Studying law has long been seen as a route to a rewarding career. However, with the cost of higher education rising and competition for legal jobs remaining strong, it is understandable that prospective students may question whether an LLB is still worth pursuing.
The answer depends on your ambitions. A law degree develops valuable skills in research, analysis, problem-solving and communication, and can lead to careers both within and outside the legal profession. It can provide a strong foundation for becoming a solicitor or barrister, but a degree alone does not guarantee qualification or employment.
The Cost of Studying Law
The financial commitment involved in studying law should not be underestimated. For students in England, the maximum tuition fee for a standard full-time undergraduate course at eligible universities is £9,790 per year for 2026/27. Tuition fees are only part of the cost, with students also having to consider accommodation, living expenses and travel.
Student finance can make these costs more manageable for eligible students. Per the GOV.UK website, Tuition Fee Loans can cover up to the full £9,790 annual fee at eligible providers, while Maintenance Loans can help with living costs. However, those intending to qualify as solicitors or barristers may also face further costs associated with professional training and assessments.
The expense is significant, but it should not automatically deter you from pursuing a legal career; understanding the costs and available funding simply allows you to make an informed decision.
A Law Degree Is Not a Guarantee
There is a common perception that completing an LLB will lead directly to a well-paid legal career. The reality is that qualification is competitive and usually requires further training, assessments and practical experience.
Work experience, volunteering, internships and part-time legal work can all help you understand the profession and demonstrate your commitment to prospective employers. Just as importantly, they can help you decide whether a legal career is actually right for you.
There Is More Than One Route Into Law
The traditional university route is not the only way to build a legal career. Alternative pathways can offer greater flexibility and may allow you to combine work and study.
One option is the CILEX route. Studying towards CILEX qualifications can allow aspiring legal professionals to develop specialist legal knowledge alongside practical experience. For someone who wants to continue working while studying, this can be an attractive alternative to full-time university education.
Why I Chose the CILEX Route
For me, one of the biggest advantages of CILEX was flexibility. I wanted to study law while continuing to work, allowing me to gain practical experience and earn an income alongside my studies.
I was also attracted by the opportunity to develop specialist knowledge while applying what I learnt to real-world legal work. The experience has shown me that there is no single route into the legal profession and that the traditional university pathway is not necessarily the right choice for everyone.
I have the best of both worlds quite frankly. Having featured in numerous newspapers, on Channel 5 news and winning a Personal Achievement Award, I feel privileged to be at the stage I am today.
My advice to you all would be to do your research carefully before embarking on your chosen route, take work experience opportunities when you can, and last of all, keep calm and study hard!
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