McMaster/Birmingham Honours BA + LLB Degree Option FAQ
Curious About How The McMaster/Birmingham BA + LLB Degree Option Works?
We’ve gathered answers to the most common questions – from admission requirements and housing to how the program prepares you for legal practice in Canada. If you’re thinking about applying or just exploring your options, this is a great place to start.
What Are The Admission Requirements?
Admission to the McMaster/Birmingham BA + LLB program is competitive and limited. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee entry – selection is based on academic achievement.
To apply, you must:
- Complete any Level I McMaster undergraduate program with a minimum 5.0 GPA
- Earn a grade of C or higher in both POLSCI 1AA3 and 1AB3
Before beginning the LLB portion at Birmingham, you must complete the following Political Science courses:
- POLSCI 2O06 A/B, POLSCI 2NN3, POLSCI 2PP3, POLSCI 2D03, and POLSCI 2C03
Additionally, POLSCI 2NN3, POLSCI 3NN3, and POLSCI 2O06 A/B are required for students enrolled in the program.
For full details, please refer to the McMaster Academic Calendar.
Study Permits & Immigration
Will McMaster Help Me With My UK Study Permit?
Yes. McMaster’s Immigration Advising team can guide you through the process of applying for your UK study permit, regardless of nationality.
When Should I Apply For My UK Study Permit?
Start early! Shortly after receiving your offer, both McMaster and the University of Birmingham will be in touch with you on next steps so you can begin the process.
Is Housing Provided In Birmingham?
Yes – residence is guaranteed for your first year at the University of Birmingham.
Students are encouraged to apply for housing through the university’s accommodation portal.
Curious about what it’s like to live there? Check out the video beside this section to get a feel for Birmingham’s student residences and campus life.
Accreditation & Bar Exam
Do I Need To Complete NCA Exams Before Writing The Ontario Bar Exam?
Yes. Graduates must complete five or more NCA exams before being eligible for the Ontario Bar Exam.
What Support Does McMaster Provide For This Process?
In your final year at McMaster, you’ll take one required course and have the option of a second course that covers most NCA exam content.
You’ll also have a built-in study group with peers in the program.
When Can I Take The Ontario Bar Exam?
Yearly dates are announced through the Law Society of Ontario website.
Typically, they are offered in the Summer, Fall and Winter. Students graduating from this program will need to take their accreditation exams first, so will most likely be looking at a Fall or Winter Bar exam.
Articling & Career Support
Will McMaster Help Me Find An Articling Position?
While articling isn’t required to complete the Bar Admissions process, McMaster will help you build potential connections through networking opportunities with the Hamilton legal community.
For information about articling and the Bar admission process, visit the Law Society of Ontario website.
Comparative Context
Are There Similar Programs In Canada? Explore Birmingham's International Rankings
Yes. Some other Universities in Ontario offer a similar program; however, McMaster is the only University who has a partnership with the University of Birmingham. Birmingham ranks high in global law schools, and university rankings.
Tuition & Program Costs
How Much Does The BA/LLB Program Cost?
- Canadian domestic students: approx. CAD $6,000/year at McMaster
- International students (non-UK*): approx. CAD $46,500/year at McMaster
- At Birmingham: approx. £20,000/year (~CAD $40,000) for three years abroad
McMaster students receive a 10% discount on Birmingham tuition, bringing the cost closer to the high range of Canadian law schools.
*UK students participating in this program would pay domestic fees while studying at Birmingham.
How Does The Cost Compare To Canadian Law Schools?
While tuition at Birmingham may be higher than some Canadian law schools, there are key advantages:
- No LSAT required for admission Ability to practice law in both Canada and the UK (after meeting bar requirements)
- International experience and global networking
- Lower cost of living in Birmingham compared to a big GTA city like Toronto.
Can I Apply For Scholarships & Bursaries while studying At The University of Birmingham? Explore International Scholarships At Birmingham
Yes. As a University of Birmingham student during this time, you would be able to apply to appropriate scholarships and/or bursaries (e.g., ones that are for international students).
More than £7.5 million in scholarships is available for international students coming to study at Birmingham.
