The University of Law the degree of master of laws

Description

The University of Law (ULaw), the UK’s longest-established specialist provider of legal education, is a private institution dedicated to practical, career-focused training for aspiring lawyers and legal professionals. Founded in 1876 as the Gilbert Law Society and rebranded as The University of Law in 2012 after gaining degree-awarding powers, ULaw operates across 16 campuses in the UK (including London Bloomsbury, Manchester, and Guildford) and international hubs in Hong Kong and Ireland, serving over 8,000 students annually. Ranked top 10 in the UK for Graduate Prospects in Law (Complete University Guide 2026) and praised for its 95% employability rate within six months (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024), ULaw emphasizes employability through simulations, pro bono clinics, and partnerships with over 4,000 law firms. The Master of Laws (LLM) is a flexible postgraduate qualification designed for both law and non-law graduates to deepen academic legal knowledge and specialize in emerging areas. Available in general, international, and specialized variants (e.g., International Business Law, Legal Practice), this one-year full-time (or two-year part-time) program awards a prestigious LLM degree certificate or diploma, enhancing career pathways in legal practice, compliance, academia, or international organizations without serving as a direct route to UK solicitor or barrister qualification.

A Legacy of Practical Legal Education

ULaw’s origins in Victorian-era legal coaching have evolved into a modern powerhouse of vocational law training, with innovations like the Virtual Law Firm for experiential learning and the ULaw Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA)-approved apprenticeship routes. As a specialist university, it focuses on bridging academia and practice, with faculty comprising practicing solicitors, barristers, and judges. Ranked 1st in the UK for Postgraduate Law Teaching (The Guardian 2025), ULaw’s LLM programs align with global legal demands, such as ESG compliance and digital law, supported by alumni networks including leaders at Magic Circle firms like Clifford Chance and Allen & Overy. The general LLM, in particular, reflects ULaw’s adaptable ethos, allowing customization amid a sector where 70% of graduates pursue international or specialist roles.

Diverse Degree Programs and Diplomas

ULaw offers a portfolio of LLM programs emphasizing flexibility, with the core Master of Laws (General) requiring 180 UK credits at Level 7, delivered through blended learning (on-campus, online, or hybrid) with assessments via exams, coursework, and a 10,000-word dissertation. Specializations enable tailored study, culminating in a classified LLM diploma. Key highlights include:

• Core Structure (LLM Master of Laws): The general program includes foundational modules like Advanced Legal Skills (research and advocacy), Comparative and International Law, and a flexible dissertation on topics such as corporate governance or human rights. Students select from 10+ electives (e.g., Intellectual Property Law, Commercial Law, Employment Law), with compulsory elements in legal ethics, critical analysis, and professional practice. The international variant mandates two international law modules (e.g., International Trade Law, Public International Law) and a dissertation in that domain. Programs run from September to July, with options for accelerated 6-month delivery.
• Admission Requirements: A 2:2 undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in any discipline; non-law graduates complete a pre-sessional Conversion in Law module. Professional experience is advantageous but not required. English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 overall, no subscore below 6.0) for internationals. Applications via ULaw’s portal include a personal statement; no entrance exam needed. Up to 20% of places reserved for scholarships.
• Variants and Specializations: LLM International Law for undecided students (specialize later in trade, human rights, or arbitration); LLM International Business Law focusing on cross-border transactions; LLM Legal Practice integrating SRA competencies for solicitor pathways. Shorter Postgraduate Diplomas (120 credits) in Legal Practice or Postgraduate Certificates (60 credits) in Advanced Legal Skills provide entry to the full LLM. Dual qualifications with ULaw’s MBA or online options via ULaw Online enhance flexibility.

Fees for 2025/26: £12,500–£15,000 (UK full-time), £16,000–£18,000 (international), with scholarships up to 50% for high achievers or underrepresented groups.

Why Pursue an LLM at The University of Law?

Opting for the Master of Laws degree at ULaw immerses you in a professional ecosystem with small cohorts (average 20 students), mock courtrooms, and guest lectures from firms like DLA Piper. Located amid London’s legal district, campuses offer networking via the ULaw Careers Service, including 1:1 coaching and 1,000+ annual placements. Graduates achieve 95% employability, often in in-house counsel (£40,000+ starting salaries), compliance roles at KPMG, or international arbitration at the ICC, with the general LLM’s flexibility suiting career pivots. Affordable fees, 10% alumni discounts, and SRA-aligned credits make it accessible, while ULaw’s 98% bar exam pass rate (for integrated programs) underscores its practical edge.

In summary, the University of Law Master of Laws is a versatile degree certificate that advances legal expertise with real-world relevance. For professionals seeking specialization or enhancement, ULaw’s LLM delivers strategic advantage. Explore programs at law.ac.uk to launch your advanced legal journey.