Experience the Law Student lifestyle at the University of Exeter

A member of the prestigious Russell Group collective, the University of Exeter has proven its economic, cultural and social impact. When you enter this world-class institution, you join a research-led community that consistently delivers outstanding teaching, learning and student outcomes, as recently evidenced by its Gold award in the Teaching Excellence Framework.

Established in 1955, Exeter’s prestigious academic environment entices learners from all corners of the globe, urging them to join its population of around 22,000 students from more than 130 countries, making it easy for non-native students to make friends and feel at home.

Powered by the university’s sterling reputation, Exeter Law School gives students the chance to be taught by staff with practical experience in a number of jurisdictions and a range of legal fields. Keen to know more? Well, luckily for you, we’ve rounded up what you can expect from a day in the life of an Exeter Law student. Read on to learn more…

Engaging Environment

Every Law student wants to live in an engaging environment but more important is the ability to maintain a balanced lifestyle. Exeter’s campus environment suits every type of learner – providing convenience for a lecture break coffee and catch up with friends, the 24/7 Lasok Law library and study space within The Forum, and the modern Boardrooms for group learning. With the thriving, student-friendly city centre just 10 minutes’ walk from campus and beautiful countryside on your doorstep, you really do receive the very best of both worlds here, at Exeter.

That’s what student David Boulous discovered on his specialist two-year graduate entry LLB programme. “The University of Exeter was ranked very highly academically in comparison to other universities and potentially being a graduate from a Russell Group university caught my attention as well.”

When Boulous was asked about the factor that swayed his decision towards the University of Exeter, he owed it to the fact that Exeter was not an overwhelming city, like Manchester or London. “I have grown up in large cities, and they can make you feel very crowded and rushed. The city of Exeter provides me with a cosy feeling, while still being large enough to find everything you need…The teaching staff are very approachable and helpful in all types of circumstances, while the students are supportive and friendly. Exeter provides me with a feeling of community.”

But before you submit your application, why not check out the wide range of extra-curricular activities offered, such as the Bracton Law Society, and embark on an online virtual tour of your future study space? Whilst considering the Exeter Law way of life, you’ll also want to know about the Global Excellence scholarship scheme. These exclusive grants are worth up to £5,000 and can reduce international tuition fees for your first year of study.

Educational Excellence

The student first approach to facilities and teaching is why many graduates believe this institution dramatically differs from others, especially since Exeter explores innovative and interesting ways to support student ambitions. The experience of studying law in applied settings, including through community legal projects, advocacy, pro bono work and small learning communities is characteristic of the Exeter approach.

The Law School co-ordinated Access to Justice Community Law clinic is where students and academics get the chance to run drop-in sessions for people who need legal information. A few of the topics covered are Criminal Justice and Employment Law.

Law LLB student George Ikonomou is currently enrolled in the Legal Clinic module. He believes that the service benefits society and educates fellow learners on the importance of law. As he states, “The clinic provides a more ‘hands-on’ approach, which differs from the traditional theoretical lectures.” What he loves most about the programme is “helping people in need, assisting them with their problems and pointing them to the right direction of various Legal Aid services.” Plus, it “has all been beneficial in providing a glimpse of what one may expect in the legal world.”

Employment Experience

Building a brilliant career is a major goal associated with the Exeter Law student lifestyle. That’s why there’s a vast selection of activities available to prepare you for work opportunities and a dedicated Law Careers Consultant to support students throughout their studies. Mooting is one of the programmes that develops advocacy skills. To master the act of mooting, you must research the law relevant to the problem and present the argument orally to the moot judge. This simulation of a legal case is a practical approach to workplace preparation and exposure, with participation in national and international competitions potentially sparking the interests of professional contacts.


Backing Exeter’s School of Law is the supportive alumni network. Law student Ikonomou has benefitted from this first hand, “Currently I am being mentored by a Partner at Simmons & Simmons,” he says.

“As a mentor, he has helped answer questions relating to the field, application advice, and even commercial awareness.  The scheme provides an invaluable experience to learn more about the legal realm from solicitors who are experienced in the field. The events that the university holds with various law fairs and career mentor schemes have really helped guide my future career path.”

Life as an Exeter Law student leads you to a wide selection of legal careers but the skills you gain also open the doors to the wider world of business including finance, administration, government and commerce. As Ikonomou recognises, “Getting a training contract, and writing the LPC is the goal right now.  But who knows! Maybe I might find myself working with the United Nations, volunteering abroad etc., the possibilities are endless!”

With a vibrant campus atmosphere built to accommodate your study sessions and a diverse welcoming city full of charm, you can enjoy every angle of student life in law at the University of Exeter.

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