What Law is really like (Expert Oxford & Cambridge Application Advice)
The Oxbridge Law course is uniquely different from that offered by many of the other top universities.
Putting aside for now the tutorial system that is characteristic of all Oxbridge courses, it differs in content as well.
1. Roman Law
Oxbridge are the only two Universities in the UK that make Roman Law a compulsory subject (“Civil Law” in Cambridge). In a nutshell, it explores the foundation of Civil Law that the Romans created back in the times of the Emperors Augustus, Justinian, and the like. The course reads like a bit of a History subject but is focused ultimately on the Roman system of classification and their system of law-making. Even though the Roman Empire ended 1200 years ago, its central tenets are relevant still to understanding many continental legal systems. In fact, because of its apparent simplicity and clarity, one could make the case that Roman Law can be helpful in providing structure to the study of the other undergraduate subjects to do with the Common Law system as well.
2. Jurisprudence
Although this is not exclusive to Oxford, you should know that it is compulsory for Oxford undergrads to study Jurisprudence in your second year. Cambridge undergrads have the option of studying it in their second year, when they choose 5 electives out of an extensive range of subjects. Jurisprudence is the study of the theory of law. It differs from the other typical subjects such as Contract or Tort in that it is not as concerned with what the law is, as it is with what the law should be. It intertwines with philosophical concepts, making the subject a fun read for some, but for others a rude shock, when they expect something that is more in line with the other typical law subjects.
3. Few electives
Oxford has 9 out of 11 compulsory subjects, whereas Cambridge has approximately 5 out of 15 compulsory subjects. Many other top universities typically allow you to choose about a third of your subjects over the course of your undergraduate course. Further, some other top universities also allow their students to undertake a final year research project on any topic of law in lieu of a written examination as well. Cambridge allows you to submit a dissertation in your third year, but it must be in place of one of your five papers, thus providing only limited flexibility. If you have a particular interest in any one area of law and do not foresee being interested in a number of the compulsory subjects that Oxford offers, it may be prudent to consider other courses that may be more suited to your needs.
Let us know if you have any questions about this article or anything related to Law at Oxbridge at all.
