University offers combined 'British law' degree

The University of Dundee is introducing a bachelors law degree enabling dual-qualification in Scots and English & Welsh law.

From September 2008 students will be able to study all of the subjects required by each of the respective local Law Societies.

"This will give our students a greater understanding of law across the UK and allow them to decide which jurisdiction they wish to go on to qualify in professionally," said Stuart Cross, senior lecturer in the school of law at Dundee.

Taking a degree in English & Welsh law is not recognised by the Scots Law Society, and taking a degree in Scots Law is not recognised by the Law Society of England & Wales.

Dundee currently offers separate LLBs in Scots or in English law but now students will be able to pick additional modules on each of the courses which are recognised by the respective Law Societies as counting towards qualification in each jurisdiction.

Cross said that the degree would make it easier for graduates with all the required subjects to become fully qualified as a solicitor in the UK's multiple jurisdictions.