Can I do an LLM after a BA law degree?

Jul 14, 2022

Written By Helena Kudiabor

There are many different law related degrees for you to choose from. In this article you will learn all about the similarities and differences between the BA in law degree, the LLB and the LLM.

What is a BA in law?

A BA in law is a bachelors of arts degree with a focus in law. You’ll be required to complete a few law-specific modules as part of your degree, but you’ll also have the chance to take some non-law modules.

BA’s in law are typically offered as a joint honours degree, for instance business and law, law and criminology, or even law and spanish.

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What is the difference between a BA in law and the LLB?

The LLB is a qualifying law degree. This means that after you complete the degree, you’ll be able to move to the next stage of the process of becoming a lawyer. However, the BA in law is a non-qualifying law degree, meaning that you will need to complete a law conversion course (just like students who haven’t studied law before) before you can begin the process of qualification.

Although the SQ route means that you are no longer required to complete a law conversion course, BA students will not have covered everything in the SQE exams and will thus benefit from additional training.

Another difference between the LLB and the BA in law is that while BA students complete some non-law modules, LLB students are typically required to only take law modules.

Why should I do the BA in law?

If you have your heart set on becoming a solicitor or a barrister, completing the LLB makes sense, as it makes your route to qualification much simpler. However, the BA in law is a good fit for those who are interested in law but don’t want to qualify as a lawyer.

A BA in law will give you skills relevant to other career sectors, and will allow you to learn more about different topics outside of law. This is especially true if you complete a joint honours degree in law and another subject.

What is an LLM?

An LLM is a masters in law. LLM’s are not qualifying law degrees, but still provide you with the chance to gain valuable experience. They allow you to specialise in a specific area of law, which is useful if you are certain about what you want to do.

Specialising early on shows to employers that you have in-depth knowledge on a particular sector in law, increasing your employability.

Can I do an LLM after a BA law degree?

Entry requirements vary across law schools. While most universities won’t require you to have completed an LLB to apply for an LLM, the majority will require that you have some sort of legal experience.

While your BA law degree will provide experience, you can boost your chances of admission by getting some legal work experience. Why not join your university’s mock trial society, or get involved in pro bono work?

How can I fund my LLM?

One of the biggest barriers to education is the cost, and master's degrees are no exception. To help offset the cost of your degree, you could save up money from work experience, apply for scholarships and bursaries or find a part-time job. You can even complete the LLM part-time. Although it will take you an additional year to complete, it might be something to consider if you’re worried about balancing work and university.

The government also offers a postgraduate loan for masters students. You can get up to £11,836, regardless of yours or your family’s income.

Completing an LLM after a BA in law allows you to gain valuable experience in a sector of law that particularly interests you. Such expertise will set you apart from the crowd when it comes to job applications, increasing your chances of securing your dream job.

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