Step 2:
The first part of training to become a barrister is known as the academic stage.  It serves as a general introduction to the law.

The academic stage usually consists of either a law degree or a degree in another subject supplemented by a one-year “conversion course”. This could take the form of  the Common Professional Examination (CPE) or a diploma in law. You will normally need to have a minimum of a 2.2, whether your degree is in law or not.

During the academic stage you will have to study foundations of legal knowledge. These are usually covered in the following subjects:

* constitutional and administrative law
* criminal law
* law of contract
* law of tort
* land law
* equity and trusts
* EU LAW

If your law degree does not cover all of these foundations of legal knowledge-for example, if you choose other options or if you study law with another subject-you will have to complete the relevant parts of the CPE or diploma before passing on to the next stage of training. If you are following a modular degree programme in, for example, combined studies, you should consult your tutor to ensure that the “pathway” you follow will meet the Bar’s requirements.