European Legal Studies

European legal studies combines the study of law with European languages, preparing graduates to practise or work in legal contexts across multiple European jurisdictions. Law is a discipline that varies substantially between countries: the common law tradition of England and Wales differs profoundly from the civil law traditions that prevail across most of Continental Europe, and understanding both systems requires both legal training and the linguistic competence to engage with foreign law directly. As commerce, employment, and institutions become increasingly international, lawyers who can operate across legal systems and communicate in more than one language are in growing demand.

At the University of Westminster, this four-year full-time degree equips you with legal knowledge and the linguistic tools needed to compete in a global jobs market. Speaking legal language is particularly significant in a professional context where precision and nuance matter: a legal education combined with language proficiency allows you to serve clients and navigate institutions in ways that monolingual lawyers cannot. You will study English law alongside a European legal system and develop your chosen language to a professional level, developing the ability to think and work legally in more than one national context.

The typical entry tariff is 104 points.

European legal studies graduates pursue careers in multinational law firms, international organisations, European institutions, the foreign office, corporate compliance, and international arbitration. Many qualify as solicitors or barristers in England and Wales, while others pursue legal careers in European jurisdictions or international legal settings. The combination of legal training and language ability is particularly valued in commercial law, international arbitration, and the legal services of global corporations.

Postgraduate study in law, European law, or international legal practice is a natural continuation.