Edinburgh's School of Law has a strong international reputation for research and offers excellent facilities, including the impressive Law and Europa Library, which is Scotland's largest university law library. This programme teaches you the general principles of law and how to apply them to specific situations and cases. You will develop analytical skills, legal research skills and learn how to present an argument clearly, accurately and persuasively. As a law student, you will learn about the formal structures of our society and the role of law in shaping society. At Edinburgh you will study Scots law. Students interested in practising law in England or Wales may not benefit from studying law in Scotland as there are significant differences between Scots and English law.

After graduating you can progress to the legal professions in Scotland by completing the Diploma in Professional Legal Practice, followed by a traineeship with a legal firm, to qualify as a solicitor. You can then opt to go to the Bar, to qualify as an advocate. There are also opportunities for Scottish-qualified lawyers to practise in other jurisdictions, including other member states of the European Union. Graduates who do not choose a legal career often use their skills and experience for employment in finance, management or journalism or with international organisations such as the European Union and the United Nations.