General Law University of Aberdeen

Overview

The General Law LLM at the University of Aberdeen provides a versatile platform for students to pursue advanced legal studies without the constraints of a single specialisation. This programme is designed for those who wish to develop a bespoke academic profile by selecting from a wide array of disciplines across the School of Law. Students gain the opportunity to refine their critical analysis and independent research skills within a world-class academic environment.

Why General Law at the University of Aberdeen?

The University of Aberdeen has a prestigious history in legal education, with law being a founding discipline since 1495. Today, it is recognised as one of the UK’s elite training grounds for legal professionals, ranked in the top 15 nationally. The School of Law fosters a truly international outlook, hosting a vibrant postgraduate community with students from over 40 different nationalities.

One of the most distinctive features of this programme is the commitment to small class sizes. By capping student numbers, the university ensures a highly personalised learning experience with significant contact time between students and expert staff. Learners also benefit from the extensive resources of the dedicated Law Library and a Research Seminar Series that offers unique insights into contemporary legal challenges.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 23000 per year
• National fee: GBP 11900 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured around core research training and a significant piece of independent scholarship, complemented by a wide selection of optional modules. This allows students to build a programme that reflects their specific interests in areas such as international law, human rights, or environmental regulations.

Modules may include:

• Critical Legal Thinking and Scholarship
• Master of Laws Dissertation
• Oil and Minerals for Good
• International Law
• Politics of Human Rights
• Criminal Evidence
• Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, and independent research. Assessment methods vary by module and may include coursework, written examinations, or a blend of both to ensure students can apply legal theory to practical scenarios.

Careers with General Law

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped to meet the demanding requirements of the global legal profession. The broad nature of the degree opens doors to a variety of sectors beyond traditional legal practice, including social and welfare services, business management, human resources, and the financial sector.

The university provides extensive support through its market-leading Careers and Employability Service. Students have access to tailored advice and networking events designed to enhance their competitive advantage in the job market. Statistics indicate high success rates, with over 93% of law graduates entering employment or further study within 15 months of completing their degree. Additionally, alumni join a global network of over 82,000 members spanning nearly 200 countries.