The University of Derby has begun a collaboration with BARBRI, a leading global provider of legal education, by embedding BARBRI’s innovative Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) preparation technology into its LLM in Legal Practice (SQE) programme. This relationship forms part of a broader collaboration between BARBRI and top UK universities, which is modernising legal education to align with the requirements of the SQE framework.
The programme equips learners with the theoretical and practical skills required to qualify as solicitors in England and Wales. BARBRI’s technology provides personalised learning plans, diagnostic testing and simulated practice assessments to support learner preparing for SQE1, to complement specialist expert SQE2 preparation by the Derby Law School team. This combination ensures learners graduate with the confidence and competence needed for the realities of day-one legal practice.
Christie Eaton, Senior Lecturer and programme designer at Derby Law School, said: “We are proud to collaborate with BARBRI to deliver an LLM in Legal Practice that integrates advanced SQE preparation technology. This collaboration allows us to offer a programme that not only prepares learners for the SQE exams but also equips them with the practical skills, commercial awareness and ethical understanding required to excel as solicitors in a dynamic profession.”
In addition to academic preparation, learners benefit from practical, skill-based modules that includes workplace simulation. Alongside the programme, there are further opportunities to volunteer at the Student Legal Advice Centre, and consult on real life legal problems with clients. The course also focuses on developing critical commercial awareness and ethical competencies, preparing students for the challenges of contemporary legal practice.
Christopher Howard, University Partnerships Director at BARBRI, added: “I’m delighted that BARBRI is entering into this new collaboration with Derby Law School – it’s been a real pleasure working with the team to develop this great new programme. The LLM will offer learners a fantastic opportunity to fulfil their professional ambitions and experience outstanding teaching from the Derby team in conjunction with BARBRI’s leading SQE preparation. By embedding our technology, learners will have access to additional cutting-edge resources that bridge the gap between academic study and professional readiness. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to equipping the next generation of solicitors with the tools they need to succeed.”
The University of Derby joins a growing list of institutions collaborating with BARBRI, including King’s College London, Edge Hill University, Liverpool John Moores University, London South Bank University, and the University of Bradford. These collaborations are setting a new benchmark in legal education by combining advanced technology with practical experience, offering learners a comprehensive and supportive pathway to solicitor qualification.
For more information: click here: University of Derby’s LLM in Legal Practice (SQE)
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