Civil Law

The Bachelor of Civil Law (BCL) at the National University of Ireland offers students a comprehensive and rigorous legal education focused on the study of civil law, creating a strong foundation for those aspiring to excel in legal practice, academia, or public service. This esteemed programme is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the fundamental principles and doctrines that underpin civil law systems, with a particular emphasis on the Irish legal tradition and its interactions with European and international legal frameworks. Throughout the course, students engage with core areas such as contract law, tort law, property law, family law, and constitutional law, developing critical skills in legal analysis, reasoning, and problem-solving. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical application, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for careers in legal practice or further academic research. Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities and a distinguished faculty renowned for their expertise in civil law and related disciplines. The programme also emphasizes research skills and includes opportunities for students to participate in internships and moot court competitions, fostering experiential learning and professional development. Interdisciplinary modules are offered to broaden understanding of legal contexts, including economics, politics, and history, enhancing students’ perspectives on the role of law in society. The BCL programme at NUI aims to produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable in civil law principles but also ethically responsible and capable of contributing meaningfully to the legal profession and society at large. With a flexible structure, numerous extracurricular activities, and connections with legal practitioners and institutions, students are encouraged to pursue their individual interests within the framework of a globalized legal environment. Graduates from this programme often go on to successful careers in legal practice, academia, government agencies, or international organizations, thanks to the rigorous training and comprehensive legal education they receive. Whether you are seeking to deepen your understanding of civil law or aiming to start a distinguished legal career, the BCL at NUI provides a solid foundation and a stimulating academic environment to support your ambitions.

Year 1

• Constitutional Law
• Contract Law
• Law of Torts
• Irish Legal System
• Intensive Legal Methods and Research
• Legal Procedure
• French/German/Italian or Family Law

Year 2

• Administrative Law
• Company Law
• Criminal Law
• European Union Law
• Plus a number of options (subject to availability) including:
  • Health Law
  • Human Rights
  • Housing Law
  • Media Law
  • Entertainment Law
  • Criminal Justice
  • Intellectual Property
  • Law of the Sea
  • Information Technology Law

Final Year

At the end of second year, interested students may opt to join the BCL International Programme, which involves spending third year at a university in mainland Europe.

• Equity
• Land Law
• Plus a number of options (subject to availability) including:
  • Disability Law
  • Competition Law
  • Criminology
  • Environmental Law
  • Immigration Law
  • English Land Law
  • Family Law
  • Jurisprudence
  • Evidence

Requirements

• Certificate of Secondary Education and an acceptable grade from a recognised Foundation programme.
• or First year of Bachelor degree/Bakalvr
• Minimum HC3 in two subjects and passes in four other subjects at H or O level in the Leaving Certificate including: Irish, English, another language and any three other subjects recognised for entry purposes.
• Minimum GPA 3/Satisfactory
• All applicants, whose first language is not English, must present one of the following qualifications in the English language. IELTS 6.5. TOEFL 88. 
• The completed Non-EU Undergraduate Application Form
• A copy of your Passport
• A Personal Statement (typed) of no more than 800 words outlining your academic interests, sporting and/or cultural interests and your reasons for wanting to study at NUI Galway. You may also include aspects of your academic career that are not necessarily reflected in your application.
• Two sealed Letters of Recommendation, ideally from a teacher and/guidance counsellor or someone who knows you personally.

The Bachelor of Civil Law (BCL) program at the National University of Ireland offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with a profound understanding of legal principles and their practical applications. Regarding financing studies for this program, students typically have several options available to support their educational expenses. Fundraising through personal savings, family assistance, and scholarships are common means utilized by students to finance their studies. The university provides a range of financial aid opportunities, including merit-based scholarships, bursaries, and awards targeted at both Irish and international students. These scholarships are often competitive and may require applicants to demonstrate academic excellence, leadership qualities, or financial need.

Additionally, students can explore government-sponsored financial aid programs, such as student loans and grants, which are available through national or regional authorities. The Irish government offers several schemes to support higher education funding, including the Higher Education Authority (HEA) grants, which can cover part or all of tuition fees for eligible students. International students may also have access to loans or financial assistance programs provided by their home countries or through private lenders.

Part-time employment during studies is another avenue frequently utilized by students to supplement their income and manage educational costs. The university's location in Ireland provides opportunities for part-time work in nearby businesses, universities, and public institutions, helping students offset living expenses. The university's financial services department offers guidance to students on budgeting and managing expenses to ensure they can effectively finance their studies without undue hardship.

Overall, financing a Civil Law degree at the National University of Ireland involves leveraging a combination of scholarships, government financial aid, personal resources, and part-time employment. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early for financial support and consult the university’s official funding options to identify eligibility and application procedures, ensuring they can undertake their legal studies with adequate financial backing.

The Bachelor of Civil Law (BCL) at the National University of Ireland is a highly regarded undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of civil law principles and their application in various legal contexts. The curriculum covers a broad range of core topics including contract law, tort law, property law, constitutional law, and European Union law, offering students a solid foundation in both Irish and international legal systems. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and practical legal reasoning, preparing graduates for diverse careers in the legal sector, public service, or private industry. Students engage in a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, and case law analysis, fostering a dynamic learning environment. The program often includes opportunities for internships, legal clinics, or moot court competitions, enabling students to gain real-world experience and develop professional skills. Admissions criteria typically require a strong academic record and a keen interest in legal studies. Graduates of the program have gone on to pursue careers as solicitors, barristers, legal advisors, or further postgraduate studies. The university’s Faculty of Law is renowned for its research and teaching excellence, and students benefit from access to extensive legal resources, including libraries, online databases, and international legal networks. The BCL degree is recognized nationally and internationally, opening doors to legal practice and academic opportunities worldwide. The program's structure may also include options for specialization in areas such as public law, private law, or international law, allowing students to tailor their education to their career aspirations. Overall, the Civil Law program at the National University of Ireland is committed to producing knowledgeable, skilled, and ethically responsible legal professionals.