Law LLB with Foundation Year

Investigate systems and challenge injustice with our hands-on, London-based Law degree
Think critically, construct arguments, and make life-changing decisions with our Law degree. You will build detailed and analytical knowledge of the law, covering areas such as criminality, human rights, business, and the healthcare sector.

Our law programmes are Qualifying Law Degrees (QLD). After successfully completing this course, you can become a barrister through the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) or a solicitor through the Solicitor’s Qualification Exam route (SQE).

Bring your learning to life
With our undergraduate law course, you will learn through diverse hands-on experiences, such as:

• simulated negotiation exercises
• pro bono initiatives.

Due to us being based in London, you will have numerous opportunities to visit:

• the Supreme Court
• Houses of Parliament
• Isleworth Crown Court

Getting you ready for the future

• Only at SMU can you take clinical modules that see you working at the Royal Courts of Justice and the Central Family Court.
• You can help Amicus – a legal non-profit organisation fighting for those in the US facing a death sentence – make a difference protecting human rights. You'll help real people facing the death penalty. Amicus can also train you in US capital defence law and procedure, legal research, evidence, and professional conduct.
• At St Mary’s Law Clinic, you’ll collaborate with the leading law firm Hodge, Jones & Allen to analyse real legal problems and advise the local community.

Be taught and supported by experts
Our lecturers, who have recent practical expertise in law, will get to know you and be committed to your development. At SMU, you’ll get:

• a personal tutor for academic support
• a pastoral tutor dedicated to your wellbeing
• learning and development lecturers to help you build solid study skills
• a university wellness team.

That's why 100% of SMU Law students say teachers are good at explaining things, and 96% say teachers have supported their learning well (National Student Survey, 2024).

Work placements: apply your studies to the real world
You can complete a work placement in the local or wider London area. Previous LLB Law students have worked at:

• private and sole practitioner solicitor firms
• barristers' chambers
• charities
• the Youth Justice Board
• Kingston Crown Court.

About the Foundation Year
Our four-year degree programmes (including a foundation year) provide an alternative route to undergraduate study at university if you do not have the grades to access higher education in the traditional way.

Hear from our students
Sophie, law student – “The support that students are offered is nothing short of excellent and I've really enjoyed working as a part of a smaller cohort.”

Muksaan, law student – “My lecturers have played a significant part in guiding me as they go out of their way to help and provide guidance.”

Why St Mary’s?
You will gain skills and support to make a positive impact – for yourself and for others – through high-quality teaching, real-world experience, and a community that lifts each other up. Our campus is a London oasis – blending city energy with open green spaces to think, connect, and grow.