UCL200 at Laws

Celebrating 200 years at UCL

It is an extraordinary moment for UCL Laws as we mark 200 years of legal education. Since the introduction of two chairs in law in 1826–28 when Professors John Austin and Andrew Amos laid the foundations of modern legal philosophy and teaching, UCL Laws has consistently challenged convention and pushed boundaries, leading us to our place today as a globally leading legal institution.

Our history is defined not only by firsts, such as admitting women and international students in the 19th century, but also by the people who have carried the values of UCL Laws into the world. Generations of students have become judges, lawyers, policymakers, campaigners, academics, and leaders, shaping law and society in every corner of the globe.

That legacy is very much alive in our students and academics today. Each year, our students impress us with their achievements, motivation, and commitment to making a difference, whether through national moot court victories, expanding access to justice, or contributing to international organisations around the world. Our world-renowned faculty continue to pursue innovative research and thought leadership that not only advances legal knowledge but also drives meaningful change in society, shaping policy, influencing debates, and addressing some of the most pressing legal, social, and ethical challenges of our time.

As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we reflect with pride on the contributions of our community and the values that have sustained us for two centuries. But our bicentenary is also a call to imagine what comes next. Noting the vital social function law schools play in democratic societies, we will continue to sustain and build our law school in line with our values, welcoming staff and students of all backgrounds to enrich our intellectual life, creating opportunities for all to thrive, developing our curriculum to create the very best lawyers, and creating the conditions for producing excellent and purposeful research in a rapidly evolving and complex world.

Warm wishes,
Eloise Scotford
Dean and Professor of Environmental Law

Laws UCL200 events

We are delighted to mark this extraordinary milestone with an exciting and diverse programme of events, lectures, celebrations, and outreach activities.

The events programme will feature lectures and talks with leading figures such as Professor Philippe Sands, Sir John Baker, the Lady Chief Justice, and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. Highlights will also include an Alumni Weekend (8–10 October 2026), a Women in Law roundtable, an exploration of trade mark legislation, a showcase by the UCL Centre for Access to Justice, and an exhibition from the South African Constitutional Court.

Memories of the Faculty

Your experiences are part of the Faculty’s legacy, and we would love to hear from you if there are memories of your time at UCL Laws that you’d like to share. Was there a professor whose teaching had a profound impact on you? Did you forge friendships that have lasted a lifetime? Were you part of any memorable traditions or celebrations? Please share your memories of UCL Laws below (including your full name, details of when you studied or worked in the Faculty, and your degree programme if relevant).