Getting Career Ready
Before searching for roles, you need a strong foundation. Your CV is the first step. Most universities offer careers support, and there are countless online guides, videos and templates to help you create a professional CV.
A strong CV includes personal details, education, qualifications, work experience, skills, interests and references. Once the content is complete, the next stage is fine‑tuning. Use a professional font, appropriate sizing and clear formatting. A concise cover letter strengthens any application. It should demonstrate your understanding of the organisation, highlight relevant skills and explain why you want to work there.
What Can I Do with a Law Degree?
Below are four alternative career paths that suit law graduates.
Company Secretary
Chartered or corporate secretaries ensure organisations comply with corporate laws and governance rules. They maintain records, prepare reports and update directors on legal developments. They may also assist with planning, finance and insurance arrangements. This role suits graduates with strong organisational skills and legal awareness.
Construction and Engineering Roles
Law graduates can work with engineering and construction companies. Firms such as Arup recruit graduate access consultants who help design accessible buildings and landscapes. Atkins offers graduate roles in surveying and facilities management. These positions require problem‑solving, teamwork and attention to detail, all of which are developed through legal study.
HMRC Graduate Pathways
HMRC oversees tax collection, national minimum wage compliance, tax credits and student loan recovery. Its graduate programme offers a four‑year training plan leading to qualifications in accounting, management or tax inspection. Success in this field requires logical thinking, attention to detail and the ability to apply legal rules to real‑world scenarios.
Compliance Officer
Compliance officers ensure organisations follow laws and regulations. They review reporting, financial conduct and internal processes. Financial institutions frequently hire graduates for compliance roles. Degrees in law, business or mathematics are particularly valued.
The Application Process
Once you have a strong CV and a clear idea of your preferred career path, the next step is applying.
Job boards, university careers portals, LinkedIn and Indeed are useful places to start. Hiring patterns vary throughout the year, but January, February, September and October often see increased recruitment activity.
Research each organisation before applying. Read recent news, explore the company website and understand its values and culture. This research helps you tailor your cover letter and adapt your CV to the specific role.
After submitting an application, follow up after two weeks. This timeframe shows enthusiasm without appearing impatient. Some applicants also message recruiters on LinkedIn to draw attention to their profile. While not a formal follow‑up, it can demonstrate initiative and interest.
Not sure how close you are to qualifying?
The path-fit quiz reads your situation and shows you which routes you are ready for, and exactly what to do next. Four minutes, no account needed to start.
Check your readiness