The B.C.L./LL.B. program is an opportunity to learn the Civil Law and Common Law traditions within a single, integrated course of studies. Its duration is flexible: at a normal pace of 15 credits per term, the program can be completed in 7 terms or three and a half years.

Accelerating the program

It is possible to accelerate the completion of the program by taking one additional course in the Winter term of first year, by completing Summer credits, and by taking a higher number of credits during the regular academic year, up to a maximum of 18 credits. Permission to exceed that number requires the permission of the Associate Dean (Academic) and is given only in very exceptional circumstances.

Tradeoffs to accelerated programs

Students should note that there are tradeoffs in accelerating the program. These include more limited access to small-enrolment courses (as the fourth-year priority registration is lost), and the possible negative impact on academic success resulting from a heavy course load. It is possible to extend the completion of the program over four full academic years. However, to retain full-time status, a minimum of 12 credits must be taken in each term (with the exception that in their final term, students are permitted to take only the number of credits necessary to complete the program even if that is less than 12).

Extending the program can allow the meeting of other commitments on the part of students, taking full advantage of all opportunities in the B.C.L./LL.B. program, including exchanges, and participating in the Faculty of Law’s advanced programs (Minors, Majors, Honours). More generally, a lighter course load may have a positive impact on academic success.

Completing the program

To be eligible for their B.C.L. and LL.B. degrees, candidates must complete the required number of credits within five years of initial registration in the program. Faculty regulations permit part-time study (defined as less than twelve credits to a minimum of nine credits) in very exceptional circumstances. Where part-time study is authorized, the five-year rule is extended to seven years. In computing this five year period any year or years spent on an approved leave of absence is not included.

Residency, full-time students, part-time students

The Minimum Residency Requirement for the B.C.L./LL.B. program requires full-time attendance for at least three academic years.

Full-time students must register for a minimum of twelve credits in each term. The only exception is for students in their final term who may register for only the number of credits necessary to satisfy their degree requirements for graduation.

Students may register for a maximum of eighteen credits per term.

Permission to exceed that maximum or to change to part-time status must be obtained from the Associate Dean (Academic). Permission will be granted only if exceptional circumstances are shown.