Bristol Law School, University of the West of England

Bristol Law School is recognised as one of the top law schools in the country with The Times Higher ranking us among the premier league law schools plus we have been awarded a double-excellence (by HEFCE for teaching quality and by The Law Society for the Legal Practice Course). Our reputation for quality both on our undergraduate and postgraduate courses, has been highlighted in research published in The Times Higher (17/11/2006) which placed the university in the top five for teaching quality.

We offer an extensive range of taught postgraduate provision, including eight masters programmes and full-time and open/distance-learning versions of the BVC, LPC and CPE. The Bristol Institute of Legal Practice utilises the experience acquired over nearly 40 years’ of legal training to provide innovative and rewarding courses for students.

The learning experience is enhanced by modern technology including, digital mock courtrooms, smartboards, recording equipment, e-learning resources (Westlaw, Lexis, Justis) and e-delivery of materials. LPC/BVC students are allocated a base room with IT/AV equipment and a mini-library. A well-stocked practitioner library compliments the collection at the university’s Bolland Library. The Bristol Law School has operated a legal representation service on the BVC for many years and is expanding its pro-bono activities.

GRADUATE DIPLOMA IN LAW/CPE (full-time/part-time by distance learning/residential sessions)

The CPE represents academic training of non-law graduates and is of great value to those considering other careers where an understanding of law and an appreciation of legal skills would be helpful. Class contact focuses on interactive workshop sessions and group seminars that consolidate the substantive law and develop legal research techniques. Places offered: 110 (full-time) 40 (distance learning).

LEGAL PRACTICE COURSE (full and part-time by open-learning)

The LPC caters for students wishing to qualify as a solicitor. The course focuses on skills acquisition and practice experience, with qualified staff conducting workshop activities. A full range of commercial and private client electives are offered. Places offered: 320 (full-time) 80 (part-time).

BAR VOCATIONAL COURSE (full-time and part-time by open learning)

The BVC provides practical training in skills required to practice as a barrister or other forms of legal employment. The course is delivered by practitioners and replicates the realities of practice. Students undertake court visits and can also undertake a nationally or internationally based law-related placement eg a pupillage, court martial. Places offered: 120 (full-time) 40 (part-time by open learning).

The school also offers a wide range of post-qualification courses for the legal profession, including the Professional Skills Course, an award winning LLM in Advanced Legal Practice and in-house and public CPD programmes.