The Dickson Poon School of Law
- Undergraduate
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Staff/student profiles
France
English Law & French Law LLB and Maitrise en droit (French equivalent of LLB)
'As a French-American student coming from Paris, discovering London has really appealed to both facets of my bicultural European and Anglo-Saxon background. When I first visited King's, I was so amazed by its dream location! It is one of the most central universities in London, and this makes the working atmosphere well-balanced and friendly.
The reason why I chose King's is first and foremost because of its international academic reputation. The Law Department at King's also offers a unique opportunity to study both French and English Law, spending two years in London followed by two years at the Sorbonne University in Paris.
Having been elected President of the Anglo-French Law Society at King's, I am proud to represent my university at employer presentations as well as to participate in the social life of the student body. Another remarkable feature of King's is the newly opened Compass Student Centre and Careers Advice Service, which provide valuable tips and help with applications, CVs, and even administrative matters.'
Russian
English Law & German Law LLB and MLLP or Certificate in Rechtswissenschaften
I was aware of King’s College London’s reputation as one of the top humanities and sciences higher educational institutions in the UK and around the world. A friendly manner of lecturers demonstrated during the open days was the last deciding factor for moving King’s to the top of my priority list.
Spending time abroad in Germany as part of the English Law & German Law LLB programme was an additional benefit: the programme itself is excellent. It’s perfectly suited for those who want to be later dealing with business on a transnational basis and to understand continental law. It is comparative law put in practice.
The University of London Halls of Residence, namely Canterbury Hall (part of the Garden Halls), where I stayed in my first year, are situated in the heart of London, at Russell Square, tucked away in the cosy Cartwright Gardens and have all the necessary facilities – plus being University of London halls, you also get to know people from other colleges such as UCL, SOAS, LSE, and Queen Mary in a friendly atmosphere.
Undoubtedly being the capital, London can be pricey at times, However, the costs can be reduced by making most of the student discounts provided by having your student ID handy at all times (discount transport travel, and most shops and bookstore give you some sort of discount) and where one’s schedule permits, undertaking part-time work, of which plenty is available both near the university and in just about every part of the town.
German
English Law & German Law LLB and MLLP or Certificate in Rechtswissenschaften
The English Law and German Law LLB is a unique programme. It includes at least one year abroad in Berlin, making it possible to achieve a dual qualification for entry into the legal profession in both England and Germany. Through the close support of my course supervisors and their outstanding teaching, I will be well equipped for a career in the international legal sphere.
Besides the obvious academic advantages of studying at one of the top UK law schools, my experience at King’s has been challenging and rewarding in many other ways, too. From my first day on, when I moved into the Hampstead halls of residence, I have not only enjoyed the opportunity to meet interesting people from all walks of life and gained invaluable friendships, but I also got to explore London’s diverse cultural events and happenings.
KCLSU further offers countless extracurricular activities. Captaining the Ultimate Frisbee team, I love how playing sports is not only about keeping fit - it is about being spirited and representing your university.
Hong Kong
English Law & Hong Kong Law LLB
The English Law and Hong Kong Law dual degree is one unique to King’s, having begun in 2010. The essence of this programme is being able to learn, compare and contrast two legal systems, equipping you with a solid foundation of soft and legal skills, broadening your career prospects. This is particularly useful if you intend to work in Asia, or specifically, Hong Kong.
The wide range of societies on offer means you will always find a society that suits you best. I am currently Vice-President of the King’s College London Public Awareness and Social Service Society (KCL PASS). We host an array of events ranging from career talks to charity sales and volunteer trips, all of which have been a good way to step away from books and studying.
Aside from academics, being near the heart of London holds valuable cultural and social opportunities, as well as strong links and easy access to professionals in your chosen field of study.
Studying at King’s has been a remarkable experience so far. As my two years at King’s draws to a close and I return to Hong Kong for the last part of the course, I take home with me memories that will last a lifetime.
German
English Law & Hong Kong Law LLB
I chose King’s first and foremost because of its excellent academic reputation. Moreover, I was attracted by its international student body and the opportunity to pursue a dual-degree with another world-renowned university, the University of Hong Kong.
So far, I can say that studying at King’s has been a fantastic experience. The Law school’s professors are all renowned experts in their field and deliver high-quality lectures that really foster one’s understanding of difficult areas of the law. Tutors genuinely care about students’ study progress and are a constant source of help and support.
The social side is also great. London is a very interesting and international city and so it’s easy to ‘fit in’ even if you are not from the UK. There are countless student clubs and societies at King’s and it is fun to get involved and get to know new people.
So far, the reactions to this new English Law and Hong Kong Law programme have also been extremely positive. In fact, it was this programme which made me stand out and enabled me to secure a vacation scheme at a city law firm which has strong links to Hong Kong and China.
Hong Kong
English Law & Hong Kong Law LLB
I choose to read Law at King’s because it offers an English Law and Hong Kong Law programme which is an unprecedented collaboration between the two top law schools in Hong Kong and the United Kingdom. I prefer this five year programme to an ordinary three year LLB course as I believe my legal study will be more comprehensive if it spans two robust and well-developed jurisdictions where English Law flourishes as part of the common law system.
My first-year experience at King’s proves my decision to be a wise one. At King’s, professors who are all esteemed scholars at their respective fields are eager to guide students through their studies. Being amicable, they always put me at ease and as such, students almost certainly enjoy discussions, which very often spark thought-provoking notions on various legal issues, during lectures and tutorials.
As well as the academic staff, the Careers Service is another invaluable resource to students at King’s. It always keeps abreast of the latest development in the legal profession and thus can offer up-to-date advice to us. As a prospective lawyer, I found careers talks and networking opportunities organised by the service very insightful to my future career plans.
Putting study aside, I am truly amazed by the diversity of students in London. Last year I lived in an intercollegiate hall where students come from all around the world. Students living next to my room came from Singapore, the US, Spain and Britain. It was a great experience of how people from different culture and backgrounds converge and interact.
All in all, studying at King’s has opened up an indefinite amount of opportunities and continues to offer me numerous exciting experiences!
English Law with Australian Law LLB
The reason I chose to study law at King’s was mostly to do with the outstanding reputation of the Law department. The level of teaching and research is excellent, with many of the professors leading in their field. The Strand campus is also right at the centre of the legal world, meaning trips to the Royal Courts of Justice or top law firms are an easy possibility.
Having attended an open day, I was sure that London was the place for me. The city has an unrivalled nightlife and a wide range of free activities, like movie screenings in the summer and comedy acts throughout winter, so it’s the ideal place for a student. It also means that I can study at a fantastic university whilst being able to live and enjoy one of Europe’s most diverse and exciting cities.
Throughout my time at King’s I have been an active member of the Law Society and Pro Bono Society, as well as currently undertaking the role of Student Ambassador. I have also worked in the London Student Union.
Additionally last year I was able to study abroad in Australia. This was an exceptional experience allowing me to learn about an entirely different legal system whilst meeting people from all over the world. The accessibility to these types of experiences is definitely a major plus to studying here.
It is undeniable that studying here has provided me with a great foundation for my legal career. Following graduation I hope to be able to continue my studies, to do a masters in law; my first choice for this would easily be King’s.
The Bahamas
Law LLB
I chose to come to King’s because I was attracted to its international reputation for Law. Studying in the centre of one of the world’s foremost legal and financial districts was also something that initially attracted me, but it was the friendly people and graduate career prospects that sealed the deal for me.
Everyday I am continually awe-inspired by the quality of our lecturers who are world-renowned in their fields. I am also fascinated by myriad opportunities presented to me on a daily basis such as networking opportunities with top barristers and solicitors.
It is easy to get involved in societies and other activities and as a first-year student I am a King’s Student Ambassador and First Year Representative of the Bar Society. I’ve also made friends with people from all over the world and get to converse with them daily in our halls of residence. After graduating, I plan to become a commercial barrister and having a King’s degree will be a great asset because it is synonymous with a quality education.
Canadian
Law LLB
I chose to take the LLB programme at King’s after completing my undergraduate degree in International Development Studies because of the reputation of the law school and the location of the King’s Strand campus in the heart of London. I was attracted by the internationally renowned teaching staff, all experts in their fields, as well as the high teacher-to-student ratio and more independent teaching style. After graduating I hope to secure a position with an international law firm in either London or Toronto and I believe that the courses I have taken at King’s and the support I have received from the Careers Services have thoroughly prepared me for this.
In my first year I lived in the Stamford Street halls of residence at Waterloo, which was fantastic for discovering the city and also meeting fellow students. Finding a part-time job in London was made very easy thanks to the part-time job fair held annually at King’s and I have been working for the same catering company for over two years. The three years I have spent at King’s have been a fantastic and challenging academic experience and I highly recommend it to any international students.
Singaporean
Law LLB
My three-year experience at King's in London has been very valuable and meaningful.
As a law student at King's, nothing was ever out of reach. The department's professors, despite their seniority are genuinely interested in your learning. They provided me with a challenging, yet stimulating environment that helped me towards my ambitions of being a lawyer. This education extended beyond the classroom as King's enjoys partnerships with numerous top city law firms. Consequently, I had the opportunity to work with Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer on a pro-bono programme, “Street-law”. That was truly exciting and eye-opening.
On the social front, I joined the Overseas Christian Fellowship at King's, a student society consisting of Singaporean and Malaysian Christians. Despite being thousands of miles from Singapore, home never felt too far away as I was able to celebrate special occasions with people of similar backgrounds. As a result, Christmas, Easter and Chinese New Years were always full of laughter and activity. The people I have met at King’s and the bonds that we have built will surely transcend time and distance.
After graduating, I will be returning to Singapore to embark on my training contract with a top commercial law firm. When all is said and done, I will have left King’s with not only an excellent degree, but also an education.
USA
Law LLB
I always wanted to attend a Law school in London, and for me it had to be King's. I chose King's because of the rich history of the university and the many great minds that have walked through the academic halls of here. It has not been disappointing as I have been challenged and sharpened by the academic professors of the Law school.
My most challenging and easily most rewarding experience came in the form of an International Investment moot - I was given the opportunity to represent King's in an LLM moot despite being an LLB student. The reward was breathtaking as my teammates and I triumphed emphatically, taking home 4 out of the available 5 awards - a first in the history of the competition. More importantly, I made a host of friends along the way and my teammates are like family. I would never have had such a unique and rewarding experience but for the professors of Law at King’s and my coaches. This embodies what Kings is all about - creating opportunities to mould tomorrow's leaders. Upon graduation, I'll embark on a training contract whilst working on an LLM in International Investment Law.
However, it's not all work and no play at King's; King's students sure know how to play hard - Wednesday night is sports' night in the student bar where most students gather over pints to celebrate the forthcoming weekend. There are also several sporting societies to get involved in such as Football, Rugby, American football, and Boxing, both for males and females.
It has been an amazing 3 years and I am thoroughly enriched by this experience. My advice to those thinking about King’s is that everyday here is an opportunity to do something special; those that take this opportunity are forever changed.
All good things must come to an end, but I look forward to being a part of the King's tradition as I embark on my professional career.
British
Law LLB
Having heard much about the first-class academic reputation of King’s, attending an open Day to the view the Law School confirmed it. Like most prospective students, I had already toured UCL and LSE, but after meeting the esteemed lecturers and vivacious students it was clear that King’s stood head and shoulders above the rest.
Since then, I have received a cutting edge legal education that reaches far beyond the chapter and verse of the law. With the Royal Courts of Justice merely a stones throw away, I still find it remarkable that, come the afternoon, I might be watching the drama of a live case unfold in court only to have been discussing it hours earlier during a morning seminar. Also, one cannot deny that the fabulously well stocked Maughan Library on Chancery Lane has all the legal resources and books that a law student would ever need- and then some!
As I intend to go to the Bar, perhaps one of the most useful experiences is having taken part in a few of the many mooting (mock-trial) competitions organised by the Law School. Fortunately, I have achieved some success and would recommend it as invaluable to any student seriously considering a career in Law. King’s has something of a reputation for producing exceptional mooters and the KCL Bar Society hosts regular workshops to help students make the leap from law ‘as learnt in the classroom’ to law ‘as practised in the courtroom’. Furthermore, at King’s all undergraduates are encouraged to contribute to university life. Only recently, a friend and I founded ‘Red Tape’- an independent undergraduate legal publication which has since gone on to publish a whole host of student articles.
There is no doubt that for those who do make it to King’s, law is an extremely rigorous and intellectually challenging degree. After all, no student is born with a wig and gown. Nevertheless, my experience of law at King’s has been extremely rich and diverse and I will graduate not only having been taught to think like a lawyer but also how to act like one too.
British
Law with European Legal Studies LLB
With a law school consistently high in the league tables and in the very centre of London, King’s was the perfect choice for me. The faculty is just minutes from Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square, so you’re never short of things to do between classes.
There are plenty of extracurricular activities to get involved in; for instance, I was an active committee member of the European Law Students Association. I also had the opportunity to spend a year abroad in Sweden, where I studied European Legal Studies and Swedish at Uppsala University. However, if Scandinavia sounds too cold for you, exchange placements exist all over Europe!
The LLB has been challenging and varied, with a great range of module options for whichever area of law may be of interest. The university also provides an excellent support network, and the Careers Service has been particularly valuable in giving me advice and training for presentations and job applications. This, together with the Law School’s outstanding reputation and location close to London’s commercial law firms, helped me to secure a training contract with the ‘magic circle’ firm Slaughter and May.
British
Law with Transnational Legal Studies LLB
I was attracted to King’s because of its fantastic reputation, location in London, right in the heart of the legal district and relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
I found the Law programme at King’s particularly appealing due to the well-renowned lecturers and interesting range of module choices. I have also spent a year studying at the Centre for Transnational Legal Studies as part of my course. This has been a fantastic experience, given me the opportunity to meet and work with students from all over the world, and taught me the importance of having a broader perspective when dealing with legal issues. Whichever field I choose to work in I feel King’s has definitely give me the best possible start to my legal career.
During my time at King’s I have been involved in Law Mentoring which is one of the many stands of the Pro Bono Society. I have also worked as a Student Ambassador, speaking to prospective students, going into schools and attending Higher Education fairs. One of the best things about King’s is the wide and diverse range of societies, clubs, volunteering and campaigning opportunities; there really is something for everyone.
UK
Law with Transnational Legal Studies LLB
I was initially attracted to King's because of its excellent reputation, renowned lecturers and location in the heart of legal London. In addition, King's offers its law students a variety of opportunities, such as years abroad and competing in prestigious mooting competitions, to build on a straightforward law degree, and really stand out amongst other law graduates.
The reality of studying at King's has surpassed all expectations. In my first year I lived in halls, located right in the centre of London; walking past the Houses of Parliament to get to college every day is a unique experience. In addition, King's offers a great deal of support and recognition to its students. I was lucky enough to receive a KCL 'myScholarship' and the Athena Lui Bursary in my second year worth, in total, over £2500. During my degree, I have also spent a year at the Centre for Transnational Legal Studies. This has allowed me to broaden my perspectives by studying modules outside of a conventional law degree, such as 'International Criminal Law', with lecturers and students from around the world.
Beyond academics, King's has an active student union and I have had the opportunity to participate in a variety of societies ranging from being on the committee of the Think Tank Society to volunteering for the legal charity Amicus, which assists individuals on death row in the US.
UK
Law with Transnational Legal Studies LLB
I decided to study law at King's because of the exceptional reputation of the law school and because of its Central London location. I was excited by the possibility of studying and socialising in an exciting city that offers brilliant nightlife, shopping and cultural experiences. Furthermore, the career opportunities London has to offer as a global legal and financial hub is a great attraction for any student thinking about the possibility of a career in the commercial world.
My decision to take a year out of my LLB to study at the Georgetown University founded Center for Transnational Legal Studies, representing King's with three fellow students, was a fulfilling experience, educationally and personally. The course offers King's students the opportunity to learn about cross-border legal issues alongside professors, practitioners and students from some of the highest regarded law schools around the world.
King's offers students plenty of opportunities to get involved with extracurricular activities. I decided to help out with the KCL READ International society and became a member of the Law Society and the KCL Business Club. After graduation I hope to qualify as a solicitor at a City firm and I am sure my King's degree will be my greatest asset when pursuing this goal.
Portuguese
Law Research MPhil/PhD
The reasons for pursuing a PhD at King's seem obvious. It is an institution with an internationally recognised reputation for academic excellence and part of the London's vibrant academic community. Personally, my decision boiled down to the fact that, at King's, I would have the opportunity to work under the supervision of one the most eminent academics in my chosen field: EU and WTO law. My doctoral research, which is being funded by a scholarship from the Centre of European Law, focuses on the export of the rules of the EU's internal market to the ACP Group of States. Having now had the chance to experience life as a PhD researcher at King's, the programme has far exceeded my expectations. From the state of the art facilities to the numerous seminars intended to equip students with all the necessary research skills and the support provided by the careers guidance centre especially attuned to the needs of doctoral researchers, King's College provides us with the full gamut of services required to successfully complete our PhDs.
Canadian
Law Research MPhil/PhD
Though I had applied to several law schools in London when choosing where to do my PhD, King's quickly became my first choice of schools for several reasons. King's offers an unparalleled level of faculty and departmental support to new postgraduate researchers. Researchers are treated more like colleagues than students, and this was evident from the first pre-admission interview I attended at the College. My decision was also heavily influenced by the number of schemes King's offered to fund my degree and the opportunities available to engage in teaching. In addition, there are many opportunities for students to present and share their work with other early career academics and their peers. Of course, the College's location in central London, right on the Strand, and now expanding into Somerset House, coupled with its world-class reputation for being a leading institution of research, all figured in my decision about where to do my PhD. So far, King's has exceeded my expectations in all areas.
Sri Lankan
Law Research MPhil/PhD
Having previously studied at King's when reading for my Masters in Law, I was exposed to a community which made it the natural choice for my PhD. It is one of the foremost educational institutions in the UK, and I can state with confidence that it lives up to its reputation. The academic staff are supportive and display a great sense of commitment to their students. Personally, I would not be taking on the daunting task of postgraduate research if it weren't for the encouragement and support I received from my supervisors here at King's.
The College is set in the heart of the hustle and bustle of London in close proximity to the West End, and provides a respite to the rigors of academic research. King's also affords a range of scholarships and financial assistance to students. I was awarded the King's Overseas Research Scholarship which has made my postgraduate research possible.
King's is without doubt a fantastic place to pursue your studies. I am grateful for the opportunity and exposure that it has given me and I am certain that it will keep me in good stead in the years to come.
German
Competition Law LLM
LLM student: 2011-12
While working in the field of Competition Law, I realised that the LLM in Competition Law at King’s enjoys an excellent reputation at various international law firms and is a highly regarded qualification. Richard Whish, who is probably THE lecturer in this area, attracts a large number of high class guest speakers each week that make you feel like you get all these insights on recent cases and developments delivered first hand!
Living in London is an additional benefit that cannot be overstated – you will never cease exploring the features and opportunities of this amazing city. King’s location in the heart of London (and our student’s bar Waterfront, overlooking the Thames River) is certainly priceless. Adding the international environment of both the city itself and King’s College London, considering that there are currently students here from over 80 countries around the world, it becomes an unforgettable experience! The only “downside” may be that you will never want to leave again…
British
Competition Law LLM
LLM student: 2009-10
Associate at Herbert Smith LLP
I joined Herbert Smith LLP as an Associate, soon after completing an LLM at King's College London. I am based in the Brussels office and practise UK, EU and Competition Law.
I chose to do my LLM at King's because it was one of the only LLM programmes to offer a competition-law specific LLM and it was clear to me that it was the best regarded competition LLM available. The course is structured so that you learn the foundations of EU competition law, but also have the opportunity to study inter-related topics such as economics and US antitrust. This meant that although I had practised competition law before (I already had 2 years’ experience as a competition lawyer), I was able to further develop my knowledge by studying these complementary topics, in addition to covering new areas of competition law that I had not yet experienced in my career to date.
At King's you will really feel part of the competition community. There is the opportunity to attend guest lectures by leading practioners and a number of the other LLM students come from competition backgrounds too. You are sure to meet lots of interesting people who will not only become your friends but will become part of your competition network in the future. I had a fantastic year and would advise anyone interested in competition law to apply!
Lithuanian
Competition Law LLM
LLM student: 2010-11
Legal trainee at the Brussels office of Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP.
When choosing a university for my postgraduate studies, two things were of importance to me: academia and further career possibilities following the studies.
Having chosen King’s for an LLM in Competition Law, I can confidently state, it appeared to be the optimal decision. King’s offers an extraordinary variety of competition law related modules that are taught by only top-class professors and practitioners thereby allowing the students to put a reliable cornerstone for further practice. Besides this, King’s is very rich in various seminars and conferences that are an excellent bonus accompanying an already versatile programme along.
In addition to the academic excellence that King’s possesses, it also offers plenty of job opportunities. The internationally recognised professors and practitioners teaching at King’s provide for an extensive network and numerous possibilities of employment throughout Europe and beyond. I myself started my present work in a law firm in Brussels by virtue of having been taught by one of King’s visiting professors.
Studying at King’s is a great and very tangible experience, as well as pleasure of being in the heart of London in one of the most prestigious and beautiful law schools.
French
Competition Law LLM
LLM student: 2009-10
I was very impressed by the long-standing relationships the university has built with the biggest law firms in London and there is no shortage of events that provide an opportunity to meet with employers. This makes the transition to a future career easier. I also felt that being a King's student gave me the upper hand when applying for internships.
I am now legal editor for a European legal publisher. For prospective students, I would say that King's definitely makes the difference, both as a life experience and as an outstanding place to study.
French
European Law LLM
LLM student: 2011-12
I chose King’s because of its international reputation, in particular in EU Law, and because of its location, in the heart of a city as vibrant as London. My experience has not disappointed me; the teaching staff is brilliant, all lecturers are leading experts in their respective area. The classes are extremely stimulating, and allow for discussion and exchange of ideas; many involve the intervention of equally brilliant guests from Chambers or the Commission for instance, who provide great practical insight into the topic.
At King’s, I have had the unique opportunity to study State Aid, which in the current context of the aftermath of the crisis was particularly interesting. I also took part in the European Law Moot Competition, which enabled me to get “hands on” experience of EU law, and work as a team. We made it to the Regional Final, and pleaded in Lucerne, Switzerland, where we also had the wonderful opportunity to meet teams and judges from all over Europe.
Finally, King’s has long-standing relationships with the biggest law firms, which organise plenty of events for students to meet future employers. The alumni network is also extremely useful, with many former students recruiting interns or stagiaires within the current year. I would really recommend King’s to anyone looking for both academic excellence and a life experience.
German
European Law LLM
LLM student: 2011-12
For me, choosing King’s College London was always an interesting option, as I had the opportunity to participate in one of the innumerous exchange programmes King’s offers to its students. Nevertheless, the prestige promised by the collaborative partnership between King’s and my home law school proved true when I immersed myself into its academically stimulating and particularly student supportive environment.
King’s provides the great opportunity to decide between a general or a specialist LLM and both seemed highly attractive to me. At first, with regard to the range of interesting and unique modules I tended towards a tailored LLM, but then the high quality of academic staff in the European Law LLM, their expertise and experience which is incorporated in modules covering very specialized areas of EU law attracted me more. Now it seems to me that precisely King’s is an outstanding place to study EU law as it centres an international mix of graduates, teachers and professionals all keen on and animated by EU law which is combined with the excellent research, the effective professional networking and the distinguished programmes conducted by the Centre of European Law.
Moreover, I had the life time experience to be part of a team that represented King’s in the European Law Moot Competition. During this project, I experienced the emphasis on profound research at King’s and besides being involved in personal discussions with leading researchers within various areas of European law I received the valuable professional input of what the skills of a future lawyer will be.
No doubt that I have gained a lot of confidence as a young academic by studying at King’s due to the way I has been appreciated and challenged in relation to my legal knowledge and my intellectual abilities.
USA
Global Ethics & Human Values MA
I came to King’s from Los Angeles as a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar thanks to a generous grant from the Rotary Foundation and my local Rotary club. This master’s programme has well-prepared me to fulfil Rotary's mission of advancing world peace, goodwill, and understanding. It has given me a better understanding of international social justice issues and helped me launch a rewarding and impactful career.
What I loved most about the programme is that from the very beginning, it was clear that the teaching staff were committed to helping us become effective agents of change and exemplary global citizens. I am also grateful to have had the experience of being an international student; I think the epiphanies you come to as an immigrant and the interaction with students in the diverse King’s student body is an absolutely priceless experience.
Portugal
Global Ethics & Human Values MA
Having worked in Timor-Leste, I had a truly enriching experience which broadened my understanding of conflict and human rights issues and opened my eyes to the responsibilities we, as citizens of this globalizing world, have in fighting global injustices. It also encouraged me to deepen my understanding of the global issues that we currently face, thus leading me to embark on this specific programme.
After the programme, I hope to combine my professional and academic experiences in a job that will help me make a positive difference in the world. I am sure employers will value the knowledge and skills this programme provides and recognize the substantial role they may play in this endeavour.
UK
Global Ethics & Human Values MA
I practised as a lawyer in international banking and finance for 15 years prior to taking the MA in Human Values & Contemporary Global Ethics at King's. When I started the programme I realised that my fellow students and also the teaching staff had very diverse backgrounds in terms of their academic, professional and life experiences. However, students and staff were united by the emphasis on academic excellence and the genuine desire to look at issues affecting the world as thoroughly and objectively as possible. This, along with the broad-reaching content of the programme, contributed to an illuminating, stimulating and challenging learning environment.
For me the programme has provided a passage to a whole new world. Since completing the MA I have become a trustee of a humanitarian organisation called HART. Amongst other things I work with HART on managing the risks involved in running a charity which works with local people in places which are either post-conflict or in conflict. In 2008 I visited several displaced Burmese ethnic groups living on and around the Thai-Burma border to review programmes HART supports and to take testimonies of recently displaced people. The Human Values programme at King's undoubtedly helped me to make some sense of the situation the Burmese ethnic groups find themselves in and to appreciate the profound importance of cultural identity and the realities of intervening in a situation which is not one's own.
UK
Global Ethics & Human Values MA
I chose to study the MA in Human Values & Contemporary Global Ethics because it is taught by pre-eminent scholars and, with King's having top research rankings in both the Schools of Law and Philosophy, offers great depth of resource. The applied ethics nature of the programme attracts students from a wide and varied mix of backgrounds, which enriches the classes, and provides a genuinely stimulating environment.
Coming to the programme myself, after a career in investment management, I found it both rekindled clarity of intellectual thought and the energy for making a difference. I now work with a microfinance group to expand their operations in sub-Saharan Africa and help them with the process of raising no-/low- interest loan capital. I am looking forward to starting a PhD at the CMLE at King's in the next academic year.
Indian
Intellectual Property & Information Law LLM
LLM student: 2009-10
For anyone contemplating pursuing an LLM; King's College London has always been the foremost option. King's global reputation for academic excellence has always attracted a diverse body of talented and motivated international students from all corners of the world. To add to it King's 175 years of legacy and its ranking amongst the World's Top 25 Universities influenced my decision to apply for an LLM at this esteemed institution.
No doubt that the Law School's ideal location, amidst the British Legal World, in my opinion provides a challenging academic environment. But amongst all this, what mattered the most to me was the rich portfolio of modules that the LLM programme offered. The option to tailor your own course so as to allow each student to pursue his or her particular academic interests is really encouraging. For me, the International and Comparative modules with respect to Trademark and Copyright laws allowed me to develop a multi-disciplinary and holistic approach toward my area of specialisation.
In order to ensure that I maximised my intellectual potential to the fullest I was encouraged to attend various seminars and other IP related events. King's also offered me the life time opportunity to be a part of the team that represented King's College London at the Oxford Intellectual Property Moot Court Competition in Oxford. But the most crucial part of my study so far has been my dissertation, wherein my supervisor who is himself an authority on the subject, not only guided me but at all times encouraged me to discuss my ideas and opinions.
Danish
Intellectual Property & Information Law LLM
LLM student: 2011-12
I chose King’s due to the excellent reputation of its School of Law and the many different courses available within the Intellectual Property pathway that I am pursuing. Obviously, the central location in the most dynamic city in Europe is a great added bonus.
Although King’s offers a variety of fun social events, interesting seminars and valuable networking events the most rewarding thing about my stay here has undoubtedly been the quality of teaching. King’s professors John Phillips, Tanya Aplin and David Llewelyn are all prominent figures within the world of IP and apart from being talented academics they have been enthusiastic teachers. They make you work hard but the reward is equally great. Further, King’s shares IP courses with other top London universities, inter alia University College London, which has allowed me the pleasure of being taught by arguably the most renowned IP judge in Europe; Professor Sir Robin Jacob.
I was already a practicing IP lawyer in Denmark before coming here but my studies have allowed me to take my knowledge of this complex area of law to a new level. I believe that any student choosing this pathway at King’s will gain a considerable competitive advantage.
New Zealander
Intellectual Property & Information Law LLM
LLM student: 2008-10 (part-time)
My practice as an intellectual property ("IP") solicitor benefited immeasurably from my LLM studies at King's. King's gave me the opportunity to think in detail about the law and its underlying policy. This is not something that you typically get the time to do when managing a busy city practice.
The quality of the lecturing staff was one of the main advantages of studying at King's. I was fortunate to have lecturers in my courses who were all well known academics and practitioners in the field which enhanced my learning experience. The lectures were on the whole engaging and motivated me in my studies.
In terms of facilities, the location of the King's campus was important. I work in the City of London at a leading law firm. At a practical level, it was important that I was able to easily get to and from lectures without too much disruption to my work day. The majority of my lectures were held at King's Strand campus which was an easy 20 minute walk from the office.
London is a fantastic environment for work and study. Many of the leading figures in IP law are based in England so working/studying here gives you the opportunity to meet them in person.
After the programme, I will continue to work in IP/commercial law but would like to continue my interest in European legal policy or academic studies in some form or another.
Norwegian
International Business Law LLM
LLM student: 2009-10
Before I moved to London, I knew it as a vibrant city in all respects and certainly as one of the most important places in the world of commercial law. When I got the opportunity to combine this with a highly recognized degree from one of the top UK universities, choosing King's was a simple choice.
Studying at King's has been an experience I would recommend to anybody seeking to pursue an international legal career. It offers you a challenging environment composed of a mix of graduates and professionals from all over the world, sharing their views and experiences from their legal culture under the supervision by outstanding academics and leading practitioners within their field.
I must also emphasize the opportunity to write a dissertation under the supervision by one of these academics or practitioners, which gives you the opportunity to challenge yourself discussing your topic, tête-à-tête with possibly one of the leading researchers within your specific field of interest.
My year at King's has certainly developed several key qualities important for a future legal career. An in-depth knowledge of legal English is perhaps the most obvious enrichment, but I find my new network of future international lawyers with whom I exchange ideas and experiences every day one of the absolute greatest benefits. I would recommend prospective students to consider carefully the possibility to study a year at King's. It'll be a lifetime experience.
Brazilian
International Financial Law LLM
LLM student: 2009-10
My choice of King's College London for my graduate study was primarily based on the worldwide reputation that King's enjoys, being elected one of the top 25 universities in the world. Secondly, as my focus is on financial law, there was really no place else to go, as King's professors in this field are amongst the best in the UK, which makes sense when you realise that London is one of the financial capitals of the world.
Furthermore, King's is very well located in London, at the heart of the law and financial quarter. The Maughan Library, which serves all King's students, is in walking distance and is a prime area for studying, apart from being such a beautiful building.
In addition, the wide array of organisations and societies that are available for the students is impressive. It is really easy to engage in any of the pro-bono groups or sports societies, in what can really contribute in terms of networking and socialising with international students from very different backgrounds.
After finishing my LLM I hope that the doors for a really international career will be open for me and I would definitely recommend King's to any prospective student.
Georgian
International Financial Law LLM
LLM student: 2008-10 (part time)
My decision to do my LLM at King's was determined by several factors. First of all is its historical reputation. Second is the range of professors that teach at King's. Most of the lecturers perfectly combine academic background with up to date practical experience in legal scope from the leading law firms. Thirdly is the location of King's which cannot be passed by without notice. It is in the heart of legal London with a walking distance to the Royal Courts of Justice, Temple, four Inns of Law, the Law Society, top commercial Law firms, UK Parliament and Trafalgar Square.
In addition I discovered that the students who come to study LLM to King's are invaluable with their background and experience, representing major law firms of the world, which consequently is a guarantee for the establishment of the life-term worldwide networking.
The School of Law is very sensitive to each of the students and so was it to me when it provided me with school funding to help me to partially cover the tuition fees.
As a part-time student I had an opportunity to work in a small city law firm discovering the realities of legal aspects and combining them with the knowledge I gained at King's, which to my delight appeared to be extremely up to date and I felt thrilled by being able to contribute to the successful work of the company
German
International Financial Law LLM
LLM student: 2011-12
I spoke to many lawyers, visited several LLM information events in Germany, and had discussions with former students from King's College London to gain a better insight into the programme, the environment and the taught courses. After the collection of all of these impressions and information, I had a good gut feeling about going to King's.
As I did an internship before starting the LLM programme in the Banking Practice Group in a global law firm, I was particularly interested in the Finance programme. Nevertheless, I also attended commercial law courses to deepen my understanding of the common law system, its influences and differences to the civil law system. I quickly noticed and was fascinated by the different teaching styles of the King's Professors.
The courses are taught by practitioners, who give a good insight on market practices. Furthermore, lectures are lively with students participating. By drafting legal finance opinions and presenting them in the seminars, I was able to deepen my writing and communication skills. I also gained a good insight into what is required by a global law firm. I can really recommend the programme.
France
International Tax LLM
I graduated with a double degree (French and English Law) from the University of Exeter. I studied in France for one year and was then introduced to Tax Law. Taxation is usually not studied at an undergraduate level but it is none the less a very complex and wide area of the Law; a Tax LLM is definitely an asset for those who want to specialise in this field.
The worldwide reputation of King's was indeed one of the reasons why I decided to apply to the College but it was also because it is one of the few to offer an LLM specialised in Tax Law.
The lecturers are very approachable and always helpful; they are top practitioners in their field. Small group sessions and voluntary assessments are often organised to make sure that everyone is up to date.
The Strand Campus is ideally located in the heart of London and easily accessible. Being a student at King's gives us access to amazing facilities such as the Institute of Advanced Legal Studies.
Finding a place to live in London is not as hard or expensive as one should think. House share is very common and the College offers a wide range of accommodation situated all over the city for those who do not wish to live in private accommodation.
Every Thursday, all LLM students have the possibility to meet for a drink which is always a good way to encounter other students with the same interest but with a different cultural background.
Russia
International Tax LLM
The course involves a lot of self-preparation, and I was very impressed by how much additional help the teachers were giving. The library is particularly good, stocking the latest items on tax planning and subscribing to a broad variety of useful online resources. I also found the Careers Service's work very comprehensive, always organising employment events and running workshops.
The university follows a very practical approach in its teaching techniques, as well as offering all-round student support, which, I believe, will give me a substantial advantage in the competitive job market.
Namibia
Master of Laws LLM
I chose Kings because the School of Law is known for its excellence but what really convinced me was the selection of electives within the Master's programme - no other university was comparable. The teaching staff are knowledgeable in their areas of expertise but also brought a wealth of practical experience which provided a holistic teaching experience.
The King's LLM degree will definitely enhance my career prospects since I now have skills and knowledge not easily found in my country. I am sure that in the long term this master's will be fundamental in changing my future. My experience at King's has not only provided me with technical knowledge but has allowed me to grow as a person. If I would have to sum up my experience at King's it would be that it has opened my eyes to the possibilities that exist for my future.
USA
Master of Laws LLM
A first class university in a world class city. There are only a handful of educational establishments that can truly make this claim, and King's College London is one of them.
For anyone contemplating pursuing an LLM, King's is located in close proximity to the British Houses of Parliament, the Royal Courts of Justice, and the four Inns of Court. Students not only have the opportunity to interact with these official institutions, but many 'real world' legal practitioners lend their expertise to the College. The list of distinguished academics includes: a former High Court judge; a leading intellectual property lawyer; and a specialist advisor to the Parliamentary Select Committee on Science and Technology.
The College is very committed to teaching excellence. Having spent many years living in a Commonwealth country, I was taught from an early age that studying in the UK was essential to garnering academic prestige. Earning a master's from King's means that I will have achieved one of my lifelong educational goals. I have also made a lot of friends from all over the world as this is one of the most diverse institutions at which I have ever studied.
Netherlands
Master of Laws LLM
I chose to obtain my LLM at King's since it has a very good reputation in this field. Not only is King's one of the oldest and most respected universities in London, it is also well-known for its excellent education, staff, and the facilities available to its students.
I find London an exciting city in which to study and live, as it is so interesting to hear and talk about other cultures and judicial systems, especially when you are interested in European law courses, King's is the place to be!
Brazil
Master of Laws LLM
When I decided to undertake my LLM in the UK, King's immediately came up as my first option, not only because of its elevated position in universities rankings and worldwide prestige, but also due to its location. London is the perfect place for those who want to pursue an international career as it is dynamic and cosmopolitan; not to mention that it is the world's most important financial center, and hosts all the leading law firms, which allow us to learn from the major source, and have plenty options of work after graduation.
As soon as I got to the Strand campus I knew that I could not have made a better choice; the atmosphere is friendly, but at the same time serious, it exhales knowledge. The teachers are extremely qualified and committed, the students are very prepared, and the library is a must. The various departments and societies often promote seminars about a wide range of interesting subjects, as well as workshops with companies and law firms.
Studying at King's will give you the chance to make friends from all over the world; it means that you will not only learn about academic subjects but also about different cultures and traditions.
Moreover, King's offers a vast range of funding opportunities. I had the honor to be awarded with two scholarships, from the university and from Bank Santander, and it certainly enabled me to get the most out of my experience.
Finally, I will never forget my first class in King's, when one of my teachers cited Samuel Johnson: "When a man gets tired of London, he is tired of life". I think it summarizes everything!
El Salvador
Master of Laws LLM
I chose King’s because I wanted to study at a prestigious European university. King’s scored very high on the rankings, especially for the programme that I was interested in. So far, I have found the high reputation and quality of the professors and the multicultural environment felt in every class I attend particularly attractive. My professors make a big effort to obtain and facilitate lots of useful material on the module being taught.
Aside from my studies, I have been elected treasurer of the Postgraduate Law Society, which is proving to be an excellent networking opportunity. Thankfully King’s granted me an award to help cover my tuition fees and it has greatly helped my financial situation, especially while I’m living and studying in London.
When I finish my master’s degree I’m pretty certain it will help me obtain a better job in my home country and broaden my area of practice. My advice to students from El Salvador considering coming to King’s is that you can offer great value to the international approach that King’s gives to the programme, and the reputation of the institution. London is a multicultural city with a million things to do every day. It is a great place to do your master’s! The people at King’s are simply amazing and everyone is eager to socialise.
British
Medical Ethics & Law MA
I thoroughly enjoyed studying my undergraduate degree at King’s, which is why I chose to continue my academic development here. The opportunities offered are diverse, underpinned by dedicated support from staff which no doubt brought out the best in my abilities. I was fortunate enough to be taught by leading and highly experienced academics which further attributes this course.
The style of teaching in small seminar groups allows for in-depth discussion to take place, and a more comfortable environment in which to learn and analyse each issue raised. The Medical Ethics & Law programme is a unique course in London which allowed me to question in depth a wide range of sensitive and controversial topics, inevitably broadening my outlook on current medical affairs. Furthermore, no other London university offers such appealing content within their programme.
As a scientist, hoping to study medicine, I found the programme enabled me to comprehend the ethical and legal complexities of this career, and appreciate that awareness of medical ethics helps to enhance and influence exceptional medical practice. Furthermore, as my classmates were all from diverse backgrounds (law, medicine, philosophy); I began to appreciate various viewpoints I would not have considered prior to studying the course.
I sincerely believe that this course provided more than an outstanding curriculum, it allowed my colleagues and I to advance our learning and knowledge in the most intellectually stimulating environment conceivable.
Malaysia
Medical Ethics & Law MA
King's College London was top of my list for degree choices based on its reputation for teaching excellence and optimal location. However, what has justified my decision many times over is that my time spent as a student at the Centre of Medical Law and Ethics has proved to be one of the most rewarding academic pursuits of my career.
In common with many medics, as a psychiatrist I was looking for a forum to examine ethical and medico-legal aspects of patient care which can often get lost in the pressures of a busy workday. While the MA has provided for my personal interest in mental health, its excellent curriculum is impressively broad in its scope and has never failed to be stimulating. I am sure I was not alone in thinking this given the passionate debate amongst my classmates who come from diverse backgrounds in law, philosophy and health care. However what sets the CMLE aside is the opportunity to be taught by academics who are leaders in their fields and are involved in informing and shaping policy in the UK. Yet, they are also gifted teachers who are always approachable and enthusiastic and never short of a good idea for your assignments.
Canada
Medical Ethics & Law MA
King's was my first choice for graduate study in terms of its offerings for my field, the quality of the Centre of Medical Law and Ethics (CMLE), and its location. If given the chance to choose again, I would make the same choice with even greater confidence. Not only did King's deliver on my expectations, but I was further impressed by the quality of the community of staff, faculty and my fellow students.
What was clear from the start was that the administrative staff and faculty at the CMLE all genuinely care about their students, and are willing to offer assistance and answer questions with patience, kindness and honesty. Not only are our lecturers lead researchers in their field, they are also excellent teachers, demonstrating that they were as committed to their students as they were to their own research and work outside of the classroom. Moreover, I could not have asked for a better group of fellow students. Our classroom discussions were enriched by their varied professional backgrounds and personal experiences. I found myself constantly humbled and motivated by the fact that it was like learning in a classroom of teachers, not students.
European Union Law MA, PG Dip
The Postgraduate Diploma/Masters in European Union Law at is a distance learning course which allows students to study for a postgraduate degree from one of the leading law schools in the country from anywhere in the world. The materials for the PG Diploma course are written and updated every year by a specialist in the field.
The international background of the programme is also reflected in my own background. I studied law (first and second state exam) and history in Germany, obtained and LLM from the College of Europe in Bruges, Belgium, hold a PhD from the University of London and previously worked at the European Institute of Public Administration in Maastricht, Netherlands. My principal research interests are in the field of European Union Law, and in particular its constitutional and administrative law. Amongst my recent publications are a book on the Concept of Legislation in European Community Law (Kluwer, 2006) and, together with Prof. Herwig Hofmann from the University of Luxembourg, an edited book on EU Administrative Governance (Elgar, 2006). I have also just completed a book on Judicial Review in EU Law, which will be published by Elgar later this year.
