Best Law Universities In The UK – The Complete 2023 Guide
Welcome to our guide on the top UK universities for law! If you’re considering a career in the legal field, choosing the right university is crucial. In this article, we’ll showcase the cream of the crop of UK legal education, highlighting the institutions that offer exceptional programmes, esteemed faculty, and promising career prospects. As we enter 2024, let’s explore the universities that stand out in shaping the legal minds of tomorrow.
Table of Contents
Why Get A Law Degree?
Obtaining a law degree opens up a world of opportunities and offers numerous compelling reasons to pursue this path. A law degree equips you with a versatile skill set that is highly valued in various industries. This includes analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail.
Moreover, a law degree provides a deep understanding of legal principles and frameworks, empowering you to navigate the complexities of laws and regulations in today’s society. There are also plenty of opportunities for intellectual growth, making a positive impact on society, and advocating for justice.
Why Study Law in the UK?
Studying law in the UK offers a myriad of compelling reasons that make it an attractive choice for aspiring legal minds.
First and foremost, the UK legal system serves as a global benchmark, making it an ideal place to study law and gain a deep understanding of common law principles. The proximity to international courts, law firms, and legal institutions further enhances opportunities for networking, internships, and professional development. The UK’s strong legal reputation translates into attractive career prospects, with abundant opportunities to embark on a successful legal career within the country or internationally.
Besides, its universities are globally recognised for their rigorous legal programmes, distinguished faculty, and high academic standards. Studying in the UK provides access to a comprehensive and well-rounded legal education, encompassing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Top 5 Law Universities in the UK
Here are the best universities for law degrees in the UK entering 2024 using the latest Times Higher Education’s World University Rankings.
1. University of Cambridge
With a history spanning over eight centuries, Cambridge University offers a world-class legal education with a rich academic tradition. The law programme at Cambridge is highly regarded for its courses in international and comparative law, jurisprudence and legal history. Students have the opportunity to study a comprehensive range of legal subjects, building a solid foundation in legal principles and critical thinking skills.
Cambridge’s extensive network allows student exchange programmes such as the Herbert Smith Freehills Global Visitor Programme. The university’s distinguished faculty comprises leading legal scholars and practitioners who provide valuable insights into the legal profession. They are now making great strides in the socio-legal and social-science research. Additionally, Cambridge’s central location offers students access to a vibrant legal community, including renowned law firms, courts, and legal organisations.
2. Oxford University
Renowned for its centuries-old tradition of academic excellence, Oxford University offers an unparalleled legal education. The law programme at Oxford combines rigorous intellectual training with a deep exploration of legal principles, theory, and critical analysis. Students engage with world-class faculty who are leading experts in their fields, gaining insights from their extensive research and experience. Several ongoing research projects include: 100 years of Women in Law at Oxford, Addressing Asylum Harm in Britain, Denmark and Sweden, and AI for English Law.
The programme places a strong emphasis on developing strong analytical and research skills, while also fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Oxford’s unique tutorial system provides students with personalised attention and the opportunity to engage in in-depth discussions and debates. Additionally, Oxford’s rich legal history and proximity to the UK’s legal and political institutions offer students a stimulating environment for legal studies.
3. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
LSE’s Department of Law is renowned for its rigorous academic standards, innovative research, and global outlook. The law programme at LSE offers a unique blend of legal education with a focus on interdisciplinary perspectives, exploring the intersection of law, economics, politics, and society. The department also maintains close ties to the Modern Law Review, one of the world’s leading academic law reviews.
Students benefit from the expertise of leading scholars and practitioners who contribute to shaping legal and policy debates worldwide. The programme offers a diverse range of courses, covering a wide array of legal areas and contemporary issues. LSE’s location in the heart of London, a global hub for finance, politics, and law, provides students with unparalleled opportunities for internships, networking, and engaging with top-tier legal professionals.
4. University College London (UCL)
UCL’s Faculty of Laws is renowned for its world-class legal education and cutting-edge research. With a history spanning nearly 200 years, UCL offers a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment for studying law. The law programme at UCL emphasises a multidisciplinary approach, integrating law with social sciences, humanities, and technology to address complex legal issues.
Students benefit from engaging with renowned faculty members who are experts in their respective fields. The programme offers a wide range of courses and specialisations, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals. UCL’s central London location provides students with unrivaled access to legal institutions, global law firms, and an extensive network of legal professionals.
5. University of Edinburgh
With a rich history spanning over 300 years, the University of Edinburgh offers a distinguished legal education that combines tradition with innovation. The law programme at Edinburgh is highly regarded for its academic excellence, rigorous curriculum, and exceptional faculty. Students are provided with a comprehensive understanding of legal principles, critical thinking skills, and practical training to excel in their legal careers.
The programme offers a wide range of courses, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations. Furthermore, the University of Edinburgh’s location in Scotland’s vibrant capital city provides a stimulating environment for legal studies, with access to courts, law firms, and a vibrant legal community.
Law University League Table 2024
Here is the latest list of the best UK universities for law as we enter 2024:
| Rank | Institution | Entry Standards | Student Satisfaction | Research Quality | Continuation | Graduate prospects outcomes | Graduate prospects on track | Overall Score |
| 1 | University of Oxford | 206 | 3.35 | 98.8 | 92.0 | 77.0 | 100.0 | |
| 2 | University of Cambridge | 204 | 3.36 | 99.4 | 85.0 | 83.0 | 99.7 | |
| 3 | UCL (University College London) | 200 | 3.83 | 3.62 | 100.0 | 89.0 | 82.0 | 97.7 |
| 4 | London School of Economics and Political Science, University of London | 202 | 3.69 | 3.39 | 100.0 | 85.0 | 77.0 | 95.9 |
| 5 | King's College London, University of London | 205 | 3.90 | 3.30 | 96.6 | 88.0 | 76.0 | 95.6 |
| 6 | Durham University | 190 | 3.77 | 3.38 | 98.8 | 80.0 | 81.0 | 94.5 |
| 7 | University of Glasgow | 221 | 3.86 | 3.49 | 97.9 | 83.0 | 83.0 | 94.1 |
| 8 | University of Bristol | 186 | 3.62 | 3.51 | 98.4 | 81.0 | 77.0 | 93.6 |
| 9 | University of Warwick | 165 | 3.88 | 3.41 | 98.9 | 82.0 | 78.0 | 93.0 |
| 10 | Queen's University Belfast | 166 | 3.47 | 3.41 | 97.6 | 87.0 | 86.0 | 92.5 |
| 11 | University of Leeds | 162 | 3.72 | 3.50 | 99.5 | 79.0 | 76.0 | 92.3 |
| 12 | University of York | 161 | 3.97 | 3.20 | 97.6 | 81.0 | 77.0 | 91.8 |
| 13 | University of Manchester | 167 | 3.64 | 3.09 | 97.6 | 86.0 | 80.0 | 91.7 |
| 14 | The University of Edinburgh | 218 | 3.57 | 3.42 | 97.7 | 78.0 | 78.0 | 91.7 |
| 15 | Queen Mary University of London | 179 | 3.77 | 3.34 | 97.3 | 72.0 | 75.0 | 91.5 |
| 16 | Cardiff University | 155 | 3.63 | 3.34 | 97.9 | 82.0 | 84.0 | 91.4 |
| 17 | University of Strathclyde | 213 | 4.00 | 3.13 | 97.2 | 72.0 | 83.0 | 91.3 |
| 18 | University of Nottingham | 172 | 3.76 | 3.28 | 98.0 | 70.0 | 81.0 | 91.3 |
| 19 | University of Aberdeen | 203 | 3.99 | 3.08 | 97.8 | 77.0 | 81.0 | 91.3 |
| 20 | University of Exeter | 162 | 3.80 | 3.24 | 95.8 | 82.0 | 81.0 | 91.1 |
| 21 | University of Southampton | 152 | 3.85 | 3.15 | 97.5 | 84.0 | 80.0 | 91.0 |
| 22 | University of Birmingham | 155 | 3.70 | 3.40 | 98.5 | 74.0 | 74.0 | 90.2 |
| 23 | University of Sheffield | 155 | 3.61 | 3.34 | 96.5 | 74.0 | 84.0 | 89.8 |
| 24 | Lancaster University | 151 | 4.11 | 3.15 | 97.1 | 76.0 | 67.0 | 89.7 |
| 25 | Newcastle University | 158 | 3.69 | 3.05 | 95.4 | 82.0 | 78.0 | 89.5 |
| 26 | University of Kent | 137 | 3.83 | 3.53 | 97.0 | 73.0 | 73.0 | 88.8 |
| 27 | University of Liverpool | 151 | 3.43 | 3.26 | 97.8 | 76.0 | 73.0 | 88.6 |
| 28 | University of East Anglia UEA | 137 | 3.74 | 2.86 | 98.3 | 75.0 | 85.0 | 88.4 |
| 29 | University of Dundee | 188 | 3.96 | 2.75 | 96.9 | 72.0 | 73.0 | 88.1 |
| 30 | Aston University, Birmingham | 134 | 4.02 | 3.11 | 96.9 | 69.0 | 79.0 | 88.0 |
| 31 | University of Sussex | 131 | 3.68 | 3.11 | 98.5 | 72.0 | 83.0 | 88.0 |
| 32 | SOAS University of London | 141 | 3.48 | 3.45 | 96.7 | 75.0 | 71.0 | 87.7 |
| 33 | University of Leicester | 136 | 3.84 | 2.87 | 99.1 | 73.0 | 71.0 | 87.7 |
| 34 | University of Stirling | 204 | 3.89 | 3.04 | 97.2 | 67.0 | 56.0 | 87.3 |
| 35 | Nottingham Trent University | 119 | 3.95 | 3.34 | 97.0 | 72.0 | 70.0 | 86.9 |
| 36 | Ulster University | 131 | 4.02 | 3.28 | 90.1 | 77.0 | 83.0 | 86.8 |
| 37 | Northumbria University, Newcastle | 137 | 3.65 | 2.90 | 92.9 | 84.0 | 80.0 | 86.6 |
| 38 | University of Bradford | 126 | 3.91 | 2.89 | 95.9 | 80.0 | 68.0 | 86.1 |
| 39 | University of Reading | 127 | 3.66 | 2.92 | 97.1 | 76.0 | 70.0 | 86.0 |
| 40 | Bournemouth University | 114 | 3.88 | 2.59 | 94.1 | 88.0 | 83.0 | 85.8 |
| 41 | University of Surrey | 130 | 3.90 | 2.86 | 94.1 | 73.0 | 71.0 | 85.4 |
| 42 | Swansea University | 131 | 4.05 | 2.87 | 96.4 | 61.0 | 69.0 | 85.3 |
| 43 | Bangor University | 126 | 4.02 | 2.83 | 95.9 | 62.0 | 74.0 | 85.0 |
| 44 | Glasgow Caledonian University | 215 | 4.01 | 2.67 | 94.8 | 57.0 | 64.0 | 84.7 |
| 45 | University of Essex | 122 | 3.77 | 3.31 | 92.3 | 68.0 | 73.0 | 84.4 |
| 46 | Edinburgh Napier University | 172 | 4.26 | 2.15 | 94.0 | 74.0 | 68.0 | 84.1 |
| 47 | Oxford Brookes University | 112 | 3.62 | 2.86 | 95.6 | 72.0 | 77.0 | 83.9 |
| 48 | University of Plymouth | 126 | 3.88 | 2.90 | 94.0 | 61.0 | 73.0 | 83.9 |
| 49 | Brunel University London | 123 | 3.43 | 2.83 | 97.3 | 66.0 | 70.0 | 83.7 |
| 50 | University of Portsmouth | 124 | 3.96 | 2.54 | 93.3 | 75.0 | 67.0 | 83.6 |
| 51 | Keele University | 119 | 3.71 | 2.76 | 95.2 | 69.0 | 69.0 | 83.5 |
| 52 | Aberystwyth University | 135 | 3.53 | 2.62 | 96.0 | 62.0 | 70.0 | 83.4 |
| 53 | University of Westminster, London | 114 | 3.78 | 2.75 | 95.9 | 70.0 | 67.0 | 83.1 |
| 54 | University of Lincoln | 119 | 3.87 | 2.85 | 94.8 | 60.0 | 65.0 | 82.8 |
| 55 | University of Brighton | 106 | 3.92 | 2.73 | 92.2 | 71.0 | 83.0 | 82.6 |
| 56 | Edge Hill University | 126 | 3.93 | 2.94 | 92.1 | 60.0 | 67.0 | 82.4 |
| 57 | Manchester Metropolitan University | 124 | 3.83 | 3.07 | 93.7 | 62.0 | 63.0 | 82.3 |
| 58 | University of Chichester | 115 | 4.27 | 100.0 | 82.2 | |||
| 59 | University of South Wales | 127 | 3.89 | 2.90 | 89.2 | 61.0 | 81.0 | 82.0 |
| 60 | City, University of London | 130 | 3.60 | 2.89 | 95.6 | 53.0 | 68.0 | 82.0 |
| 61 | Kingston University | 107 | 3.83 | 2.72 | 94.3 | 65.0 | 71.0 | 82.0 |
| 62 | University of Hull | 122 | 3.86 | 2.92 | 92.4 | 57.0 | 66.0 | 82.0 |
| 63 | University of Chester | 124 | 3.94 | 2.25 | 94.4 | 57.0 | 74.0 | 81.8 |
| 64 | University of Greenwich | 116 | 3.55 | 2.79 | 94.4 | 64.0 | 69.0 | 81.4 |
| 65 | Bristol, University of the West of England | 114 | 3.58 | 3.12 | 94.2 | 63.0 | 65.0 | 81.2 |
| 66 | Glyndwr University, Wrexham | 139 | 4.23 | 93.1 | 81.1 | |||
| 67 | Liverpool John Moores University | 126 | 3.89 | 2.18 | 93.8 | 63.0 | 65.0 | 80.9 |
| 68 | University of Salford | 121 | 3.69 | 2.62 | 95.1 | 59.0 | 63.0 | 80.6 |
| 69 | Leeds Beckett University | 122 | 3.75 | 2.22 | 94.5 | 60.0 | 70.0 | 80.4 |
| 70 | University of Sunderland | 112 | 4.08 | 88.9 | 87.0 | 81.0 | 80.4 | |
| 71 | University of Hertfordshire | 111 | 3.96 | 2.93 | 92.7 | 57.0 | 58.0 | 80.4 |
| 72 | St Mary's University, Twickenham | 107 | 3.85 | 2.17 | 93.5 | 65.0 | 66.0 | 80.1 |
| 73 | University of Derby | 116 | 3.71 | 2.59 | 93.2 | 59.0 | 65.0 | 80.0 |
| 74 | University of Roehampton | 98 | 3.99 | 2.94 | 94.2 | 50.0 | 60.0 | 79.9 |
| 75 | London Metropolitan University | 104 | 4.26 | 2.60 | 85.4 | 64.0 | 77.0 | 79.9 |
| 76 | University of West London | 108 | 4.31 | 96.0 | 59.0 | 75.0 | 79.9 | |
| 77 | Birmingham City University | 123 | 3.76 | 2.28 | 93.7 | 61.0 | 63.0 | 79.8 |
| 78 | Solent University (Southampton) | 115 | 4.11 | 92.5 | 76.0 | 67.0 | 79.8 | |
| 79 | Sheffield Hallam University | 116 | 3.76 | 2.75 | 92.5 | 56.0 | 66.0 | 79.7 |
| 80 | Royal Holloway, University of London | 138 | 3.77 | 92.0 | 72.0 | 61.0 | 79.3 | |
| 81 | University of Huddersfield | 121 | 3.56 | 2.10 | 90.7 | 64.0 | 77.0 | 79.3 |
| 82 | University of Worcester | 117 | 4.14 | 2.39 | 89.2 | 58.0 | 63.0 | 79.3 |
| 83 | Robert Gordon University | 157 | 3.91 | 94.0 | 68.0 | 69.0 | 79.2 | |
| 84 | Coventry University | 116 | 3.82 | 2.88 | 88.7 | 58.0 | 67.0 | 79.0 |
| 85 | University of Central Lancashire | 123 | 3.92 | 2.34 | 90.2 | 59.0 | 62.0 | 78.8 |
| 86 | University of Winchester | 118 | 3.63 | 2.05 | 89.1 | 64.0 | 71.0 | 78.6 |
| 87 | De Montfort University | 105 | 3.85 | 2.12 | 94.2 | 61.0 | 59.0 | 78.4 |
| 88 | Teesside University, Middlesbrough | 116 | 4.03 | 2.60 | 85.4 | 56.0 | 76.0 | 78.4 |
| 89 | Leeds Trinity University | 109 | 4.10 | 94.6 | 78.3 | |||
| 90 | Anglia Ruskin University | 106 | 3.85 | 2.27 | 89.3 | 67.0 | 65.0 | 78.2 |
| 91 | London South Bank University | 106 | 3.78 | 2.77 | 92.6 | 47.0 | 61.0 | 78.1 |
| 92 | Cardiff Metropolitan University | 126 | 4.07 | 90.6 | 78.0 | |||
| 93 | University of Gloucestershire | 105 | 3.84 | 2.17 | 90.9 | 52.0 | 74.0 | 77.9 |
| 94 | Middlesex University | 104 | 3.66 | 2.54 | 90.2 | 62.0 | 59.0 | 77.9 |
| 95 | Abertay University | 153 | 3.93 | 1.83 | 87.9 | 58.0 | 73.0 | 77.9 |
| 96 | Goldsmiths, University of London | 134 | 4.51 | 84.8 | 77.7 | |||
| 97 | University of Wolverhampton | 97 | 4.24 | 2.75 | 88.0 | 51.0 | 55.0 | 76.7 |
| 98 | University of East London | 101 | 3.51 | 2.51 | 89.9 | 62.0 | 56.0 | 76.3 |
| 99 | Canterbury Christ Church University | 103 | 3.69 | 2.40 | 90.6 | 51.0 | 60.0 | 76.2 |
| 100 | University of Bedfordshire | 110 | 3.90 | 83.2 | 86.0 | 76.1 | ||
| 101 | University of Buckingham | 125 | 4.10 | 91.7 | 47.0 | 57.0 | 76.0 | |
| 102 | York St John University | 103 | 3.86 | 96.2 | 45.0 | 75.6 | ||
| 103 | University of Northampton | 104 | 3.62 | 90.5 | 65.0 | 70.0 | 75.6 | |
| 104 | Staffordshire University | 100 | 3.37 | 2.55 | 89.5 | 48.0 | 61.0 | 75.1 |
| 105 | Liverpool Hope University | 110 | 3.27 | 2.48 | 91.1 | 45.0 | 55.0 | 75.0 |
| 106 | University of Cumbria | 124 | 4.34 | 92.6 | 33.0 | 49.0 | 74.5 | |
| 107 | University of the West of Scotland | 139 | 3.97 | 86.3 | 73.4 | |||
| 108 | Buckinghamshire New University | 98 | 3.64 | 91.0 | 48.0 | 48.0 | 71.6 | |
| 109 | University of Bolton | 100 | 4.22 | 1.51 | 76.5 | 64.0 | 60.0 | 70.9 |
Will AI Replace Lawyers?
AI’s impact on the legal profession is undeniable. AI algorithms can sift through vast amounts of legal documents, aiding in legal research, contract analysis, and due diligence. Yet, the role of lawyers extends beyond data processing.
Lawyers provide personalised advice, navigate intricate ethical and moral dilemmas, and represent clients in court. The human ability to understand and navigate complex emotions and social dynamics is crucial in legal matters. While AI can streamline routine tasks, lawyers will continue to play a pivotal role in interpreting laws, strategising cases, and offering empathetic counsel.
How are the Rankings Measured?
The ranking methodology includes several key indicators, such as teaching quality, research output and reputation, industry connections and engagement, international diversity, and citations. These indicators help evaluate the academic environment, resources, faculty expertise, and global impact of law schools. The rankings also consider factors like student satisfaction, graduate employability, and the influence and reach of research conducted by the universities.
Frequently Asked Questions about UK Law Universities
Entry requirements vary between universities, but typically, applicants are expected to have completed their secondary education with satisfactory grades. Most law schools in the UK require applicants to have A-level qualifications or their equivalent. Additionally, some universities may require specific subjects, such as English or a foreign language. It’s important to check the specific entry requirements of each university you are interested in.
Generally, UK law universities require applicants to take the Law National Admissions Test (LNAT). The LNAT assesses critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to analyse and interpret written information.
Yes, you can apply to multiple UK law universities. The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) allows you to submit applications to up to five different universities or courses. It is recommended to research and carefully choose the universities that align with your preferences, entry requirements, and academic goals before submitting your applications.
Yes, various scholarships and financial aid options are available for law students in the UK. Universities may offer their own scholarships based on merit, financial need, or specific criteria. Additionally, external organisations and foundations also provide scholarships and grants for law students. It’s advisable to explore the scholarship opportunities offered by individual universities and to research external funding options to determine eligibility and application procedures.
Apply To The Top Law Universities In The UK Today
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Apply To Your Favourite UK University Today!
Speak to us today for free application assistance and education advice. Our expert consultants are more than happy to help!