- An LLB, or a Bachelor of Laws, is an undergraduate law degree, which is often considered the first step to becoming a lawyer.
- Learn more about where to study an LLB, how long it takes, and what the LLB alternatives are.
An LLB is an undergraduate law degree common in the UK and Commonwealth countries like Australia, New Zealand, and India, which were influenced by the English legal system. The degree’s name comes from the Latin Legum Baccalaureus, meaning Bachelor of Laws. Students can pursue a general LLB in Law or combine it with another discipline like Business or Criminology. The programmes typically last three to four years, depending on the university.
It’s important to note that not all Commonwealth countries or former British colonies offer LLBs. In the USA and Canada, for example, aspiring lawyers must complete an undergraduate degree before starting law school.
Want to learn more about the destinations that offer LLBs? Check out Bachelorsportal for on-campus LLB programmes around the world. We also have several online LLB degrees for students who wish to study remotely.
Why study an LLB?
The main reason why students choose law degrees, including LLB, is to pursue stable, well-paying careers in law — such as becoming a solicitor, barrister, legal advisor, paralegal, or judge. Legal professionals are often in demand, enjoy strong job security, and tend to earn above-average salaries.
LLBs cover both legal knowledge and the skills you’ll need as a lawyer. You’ll learn about:
- Different aspects of law: Contract Law, Public Law, International Law, Media Law, Criminal Law, etc.
- Legal research and writing: Finding, analysing, and presenting legal arguments clearly and effectively.
- Critical thinking and reasoning: Assessing complex information and forming well-structured arguments.
- Problem-solving and decision-making skills will be key when advising clients, drafting documents, or making legal judgments.
Besides law, these skills are transferable to other industries, such as finance, business, and journalism.
Popular disciplines for a Bachelor of Laws
Students can choose a general LLB degree in Law, or a joint honours degree, which means they combine Law with another subject, such as Business, Criminology, or Finance. This way, they graduate with a wider skill set. The following programmes are popular:
LLB in Law with Business
Common in UK universities, an LLB in Law with Business allows you to split modules between both disciplines. At the end of your studies, you’ll have built a strong foundation in Law, Business, and the point where they intersect, which is ideal for careers in corporate law, compliance, or contract negotiation. Find the best programmes for LLB in Law with Business
LLB in International Law
In some universities, LLB in International Law is also known as LLB in Global Law, Global Legal Studies, or International Law and Globalisation. These degrees cover the legal systems of different countries, global dispute resolution, and human rights, opening up career opportunities in multinational firms. Find the best programmes for LLB in International Law
LLB in Criminal Law & Law with Criminology
Combining Law and Criminology gives students a unique perspective — first, by exploring how the legal system works, and second, by understanding the root causes and impact of crime. The combined knowledge of both subjects opens up opportunities in law (as a solicitor, barrister, or an advocate) and criminology (as a police officer, crime analyst, or an investigator). Find the best programmes for LLB in Criminal Law
LLB in Law and Finance
Law with Finance, Accounting, or Banking allows you to develop legal expertise alongside financial literacy, which is a great combination in corporate settings. Potential careers include corporate law, financial regulation, and tax consultancy, which are all fields that combine law with finance. Find the best programmes for LLB in Law and Finance
Popular destinations for a Bachelor of Laws
LLB degrees are common in the UK, Australia, India, and some other European and Asian countries. Other countries, like the USA and Canada, follow a different legal education system.
LLB in the UK
With over 500 programmes, the UK is one of the most popular places to study an LLB. The degree typically takes three years in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and four in Scotland. In most universities, you’ll have a mix of compulsory and elective Law modules, and a dissertation to complete in your final year. Find LLB programmes in the UK
LLB in Australia
Australia offers two types of Law degrees: LLB for undergraduates and JD for graduate students. If you’re an undergraduate student interested in an LLB, you’ll need to take language exams like IELTS or TOEFL, as well as exams focusing on specific school topics, such as A Levels, SAT, or IB. The LLB in Australia takes four years to complete. Find LLB programmes in Australia
LLB in India
India offers different law degrees, including the LLB. While some universities offer a traditional three-year LLB programme for graduate students, there are also five-year LLB programmes for undergraduates. Find LLB programmes in India
Do the USA and Canada have LLB programmes?
The USA and Canada do not offer undergraduate-level LLB programmes. To apply for law school in one of these countries, you first need to obtain a Bachelor’s degree. This could be in any discipline.
After you complete your Bachelor’s degree, you’ll need to take a Law School Admission Test (LSAT). And when you pass the LSAT, you’ll be able to apply for a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, which is a three-year professional law degree. After the JD comes the bar exam — the final step before you can start practising law.
JD vs LLB: What’s the difference?
Both the JD (Juris Doctor) and LLB (Bachelor of Laws) are law degrees that typically take three years to complete. However, they differ in terms of entry requirements, level, and where they’re offered. Here is a table comparing JD vs LLB:
| LLB (Bachelor of Laws) | JD (Judis Doctor) | |
| Type of degree | Undergraduate | Postgraduate |
| Length | Typically 3 years (some countries offer 4-year options) | Typically 3 years |
| Entry requirements | Exams like A Levels, SATs, or IB | Bachelor’s degree (in any field) and LSAT exam |
| Countries where it’s common | UK, India, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and some European and Asian countries | USA, Canada, Australia, some Asian countries |
| Focus | More theoretical, including modules like Introduction to Law | More practical, including externships and job shadowing opportunities |
In conclusion…
A three-year Bachelor of Laws degree is a great starting point for a career in Law. You can then pursue an LLM (Master of Laws), prepare for the bar exam, or use your analytical skills in the industry, whether it’s law-related or not. LLB programmes are common in the UK, Australia, and some other countries. That said, you’ll find that certain popular study abroad destinations, like Canada and the USA, don’t offer LLB — instead, you’ll need to complete a Bachelor’s degree, pass the LSAT, and pursue a JD.
- You can compare different LLB programmes on Bachelorsportal, look for Bachelor of Laws online, or use the platform’s extensive filters to search for other Law degrees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long is an LLB degree?
LLB degrees usually take 3 years in the UK, 4 years in Australia, and 5 years in India (for undergraduate integrated options).
How do I get an LLB degree?
You must complete secondary school and meet the university’s entry requirements to get an LLB. These may include language exams (like IELTS or TOEFL) and subject-specific exams (like A Levels or SATs). You’ll then study legal modules and pass your exams to graduate.
Can I get an LLB part-time?
Yes, some universities offer part-time LLB options, allowing you to study while working or managing other commitments. Explore part-time LLB programmes
How much does an LLB degree cost?
Tuition fees vary by country and university. In the UK, fees range from £9,000 to £20,000 per year for international students. In Australia, costs are usually between AUD 20,000–45,000 per year. India offers more affordable options, with many programmes under INR 200,000 per year.
Can I study for an LLB online?
Yes, many universities now offer online LLB degrees, ideal if you need flexibility or can’t move abroad. Browse online LLB programmes.
