LLM/PGDip Bar Training Course

Why study the Bar Training Course?

By completing the UWE Bristol Bar Training Course, you’ll gain the competencies required to be called to the Bar, as set out by the Bar Standards Board (BSB). This vocational course combines legal knowledge and practical skills to maximise your chances of success and pupillage.

• PG Diploma (Full-time, nine months): Seven compulsory modules taught over no more than four days a week, with time for reflection, consolidation and/or work experience.
• PG Diploma (Part-time, two years): The same seven modules taught on Fridays and Saturdays every three to four weeks, blending face-to-face and online learning.
• LLM (Full-time, one year): Seven compulsory modules plus two optional modules and a written project, completed over the summer.
• LLM (Part-time, 26 months): Core modules over two years, with optional modules and a project completed in the second summer.

LLM students may be eligible for postgraduate loan funding. PGDip students can transfer to the LLM, subject to course deadlines.

Why UWE Bristol?

At UWE Bristol, you’ll study with a trusted provider, taught by qualified barristers and solicitors who bring practice expertise into the classroom. The Bar Training Course integrates knowledge and skills side by side, reflecting life in chambers and delivered primarily face to face.

You’ll benefit from:

• Substantial teaching, feedback and formative assessments
• Strong personal and academic support, including regular contact with a personal tutor
• Access to extensive university resources
• Career-enhancing opportunities through links with local and national chambers, including competitions, guest lectures, and pro bono work.

Where can it take me?

The Bar Training Course equips you with the skills, knowledge and networks to secure pupillage and thrive as a barrister. Many graduates progress to practise at the Bar, while others use the qualification in roles such as legal associates, managers or advisers, or in wider professional sectors.

As stipulated by the BSB, you'll need:

• To hold a law degree/conversion course, which meets the requirements for study of the foundations of legal knowledge subjects
• A degree classification (minimum 2:2)
• Membership of an Inn of Court
• English language ability (see below).

All students applying for a place on the UWE Bristol BTC course will be considered for an offer according to the extent that their application form demonstrates:

• The potential to fulfil the BSB Professional Statement Competences
• A commitment to a career at the Bar/in law
• A record of legal work experience or other law related activity during their studies.