Becoming a barrister in the UK involves completing three essential stages of training: the academic stage, the vocational stage, and pupillage. The vocational stage is known as the Bar Practice Course (BPC), a critical step to qualifying as a barrister. However, the Bar course providers may differ in various aspects, such as course structure, teaching methods, and additional support, so it’s important to make an informed decision when selecting a provider. Below, we compare the main Bar course providers, which offer the same qualification but with some distinct differences.
Stage 1: The Academic Stage
Before beginning the Bar Practice Course, candidates must complete the academic stage, which involves obtaining either an LLB law degree or a non-law degree followed by a law conversion course (Graduate Diploma in Law – GDL). Entry into the Bar course typically requires at least a 2:2 grade in your degree, although many providers may prefer a 2:1 or above.
Stage 2: The Vocational Stage – Bar Practice Course (BPC)
The Bar Practice Course (BPC) is the vocational training necessary to qualify as a barrister, and different providers offer slightly varying approaches to this stage. Key differences may include:
- Course Length and Structure: Typically one year full-time or two years part-time, but some providers offer flexible learning options such as blended learning or distance learning.
- Specialization Options: Some Bar course providers offer specializations or modules that focus on areas such as criminal law, family law, or commercial law.
- Teaching Methods: Providers vary in terms of teaching style, including practical advocacy exercises, group work, and one-on-one mentoring.
Regardless of the provider, the Bar course covers core skills required for practice, including advocacy, drafting, case preparation, and legal research. All courses prepare candidates for practice in chambers or other qualifying organisations.
Before starting the BPC, all candidates must sit the Bar Course Aptitude Test (BCAT), a compulsory test to assess their suitability for the Bar course.
Stage 3: Pupillage
After completing the BPC, aspiring barristers must secure a pupillage, which is a one-year training period spent in chambers or another qualifying organization. During this stage, pupils are trained under the guidance of a qualified barrister and gain hands-on experience in representing clients and preparing cases.
Choosing a Bar Course Provider
When selecting a Bar course provider, it’s essential to consider the following factors:
- Accreditation: Ensure the provider is accredited by the Bar Standards Board (BSB) and offers a course that meets the regulatory requirements for qualification.
- Course Delivery and Flexibility: Some providers offer full-time, part-time, or online options. Choose one that suits your learning preferences and personal circumstances.
- Reputation and Support: Look into the provider’s reputation within the legal community, particularly for their success in pupillage placements and the support offered throughout the course.
- Cost: Bar courses can be expensive, and the cost varies between providers. It’s crucial to consider tuition fees, financial aid, and available scholarships.
Name of University | Course Name | FT/PT/Online | Course Fees | Course Start | Entry Requirements | Location | Special Features |
University of Law | Bar Practice Course | Full-time and part-time | £13,400 – London £12,100 – Outside London | July, September, January | Minimum of 2:1 from LLB OR 2:2 in non-law degree and commendation in PGDL | Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, Nottingham, Liverpool, Manchester, London Bloomsbury | 50 hours of advocacy training with real barristers and judges in mock trials |
The University of the West of England | Bar Training Course | Full-time and part-time | £15,500 with LLM | September | Minimum 2:2 in LLB or non-law and PGDL, pass BCAT, membership of Inn of Court | Frenchay Campus, Bristol | Strong emphasis on personal and academic support, well established link to local and national chambers, mock pupillage interviews, pro-bono opportunities |
The Inns of Court College of Advocacy | Bar Course | Full-time, flexible two part programme | £13, 481 | September, January | Minimum 2:1 in LLB or non-law with commendation or distinction in PGDL, pass BCAT, membership in Inn of Court | Kings College London | Course is split into two stages; first is virtual with interactive learning techniques, second part taught within the Inns of Court. Emphasis on advocacy and strong links to the profession. |
Nottingham Trent University | Barrister Training Course | Full-time | £14,800 (launch award – reduction of £1000 for 2021 start as the course is new) | September, March | Minimum of 2:1 from LLB, 2:2 with evidence of exceptional achievement elsewhere, pass BCAT, join an Inn of Court. | Nottingham | Small class sizes, mock courtrooms, multi-award-winning pro-bono programme through Legal Advice Centre. |
Northumbria University | Bar Course | Full and part-time | £12,300 | September | Minimum 2:1 LLB and non-law with commendation in PGDL, 2:2 considered exceptionally on individual basis, pass BCAT and membership in Inn of Court. | Newcastle | Vulnerable witness training, practitioner advocacy masterclass, mentoring scheme, international mooting. |
Manchester Metropolitan | Bar Training Course | Full-time, part-time, part-time flexible | £12,000 | September | Minimum 2:2 in LLB OR non-law with PGDL, pass BCAT | Manchester | Supportive community, professional lecture series, legal hub, flexible study, pro-bono network, specialist Bar facility |
City, University of London | Bar Vocational Studies | Full-time, part-time | £16,500 £19,500 with LLM | September | 2:2 in LLB or non-law with PGDL, pass BCAT, membership in Inn of Court | Northampton Square, London | Small class size, one-to-one feedback sessions, advice on CV’s, mock interviews, practitioner panels and networking events |
Cardiff University | Bar Training Course | Full-time | £17,450 | September | Minimum 2:1 degree, 2:2 considered on individual basis, pass BCAT, membership of Inn of Court. | Cardiff | Only Russell Group University to offer the BTC, all tutors are barristers or solicitors, highly regarded training, significant face to face support. |
BPP Law School | Barrister Training Course | Full and part-time | £14,870 – London £13,870 – Outside London | September, January | Minimum of 2:1 from LLB or 2:2 with extenuating circumstances. Satisfactory video evidence, pass the BCAT, membership of Inn of Court, satisfactory reference. | Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, Manchester, London Holbury, | Specialist career advice, well-being support, employability week and pro-bono opportunities |
