Designing an Undergraduate Law Programme: Where Are We Headed?

Abstract

Legal education plays a crucial role in shaping the legal system and the broader societal framework. However, its purpose and structure remain subjects of debate. While traditionally perceived as a means of professional training, concerns have been raised regarding its status as an academic discipline. This paper examines the evolving role of legal education in India, considering the impact of technological, social, and economic transformations on both the legal profession and legal instruction. It explores the need for a reimagined curriculum that balances doctrinal knowledge with practical skills while addressing the intellectual and moral dimensions of law. Additionally, the paper underscores the necessity for law universities to assert their autonomy in curriculum development and pedagogical approaches, shifting the focus beyond mere employability to a more comprehensive model of legal education. In doing so, it advocates for a hybrid approach where foundational legal training occurs within universities, followed by industry-driven skill development. Finally, the paper highlights the urgent need for regulatory reforms that align legal education with contemporary societal needs, ensuring that law schools remain intellectually rigorous and socially relevant.