LLB Senior Status

Overview

Entry date: September 2027

Degree type: LLB (Hons) Institution code: D86 UCAS code: M105 Course length: 2 years full-time

Durham Law School is world leading in legal education and research. Our two-year LLB Senior Status is an accelerated version of our standard undergraduate LLB (Hons) programme for those who already have a university degree. It is a research-led degree that provides an in-depth understanding of the law of England and Wales, as well as legal research and practice. It forms the first stage of the professional training you need to qualify as a solicitor or a barrister.  

Durham Law School is home to many research centres and groups, and teaching staff are actively involved in research. This research feeds into the curriculum to create a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment which is in step with developments in the real world.  

Our range of learning facilities support academic expertise, including a moot court and dedicated workrooms, allowing you to immerse yourself in a law-focused environment. Outside of structured learning, you will have opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities like moot courts, pro bono work, networking opportunities, law societies, and career events. 

Durham Education 2027

The University is committed to continuous improvement and has completed a review to enhance our courses. The resulting changes to this course advertised for 2027 entry are presented on this webpage.

These enhancements were developed in consultation with students and in response to student feedback. They do not affect degree subjects, academic standards or the broad concepts that will be taught, but relate to how courses are organised. In some cases, this means that the balance of compulsory and optional modules has changed.

Potential applicants were previously advised through a statement on this webpage that course details were under review and that any updates would be communicated transparently by the end of summer 2026. The information now presented reflects those updates, ensuring applicants know what to expect from their chosen degree.

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What you'll study

The rigorous academic curriculum, range of facilities and supportive learning environment provide the legal and academic skills you will need to progress to a career in the legal sector. The LLB Senior Status offers a thoughtfully designed module structure across two years of study.  

During your studies, you will be taught compulsory modules on the foundations of legal knowledge in England and Wales, as well as the opportunity to take an optional module.

You will also undertake a supervised dissertation as part of your degree, gaining skills in independent legal research and writing. 

Learning

Learning takes the form of lectures, tutorials, seminars and workshops, delivering research-led teaching. We place great emphasis on high-quality small-group teaching. The small-group teaching format and one-on-one attention from a personal academic advisor are embedded into the learning experience to help you get more out of your studies. As you progress through the course, there is an increased focus on self-directed learning and independent research, particularly in completion of the dissertation, as you begin to prepare for professional or postgraduate life.

Specialist facilities in the Law School include an interactive Harvard-style lecture theatre and academic workrooms. The moot court gives you the space to develop your skills in a simulated legal environment.

Assessment

We use an array of assessment methods which may include essays, reports, case studies, presentations, and written examinations. 

You will also complete a dissertation module, which makes up one-third of your final-year marks. 

Entry requirements

A university degree (typically in an area other than law). Applicants are normally expected to have a classification of high 2:1 or higher. 

For applicants with a university degree from a Canadian university: 

A ‘B+' or higher is normally expected. Given the range of degree grading scales used across Canada, please submit your enquiry using our Ask Us Form directly for guidance on grade equivalencies for your specific institution.

For applicants with a university degree from other overseas countries, please use our Ask Us Form for guidance on grade equivalencies.

Employability

Preparing our students for life after university is a key priority for the Law School, so during your time with us you will have access to a wide range of resources to help you stand out in the employment market.

We provide detailed information about the steps involved in becoming a solicitor or barrister, and guidance on preparing for interviews and assessment days.

Leading law firms regularly visit Durham or offer online events to promote career opportunities and vacation opportunities.

Our graduates enjoy highly successful careers across a diverse range of sectors with many employed in the legal profession as solicitors, barristers, consultants and more. Current graduates work in the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeal and have taken up legal roles with leading national and international organisations. Others have pursued careers outside of the law profession including the UK Government, the Civil Service, charitable organisations and financial institutions.

More information

Find out more about career options and employability, the available support from our Careers and Enterprise team and enterprise opportunities through the Hazan Lab. Learn more about our inspiring global community of alumni.

View our employability pages.