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Skills you can develop Law

Law graduates have one of the higher employment rates nationally whether in law or law-related fields. The possibilities with this subject are extensive.

As well as the specific subject knowledge gained from studying for an OU degree, you'll develop many transferable and work-related skills that are highly valued by employers and which will increase your employability.

For Law students the employability skills you'll develop that are highly valued by employers include:

  • an ability to apply legal principles to resolve issues
  • an ability to make a reasoned choice between different opinions and solutions and present it to an audience
  • an ability to read and discuss complex and technical legal materials
  • competence in the use of basic IT, databases and websites
  • an ability to think critically about your own learning and performance and take steps to improve them.

To see specific learning outcomes related to the degrees in this area, have a look at the OU Law Courses.

You'll also find information about employability skills developed through study of specific degree subjects at What can I do with my degree? on Prospects website.

The OU Careers and Employability Services define student employability as: 'A set of capabilities and achievements that support students in developing their careers, raising their aspirations and enhancing their contribution to society'.

Whatever your motivations for study, your goals and career aspirations, you're entitled to supported personal development planning either as an intrinsic part of your programme of study or through signposted optional activities. You can view our full Student Employability Policy Statement on our website.

If you’re a registered OU student, you can find further careers information tailored to your qualification at your Study Home site, under the Succeed tab.

Student stories

I wanted to do law but I needed to do it on a part time basis…

Sean Walsh, Trainee Solicitor

I really enjoyed the first two years of my degree. It was encouraging to be achieving high results…

Jane Heybroek, Barrister

Last updated 4 months ago