Bachelor of Civil Law (BCL) - course testimonials

"The BCL was a brilliantly intellectual and rewarding experience. I felt challenged before, during and after every seminar and tutorial, where I was surrounded by some of the best minds in the world. In seminars, world-famous academics led fascinating discussions on upcoming and cutting-edge issues of law. I have been amazed by how many seminar discussions have become relevant to major cases coming before the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court. In tutorials, those same academics gave thoughtful feedback as we delved deeper into issues of principle and law. It was an opportunity to revise and defend our views and engage in an intense discussion. 

The BCL was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to push my brain as hard as I can. But it was also a chance to experience the traditions of Oxford. I really enjoyed the formal dinners, punting and my college common room. I would strongly recommend it!"

Dane, 2023-24

"My prior legal training in Nigeria provided a strong doctrinal foundation in the common law, but the BCL propelled me to interrogate law at its comparative and theoretical substrates, and to understand the inner logic of different legal traditions. The attention I received from tutors and professors on the course may never be matched, nor may the refinement to my manner of thought."

Odinaka, 2024-25

"Frankly, I arrived in Oxford unsure whether I had made the right choice. I already had a few years’ experience as a transactional lawyer and was unsure what value an advanced degree would add to my professional development. But through the courses I chose, I came to appreciate that lawyers who possess a deep academic understanding of the foundations of their private practice are often those recognised in the market as true experts in their field. 

Aside from my studies, I also made the most out of the extracurricular activities that this ancient university has to offer. I was elected BCL class representative, competed in rowing and fencing competitions, and even ran (unsuccessfully!) for a position on the Oxford Union. Most importantly, I made lifelong friends. By the end of my Oxford year, I could say with confidence that I had made the right choice in studying the BCL."

Piero, 2024-25

"The BCL, for me, was a very enriching experience. Apart from the immersive lectures and world-class syllabus, I got to interact with some of the best minds in the legal profession as colleagues and professors."

Ikana, 2024-25

"A deeply rewarding course, surrounded by profoundly gifted Professors, amongst exceptionally talented peers. The BCL year fostered within me a desire to be original, to research further, and to be confident when expressing one's thoughts. The academic challenge of long reading lists and complex questions of law, has grounded me for the challenges ahead."

Finley, 2024-25