Education and Law
Education and Law are disciplines that might seem different in focus, but they share a concern with fundamental social institutions and the rights, obligations and relationships they create. Education shapes what people know, how they think, and what opportunities are available to them; law defines the rights and duties that structure how societies function and resolve disputes. Together, they give you a framework for thinking seriously about justice, equity, public policy and the role of institutions in shaping individual lives.
At the University of Strathclyde, this four-year full-time programme offers a law degree in combination with education studies, covering the foundations of Scots law alongside an engagement with educational theory, policy and practice. You will study the core areas of law, including private law obligations, property, criminal law, and public law, while also exploring educational philosophy, curriculum theory, child development, and the policy context within which education systems operate. Strathclyde is particularly strong in both law and education, with well-established research profiles in both schools.
A year abroad is available, widening your perspectives on both legal systems and educational approaches in different national contexts.
The combination of legal training and educational understanding is particularly relevant to careers in education law, youth justice, children's rights advocacy, social policy, teaching, educational leadership, and the legal professions. Graduates who complete the Scottish qualifying law degree requirements can proceed to the Diploma in Professional Legal Practice and then to a traineeship, opening the route to practice as a solicitor in Scotland. Others move into education, policy, local government, children's services, or the voluntary sector, where the combination of legal and educational knowledge provides a distinctive and valuable perspective.
Postgraduate study in law, education, or social policy is also a common next step.