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.
"Forward together. Sonke siya phambili".
Our Programmes
The Faculty of Law offers varied undergraduate programmes that prepare students for career paths in the legal profession, business, government, politics, and beyond. Our degree options – LLB, BAccLLB, BA (Law), and BCom (Law) – accommodate diverse academic interests and career goals, allowing students to structure their studies in collaboration with the Faculties of Economic and Management Sciences and Arts and Social Sciences. Students who complete a BA (Law) or BCom (Law) at Stellenbosch University qualify automatically for admission to the LLB (2 year) degree.
The Faculty's postgraduate programmes provide a range of pathways for students at all stages of their academic and professional journeys, equipping them with the knowledge, competencies, and skills to excel in the legal field and beyond. University graduates from other disciplines or universities may apply for admission to the Postgraduate Diploma in Tax Law or the Postgraduate Diploma in Intellectual Property Law. LLB graduates (or graduates with a comparable foreign law degree) can further their studies by applying for one of our LLM (Master of Laws) programmes. LLM graduates can further their studies by applying for the LLD (Doctor of Laws) programme.
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 law students within the Faculty and University, with members serving on key academic committees and boards.
The Moot Court Society helps students develop advocacy and legal reasoning skills through simulated court proceedings, which prepare them for real-world challenges.
The Students for Law and Social Justice (SLSJ) promotes constitutional values, access to justice, and socio-economic rights by engaging students and the wider community.
The Black Lawyers Association Student Chapter (BLAsc SU) upholds democracy, freedom, and human rights, aligning with the Black Lawyers Association and 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 department.
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.
Our Social Impact
The Faculty of Law promotes social justice and meaningful change through education, advocacy and engagement, positively impacting individuals and communities.
International partnerships
Partnerships with leading global institutions and scholars enhance legal education, cultural understanding and research, enriching local and international dialogue.
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.
Engagement in policy and reform
Faculty members undertake research, publish and collaborate with government, civil society and international organisations to influence policy and legal reforms.
Promoting dialogue and learning
We organise guest lectures and workshops on current and emerging legal issues, fostering dynamic learning and encouraging substantive discussions within our community.
Faculty Stories
Discover stories of our pursuit of impactful solutions, building learning communities that leverage the latest technologies, and our exceptional people.
Media release
Pan-African Parliament adopts continent’s first Model Law on Sustainable Soil Management
Africa has taken a historic step forward for sustainable development, food security and environmental protection when the Pan-African Parliament (PAP)...
Max Loubser – In Memoriam
Max Loubser was a leading South African legal scholar, specialising in the fields of delict and prescription. His major publications include The Law of Delict...
Upcoming Events
Attend our events for the opportunity to discover, grow, learn, and engage with our community.