Alternatives to Law
Alternative pathways to become a solicitor in England and Wales without a law degree*
*Note: the regulations for the Bar Association to become a barrister in the United Kingdom are unchanged.
Previously, students without a law degree would study for a further, law-specific qualification, often referred to as a ‘law conversion’. From September 2021, the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) plans to introduce a new Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) that will make it simpler to become a solicitor in England and Wales without a law degree.
All graduates – with or without a law-specific degree - will need to complete the same SQE in order to become a qualified solicitor.
The SRA and legal employers are keen to make it easier for a broader range of people to join the profession. Find out more about the SQE.
Use our course finder below to find degree pathways that may interest you.