Law and Chinese

Law and Chinese is a combination that has become increasingly significant as China's economic, political, and legal influence has grown on the world stage. Law is the framework through which societies regulate behaviour, resolve disputes, and protect rights. Understanding it is essential for anyone working in commerce, government, international relations, or public life.

Chinese, as the language of the world's most populous nation and one of its largest economies, opens access to a legal and cultural context that is genuinely different from the Western common law tradition and that is becoming ever more important to understand.

At the School of Oriental and African Studies in London, this four-year, full-time programme combines a qualifying law degree with serious Chinese language study. SOAS is uniquely positioned for this combination, with specialist expertise in Asian and African legal systems alongside its unparalleled depth in Asian and Middle Eastern languages and cultures. The degree includes a foundation year for students who need additional preparation before entering the main programme.

You will develop your Chinese language ability to a high level while studying the foundations of English and international law, alongside topics in Chinese law, legal systems in Asia, and the law of international trade and human rights. The typical tariff of 136 points reflects the foundation year entry requirements.

Graduates of law and Chinese are well placed for careers in international commercial law, corporate practice with Chinese or Asia-Pacific clients, international arbitration, diplomacy, and public international law. The combination is also valued in international organisations, trade bodies, financial institutions with Asia-Pacific operations, and multinational companies operating in China. Many graduates go on to professional legal training leading to qualification as a solicitor or barrister, and the specialist knowledge of Chinese law and language provides a genuine competitive advantage in a crowded legal careers market.