The basic method of instruction is the lecture, although some courses use a seminar approach, particularly where a small number of students is involved. Some courses combine lectures and seminars. It cannot be emphasised too much that students are expected to be able to work on their own. The courses offered for the examination may vary from year to year in the light of changes of Faculty policy or personnel. Applicants hoping to take particular courses are reminded that until that time there can be no certainty that those courses will be offered.
Candidates are free to choose any four papers.
Each year, certain papers are designated as papers in International Law, Commercial Law and European Law. As it is a postgraduate course in law, only those who have already studied law are eligible for admission. Most applicants will have completed a law degree either in the United Kingdom or elsewhere, but there is provision for considering those who have not studied for a law degree but have obtained a professional legal qualification. As will be appreciated, a considerable command of the English language is required for the course. On the course in 1997-98 there were 61 students from the United Kingdom and other EU countries and 93 from other countries.