Law Requirements at UJ (2025) BA, Bcom, LLB

A career in law is both prestigious and rewarding, offering a variety of pathways in the legal profession. The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is one of South Africa’s leading institutions, known for its exceptional law programs. This article provides a detailed overview of the law requirements at UJ, including academic prerequisites, program structure, and the benefits of pursuing a legal education at this esteemed university.

Law Requirements at UJ

Matriculation Certificate: National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent.
A minimum of 60% in English.
Admission Point Score (APS): An APS score of 33 or more is typically required for the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) program.
Mathematical Literacy: A minimum score of 4 (50%+)
At least 50% in another language.

Academic Requirements (BA, Bcom, LLB)

To be admitted into UJ’s law programs, prospective students must meet specific academic criteria designed to ensure they are well-prepared for the rigorous curriculum.

Undergraduate Requirements

1. Matriculation Certificate:

National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent.
A minimum of 60% in English.
At least 50% in another language.

2. Admission Point Score (APS):

An APS score of 33 or more is typically required for the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) program.
The APS is calculated based on the student’s NSC results, with specific points allocated for different grade levels.

3. Subjects:

While not mandatory, it is advantageous for students to have taken subjects related to history, social sciences, and languages.

Postgraduate Requirements

1. Bachelor’s Degree:

A relevant Bachelor’s degree is required for admission into postgraduate law programs.
The degree must be recognized by UJ and must include core subjects in law.

2. Academic Performance:

A strong academic record with a minimum average mark of 60% in undergraduate studies.
Completion of specific prerequisite courses depending on the chosen specialization.

Program Structure

UJ offers a variety of law programs designed to cater to the diverse interests and career goals of its students.

Bachelor of Laws (LLB)

1. Duration:

The LLB program spans four years of full-time study.

2. Curriculum:

Year 1:

Introduction to Law, Legal Skills, and Constitutional Law.
Courses in Law of Persons, Family Law, and Legal History.

Year 2:

Advanced courses in Constitutional Law, Criminal Law, and Law of Contract.
Introduction to Property Law and Administrative Law.

Year 3:

Specialized courses in Commercial Law, Labour Law, and Law of Evidence.
Practical training in Moot Court and Legal Writing.

Year 4:

Elective courses in various legal fields such as Human Rights Law, Environmental Law, and Intellectual Property Law.
Completion of a research project or dissertation.

Postgraduate Programs

1. LLM (Master of Laws):

One to two years of full-time study.
Specializations available in areas such as International Law, Corporate Law, and Human Rights Law.
Completion of coursework and a dissertation.

2. Postgraduate Diplomas:

One year of full-time study.
Focused on specialized areas such as Labour Law, Tax Law, and Compliance.

Admission Process

The admission process for UJ’s law programs involves several steps:

1. Application:

Submit an online application through UJ’s official website.
Ensure all required documents are included, such as academic transcripts and identification.

2. Selection:

Applicants are shortlisted based on their academic performance and APS scores.
Selected candidates may be invited for an interview or additional assessments.

3. Final Admission:

Successful candidates receive an offer of admission.
Acceptance of the offer must be confirmed by the specified deadline.

Path to Qualification

After completing the undergraduate and/or postgraduate programs, graduates must follow specific steps to become fully qualified legal professionals:

1. Practical Legal Training:

Complete a period of practical legal training (articles) under the supervision of a qualified attorney.
Duration of articles typically spans two years.

2. Professional Examinations: Pass the Attorneys’ Admission Examination, which includes assessments in legal practice, ethics, and court procedures.

3. Registration: Register with the Legal Practice Council (LPC) as a practicing attorney or advocate.

4. Continuous Professional Development (CPD): Legal professionals are required to participate in ongoing professional development to maintain their registration and stay updated with advancements in the legal field.

Why Choose UJ for Law?

UJ’s Faculty of Law is renowned for its high academic standards, comprehensive curriculum, and commitment to producing well-rounded legal professionals. Here are some compelling reasons to choose UJ for your law studies:

Accreditation: UJ’s law programs are accredited by the Council on Higher Education and the South African Qualifications Authority, ensuring that the education meets national and international standards.

Experienced Faculty: The program is taught by experienced legal professionals and academics who are experts in their fields.

State-of-the-Art Facilities: UJ provides modern lecture halls, a comprehensive law library, and access to digital resources.

Comprehensive Support: Students receive extensive academic and practical support, including tutoring, mentoring, and career services.

Career Opportunities

A degree in law from UJ opens up numerous career opportunities in various sectors:

Legal Practice: Work as an attorney or advocate in law firms, providing legal representation and advice to clients.

Corporate Sector: Roles in corporate legal departments, compliance, and contract management.

Public Sector: Opportunities in government, public prosecutor’s offices, and regulatory bodies.

Non-Governmental Organizations: Positions in NGOs focusing on human rights, environmental law, and social justice.

Academia and Research: Careers in teaching and research at universities and legal research institutions.

Alumni Success Stories

UJ’s law graduates have gone on to achieve significant success in their careers. Some notable alumni include:

Adv. Thuli Madonsela: Former Public Protector of South Africa, known for her work in promoting accountability and transparency.

Justice Edwin Cameron: Former Justice of the Constitutional Court of South Africa, recognized for his contributions to human rights and social justice.

Adv. Dali Mpofu: Prominent advocate and political figure, known for his high-profile cases and public service.

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Conclusion

Studying law at the University of Johannesburg is an excellent choice for aspiring legal professionals. The program’s rigorous curriculum, experienced faculty, and modern facilities provide a strong foundation for a successful career. By meeting the academic requirements and completing the structured path to qualification, you can achieve your goal of becoming a legal professional and enjoy a fulfilling career in this vital field.

Embark on your journey to legal excellence at UJ, where your future in law begins.