What is the Law-BA comprised of, and how do you get in? What are the fees like? Find out all of this and more with our Law-BA guide.
A Bachelor of Laws degree offers a flexible approach to studying law at university. Discover what a BA non-qualifying law degree entails and how it differs from traditional legal studies.
If you’re considering studying law at university in Hong Kong, there are two main types of undergraduate programmes available – a Bachelor of Laws degree (LLB) and a Bachelor of Arts in Law (BA). While the LLB is a qualifying law degree, the BA in Law is considered a non-qualifying law degree.
A non-qualifying law degree leads to a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and typically spans three to four years. This programme includes law modules but also allows for the study of other subjects, offering enhanced flexibility.
If you want to study law alongside other topics, a BA in Law provides a great alternative to the more rigid LLB, which focuses solely on the core law modules
Unlike the LLB, a BA in Law does not provide a direct route to legal qualification. Traditionally, law students complete the LLB and then pursue further training to become a solicitor or barrister. However, graduates with a BA in Law need to complete the Postgraduate Certificate in Laws (PCLL) to qualify for legal practice in Hong Kong.
Many universities in Hong Kong offer BA Law programmes combined with other subjects. This allows students to study a broader range of topics, such as history, languages, politics, or philosophy, alongside their law modules.
Some universities offer the option for BA Law students to study the core modules required for a qualifying law degree. It’s important to check with the university’s admissions office to confirm if this is possible.
If you decide to switch from a BA in Law to an LLB, some universities allow this transition after the first or second year. Be sure to verify this option with your chosen universities before applying.
In addition to university study, solicitor apprenticeships offer an alternative route to legal qualification. These apprenticeships combine paid work with legal study, leading to full qualification as a solicitor. This pathway provides practical experience and avoids the rigidity of traditional university routes.
Many universities in Hong Kong offer BA Law degrees that can be combined with other subjects. For example, the University of Hong Kong (HKU) offers a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws (BA&LLB) programme, allowing students to study both law and arts subjects.
While the BA Law is more flexible, it generally does not lower the grade requirements for entry. Research the entry requirements for both BA Law and LLB programmes to find the best fit for your academic profile.
A BA in Law opens up various career opportunities. Graduates can pursue further training to become solicitors, barristers, legal executives, or paralegals. The flexibility of the BA Law degree also allows graduates to explore careers outside the legal profession, leveraging their transferable skills and broad academic knowledge.
In summary, a BA in Law offers an alternative to the traditional LLB pathway, providing increased flexibility and a broader range of study options. While it requires additional qualifications for legal practice, it can be a valuable choice for students seeking a diverse and adaptable education.
