Aspiring solicitor attracted to Bradford Law degree by career-boosting placement year
A placement year was the deciding factor in an aspiring solicitor choosing the University of Bradford’s Law programme and called on others to take the same route through Clearing.
Malika Hussain, 18, who will begin her four-year LLB (Hons) Law programme at Bradford in September 2026, says the professional work placement, which takes place in the third year of her studies, will provide her with vital experience as she builds towards a career as a solicitor specialising in family law.
Getting ahead
She said: “I looked at Law courses at a few universities, but I couldn’t find one with a placement year. Bradford was the only one that offered a placement year, which will help to provide me with extra experience.
“All employers are wanting experience now. You have to look at ways in the future that you will be able to get ahead of people when you come to look for a job.
“It will be great to go to University. It is a fresh start for me, a chance to meet different people. The University of Bradford is close to home. I wanted to study close to my family.”
Malika says her parents separating when she was eight and a subsequent legal battle over custody of her and her siblings started an interest in the legal profession for her.
Malika Hussain, will start her Law programme at the University of Bradford next month. Images credit: Malika Hussain
‘Just go for it’
She also encouraged more people to consider applying for the University of Bradford through Clearing for this September.
Malika said: “Clearing should be talked about more. People should be encouraged to do it. I would say to them to just go for it. There are so many courses available through Clearing. It is definitely not a last resort. It gives you a wider perspective on what you might do.”
Komal’s story
Komal Iqbal, 22, who completed her LLB Law programme at the University of Bradford, says the one-year placement she completed in the University’s Students’ Union, has boosted her chances of securing a job in the legal profession.
She said: “Placements are so important. It changed me as a person. I grew so much even during that year. I was helping people. I was always speaking to people, it was really interesting.
“Doing the placements at Bradford give you an advantage. If you already have experience, the law firms don’t have to invest in your education.”
Komal is looking for a paralegal job, initially on a traineeship, and encouraged others to enrol in the Law programme at Bradford.
She said: “The academics at the Law School at Bradford really support you. The course itself gives you a lot of work experience. You meet real-life clients during your studies.”
Komal Iqbal has completed her Law programme at the University of Bradford. Images credit: Komal Iqbal
Clearing call
Clearing 2026 runs until 9 October, offering prospective students the chance to secure a place at University. Prospective students may include adult learners who want to return to education.
The University of Bradford Clearing phone line – 0808 196 9129 – is open now and you can also apply online.
Sign up for the University’s On-demand Clearing Hub which offers more details on courses, virtual tours, applications tips, and further support.