Trinity College Dublin (School of Law)

Trinity College Dublin’s School of Law is Ireland’s oldest and among the world’s most respected law schools, founded in 1740 and consistently ranked within the global top 100. Known for its rigorous academic standards, it attracts exceptionally high-achieving students across undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The School is led by Head of School Dr. David Kenny and supported by a distinguished faculty renowned for shaping national and international legal discourse.

Research excellence is central to its identity, with staff contributing to major developments in Irish, European, and international law. A vibrant scholarly community, influential alumni network, and internationally recognized achievements—including ERC grants and major book prizes—underscore the School’s longstanding academic leadership.

Graduates benefit from a powerful professional network that includes leading lawyers, judges, Chief Justices, policymakers, and international figures such as a former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. This extensive network provides mentorship and accelerated access to diverse legal career pathways. Students develop key professional skills through lawyering classes focused on ethics, advocacy, and applied analysis.

Trinity maintains strong partnerships with major legal employers across public, private, and non-profit sectors, offering structured placement opportunities. These experiences prepare students for careers as solicitors, barristers, policy advisors, corporate legal counsel, and academics. Research students also gain valuable teaching experience, strengthening both academic and professional trajectories.

Trinity Law School stands out for its blend of heritage, academic excellence, and global influence. With Ireland’s highest law admissions standards, students study alongside peers of exceptional caliber. Research-led teaching ensures that programmes are informed by cutting-edge legal scholarship, with faculty recognized as leaders in fields ranging from constitutional law to technology and human rights.

Students benefit from small-group seminars, interdisciplinary flexibility, and strong international mobility pathways. A globally recognized alumni network enhances career prospects, while the School’s commitment to equality—evidenced by its Athena Swan Bronze Renewal—signals a modern, inclusive academic environment rooted in intellectual rigor.

The School’s research culture drives national and international legal innovation. Its faculty regularly secure major competitive funding, including two notable ERC Consolidator Grants in 2025, reflecting excellence in constitutional governance, penal policy, and regulatory reform. Research groups provide structured collaboration across fields such as corporate governance, private law, and technology.

Trinity plays a significant role in shaping public policy through expert contributions to legislative and constitutional reform. Publishing the Dublin University Law Journal and hosting international visiting scholars, the School functions as a hub for advanced legal thought. Recognition for scholarly excellence continues with global awards such as the Inner Temple Book Prize.

What are the admission requirements? Undergraduate entry is highly competitive, requiring 577 CAO points. Non-EU applicants apply through separate international pathways. Postgraduate research candidates must present strong proposals and identify a suitable supervisor before applying.

Are international study opportunities available? Yes. Students can study abroad at leading institutions worldwide, while French and German Joint Honours students complete mandatory third-year exchanges.

What career support is offered? The School provides placement partnerships, skills-based lawyering classes, and access to an influential alumni network, ensuring strong professional development and career readiness.

Undergraduate applicants apply through the CAO system, with 90 places available each year for the LL.B./B.A. programme. Joint Honours options share the same application routes. International applicants follow Trinity’s dedicated non-EU admissions process. Postgraduate applicants must review research guidelines, identify supervisors, and submit supporting materials such as research proposals and academic transcripts.

Prospective students may contact the School via law.school@tcd.ie or visit House 39 in Trinity’s historic campus. Fees, scholarships, and accommodation details are available through Trinity’s admissions office. The Dublin 2 location offers easy access to courts, government institutions, and professional networks.