University of Bristol - School of Law

Learn from world-leading academics so you can become an expert yourself 

Our intellectually demanding, research-informed curriculum is delivered by academics who are leaders in their fields. As a Russell Group university, and a top 3 UK law school for legal research excellence (REF2021), our academics are leading the way in diverse areas of legal research. It is this combination of teaching and research excellence that sees our graduates stand out - going on to shape and inform policy and legislation around the world and across many sectors.  

Choose from a diverse range of LLMs

The knowledge and expertise of our academics informs our distinctive and exciting range of LLMs with programmes including the LLM International Law, LLM Banking and Finance, LLM Health, Law and Society, LLM in Human Rights Law, LLM in Employment, Work and Equality and many more to choose from.

Tailor your own degree

The pioneering research of our academics has also influenced a diverse range of optional modules that enable you to tailor your own degree. The LLM Law and Globalisation, for instance, offers modules ranging from IT law, IP Law and Environmental Law to Criminal Law and Criminal Justice – making it a popular choice for both international and home students.

Exciting opportunities for non-law graduates

Our MA in Law is an accelerated, fast-track, senior status postgraduate degree. This law conversion course will enable you to graduate in two years versus three with an LLB – and with a deeper understanding of law and legal reasoning than is possible with a one-year Graduate Diploma in Law. On this course you will also have the chance for specialist study with optional units that reflect the expertise of our academics - setting it apart in terms of helping you achieve the highest aspirations you have for your future career.

The University of Bristol Law School is top ten in England and Wales (Complete University Guide UK Rankings 2022), and is a top 3 UK law school for legal research excellence (Times Higher Education analysis of REF 2021). Based in the iconic Wills Memorial Building at the heart of Bristol, our Law School has a proud reputation as one of the best in the country. Here you will be challenged, inspired and empowered by our academically rigorous curriculum. With access to the latest legal thinking, and intellectually distinguished scholars at the forefront of their research fields, you will leave with a qualification that is respected around the world.

The Faculty of Social Sciences and Law embodies a vibrant global community of world-class expertise in economics, education, finance, human geography, international studies, law, management, politics, social policy, social work and sociology, attracting talented staff and students from around the world and forging strong links with international organisations and research councils.

Live and learn in great facilities, an exciting UK city and the largest legal centre outside London

The Law School facilities provide the very best blend of tradition and innovation. Much of the teaching is based in the iconic Wills Memorial Building at the heart of Bristol, with its gothic tower, Harry Potter-esque great hall and library - and gargoyle framed windows of its lecture halls. Across the road in Berkeley Square is another historic building, recently refurbished to house modern research suites, seminar and tutor rooms and a state-of-the-art moot court where you can also test out your debating and negotiating skills.  Bristol itself is a vibrant, culturally diverse city, small enough to feel warm and friendly, but big enough to provide outstanding extracurricular opportunities, including a host of clubs, sporting activities and community and volunteering groups.

Our careers programme

Gain the skills and knowledge to access a diverse range of careers 

Choosing the University of Bristol means gaining access to a rich calendar of career-focused activities and a strong collaboration between the School, our alumni, international law firms, non-governmental organisations and a dedicated careers advisor with expertise in what is needed to access diverse legal pathways. Studying at the University of Bristol Law School means graduating with the skills, knowledge and contacts to fulfil your career aspirations and excel in or out of law. 

Get hands on clinical legal experience and work opportunities in human rights, legal tech and criminology

Through our student-run pro bono legal service, the Human Rights Law Clinic and initiatives that tackle criminal law and the justice system, such as the Freedom Law Clinic and Empowering the Innocent (an initiative set up by the founder of the globally-renowned Innocence Project), you can gain recognised, real-life experience of law that employers in a wide range of sectors will value. Further opportunities include mentoring schemes, human rights and legal tech placements and much more.

An upper second-class honours degree in law or a degree with an adequate law component. International students with equivalent qualifications should supply a transcript of their examination results (this should be an official English translation if the original is not in English).

Recognised Prior Learning is not currently accepted. Previous or professional experience is not required.

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Full details are found on our website. All students are requested to apply online.

Full time fees
UK: £12,200
Overseas/EU: £24,700

Part time fees
UK £6,100

Fees quoted are per annum and subject to annual increase.

Funding for 2023/24
Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.

Information on University of Bristol scholarships can be found at: http://www.bristol.ac.uk/international/fees-finance/scholarships/