Law, Culture and Society

The LLB Law, Culture and Society at SOAS University of London is a distinctive undergraduate degree program designed to explore the deep interconnections between legal systems, cultural practices, and social structures across global contexts. This course offers students a comprehensive understanding of law not as an isolated set of rules, but as a phenomenon embedded within diverse cultural and societal frameworks. Throughout the program, students will engage with a broad spectrum of legal issues, including human rights, social justice, customary law, and the impact of globalization on legal norms, while simultaneously examining how cultural identities, traditions, and social institutions shape and are shaped by legal processes.

The curriculum is crafted to foster critical thinking and analytical skills, encouraging students to question prevailing legal doctrines and to consider alternative perspectives rooted in different cultural and social backgrounds. Core modules cover foundational areas such as Introduction to Law, Legal Systems and Ideologies, and Socio-Legal Methods, providing the necessary skills for understanding legal theory and practice. Specialized modules delve into topics like Anthropology of Law, Cultural Dynamics and Legal Change, and Law and Society in International Perspectives, allowing students to explore cross-cultural legal issues and developments.

Students will benefit from the vibrant, multicultural environment at SOAS, engaging with scholars and practitioners from around the world who bring a variety of viewpoints and experiences. The program emphasizes critical engagement with contemporary legal challenges, including issues of social inclusion, minority rights, gender and sexuality, and the role of law in addressing social inequalities. Practical skills are also emphasized through seminars, research projects, and opportunities for internships with NGOs and legal organizations, preparing graduates for diverse careers in law, policy analysis, human rights advocacy, and international development.

By integrating law with cultural and social analysis, the program aims to produce graduates who are not only legally knowledgeable but also culturally sensitive and socially aware. This interdisciplinary approach equips students to analyze complex global issues, advocate for social justice, and contribute to shaping fairer, more inclusive legal practices worldwide. Graduates of the Law, Culture and Society program at SOAS will be well-positioned for further academic study or professional careers in international law, human rights, cultural policy, diplomacy, and beyond, making a meaningful impact in a rapidly changing world.

The BA Law, Culture and Society programme at SOAS University of London offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex relationships between law, culture, and social processes across different societies and historical periods. This innovative course combines legal studies with insights from anthropology, sociology, history, and politics, enabling students to critically examine how legal systems shape and are shaped by cultural values, social structures, and political developments worldwide. Throughout the programme, students explore a wide range of topics including human rights, justice, legal pluralism, social inequality, migration, gender, and ethnicity, gaining a comprehensive understanding of how law functions within diverse social contexts. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep appreciation for cultural diversity, equipping graduates to engage with contemporary global challenges. Students have the opportunity to participate in research projects, internships, and fieldwork, often collaborating with NGOs, legal organizations, or community groups to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. The programme prepares students for careers in international law, human rights advocacy, policy analysis, social justice activism, academia, and further postgraduate study. With expert faculty members from various disciplines, access to SOAS’s extensive resources in cultural and social studies, and the vibrant academic community in central London, students enjoy a rich educational experience that encourages intellectual exploration and social engagement. Graduates emerge as thoughtful, informed professionals capable of critically analyzing and addressing complex legal and social issues affecting communities worldwide.

The BA Law, Culture and Society program at SOAS University of London is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of law within cultural and societal contexts. Admission to this program typically requires applicants to have completed secondary education that meets the university's entrance standards. Specific qualifications such as A-levels, IB, or equivalent are considered, with strong emphasis placed on prior academic performance in relevant subjects. Applicants are expected to demonstrate proficiency in English language, usually through tests like IELTS or TOEFL, unless they have completed prior education in English-medium institutions. The program encourages applicants with diverse backgrounds to apply, fostering an inclusive academic community. Additionally, some prior knowledge or interest in social sciences, law, or cultural studies can be advantageous but is not strictly required. Once admitted, students are required to complete a set of core modules covering legal systems, cultural theory, and social structures, along with optional modules tailored to their interests within the fields of law, anthropology, history, and other disciplines. The program includes assessments through essays, examinations, presentations, and research projects. Students must meet specific academic standards across all modules to progress and ultimately complete the degree. Structured support and academic guidance are provided throughout the course to ensure students achieve the necessary competencies. The program also encourages engagement with external organizations and community projects to facilitate practical understanding and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. Overall, the program aims to produce graduates who are critically aware of the complex interactions between law, culture, and society and who are equipped with analytical and research skills applicable in various professional and academic careers.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Law, Culture and Society program at SOAS University of London offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees for home and EU students are determined annually and are subject to change, with current rates available on the university’s official website. International students are also required to pay fees which are typically higher than those for UK and EU students, reflecting the university’s policy on international tuition. Students are encouraged to explore various funding sources including government grants, scholarships, bursaries, and loans. The university offers a variety of scholarships dedicated to different student populations, including merit-based awards, need-based support, and specific scholarships for students from particular regions or backgrounds. For UK students, the Student Loan Company provides maintenance loans and tuition fee loans, which can cover part or all of the costs depending on individual circumstances. International students may seek scholarships such as the SOAS Undergraduate Scholarships, which are awarded based on academic excellence or financial need. Additionally, external funding from government programs, charitable organizations, and private foundations may be available to eligible students. The university also provides guidance on applying for financial aid and managing finances during the course of study. Students are advised to regularly check the official SOAS website and contact the university’s financial aid office for up-to-date information on available funding options, application deadlines, and eligibility criteria. The program’s structure, which includes a combination of lectures, seminars, and research components, is designed to be accessible to students with various financial backgrounds, and the university is committed to supporting students in securing the necessary funding to complete their degree successfully.

The BA in Law, Culture and Society at SOAS University of London offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex relationships between legal systems, cultural practices, and societal structures. This program is designed for students who are interested in exploring how law influences and is influenced by cultural norms, social policies, and historical contexts across different regions and communities worldwide. The curriculum combines core modules in law with modules in anthropology, sociology, history, and political studies, providing students with a broad perspective and critical skills necessary for understanding contemporary social issues. Emphasizing critical thinking, qualitative analysis, and contextual understanding, the program prepares students for careers in policy analysis, human rights advocacy, international development, and further academic research. Students have the opportunity to engage with diverse case studies, participate in practical projects, and undertake research that addresses real-world problems. The program also encourages active participation in seminars, debates, and internships that foster a global outlook and an appreciation of diverse legal and cultural systems. Graduates of the course benefit from the university’s strong academic links with international organizations, NGOs, and cultural institutions, enhancing their employment prospects and academic development. The program typically spans three years full-time, with options for part-time study, and includes opportunities for international fieldwork and placements. Overall, the BA in Law, Culture and Society aims to produce graduates who are well-equipped to critically analyze societal issues from multiple perspectives and contribute effectively to social justice and policy reforms worldwide.