Choosing the Right Institution
Becoming a lawyer is a journey that requires passion, dedication, hard work and patience. The first step to becoming a great lawyer is choosing the right institution.
Identifying Your Options
There are a large number of law schools around the world so students are advised to research as many as possible before settling on one. Ask yourself questions like “Can I afford to study abroad?” or “Should I consider a local university?” but do not limit yourself by your questions. Use your requirements to see if you can blend your options. For instance, if you cannot afford to spend three years pursuing law in the UK, see if you can do a transfer degree programme instead. Keep your mind open to different possibilities and you will have the world at your feet. When you have identified which path to take, make a list of what you want out of the institution you would like to study at.
Here are a few criteria worth considering:
1. SPECIALISATION
For a solid law foundation, pick a law school that already has a reputable name in the industry. If the institution is famous for its law school, you know that you have a college that specialises in law, which means they have perfected all the ingredients that make their law school better than the rest.
2. TRACK RECORD
An institution’s specialty should come with a proven track record in producing quality law graduates on a range of law programmes. You can see this in its number of graduates and top students who have done well. The alumni reflect on the prestige of the college as well.
3. ONE-STOP FACILITY
For a smooth and effective transition from student to lawyer, pick a college that offers all levels of law programmes under one roof. A good college that offers undergraduate, postgraduate and professional law programmes would make it more efficient and ideal for you. You don’t have to worry about where you are going to further your studies and you won’t have to refamiliarise yourself with a new campus and lecturers, or spend time looking for new accommodation. It is also very important to ensure that the university you choose is recognised by the Legal Profession Qualifying Board of Malaysia.
4. STUDY MODES
For a more flexible life, the college you go to should offer a variety of study modes be it part-time, full-time or even distance learning. The option you pick will depend on which one is more suitable for your lifestyle and needs.
5. TEACHING FACULTY
Lecturers and tutors are key to a good legal education. Look for teachers with strong credentials, those who have legal qualifications from good law schools and the experience to back up what they say. This may come from years of work in a reputable law firm, years of teaching or some accomplishment in the legal field.
6. INTAKE DATES
The intake date is an important factor to look at when you are deciding to start your law journey. A perfectly timed intake will save you time and allow you to graduate earlier.
Click here to find out how you can graduate up to 2 years earlier by choosing the right intake.
Here are some universities that are recognised by the Legal Profession Qualifying Board of Malaysia:
- University of London
- Aberystwyth University
- Cardiff University
- University of East Anglia
- University of Essex
- University of Exeter
- University of Hertfordshire
- University of Hull
- University of Leicester
- University of Liverpool
- Nottingham Trent University
- Northumbria University
- University of Manchester
- Murdoch University
- Oxford Brookes University
- Queen's University, Belfast
- University of Reading
For a complete list of law programmes, please visit www.bac.edu.my/bac/law/
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