A Graduate Entry LLB, also known as Senior Status LLB or Accelerated LLB, is an academic programme designed for individuals who already have an undergraduate degree in a non-law subject and wish to pursue a career in law. Before you commit your time and money to a second undergraduate degree, it is important to understand the pros and cons of the Graduate Entry LLB:
Pros
Faster pathway to becoming a lawyer: For individuals who already have an undergraduate degree, a Graduate Entry LLB programme typically takes two years instead of three years for a traditional LLB degree. This allows graduates to enter the legal profession more quickly.
Qualifying law degree: Most Graduate Entry LLB programmes are Qualifying Law Degrees that require students to study the seven foundation modules to satisfy the academic component of bar training specified by the Bar Standards Board.
Diverse student body: Graduate Entry LLB programmes attract students from various academic backgrounds, bringing diverse perspectives and experiences to the classroom.
Specialisation opportunities: Some Graduate Entry LLB programmes offer opportunities to specialise in specific areas of law during the course of study, allowing students to focus on their areas of interest.
Career change facilitation: The Graduate Entry LLB programme allows graduates to switch careers and enter the legal profession, even if their first undergraduate degree is in an unrelated field.
Mature students: Many Graduate Entry LLB students are mature learners who bring professional experience and a higher level of maturity to the learning environment.
Cons
Intensive workload: Since the programme is condensed into two years, the workload can be demanding and intense, requiring dedication and time management from students.
Limited foundational knowledge: Unlike students who pursue a traditional three-year LLB, graduate entry students may have less time to delve into foundational legal principles, potentially affecting their overall understanding of the law.
Competitive admission process: Due to the popularity of Graduate Entry LLB programmes, the admission process can be highly competitive, making it challenging for some candidates to secure a place. For top law schools, such as Oxbridge, a first-class undergraduate degree is required. Other law schools require at least a 2.1 or 2.2.
Less time for networking: The shorter duration of the programme may limit opportunities for networking and building strong relationships with peers and legal professionals.
Limited flexibility in curriculum: Some Graduate Entry LLB programmes may have a fixed curriculum, leaving less room for electives and specialised courses based on individual interests.
Fewer funding options: Students doing a second undergraduate degree is not eligible to receive a student loan for tuition and maintenance. They need to obtain funding from other sources.
Law conversion course: Students can study a law conversion course and receive a Postgraduate Diploma in Law (PGDL) in just one year for entry to bar training or the legal profession. They will typically study the same modules and topics in one year rather than two. This can significantly reduce their tuition fees and opportunity costs if they opt for a PGDL instead of a Graduate Entry LLB.
Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE): All LLB graduates have to pass the SQE to qualify as solicitors in England and Wales. Non-law graduates intending to become a solicitor do not need to obtain an LLB or PGDL in order to sit the SQE. As individuals with an undergraduate degree in any subject can directly take the SQE to qualify, studying a graduate entry LLB to become a solicitor appears to be a redundant, time-consuming and expensive process.
As with any educational programme, the benefits and drawbacks of a Graduate Entry LLB will vary depending on your circumstances and career goals. It is essential that you research thoroughly and consider other options to determine if this path aligns with your aspirations in the legal profession.
