Law

The Bachelor of Civil Law (BCL) at the University of Oxford is a distinguished postgraduate degree that offers an in-depth study of law, combining rigorous academic learning with practical legal understanding. Designed for students who have already completed undergraduate education, the BCL provides an opportunity to deepen their legal knowledge across a broad spectrum of legal subjects, including constitutional law, criminal law, contract law, European Union law, human rights law, international law, and legal Theory. The program emphasizes critical analysis, rigorous research, and scholarly debate, fostering intellectual development and preparing students for careers in academia, legal practice, public service, or international law.

The BCL program at Oxford is typically a one-year full-time course, although part-time options may sometimes be available. It is renowned worldwide for its high academic standards, distinguished faculty, and vibrant scholarly community. Students benefit from a diverse curriculum that combines core compulsory modules with a range of optional courses, allowing for specialization in areas of particular interest. The program emphasizes analytical thinking, precise legal reasoning, and the application of legal principles to complex problems, encouraging students to develop a nuanced understanding of both law and legal systems.

Throughout the academic year, students engage with lectures, seminars, and independent research projects, culminating in a substantial research paper or dissertation. The teaching method promotes active participation, fostering debate, discussion, and collaborative learning among peers from diverse backgrounds. The university's extensive library resources, renowned faculty members, and a network of alumni and legal professionals create an enriching environment conducive to scholarly achievement and professional growth.

Graduates of the BCL program at Oxford are well-equipped to pursue further academic research, such as doctoral studies, or to embark on successful legal careers, including roles in law firms, government, non-governmental organizations, and international institutions. The program’s reputation for academic excellence and its global recognition make it an ideal choice for aspiring legal scholars and practitioners seeking to develop a profound expertise in law.

The MPhil dissertation is completed over three terms - the maximum submission date for the dissertation is currently under review, but will be no earlier than 1 August. The exact date will be confirmed to applicants no later than the point of initial offer.

Students also undertake the faculty’s course in legal research methods during their first two terms. This provides training in legal research methodology, but will also expose you to the diversity of and intellectual challenges involved in legal scholarship and will serve as a forum of peers in which you will be able to discuss the methodological challenges involved in your own research.

Throughout the period of your studies, you will work with an assigned supervisor who will meet regularly with you to discuss your work and provide feedback and advice. You will also be able to take part in a range of seminar programmes and discussion groups, affording plentiful opportunities for interaction with your peers and academics working in the same or related research areas to yours.

The examination method for the thesis is the same as that used for the DPhil – two examiners are appointed who read the thesis and hold an in-depth oral examination, known as a viva voce, with you. The examiners will then write a report which may either recommend that you be awarded the degree, or awarded the degree with a distinction grade, or should be given the opportunity to re-submit for the degree within a further three terms.

When completing the MPhil as a route into the DPhil, the material submitted for examination is also considered as part of the qualifying test for admission to the DPhil and will usually be incorporated into the DPhil thesis.

Entrance is very competitive and applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications) in law. 

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA usually sought is 3.7 out of 4.0.

To be admitted to the MPhil in Law, candidates must also successfully complete the BCL, MJur or MSc in Law and Finance and meet any conditions attached to the offer, such as a achieving a distinction grade in particular subjects.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

Other appropriate indicators will include:

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Statement of purpose/personal statement:500 words
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, of which at least two must be academic

The University of Oxford offers various funding options for students pursuing Law degrees, including undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Undergraduate students can access a wide range of financial support, including government-funded tuition fee loans, maintenance loans, and Oxford-specific bursaries or grants. The UK government provides tuition fee loans that cover the full cost of tuition for eligible students, which do not need to be repaid until after graduation and when earning above a certain threshold. Additionally, students from the UK may qualify for Oxford’s undergraduate scholarships and bursaries, which can provide financial assistance based on merit and/or financial need. The university also offers a range of external scholarships, including those sponsored by legal institutions, charities, and corporate partners, aimed at supporting students in financing their legal studies.

For postgraduate students, Oxford offers federal and university-based scholarships such as the Rhodes Scholarship, Chevening Scholarships, and Clarendon Fund, which provide full or partial tuition fee coverage, living expenses, and research funding. Postgraduates are encouraged to apply for university scholarships early, as funding opportunities are competitive and have specific eligibility criteria. The Oxford Law Faculty also provides information on departmental funding, research grants, and Assistantships for eligible students, helping to offset tuition costs and living expenses.

Students are advised to explore multiple sources of funding, including external fellowships, sponsorships from law firms or organizations, and private scholarships. It is recommended to start financial planning early, as application deadlines for many funding options are months prior to program start dates. Additionally, students may consider part-time work opportunities available on or near the university campus, which can supplement their income and help manage living expenses during their studies. In summary, the university and external entities offer a comprehensive array of financing options for Law students, aiming to make legal education accessible and affordable for talented individuals from diverse backgrounds.

The Bachelor of Civil Law (BCL) at the University of Oxford is one of the world's most prestigious postgraduate law degrees, designed for students seeking advanced legal training and specialization. This program is renowned for its rigorous academic structure, distinguished faculty, and rich tradition of legal scholarship. The BCL is a comprehensive course that covers a wide range of legal subjects, including constitutional law, international law, commercial law, and human rights law, among others. It aims to develop students' analytical, research, and critical thinking skills, preparing them for leadership roles in legal practice, academia, or policy-making.

Students enrolled in the BCL program benefit from the unique tutorial-based learning system of the University of Oxford, which promotes in-depth discussion and personalized feedback. The course typically includes core modules, optional papers, and a long research essay, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and career objectives. The BCL also benefits from its close association with the Oxford Law Faculty, one of the world's leading law schools, which offers a vibrant academic environment with access to a vast library collection and seminars by leading legal scholars.

The duration of the program is one year for full-time students, usually starting in October and concluding in September of the following year. Part-time options may be available under certain circumstances. Admission to the BCL is highly competitive, requiring applicants to demonstrate academic excellence, legal proficiency, and a strong motivation for advanced legal study. Successful applicants often have a strong undergraduate law degree or equivalent, along with relevant experience or research interests.

Graduates of the BCL have historically gone on to distinguished careers in law practice, academia, government, and international organizations. The program's international reputation also means that many alumni hold prominent positions worldwide. Overall, the University of Oxford's BCL offers an unparalleled legal education experience, combining rigorous scholarship, expert teaching, and a global network of professionals and scholars.