MSc in Local Government Legal Professional Leadership launched

A new Masters in Local Government Legal Professional Leadership has been launched by Northumbria University in collaboration with Lawyers in Local Government (LLG).

LLG said it would offer a £3,000 bursary for the first 12 eligible LLG members who apply for the two-year distance learner MSc. The course, which costs £7,000, is now open for applications.

LLG said: “Local government is experiencing significant changes, not least because of austerity, public funding changes, government policy, BREXIT and a changing demography. Increasingly, lawyers and those working in local government legal services, including Monitoring Officers and Practice Managers, are tasked with leading teams, change management and implementing strategy. Traditional legal education does not necessarily prepare lawyers for these leadership and management roles.

“This programme, like no other, was designed in recognition of the specific needs of lawyers working in this changing local government environment. It aims to allow you to develop your knowledge, skills and competence in the areas of personal development, leadership, management and strategy. However, it is not just about cutting edge theory; it's also about hands-on practical experience. To this end, you will be encouraged to build on your own leadership and management experience with work related assignments that will contribute to self, career and workplace improvement. “

The organisation added that unlike a generic Leadership programme, or a MBA, the bespoke programme recognised the particular context of local government legal services and the professional standards of lawyers.

“It recognises the professional ethical considerations of the individual and the specific public sector imperatives of local government and the nature of the employment relationship in local government. The programme will develop competencies that enable you to understand the tools necessary to inspire, develop, and motivate individuals and teams in support of strategic organisational growth.

“Furthermore, you will work on developing research skills, critical thinking and effective organisational improvement techniques as well as exploring all the personal competences associated with leadership and management in complex, dynamic and excellence focused local authorities,” it said.

Full programme details can be found here. The link for registration and application to the University can be found here. The LLG Bursary Scheme with terms should be reviewed here before applying using the LLG Bursary Application Form

If you have any enquiries about the course content or your eligibility for the course the please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. If you have any queries regarding the LLG Bursary Scheme or wish to make an application please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

LLG stressed that applicants are not precluded from applying for any other source of assistance when applying for the LLG Bursary and indeed would be encouraged to do so. Solicitors for example can apply for assistance to the Local Government Legal Society Trust which is a separate body unconnected with LLG.