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The 10 Best Law Schools in the United Kingdom

Law is one of those subjects that can be studied to become a lawyer but is also relevant to many other types of careers. Whether you study pure law or mix it with other subjects, if you’re a law graduate, your employment prospects are assured.
The 10 Best Law Schools in the United Kingdom
Published on: 17 Oct 2023

Choosing to study law in the UK is a gateway to an exciting and varied career path. Whether your goal is to become a barrister, solicitor, or a professional in another industry, a law degree equips you with valuable skills and knowledge. The United Kingdom is home to some of the most prestigious and globally recognised law schools, making it a top destination for aspiring legal professionals.

The study of law

Law is a diverse subject that can provide a grounding for a career in law or other careers that utilise the skills you learn. Law is an incredibly competitive field of study, and you’ll need to work hard to secure a place. When you do, you’re on the road to one of the more rewarding degree courses around.

You’ll study civil law, criminal law, torts, contracts, and a whole lot more. These foundational areas are complemented by modules focusing on emerging legal issues, international law, and ethics. Be prepared to work hard, though, as courses are very demanding. However, the intellectual challenges and opportunities for growth make it worth the effort.

What careers use a law degree?

A law degree is just the beginning of a career in law but can be the gateway to becoming a solicitor, barrister, clerk, or something outside of the courts. Many business careers benefit from law degrees as they prepare students for many aspects of the working world.

That includes negotiation, arbitration, international relations, policymaking, scientific fields, trade, law enforcement, finance, insurance, and a whole lot more. 

A law degree also develops transferable skills such as research, communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving. These abilities are invaluable in roles such as compliance officers, contract managers, mediators, or policy advisors. Whether within the legal field or beyond, a law degree opens up a wide range of possibilities.

The best law schools in the UK

The following list highlights the top 10 law schools in the UK, based on the 2025 University Subject League Table for Law from the Complete University Guide. These institutions are renowned for their academic excellence, comprehensive curricula, and vibrant student experiences.

1. University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge offers a single undergraduate law course, the Law BA (Hons), which is designed to provide a rigorous and intellectually stimulating education. Despite being a BA, the course holds the same level of prestige and professional preparation as an LLB from other universities. Cambridge’s law faculty is known for its focus on critical analysis and research-led teaching.

Students at Cambridge benefit from small group supervisions, world-class academic resources, and access to the city’s rich cultural and historic environment.

While its teaching approach is similar to Oxford, students at Cambridge are assessed at the end of each academic year, spreading the pressure of exams across the three years of study. This is worth keeping in mind if you’re deciding between these two great universities!

  • Subject League Table: 1st

  • University League Table: 1st

  • Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 160 UCAS points

2. University College London (UCL)

The Faculty of Laws at University College London (UCL) is one of the most prestigious in the world, offering five undergraduate law courses, including the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and options to study with French, German, or Hispanic Law. Postgraduate students can choose from a range of specialised courses such as the Law LLM (Masters of Laws).

Located in Bloomsbury, UCL provides students with access to London’s vibrant cultural scene. With its emphasis on global legal perspectives, UCL equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to thrive in international legal careers.

  • Subject League Table: 2nd

  • University League Table: 9th

  • Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 152 UCAS points

3. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

The London School of Economics (LSE) is internationally renowned for its expertise in law, particularly its focus on the social, economic, and political contexts of legal systems. Here, undergraduates can choose to study the Law LLB (Hons) or Anthropology & Law BA (Hons). LSE also offers an LLM and PhD in Law, alongside several related postgraduate courses such as MSc Human Rights and Politics.

The university’s central London location provides unparalleled networking opportunities, with frequent guest lectures from leading legal professionals and policymakers.

  • Subject League Table: 3rd

  • University League Table: 3rd

  • Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 136-152 UCAS points

4. University of Oxford

Oxford’s Faculty of Law is one of the oldest and most esteemed in the world, offering seven undergraduate courses. These include the Law BA (Hons) and options to study alongside European, French, German, Italian, or Spanish Law. Oxford also boasts a variety of postgraduate courses, such as the MPhil in Law, MSc in Criminology and Criminal Justice, or the DPhil in Socio-Legal Studies.

Oxford offers a unique educational experience with its tutorial-based teaching system, which ensures close interaction with faculty members. Students complete three compulsory modules during the first two terms of their first year, culminating in Moderation exams (Mods). Following this, they are not formally assessed again until the final year of their degree. This approach is worth noting for students choosing between Oxford and Cambridge, as the assessment style varies slightly between the two.

  • Subject League Table: 4th

  • University League Table: 2nd

  • Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 112-165 UCAS points

5. King's College London (KCL)

King’s College London (KCL) is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach to legal education. Undergraduate students can choose from seven law courses, including Bachelor of Laws degrees and unique combinations like Politics, Philosophy, and Law LLB (Hons). There are also plenty of options to study different national laws, including Hong Kong Law or Australian Law, preparing students to practice law in various countries outside of the UK. Postgraduate options are expansive, ranging from the Master of Laws LLM to specialised courses such as Medical Ethics & Law MA.

Situated on the banks of the River Thames, KCL offers a vibrant environment for academic and social life. Its location near major legal institutions provides students with unique opportunities for internships and professional networking.

  • Subject League Table: 5th

  • University League Table: 24th

  • Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 93-152 UCAS points

6. Durham University

Durham University’s law school is celebrated for its high-quality teaching and strong focus on research. It offers a single undergraduate law course, the Law LLB (Hons), with the option of a foundation year for students who need additional preparation. The university also provides a supportive collegiate environment, enhancing the student experience.

Durham’s picturesque setting and proximity to vibrant northern cities like Newcastle make it a desirable place to study. The university’s emphasis on academic rigour ensures that its graduates are well-prepared for legal careers.

  • Subject League Table: 6th

  • University League Table: 7th

  • Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 152-168 UCAS points

7. University of Glasgow

The University of Glasgow offers a whopping 28 undergraduate courses for law, including Common Law, Scots Law, and combinations with subjects like Business & Management or English Literature. As if that wasn't enough, they've also got a huge range of postgraduate options including the Law LLM, Law PhD, and unique courses like the Animal Welfare Science, Ethics, and Law MSc.

Glasgow’s welcoming campus and vibrant city life make it an excellent choice for students. The university’s commitment to innovative teaching ensures graduates are well-equipped for diverse legal careers.

  • Subject League Table: 7th

  • University League Table: 28th

  • Undergraduate Entry Requirements: AAA at A-Level

8. University of Bristol

Bristol’s law school offers six undergraduate courses, including options to study abroad. The university also has a strong postgraduate offering, with courses like MA Law and Law PhD.

Bristol’s dynamic student community and thriving city culture provide a perfect backdrop for academic and personal growth. The university’s focus on innovation and practical skills ensures graduates are ready for the challenges of modern legal practice.

  • Subject League Table: 8th

  • University League Table: 16th

  • Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 112-165 UCAS points

9. University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh provides a diverse range of 16 undergraduate law courses, including Global Law LLB (Hons) and combinations with subjects like Accountancy or Social Anthropology. There are lots of postgraduate options to choose from as well, such as the Commercial Law LLM and other specialised programmes.

Located in Scotland’s vibrant capital, Edinburgh offers a rich cultural experience alongside academic excellence. The university’s strong research focus ensures students are at the cutting edge of legal scholarship.

  • Subject League Table: 9th

  • University League Table: 15th

  • Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 126-165 UCAS points

10. University of Nottingham

Nottingham’s law school offers three undergraduate courses, including Law LLB (Hons) and Law BA (Hons) with French or Spanish Law. The university also provides a variety of postgraduate programmes, from the Law LLM or PhD to the International Commercial Law LLM.

Nottingham combines academic excellence with a vibrant campus atmosphere. The city’s lively cultural scene and student-friendly amenities make it a popular choice for law students.

  • Subject League Table: 10th

  • University League Table: 30th

  • Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 112-153 UCAS points

Conclusion

The UK’s top law schools offer exceptional education, world-class resources, and a pathway to a successful career in law and beyond. Whether you wish to study pure Law or mix it with other subjects, these institutions provide unparalleled opportunities for aspiring legal professionals. 

Once you’ve decided which academic course to study, it's worth considering additional factors when selecting a university for your law degree. These factors may include the location, available transportation options, and the cost of student accommodation in the area.

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