University Of Galway

Law Curriculum

LLB:

Law impacts on all aspects of life today, and the LLB (Bachelor of Laws) postgraduate degree provides you with an excellent basis for a career as a practicing lawyer, as well as in other fields such as administration, business, the media and social work. The LLB is also excellent preparation for work in a legal advisory capacity in the private or public sector.

The course features skills development with a focus on critical thinking, analytical ability and professional writing skills. Diverse modules range from European Union, Competition Law, Intellectual Property Law to Lawyering, Technology and Innovation. Students in the three year LLB have the opportunity to apply for a clinical placement. Career support is provided through professional workshops concentrating on students’ CV and interview skills.

BCL:

The University of Galway School of Law takes an innovative approach to teaching law. Their four undergraduate law programs listed below offer exciting opportunities including professional work placement, study abroad, mooting, the option to study a language and much more. Throughout the programs there is an emphasis on acquiring the fundamental practical skills required of lawyers – legal research, writing, oral presentation and advocacy.

• Law (BCL)
• Law (BCL), Criminology and Criminal Justice
• Law (BCL) and Human Rights
• Law (BCL) and Business

Each program is four years in duration and year one focuses on building skills with modules such as ‘Understanding the Law’. Year two develops skills further with modules like ‘Mooting’ which is a stimulated courtroom experience, and the School hosts a Moot Court Competition where competition finalists have the opportunity to deliver their legal oral arguments in front of a Judge. In year three students customise their experience by chosing either professional work placement or study abroad. In final year, depending on which law degree is chosen, students have the opportunity to shape their degree and focus on an area of study that interests them and develop special expertise in their chosen field. Students will also complete a Guided Research Essay on a topic of their choice and they will be assigned an academic mentor who will provide guidance.

MODULES:

Modules are core to students’ education at University of Galway’s School of Law. While some are mandatory to the curriculum, the Law school firmly supports students fostering their specific interests within Law through optional modules. To view modules visit the ‘Course Outline’ section on the LLB Postgraduate Degree and on the Law (BCL) Undergraduate Degrees webpages.

Testimonial

Caitlin Cardill | LLB | ASSOCIATE, NELLIGAN O’BRIEN PAYNE LLP, OTTAWA

After visiting Ireland on vacation, I was drawn to the culture. Being a student at the time, the ocean-side city of Galway was of particular interest to me with its unique character, charming people and lively way of life. With an interest in a career in law, I was pleased to learn about the postgraduate LLB program at University of Galway, where a few of my friends had attended. It came as no surprise that the University offered a supportive and engaging environment that turned out to be one of the most valuable experiences in the pursuit of my legal career. One of the most significant factors for me was the level of passion that each professor brought to their teaching and their genuine desire to see each student succeed. I completed my degree and proceeded to be called to the Bar of Ontario, in Canada. I am now working as an associate for a firm in Ottawa. My professors and experiences at University of Galway have played a significant role in the strong basis I now have for the practice of law.

Brent Meadows | LLB | SENIOR ASSOCIATE FROM CANADA

I obtained my BA in Ottawa and began working with emergency services for the City of Ottawa. I was negotiating contracts and thought my career might benefit from legal training. I learned about University of Galway from friends who had previously studied there. I decided to give it a shot. I obtained my LLB from University of Galway School of Law in 2013. I can certainly say that Galway is a brilliant city, and the professors are excellent. After graduating, I was called to the Ontario Bar in 2015. I am now working at a great firm as a senior associate where I practice personal injury law. I am grateful for my experience in Galway. I also learned how to hit low stingers through the wind and rain on the local golf courses to counter the Atlantic gusts.