Erin O'Hagan, Barrister at Law in the South West speaks about her progression through WIT from a level 6 Higher Cert to sitting exams at Kin's Inns
“I commenced my studies of Legal Studies at Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) in September of 2009 with the Higher Certificate in Arts in Legal Studies. I was quite apprehensive and nervous at the prospect of moving away from home and beginning a new chapter in my life but there was no need.
I immediately made great friends and really enjoyed my studies. I then decided to complete the Legal Studies Degree (level 7) and having enjoyed that so much I continued to the Honours Degree in Law and Business.
I would like to think I made the most of my time in WIT, partaking in many extra-curricular activities such as Debates, Moot Courts and numerous Student Union events.”
King's Inns
“When I completed my studies at WIT in May of 2013, I began studying for the King’s Inns’ entrance exams, which I sat in August 2013. I was successful at the first attempt and I completed my degree to become a barrister at law. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Kings Inns. I was called to the Bar of Ireland in 2014 and having spent the last 2 years practicing in the area of Family Law, General Practice and Crime on the Dublin Circuit, I am now practicing on the South Western Circuit in all areas and I love it.”
Stepping stone
“I am forever grateful to all the lecturing staff and fellow students at WIT who supported me along the way in my studies and continue to encourage me in all my endeavours. I would recommend the Higher Certificate in Arts in Legal Studies and the follow-on degrees at WIT to anyone interested in, not only a career in the legal sector but as a great stepping stone for careers in business, insurance, banking and the public service. I have seen a high number of my former college friends embark on careers in a diverse range of employment including law firms, insurance companies, banks and other financial institutions and in An Garda Siochána. Others took the opportunity to pursue post-graduate programmes in other Universities, both in Ireland and abroad, and were well able for the rigours of those programmes.”
Study Legal Studies at WIT
The Legal Studies course at WIT is a two-year level 6 degree at WIT. The course provides students with a foundational knowledge of a broad range of legal subjects and various legal and business related skills that can be utilised in a wide range of employment settings, such as a solicitor’s office, banking and an Garda Siochana.
Students who wish to take part in the level 7 BA in Legal Certificate or the BA in Legal Studies in International Studies degree may do so once requirements are met following the two-year course.
Main Campus Cork Road, Waterford City, 
