trade Law, or Environmental Law. 

The programs usually take 1-2 years for an MPhil and 3-4 years for a PhD full-time. Research includes writing a thesis or dissertation, engaging with academic literature, and sometimes presenting findings at conferences.

Popular skills for MPhil/PhD in Law

Here are the main skills that help students succeed in MPhil/PhD programs:

• Advanced legal research and analysis
• Critical thinking and academic writing
• Problem-solving and independent study
• Presentation and communication of research
• Time management and project planning

Eligibility criteria for MPhil/PhD in Law

Here are the main requirements to take an MPhil or PhD in Law:

• A strong undergraduate degree in law or a related field, often a 2:1 or higher.
• A relevant master’s degree may be required for a PhD.
• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5-7.5 or TOEFL 92-110, if needed).
• Submission of research proposal, academic references, and transcripts.

Average salary of MPhil/PhD in Law

Here are some roles MPhil/PhD graduates can pursue and their average annual pay:

• University Lecturer / Academic: £40,000 - £65,000 per year (₹48L - ₹78L)
• Legal Researcher: £32,000 - £50,000 per year (₹38.4L - ₹60L)
• Policy Analyst / Legal Consultant: £36,000 - £60,000 per year (₹43.2L - ₹72L)

The UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious law schools, many of which consistently rank among the global top 20. 

These universities in the UK offer strong law academic training and direct exposure to leading law firms, courts, and international legal networks: 

Applying to study law in the UK is slightly different for undergraduate (LLB) and postgraduate (LLM) degrees, but the basics are the same: clear documents, strong motivation, and meeting deadlines.

Step 1: Decide Which Degree You’re Applying For

The first thing you need to do is choose whether you want to study an undergraduate or postgraduate law degree.

• Undergraduate: You apply through UCAS, which is the central system for UK universities.
• Postgraduate: You apply directly to the university of your choice.

Step 2: Collect Your Academic and English Test Results

Make sure you have the right academic qualifications and proof of English ability.

• For LLB, you need your school exam results (like A-levels or equivalent).
• For LLM, you need your bachelor’s degree marks, preferably in law.
• International students must also show proof of English skills through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.

Step 3: Prepare the Key Documents

Strong documents help universities understand your goals and abilities. Collect your SOP, references, transcripts, LNAT, and work experience if applicable.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Once everything is ready, it’s time to officially apply.

• UCAS: Fill out your application online and submit before the deadline (usually in the autumn for the next year’s intake).
• University Portal: Upload your documents and apply directly through the university website.

Step 5: Meet Other Requirements

After applying, you’ll also need to handle important formalities like a UK student visa and funding.

• Visa: International students need a Student Route Visa. You’ll need to show your admission letter, English test score, and proof of funds.
• Finances: You must show you can cover your tuition fee and living costs while studying in the UK.

Studying law in the UK can be exciting but also challenging, especially when it comes to managing applications, scholarships, and finances. Many students often struggle to keep track of deadlines for UCAS, LNAT, or LLM applications, which can be stressful. Create a clear checklist early and start preparing documents and personal statements well in advance to avoid a last-minute rush.

With Yocket Premium, you can simplify this process and stay organized effortlessly. It helps you track application deadlines, find scholarships, connect with other students, and access expert guidance personalised for law aspirants, making your journey to a top UK law degree much smoother.