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Studying an LLM (Master of Laws) Program in Scotland
PLEASE NOTE: As a result of Brexit, from Autumn 2021 postgraduate students from the European Union studying at a UK university will be charged the same tuition fees as international students. UK students studying their postgraduate course at a European university are also likely to incur higher tuition fees than their EU counterparts. It is advisable to check with the individual universities in the UK and Europe for up-to-date information on tuition fees for all postgraduate programs.
Find LLM programs in ScotlandEvery year Scotland attracts many international law students from across the globe to study their LLM program. Scottish universities are mostly based in the cities and are academically renowned with a wide array of LLM programs on offer.
Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, Glasgow and Dundee are the larger cities in Scotland and offer a lively cosmopolitan experience. The economy of Scotland is strong and growing and has recently won the titles of UK and European Region of the Future. As a result employability of graduates from Scottish universities is high.
Where to study your LLM in Scotland
Scotland is home to some of the oldest and most prestigious educational institutions in the world. Scottish universities have been responsible for some very important discoveries. There are various institutions that offer a Master of Laws program with a wide range of specialisations to choose from including University of Edinburgh, University of Aberdeen, University of Glasgow and University of Dundee. The University of Dundee has been ranked 7th of all UK law schools by the Times 2012 Good University Guide, top in Scotland in the 2011 National Student Survey (NSS) and in the top 20 of all law schools in the United Kingdom by The Guardian and The Complete University Guide.
Some of the specialisations offered at Scottish universities include civil law, international commercial law, criminal justice and human rights, energy law, oil and gas law, energy law, private law, public international law, climate change and sustainable development, medicine law, healthcare and ethics, intellectual property law, European law, law and Chinese, innovation, technology and law.
Entry requirements for a Master of Laws in Scotland
The entry requirement for the LLM program in Scottish universities is generally a 2.1 (i.e. upper second) bachelors degree or international equivalent, with prescribed certificates in English skills if necessary. For some universities admission may also be gained with a 2.2 bachelors degree. It is advisable to check the entry requirements of the university of interest and whether you comply with it. Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis.
Tuition fees & living costs
The duration of an LLM program in Scotland ranges from 1-2 years depending on whether you opt for full or part time study. To work out the cost of studying an LLM in Scotland you need to consider the tuition fees and your expected living costs. The tuition fees range from £12,000 to £15,000 for the entire program depending on the institution of your choice and whether you are studying full or part time.
Living expenses vary according to the lifestyle but a student may wish to set aside a budget of £8,000-£10,000 for accommodation, food, books and other personal expenses. There is some possibility of obtaining financial aid or scholarships which are offered by individual institutions. Scotland’s Saltire Scholarships scheme is also available whereby 200 awards are available to postgraduate master’s students from Canada, China, India and the USA. You may obtain details from British Council Scotland website. Generally however, students are expected to have sufficient funds to finance their course and to satisfy the visa clearance officer regarding proof of funding. Seeking part time work may also be a potential option but you must comply with all terms and conditions of your entry visa which only permits students to work for 20 hours a week. You may also bear in mind that the rigours of a masters course may not leave sufficient time for working.
Visa requirements for international students in Scotland
All international students are required to obtain a study visa to stay in Scotland. The requirements of the UK visa can differ from country to county so students must check the UK embassy in their home country. Information regarding UK visa can be obtained from UK Border Agency. To allow ample time to process your application for admission and subsequently the student visa, you should make your application for admission at least six months prior to the commencement of the session in which you wish to enrol.
What to do when you aren’t studying
In addition to its excellent reputation for education, Scotland is also renowned for its breathtaking and captivating natural landscapes, offering city dwellers the chance to relax in its hills, freshwater lochs and alongside its beaches without having to travel far. Be prepared to nourish your adventurous soul with leisure activities and sports such as skiing, hiking, sailing, mountain biking, water sports, football, golf and rugby. The Scottish Highland Games are held from May to September throughout the country, the most famous being the Braemar Royal Highland Gathering.
For those with a flair for arts, history and heritage there are various castles, museums, ancient monuments, art galleries and theatres waiting to be explored. These reflect ancient Scottish traditions and serve as reminders of Scotland’s heritage, including kilt-wearing bag-pipe players or ceilidh dances. This is combined with a more contemporary Scottish culture with the best of modern music, dance and theatre. Edinburgh plays also host to many different annual music, arts and theatre festivals throughout the summer months too.
Hence, a combination of natural beauty, festivals, and friendly Scottish people make Scotland a great place to study.
If you can't find the LLM that you are looking for in Scotland, take a look at the great selection that is on offer in Northern Ireland.
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