The LLM General Legal Studies at the University of Bristol is designed for students who want to tailor their Master of Laws degree to their specific interests. With the flexibility to choose from over 40 postgraduate units, you can create a bespoke programme covering diverse areas such as World Trade Law, Environmental Law, Intellectual Property, and Human Rights. This programme is ideal for those aiming for careers in law, policy, business, or academia, as it helps develop crucial analytical, communication, and research skills highly valued by top employers. The university's Law School is highly regarded, with strong rankings for employer reputation and research excellence, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for a variety of legal, advisory, and professional roles.
The LLM programme at Bristol offers a flexible structure allowing you to curate your own learning path. You will engage with course materials through lectures, seminars, skills workshops, and independent study, interacting regularly with leading academics and peers. The programme includes selecting four optional units from a wide range of subjects across the LLM portfolio and completing a dissertation. You can choose between an innovative group dissertation or an individual research project, both supported by expert supervision and development activities.
Graduating from the University of Bristol, a globally recognised institution for law, provides a strong foundation for diverse career paths. The LLM in General Legal Studies is designed to enhance your understanding of the legal sector, build transferable skills, and open doors to numerous opportunities in law, government, finance, NGOs, and research.
Applications will be considered if interim degree grades are slightly lower, with an aspirational offer. Applications may also be considered if the final overall grade is slightly lower, especially with a relevant postgraduate qualification. Please refer to the programme admissions statement for detailed information and international equivalent qualifications.
Fees are subject to annual review. Budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year for programmes longer than one year. A 25% alumni discount is available for University of Bristol students and graduates.
Applicants typically need an upper second-class honours degree in Law or a related field (e.g., Business, Economics, History, Politics). Candidates with relevant professional experience of at least 12 months may also be considered if their degree does not meet the standard requirement.
The tuition fee for international students is £29,400 per year. Fees are subject to annual review, with potential increases of up to 8% per year for programmes longer than one year.
Yes, a 25% alumni discount on tuition fees is available for University of Bristol students and graduates. International postgraduate students may also be eligible for Think Big about Law and Justice Scholarships.
The application deadline for overseas applicants is 13 August 2026. Early application is strongly advised due to high demand and continuous allocation of places.
Graduates are prepared for diverse roles, including lawyers in national and international firms, consultants, analysts, and positions within justice systems, national institutions, leading companies, or academia and research.