Should I study Law?

11

What can I do to explore whether i want to pursue law? I did a levels in biology, psychology and graphic design which aren't really related. I'm most interested in politics and changing policies; possibly human rights or something to do with the environment as well. I'm between this and a biological sciences degree, should I even do a law degree for what i'm interested in? If not, are there other degrees or pathways that serve these interests better?

Reply 1

bibachu

14

Original post

by helloyesilizzie

What can I do to explore whether i want to pursue law? I did a levels in biology, psychology and graphic design which aren't really related. I'm most interested in politics and changing policies; possibly human rights or something to do with the environment as well. I'm between this and a biological sciences degree, should I even do a law degree for what i'm interested in? If not, are there other degrees or pathways that serve these interests better?

Have you looked into international relations, environmental science, social policy, politics, sociology etc. ? These seem like options more suited to you than a law degree based on what you've said. Unless you come across modules like human rights law and environmental law, the closest you'll get to any of these in a law degree is public law, but that isn't all about policy. Policy and law are two different things. I would look into some of the subjects mentioned and look specifically at the modules in these degrees. If you are looking to determine whether law is the right option for you, I would watch some lectures or listen to some podcasts about law. The BBC has a highly recommended podcast called Law in Action (or The Law Show) which could be a good starting point. Similarly, you could complete a MOOC or virtual work experience in law to see whether you are interested in law beyond the academic study of it. Politics and social policy definitely sound like courses you would enjoy more than law if you are interested in influencing policy.

Reply 2

Coventry University Student Ambassadors

Official Rep

18

Original post

by helloyesilizzie

What can I do to explore whether i want to pursue law? I did a levels in biology, psychology and graphic design which aren't really related. I'm most interested in politics and changing policies; possibly human rights or something to do with the environment as well. I'm between this and a biological sciences degree, should I even do a law degree for what i'm interested in? If not, are there other degrees or pathways that serve these interests better?

Hi there,
Coventry University Student Ambassador here,
I think your interest and direction of choosing a career in a field Which combines law and Biological sciences is very unique.
For which, I would recommend you should go where your heart and interest is at the most and if it is law and you are equipped with all of the skills and knowledge of the biological sciences sector I would recommend you look into the Biological and forensics sciences degree that we offer here at Coventry University!
As it blends the knowledge of biology while dealing with legal cases which also apply learings of Law in it as well.
I hope my suggestion would be helpful and relevant to your situation,
All the best with your future,
kind regards,
Harleen.

Reply 3

UniofLaw Student

Official Rep

11

Original post

by helloyesilizzie

What can I do to explore whether i want to pursue law? I did a levels in biology, psychology and graphic design which aren't really related. I'm most interested in politics and changing policies; possibly human rights or something to do with the environment as well. I'm between this and a biological sciences degree, should I even do a law degree for what i'm interested in? If not, are there other degrees or pathways that serve these interests better?

Hi @helloyesilizzie

I would recommend attending some open days to see what a law degree would look like and whether it suits you. I would also recommend attending court (anyone can go into most Magistrates and Crown Court cases - if you are unsure just ask a clerk and they will be more than happy to help you). Crime may not be the area you are interested in and there are, of course, differences in the work of different lawyers, however, it will help to see a more practical side of what the career may entail. Equally, any work experience in the legal sector you can find will really help although it can be difficult sometimes to obtain any prior to starting a uni degree.

In terms of other degrees, as has been suggested by others, you could look inter IR, politics etc. or a mixture of two. Combined honours is always an option which may give you the balance you desire between subjects. However, be mindful that if you do combined honours you often get less of a choice in modules as you will likely have to do the compulsory modules in both subjects (this isn't the same in every uni).

Reply 4

McGinger

20

Listen to some of these - BBC Sounds - The Law Show - Available Episodes

And do some of these Moocs (short, online, free Uni courses) over the summer -
Exploring Law: Studying Law at University - Online Course - FutureLearn
Incarceration: Are prisons a suitable punishment? - FutureLearn Course
What Is International Human Rights Law - Online Law Course - FutureLearn
Jurisprudence Course: The Philosophy of Law - Online Law Courses - FutureLearn

Should I study Law?

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