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Conversion course history to law

I’m really grateful to get an offer from Oxford for history, but I feel as though I might not be able to do much in a future career with a history degree. I still really love law, is it possible to do a conversion course? How does it work in particular? Will I have to stay for an extra year?

Reply 1

You can do a conversation course. This is one from the University of Law in London: https://www.law.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/law/pgdl/

Also, there is a lot you can do with a history degree.
You can go into:

Government/civil service

Journalism

Going into law by doing a conversion course

Consultancy

Etc

This is one list: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/what-can-i-do-with-my-degree/history

Also, with an offer from Oxford, you will have good career advice and opportunities. A history degree is a very good starting point, in fact a lot of lawyer firms want history students to put them through the law exams as they have very good analysis skills.

Reply 2

The PGDL takes one academic year. It is not offered by the University of Oxford, but you could take the course at Oxford Brookes, and several other places.

To obtain a PGDL you must pass exams in -

Public Law (Constitutional and Administrative Law)
Criminal Law
Contract Law
Tort Law
Equity and Trusts
Land Law
EU Law

You could also do a two year Senior Status law degree at Cambridge and a few other universities.

Lots of practising lawyers have degrees in history. I am one of them. The Oxford approach to history is a great foundation for practising law. If you don't go into the law, you could seek a career in more or less any thing which does not require STEM skills.
Original post by KittyKat451
I’m really grateful to get an offer from Oxford for history, but I feel as though I might not be able to do much in a future career with a history degree. I still really love law, is it possible to do a conversion course? How does it work in particular? Will I have to stay for an extra year?

Hey @KittyKat451!🌟

That sounds like an amazing plan! Studying History and then doing a Law conversion course is absolutely possible, and it can actually be a fantastic combination! Many historians go into law because the critical thinking, research, and analytical skills gained from studying history are incredibly valuable in the legal field ⚖️📚.

The University of Essex offers a brilliant LLB Law (Senior Status) program, which could be a perfect fit for you! This is a two-year accelerated law degree designed specifically for students who already have an undergraduate degree. It covers all the essential legal subjects, including Contract Law, Criminal Law, Tort Law, and Public Law, ensuring you gain the qualifications needed to pursue a legal career in the UK or beyond. 🌍💼

At Essex Law School, you’ll learn from leading legal experts, get the chance to debate real-world legal issues, and even develop practical skills through mooting and legal research. Essex Law School has been ranked 49th for Law in THE World University Rankings by subject 2024, which is 9th in the UK. The school also has strong connections with law firms and barristers, which can really help when looking for career opportunities! 🚀

The University of Essex itself is an amazing place to study—it’s known for its supportive academic environment, vibrant student life, and beautiful green campus 🌳. Plus, Essex has a diverse and inclusive community, making it a great place to grow both academically and personally!

If you’re thinking about this path, I’d definitely recommend checking out the course in more detail! Let me know if you have any questions—I’d be happy to help! 😊🎓

Best,
Essex Student Rep - Renaldas✌️

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