School of Law
UCC School of Law is a vibrant, dynamic and friendly place to study, with leading international experts across a range of exciting areas.
Founded in 1849 , we are an elite Law School with programmes that showcase the School’s internationally renowned expertise.
Championing Justice, Equality,
Diversity and Sustainability
Public engagement is a particular hallmark of our work in Shaping a Just Society; many of our staff members contribute to shaping public policy and public debate through appointments to expert roles or committees, and contributions to analysis and debate in the broadcast and print media. Faculty members also use their research expertise to contribute extensively to the work of civil society organisations.
Since March 2021, the School of Law is a proud holder of an Athena SWAN Bronze Award in recognition of our commitment to advancing gender equality.
Global Recognition
Message from the Dean, Professor Conor O’Mahony
UCC School of Law has a proud tradition: we have been Shaping a Just Society since 1849 through our legal education, scholarship, and real-world impact.
We offer students the opportunity to work in small groups with leading thinkers who are often deeply engaged not only with academic research and publishing, but with law and policy reform, advocacy and litigation and public debate. This work ranges from the local community to the highest international stages such as the UN and the Council of Europe.
Graduates enjoy outstanding employment prospects in legal practice, government, civil society, international organisations, and a range of cognate fields including business and journalism.
Most of all, we pride ourselves on the student experience and on ensuring that our graduates will always be proud to have studied at UCC. Our programme directors are at your disposal if you would like to learn more about our offerings
Our Programmes
Undergraduate
The School of Law offers six undergraduate programmes at Level 8 of the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). They are all recognised by the Law Society of Ireland and King’s Inns (the professional bodies regulating the Solicitors' and Barristers' professions in Ireland). Each degree offers a unique experience of either an industrial placement or an opportunity to study abroad in a wide range of partner Law Schools around the world.
Postgraduate
We offer law programmes across all areas of law, reflecting our research strengths. In particular, we offer masters programmes in international business law, law, technology & innovation, children's rights and family law, international human rights law, environmental and natural resources law, marine and maritime law, alternative dispute resolution. We also offer an LLB postgraduate degree.
Research
UCC School of Law hosts Ireland’s most successful graduate research programme in Law. Researchers are provided with an unparalleled experience within a well-established and vibrant community of over 40 graduate researchers, with easy access to experienced supervisors who are internationally recognised experts in their fields and a suite of tailored supports, facilities and activities.
Applying to UCC
Undergraduate Applications for EU/EFTA/UK students are made through the Central Applications Office.
Undergraduate Applications for International Students (Outside the EU) are made through our online application portal UCC Apply.
All Postgraduate Applications are made through UCC Apply.
Why Choose Law?
The School’s programmes foster the development of transferable skills valued by employers; such as research, advocacy, communication, critical analysis, accuracy and attention to detail.
The opportunities to participate in our real-world programme clinics and practice-oriented workshops adds to students’ diverse learning experiences.
Careers in Law
Solicitors, lawyers, and barristers are well-known choices for a career with a law degree. In Ireland to qualify for legal practice, you must qualify as a Solicitor with the Law Society of Ireland https://www.lawsociety.ie/ or qualify as a Barrister with the Honourable Society of the King’s Inns https://www.kingsinns.ie/.
With a law degree from UCC, you can also qualify for Legal Practice in countries all over the world. Learn more here: How to qualify for legal practice with an Irish law degree
Alternative Career Pathways
Some of our graduates choose other, equally fulfilling pathways: They shape a just society as policymakers, in the civil service, as academics, entrepreneurs, journalists, or in the not-for-profit sector and non-governmental organisations. These alternative careers can also be pursued following qualification as a practising lawyer.
Graduate Opportunities
The School of Law provides a wealth of opportunities for graduates following completion of our programmes.
Over the last 5 years, 92% of graduates are employed or undertaking further study.
