A degree in Law can lead to a variety of different careers, including being the first step to becoming a Solicitor or Barrister. There is the pure Law degree that can be taken (LLB) or many Universities offer a range of combinations of other subjects with Law.

This degree is a 'qualifying' degree; this means that it provides exemption from the first or academic stage of the examinations required by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and Bar Standards Board before you can qualify as a solicitor or barrister.

Barristers

In order to practise as a Barrister in England and Wales you must first join an Inn of Court. On successful completion of the degree , you must take a further one-year full-time course, the Bar Professional Training Course, leading to the second part of the Bar examination. Then follows a one-year period of Pupillage – a form of apprenticeship in a barrister's chambers.

Solicitors

On completion of their degree intending solicitors take a one-year full-time course. This is called the Legal Practice Course (LPC). Thereafter, there is a two-year training contract (apprenticeship in a firm of solicitors), all or most of which must be taken after completing the LPC.

Law graduates often enter into a wide range of other careers including: politics, journalism, business, finance and communication.

If you are intending to apply to study Law at University, A Levels or BTEC's are suitable. Some Universities can have a preferred list of A Level and/or BTEC courses and a preferred range of combinations. Many accept any A Levels and a broad range of BTEC courses.

Universities are looking for a range of elements within an application to study Law such as:

• A strong GCSE profile (with grade 4's or above in English and Maths)
• A Level predictions ranging from AAA – CCCs, dependent on the University
• Strong academic reference
• Work experience with reflective learning in a range of legal settings
• Extra and super curricular activities that have developed suitable skills and qualities.