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Best uni for law with french?

I'm currently predicted 4 A*s for my a-levels (polish, history, french and sociology) and im wondering which unis would be best for studying law with french law. I know some good universities for law (such as durham) dont offer it alongside french or any other european law studies, and its complicating my search a bit. Any advice? Should i be focusing on the best unis for law and french separately or just for law?

Reply 1

Original post
by lenaslosingit
I'm currently predicted 4 A*s for my a-levels (polish, history, french and sociology) and im wondering which unis would be best for studying law with french law. I know some good universities for law (such as durham) dont offer it alongside french or any other european law studies, and its complicating my search a bit. Any advice? Should i be focusing on the best unis for law and french separately or just for law?

Hiya! Durham student representative here 👋

First of all, with predicted 4 A* you’re in a very strong position academically, so you should have some great options available to you.

You’re also right that Durham University doesn’t currently offer an undergraduate “Law with French Law” degree. At Durham the main undergraduate option is the standard LLB Law, rather than combined law-with-language programmes.

There are generally two different approaches applicants take here:
1️⃣ Prioritise the strongest law schools

Some students apply to top law universities (like Durham, Bristol, LSE etc.) and then:

take a year abroad during their degree

study languages alongside their degree informally

pursue international law later through a master’s

If your main goal is becoming a solicitor or barrister in England & Wales, the core LLB is usually what matters most.

2️⃣ Choose a law + French law programme
If you’re really interested in comparative law or practising internationally, then universities that specifically offer the combined degree can be a great fit.
Some strong options include:

University College London Law with French Law (includes a year studying French law at Université Paris II Panthéon-Assas)

University of Warwick Law with French including a year abroad studying law in France

University of Leeds Law with French Law with a mandatory year studying law in a French-speaking institution

Most of these programmes are 4 years with a year abroad studying the French legal system - however, definitely fact-check all this as my knowledge is only really confined to Durham and these courses may have changed or no longer be running.)

Ask yourself which matters more:

Studying at a top law school, even if it’s just straight Law

Studying French law specifically, which narrows the universities a bit

Both are completely valid routes, but your priorities might shape your UCAS choices.

A common UCAS strategy
With your grades, some applicants do something like:

1–2 top law universities (e.g. Durham, UCL)

2–3 Law with French / French Law courses

That way you keep both options open.

Let me know if you have any more Durham specific questions - happy to help!

-Lacey, DU Student Rep 💜🙂

Reply 2

Original post
by lenaslosingit
I'm currently predicted 4 A*s for my a-levels (polish, history, french and sociology) and im wondering which unis would be best for studying law with french law. I know some good universities for law (such as durham) dont offer it alongside french or any other european law studies, and its complicating my search a bit. Any advice? Should i be focusing on the best unis for law and french separately or just for law?

You've made a really thoughtful and strategic approach to your university search, which is fantastic. Focusing on universities with strong law programs makes sense, especially since that’s your main goal. It's also smart to look for courses that combine law with French or European studies if you're passionate about that aspect, as it will give you valuable specialization and language skills.
Balancing between the best law schools and those offering Law with French Law or European Law will give you the best options for your future career, whether that's working in international law, European institutions, or domestic UK law with a language edge. Remember to check the specific modules and opportunities like exchanges or placements, as these can really enhance your experience.
With predicted grades of AAA-A*, you're in a strong position for many top universities, so don’t limit yourself—just make sure the courses align with your interests and goals. If you want, I can help you create a shortlist of universities that fit your criteria or give more tailored advice based on your preferences. You're thinking ahead, and that will really pay off!
You've made a really thoughtful and strategic approach to your university search, which is fantastic. Focusing on universities with strong law programs makes sense, especially since that’s your main goal. It's also smart to look for courses that combine law with French or European studies if you're passionate about that aspect, as it will give you valuable specialization and language skills.
Balancing between the best law schools and those offering Law with French Law or European Law will give you the best options for your future career, whether that's working in international law, European institutions, or domestic UK law with a language edge. Remember to check the specific modules and opportunities like exchanges or placements, as these can really enhance your experience.
(edited 1 month ago)

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