- LLB stands for Legum Baccalaureus in Latin (or Bachelor of Laws in English).
- It’s the first professional degree in law in many countries.
- Think of it as the starting point for a legal career—like becoming a lawyer, solicitor, barrister, legal consultant, judge, or academic.
🏫 Duration & Structure
- Duration: Typically 3 to 5 years, depending on the country and whether it’s a standalone degree or combined with another subject (e.g., Law with Politics). Country
Typical Duration
Notes
UK
3 years
Qualifying law degree
India
3 or 5 years
3-year LLB after a bachelor’s degree, or 5-year integrated BA LLB after high school
South Africa
4 years
Direct entry from high school
Australia
4–5 years
Can be combined with other degrees
Nigeria
5 years
After high school
đź“š What You Study
LLB covers core areas of law, including:
Criminal Law
Contract Law
Tort Law
Constitutional & Administrative Law
Property/Land Law
EU or International Law
Legal Research & Writing
You might also get electives like:
Human Rights
Environmental Law
Intellectual Property
Family Law
Corporate Law
🧑‍⚖️ What Can You Do After an LLB?
The LLB doesn’t automatically make you a lawyer—you’ll usually need further training, such as:
UK:
Solicitor → Take the SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Exam) + 2 years’ qualifying work experience
Barrister → Complete the Bar Training Course + a 1-year pupillage
India:
Register with a State Bar Council and pass the All India Bar Examination (AIBE)
South Africa:
Do articles of clerkship and pass board exams
Nigeria:
Attend Nigerian Law School + pass Bar Part II exams
🧠Skills You Gain
Analytical thinking
Legal writing & research
Argumentation and debate
Attention to detail
Understanding of legal systems and processes
🧳 Career Paths
With an LLB, you can pursue:
Legal practice (solicitor, barrister, advocate)
Judiciary (after experience and exams)
Legal advisor in companies
NGO/human rights work
Politics, policy, or government roles
Academic or research roles
GOOD LUCK!