What should you study after a Law degree?

Graduation, while a significant milestone, is just the beginning. It’s essential for students to contemplate their future paths early on, whether that means delving deeper into legal expertise or venturing into the job market.

35% of law graduates go straight into employment, whilst just under 12% continue further education. Having completed the rigorous journey of a law degree, graduates can feel overwhelmed by the choices that lie ahead. 

Let's break down some options and potential paths for those with a new law degree.

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1. The Conventional Path: Becoming a Solicitor or Barrister

Solicitor:

• Path: You would typically need to undertake the Legal Practice Course (LPC). A training contract with a law firm follows this.
• Skills Gained: The LPC equips you with the practical skills to work in a law firm, such as client communication, drafting legal documents, and developing your understanding of legal processes.

Barrister:

• Path: The Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) is the next step for aspiring barristers. After this, one must secure a 'pupillage' (akin to an apprenticeship) at a set of chambers.
• Skills Gained: The BPTC focuses on advocacy and equips you with skills for presenting cases in court, cross-examining witnesses, and understanding court etiquette.

2. Which Further Studies Can Lead You to Diverse Career Paths?

Finance & Banking:

• Common Roles: Compliance Officer, Risk Analyst, Investment Banker.
• Further Studies: You might consider qualifications like Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or certifications in financial risk management—a law background helps in understanding regulations and legal frameworks in financial operations.

Real Estate:

• Common Roles: Property Developer, Estates Manager.
• Further Studies: Graduates can pursue an RICS-accredited postgraduate degree in real estate or property management. The legal knowledge from a law degree aids in contract negotiations and understanding property laws.

Management & Consultancy:

• Common Roles: Management Consultant, Business Analyst.
• Further Studies: An MBA or a specialised management course would be beneficial. Law graduates bring critical thinking and structured problem-solving skills, invaluable in consulting roles.

Human Resources:

• Common Roles: HR Manager, Recruitment Consultant.
• Further Studies: You might consider courses from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). A law degree aids in understanding employment laws and contract formations.

Public Sector & NGOs:

• Common Roles: Policy Analyst, Public Affairs Consultant.
• Further Studies: Masters in Public Administration (MPA) or courses in public policy can be taken. Legal graduates can navigate the complexities of regulations and policy frameworks effectively.

3. Academia: Masters, PhD, and Beyond

If you're passionate about the scholarly aspect of law, delving deeper into academic studies is rewarding.

• Masters in Law (LLM): This offers specialisations in areas like international law, human rights law, and commercial law.
• PhD in Law: For those keen on research, contributing original knowledge to the field, and potentially entering the world of academia as law professors.

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Final Thoughts

Your postgraduate journey is dependent on your career aspirations. It's imperative to identify your interests, be it in the legal world or beyond. Different paths will need different skills and qualifications, but the foundational knowledge from a law degree offers a unique advantage. 

Research, network, and seek guidance; your law degree is a springboard, propelling you toward a world of opportunities.