3 answers
Julia
Student
Nottingham, England, United Kingdom
1
Question
Asked
464 views
Can I become a lawyer after studying criminology?
Hello,
Is it possible to do a Criminology degree in the UK to then do a masters in Law and become a lawyer like this? Or would I have to do my undergraduate degree in Law?
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3 answers
Vasiliu Marina
4
Answers
Updated
Vasiliu’s Answer
Hi Julia,
Choosing a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Law can be a rewarding path. While it may take a bit longer than the traditional LLB, it offers unique benefits. This route is perfect for those who enjoy the academic side of Law and are interested in careers like journalism, politics, or business. These fields value the skills you gain from a BA in Law.
The main difference between an LLB and a BA/BSc in Law is the focus. An LLB is all about Law, while a BA in Law combines Law with other subjects like history or business. This allows you to pursue joint honours, such as Law with German or Criminology.
With a BA in Law, you can still become a Barrister or a Solicitor. Although it isn't a qualifying law degree, you can take the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) to qualify, which is now transitioning to the SQE.
If you're considering where to study, the University of Cambridge offers a prestigious BA (Hons) course. It focuses on English law but also lets you explore other legal systems, like Roman, EU, and international law. You can even dive into topics like jurisprudence or criminology, making it a fantastic choice for a well-rounded education in Law.
Choosing a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Law can be a rewarding path. While it may take a bit longer than the traditional LLB, it offers unique benefits. This route is perfect for those who enjoy the academic side of Law and are interested in careers like journalism, politics, or business. These fields value the skills you gain from a BA in Law.
The main difference between an LLB and a BA/BSc in Law is the focus. An LLB is all about Law, while a BA in Law combines Law with other subjects like history or business. This allows you to pursue joint honours, such as Law with German or Criminology.
With a BA in Law, you can still become a Barrister or a Solicitor. Although it isn't a qualifying law degree, you can take the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) to qualify, which is now transitioning to the SQE.
If you're considering where to study, the University of Cambridge offers a prestigious BA (Hons) course. It focuses on English law but also lets you explore other legal systems, like Roman, EU, and international law. You can even dive into topics like jurisprudence or criminology, making it a fantastic choice for a well-rounded education in Law.
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
658
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Julia,
You can become a lawyer from any degree, it doesn't have to be a law degree. And having Criminology as a basis makes a lot of sense.
It is recommended (not required) that you take a law conversion course (e.g. a Postgraduate Diploma in Law) and/or a prep course for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) before you take the SQE for prospective solicitors or the bar course for prospective barristers.
For aspiring solicitors, this is followed by 2 years of legal work under a training contract. For aspiring barristers, a work-based learning phase (pupillage) is required.
I left a link for you below for more information.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
https://www.prospects.ac.uk/jobs-and-work-experience/job-sectors/law-sector/how-to-become-a-lawyer#do-i-need-a-law-degree
You can become a lawyer from any degree, it doesn't have to be a law degree. And having Criminology as a basis makes a lot of sense.
It is recommended (not required) that you take a law conversion course (e.g. a Postgraduate Diploma in Law) and/or a prep course for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) before you take the SQE for prospective solicitors or the bar course for prospective barristers.
For aspiring solicitors, this is followed by 2 years of legal work under a training contract. For aspiring barristers, a work-based learning phase (pupillage) is required.
I left a link for you below for more information.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
439
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
Hi, Julia, - this is a terrific question. The short answer is that you can do this, and I could certainly see the link between Criminology and the law.
Now for a little more detail. You will need to decide if you want to become a solicitor or barrister, and the requirements may vary a little between the two. If a solicitor, you will need to pass the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE). For both, there is a 2-year apprenticeship period following law school. And then you could become a lawyer.
I have left a link below with more information - good luck!
Kings' Education - https://www.kingseducation.com/kings-life/how-to-become-a-lawyer
Now for a little more detail. You will need to decide if you want to become a solicitor or barrister, and the requirements may vary a little between the two. If a solicitor, you will need to pass the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE). For both, there is a 2-year apprenticeship period following law school. And then you could become a lawyer.
I have left a link below with more information - good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps:
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Julia