Employability and Career Opportunities

Studying Law at Durham is about much more than lectures and exams. From your very first year, you’ll have access to opportunities, resources, and support designed to help you build the skills and experiences that employers are looking for. Whether you’re aiming for a career in law or exploring other professional paths, we’ll help you stand out in a competitive job market.

Our Students Say It Best

At Durham Law School, we are proud of the achievements of our graduates — but you don’t need to take our word for it. Hear directly from some of our recent graduates  as they share their experiences of studying Law at Durham, the opportunities their degree opened up, and the successes they have gone on to achieve.

All of the featured graduates have approved their employability success stories and supplied their own photos which are reproduced with their kind permission.

Click through our slide show to see for yourself:

Employability Handbook and Online Resources

To support you further, we’ve put together a comprehensive Employability Handbook and additional resources predominantly aimed at Law School students. The Handbook takes you step by step through career planning as a solicitor or barrister in England and Wales — from your first year to graduation. You’ll find practical guidance on everything from writing applications to preparing for interviews and assessment days.

Law Firm Engagement and Careers Week

Durham Law students get direct access to many of the world’s leading law firms. Each year, firms visit campus or host online events exclusively for our students.

During Law Careers Week 2024, firms offering more than 1,000 training contracts joined us for in-person events and the annual Law Careers Fair. Firms attending included:

• 4 of the 5 Magic Circle firms
• 7 other London-based international firms
• 16 US-headquartered international firms with London offices
• 11 firms with a strong presence in the North East

We enjoyed another strong showing with Law Careers Week 2025 and law firm events linked to it. More details to follow.

Mentoring Schemes

We know how valuable it is to learn from those who’ve been there before. That’s why we support a range of mentoring opportunities.

These include mentoring schemes organised by two of our student run societies, the Durham University Bar Society  and the Durham University Law Society. The schemes draw on the generosity of our alumni in giving their time and expertise to act as mentors.

Supporting Social Mobility: First Generation Scholars Network

If you’re the first in your family to go to university, you’ll find a welcoming community in the First Generation Scholars Network. The Network celebrates achievements, offers extra support, and runs events to help you get the most out of your time at Durham. The Law School also has a dedicated academic contact for First Generation Scholars.

Learn more how our Employability Course helps to support First Generation Scholars.

Student Societies

Law at Durham isn’t just about studying — our student-run societies give you the chance to build skills, meet new people, and explore your interests. Whether you want to practise mooting, get involved in pro bono work, or contribute to legal writing, there’s a society for you to enrich your time at Durham

Some of the key law related societies include:

• Durham University Law Society
• Durham University Bar Society
• Durham University Pro Bono Society
• Durham University Mooting Society
• Durham University Negotiation Society
• Durham Law Review

And, in addition to the law related societies, there is a huge range of other societies and activities to enrich your time at Durham

Your Future with Durham Law School

Your time at Durham is about more than earning a degree — it’s about discovering what excites you, building the skills to succeed, and preparing for the future you want. With access to expert teaching, dedicated career support, opportunities to connect with leading law firms, and a vibrant community of student societies, you’ll be equipped to take the next step with confidence.

Wherever your path leads — into the legal profession or beyond — a Durham Law degree will open doors and give you experiences you’ll carry for life.

And After You Graduate: Our Alumni Association

And looking to the future, our Alumni Association is a great way to stay connected with Durham after you graduate. It brings together former students from around the world, offering opportunities to share experiences, celebrate achievements, and remain part of the Law School community.

The Association is jointly presided over by two of our most distinguished alumni, former UK Supreme Court judges Lady Black of Derwent and Lord Hughes of Ombersley, and its founder members include many other leaders in the profession- showing where their Durham degree took them.