Solicitors Training Course (SQE Prep) - LLM/PGDip

Program Overview

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The Solicitors Training Course (SQE Prep) LLM at UWE Bristol prepares both law and non-law graduates for the Solicitors Qualifying Examinations (SQE) and a career as a solicitor. It combines SQE preparation with LLM modules and practical work experience, equipping students with the legal knowledge, skills, and experience necessary for success in the legal profession. The program features interactive teaching methods, experienced faculty, and unique approaches such as mock courtrooms and a pro bono clinic, providing students with a comprehensive and practical learning experience.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Solicitors Training Course (SQE Prep) LLM

at UWE Bristol is designed for both law and non-law graduates who aspire to become solicitors. It provides a holistic approach to qualifying as a solicitor by integrating:

• SQE 1 & 2 Prep: Prepares students for the Solicitors Qualifying Examinations (SQE), which are mandatory to become a practicing solicitor.
• LLM modules: Students choose from various taught options or complete a written project to deepen their legal knowledge and skills.
• Qualifying work experience: The program offers opportunities to gain practical legal experience, contributing to the required work experience for solicitor qualification.

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Objectives:

• Equip students with the legal knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to succeed in the SQE assessments.
• Develop students' legal research, writing, and advocacy skills.
• Prepare students for diverse legal careers in private practice, government, or business.
• Foster strong professional connections through industry links and mentoring schemes.

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Program description:

• The program starts in September and features an induction day, followed by online learning with weekly guidance lectures.
• From October onwards, students attend in-person classes three days per week, focusing on SQE prep and optional LLM modules.
• Students are expected to spend approximately 30 hours per week on independent study.
• The program concludes with preparation for both SQE assessments and taught module assessments.

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Outline:

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Content:

• The program primarily focuses on preparing students for the SQE assessments.
• Students also choose optional LLM modules from areas such as Criminal Law, Employment Law, and Family Law.
• Additional skills-focused modules help refine legal writing, research, and advocacy skills.

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Structure:

• The program consists of SQE 1 & 2 Prep modules alongside LLM options or a written project.
• Students initially engage in online learning, followed by a combination of interactive workshops and face-to-face group tuition.
• Assessment includes online multiple-choice tests, role-play exercises, and written assessments for both the SQE preparation and the LLM modules.

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Schedule:

• The program starts in September and continues for one year, concluding in the following September.
• Classes occur on three fixed days per week, primarily from October onwards.
• Students also dedicate significant time to independent study throughout the year.

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Modules:

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SQE 1 Prep:

• Foundations for Legal Knowledge 1 & 2 covering areas like Contract, Tort, and Public Law.
• Functioning Legal Knowledge 1 & 2 focusing on aspects like Business Law and Wills.

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SQE 2 Prep:

• Advocacy, Client Interview, Legal Writing, and Research modules.

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Optional LLM Modules:

• Advanced Criminal Litigation, Commercial Law, Dispute Resolution, and various other legal areas.

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Assessment:

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SQE Assessments:

• Externally assessed exams, which are not included in the program fees.
• Preparation is integrated throughout the program.

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Module Assessments:

• Include online multiple-choice tests for SQE 1 Prep and skills-based assessments for SQE 2 Prep.
• Optional LLM modules also have various assessments, including essays, presentations, and case studies.
• Full tutor feedback is provided for all module and practice assessments.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• Interactive workshops and group tuition are central to the program's teaching approach.
• Students actively engage in discussions, case studies, and problem-solving exercises.
• Online learning modules and resources further complement the learning experience.

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Faculty:

• Experienced tutors with expertise in legal practice and SQE preparation deliver the modules.
• Many faculty members previously practiced as solicitors or barristers, bringing real-world insights.
• Students benefit from personalized support from an academic personal tutor throughout their studies.

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Unique Approaches:

• Emphasis on developing exam technique to succeed in the SQE assessments.
• Access to mock courtrooms for realistic legal practice simulations.
• The "pro bono" Business and Law Clinic provides practical legal experience for students.

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Careers:

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Career paths:

• Upon program completion, graduates will be prepared to pass the SQE assessments and qualify as solicitors.
• The program provides a strong foundation for diverse legal careers in a range of organizations, from private practices to government agencies.
• Students can specialize in various legal areas by choosing appropriate optional modules or work experience placements.

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Career Opportunities:

• Graduates may pursue careers in litigation, corporate law, criminal defense, family law, and many other legal specialties.
• Career options also extend to fields like legal research, consultancy, and legal education.
• The program prepares students for both large city firms and smaller specialized practices.

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Career Outcomes:

• UWE graduates are highly regarded for their legal skills and are successfully placed in various legal careers.
• The program's emphasis on employability skills and networking prepares students to stand out in the job market.
• The Business and Law Clinic provides opportunities to work with real clients and build valuable professional experience.

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Other:

• Students can access UWE Bristol's extensive library resources, including digital libraries and dedicated law materials.
• Workshops on CV writing, careers, and interview skills are available to enhance job search proficiency.
• Students can participate in sports, societies, and volunteering opportunities for extracurricular engagement.
• UWE Bristol offers additional postgraduate study options in specialized law fields.
• Students can benefit from a unique learning environment close to Bristol's vibrant legal and business community.

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Full-time Fees Amount (£) Home Award Fee 11500 International Award Fee 11500 You should allow around £250 each year for additional costs, such as printing. Please note that the course fee doesn't include the cost of the SQE exams. See our funding pages for more information.