A Unique European Dimension to Legal Education:
The English and French Legal Traditions Combined in an Integrated Degree
The LLB in English Law and French Law/Master 1 (Maîtrise en Droit)
By Dr Frédéric Olivier Rolland, Programme Director
In the context of the collaborative dimension of University education inherent in various European agreements and the interconnection of numerous States’ legal orders on the European and International scene, it is increasingly important for lawyers to understand and apply systems of Law belonging to various legal traditions.
The Anglo-French dual qualification Law degree programme entitled LLB in English Law and French Law/Master 1 (Maîtrise en Droit) pioneered by the Exeter Law School in partnership with the Law Faculty of the University of Rennes 1 is an established feature of British University education. This Anglo-French combined legal programme offers an unparalleled opportunity to study the British and the French legal systems in their respective languages and to hold Law degrees in the United Kingdom and in France, providing students with the foundation to pursue a professional legal career in both countries. The academic objective of this Anglo-French dual qualification Law degree programme is not - in itself - comparative: its aim is for students to independently master, articulate and apply, in equal terms, legal reasonings belonging to two historically different legal cultures and systems. By studying for this integrated programme, students’ profiles will be particularly attractive to major City Law firms as well as European and International organizations.
The LLB in English Law and French Law/Master 1 (Maîtrise en Droit) is an established component of the Exonian European academic identity. Not limiting the University cooperation to French language, the Exeter Law School built up a strong tradition in the teaching of foreign legal systems in their original language under the initial lead of Professor Dominic Lasok. This trend blossomed under the academic partnership between Exeter Law School and the Law Faculty of the University of Rennes 1, ultimately leading to a fully integrated double award, namely the LLB in English Law and French Law/Master 1 (Maîtrise en Droit) which presents itself under a unique, innovative and effective format. This is a four-year degree intended to lead to the dual qualification of LLB in English Law and French Law at the University of Exeter and Master 1 (Maîtrise en Droit) at the University of Rennes 1. Students registered for the degree of LLB in English Law and French Law/Master 1 (Maîtrise en Droit) spend the first three years in the Exeter Law School studying English Law.
At the same time, French Law modules are studied in French. Although bilingualism is by no means required in order to succeed in this programme, a good standard of French both written and oral is essential (A level in French or equivalent). The French Law modules comprise French Constitutional Law in the first year, French Administrative Law in the second year, and French Civil Law of Contract in the third year. Academics from the Law Faculty of the University of Rennes 1 are also invited annually by the Exeter Law School to give a series of seminars in their field of expertise. French Law modules at Exeter are taught in small groups as there are only 40 places available per academic year. The fourth year is spent at the Law Faculty of the University of Rennes 1 where students follow one of the Master 1 (Maîtrise en Droit) programmes. If successful, a student in addition to their Exeter LLB in English Law and French Law degree will also obtain the Master 1 (Maîtrise en Droit) of the University of Rennes 1, thus simultaneously graduating in France and in England with the respective national legal qualifications, which constitutes in itself a considerable academic and intellectual legal achievement.
The LLB in English Law and French Law/Master 1 (Maîtrise en Droit) degree will enable students to proceed to the Bar Vocational course in the United Kingdom and serves as a solid foundation for the Solicitors
Qualifying Examination (SQE) – the new route to becoming a solicitor in England and Wales. The Master 1 (Maîtrise en Droit) will allow students to undertake the steps necessary to become qualified in France. Indeed, students will have the necessary knowledge for passing the aptitude test which is a prerequisite to practice as a lawyer in France.
MEET OUR GRADUATES
Sharon Igbokwe
LLB in English Law and French Law/Master 1 (Maîtrise en Droit). Graduated July 2023.
“When I first joined this course, I did not know whether being a non-native French speaker would hold me back, especially as I learnt French entirely through the school system, especially because a lot of my peers had French families and/or had lived in French-speaking regions. Yet, four years later, I have a degree from both a British and French University (English Law LLB/French Law Master 1 – Droit Européen) and have received an admission to study at the prestigious University of Strasbourg for the Master 2 – Droit Européen et International de la Propriété Intellectuelle.”
Ghislain Dovillers de Capele d’Hautpoul
LLB in English Law & French Law / Master 1 (Maîtrise en Droit). Graduated in July 2019.
“My year doing the LLB in English Law & French Law/Master 1 (Maîtrise en Droit) program was very formative. The teaching staff are amazing and genuinely cares about their students. The academics know how to ensure that no one falls behind, and how to simply and clearly explain the technical specificities between English Law and French Law. They are always available to listen and help any student with difficulties, whether it is in class or outside. Moreover, the limited number of students promotes a good working atmosphere. The students can work as a single group, helping each other. Aside from work, special socials exist for the students of this program, strengthening the ties between us. In addition to a great education, this course allows you to form lifelong friendships.”
Thomas Jeffcott
LLB in English Law and French Law / Master 1 (Maîtrise en Droit).
Graduated July 2022.
“As a British student, I feel that the programme has put me in an excellent position professionally, the two qualifications as well as the strong language skills I have developed being invaluable in both getting my foot on the professional ladder and then climbing it. I now look forward to starting my SQE next year before commencing my training contract with Reed Smith LLP in London. I would highly recommend the double degree programme – it is an unmatched opportunity to develop profound legal skills as well as cultural and professional skills that will stand you out in the professional world. To those students who do not speak French as a first language and who may find the idea of this programme daunting (as I did!): I assure you that it is both very doable and an invaluable opportunity. Provided you keep on top of your work, you will adapt to what is needed and you will certainly have the capacity to excel at this very enriching programme.’”
The Franco-British Lawyers Society
U.K. Academic Award
presented by Rt Hon, the Lord HOPE of CRAIGHEAD KT PC FRSE to
University of Exeter
for the joint-degree programme
LL.B in English Law and French Law / Master 1 (Maîtrise en droit)
Offered in partnership with Université de Rennes I
