Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of Law has been at the forefront of legal education for more than a century, building a legacy of academic excellence and a vibrant tradition of shaping legal discourse. Our diverse undergraduate and postgraduate programmes equip students with rigorous analytical skills and deep legal expertise essential for impactful careers in law, governance, business and justice. Our commitment to research and public service has led to landmark studies that have influenced legal reforms and shaped progressive policy frameworks, cementing our reputation as a catalyst for change in the legal community.
Our faculty is celebrated for its innovative teaching methods and meaningful engagement with society. Our alumni are recognised leaders in the public and corporate sectors, legal profession, and academia, reflecting the transformative education provided here. By blending critical analysis and reflection with practical application, we create an environment where jurists and future legal professionals are empowered to challenge inequities, advocate for justice and contribute meaningfully to the rule of law locally and internationally.
Our Programmes
A unique five-year dual-degree programme that integrates law with accounting principles, preparing you for careers at the intersection of law and finance. Graduates satisfy the academic requirements to commence with the professional training to become an attorney, advocate, or chartered accountant.
A three-year degree combining studies in languages, human behaviour and social issues with law. Graduates can pursue the two-year LLB programme or a postgraduate qualification in Arts.
A three-year programme blending commerce and law, ideal for students interested in business. Graduates can pursue the two-year LLB programme or a postgraduate qualification in Economic and Management Science.
A four-year professional degree focusing on law, laying the foundation for legal practice.
A tailored LLB programme for graduates with SU BA (Law) or SU BCom (Law) degrees (two years) or those from other disciplines (three years).
Specialise in fields like Tax Law, Intellectual Property Law, or Public Procurement Policy and Regulation, enhancing your legal expertise.
Explore advanced legal topics through coursework in Alternative Dispute Resolution, Labour Law, Intellectual Property, International Trade Law and other specialised fields.
A thesis-driven programme designed for in-depth research and academic development in a specific area of law.
This LLM programme (Public Procurement Policy and Regulation) is specifically focused on developing professional expertise and is aimed at persons in professional practice.
A prestigious doctoral programme requiring a comprehensive dissertation in a chosen area of legal specialisation, contributing to the field at the highest academic level.
Our Distinguishing Features
We continue to uphold our mission of advancing justice and excellence in the legal field through our exceptional experts, impactful initiatives and research achievements.
The Stellenbosch University Law Clinic
The SU Law Clinic is a leader in providing legal services to qualifying individuals. It serves as a training ground for our students and a beacon of hope for disadvantaged communities.
Recognised as a benchmark for practical legal education, the Clinic offers students hands-on experience while making a tangible difference in society.
Law Journals
The Faculty manages the Stellenbosch Law Review, an accredited law journal that was established in 1990, which includes full-length articles, book reviews, case discussions, as well as commentaries.
Faculty members have also contributed extensively to other highly respected academic publications, such as South African Journal of Criminal Justice; Fundamina – A Journal of Legal History; the African Public Procurement Law Journal; and the Writing Journal. ensuring that Stellenbosch University remains at the forefront of legal research and discourse.
Responsa Meridiana is a legal journal published by undergraduate students, under the auspices of the Faculties of Law of Stellenbosch University and the University of Cape Town.
Student societies
The Juridical Society represents the interests of law students in the faculty and in the University. Its representatives serve on various Faculty committees, such as the Teaching & Learning Committee and the Programme Committee. Members of the Juridical Society also serve on the Faculty Board of the Faculty of Law and the Academic Affairs Council of the University.
The Moot Court Society provides an excellent platform for students to develop advocacy and legal reasoning skills. Through simulated court proceedings, students gain valuable experience in legal practice, preparing them for real-world challenges.
The Students for Law and Social Justice (SLSJ) is a student-based civil society organisation which seeks to engage Stellenbosch students and the surrounding community to build a socially conscious generation that will contribute towards the promotion of constitutional values, access to justice, and the realisation of socio-economic rights.
The Black Lawyers Association Student Chapter Stellenbosch University (“BLAsc SU”) was founded as an organisation of students, committed to the ideals of democracy, freedom, and fundamental human rights. It is governed by and adheres to the policies of the Black Lawyers Association and the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa.
Our Departments
These departments, with the SU Law Clinic, form the foundation of Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of Law, which offers students a comprehensive legal education that balances theory, practice and real-world application. All undergraduate programmes span all departments.
Mercantile Law
The Department of Mercantile Law connects the realms of law and commerce, providing students with the skills necessary to thrive in business and legal settings. Members in the Department have expertise in a wide range of commercial law subjects, including Company Law, Labour Law, Competition Law...
Private Law
Public Law
Our Research
Our research advances academic discourse, influences public policy and shapes legal practices. Through the thought leadership of our staff, which includes nine National Research Foundation-rated researchers, and our Research Chairs, the Faculty of Law remains at the forefront of creating impactful legal scholarship that drives progress and inspires meaningful change.
Anton Mostert Chair in Intellectual Property Law
Gys Steyn Chair in Financial Regulation Law
Centre for Social Justice
HF Oppenheimer Chair in Human Rights
Chair in Urban Law and Sustainability Governance
Our Social Impact
The Faculty of Law promotes social justice and meaningful change through education, advocacy and engagement, positively impacting individuals and communities.
Legal services for disadvantaged communities
The Stellenbosch University Law Clinic provides free legal support to those who cannot afford representation, ensuring access to justice while offering students practical experience. The Clinic addresses critical issues such as housing rights, domestic violence and labour disputes, reflecting our Faculty’s unwavering commitment to social justice.
International partnerships
Engagement in policy and reform
