Returning To The Usual Horse: Is This Path Silly?

I know this topic is asked about more than anyone likes to see, and at this point it's probably a running joke, but as an aspiring student, I thought it would be best to ask. Is a non-Law undergraduate that poor of a decision? I will include a TLDR at the bottom.

I am currently waiting to apply to my undergraduate, after a 2 year long gap year, that was taken due to situations genuinely out of my control. I decided to apply for Psychology as my undergraduate, and my parents are not happy in the slightest about it. I have already decided to become a solicitor, regardless of the pay, potential stress and glamorous balding (from said stress). For me, the areas that appeal to me (family law, human rights law and similar areas) would be complemented by the knowledge of psychology. They are saying that, if I already know, why don't I just go for the LLB?

I understand the LLB is for future solicitors; it gives you an academic background in legal studies and trains you to think like a lawyer. At the same time, a TC is not guaranteed for either. And either way, you will take the SQE, whether after your LLB or your GDL. It is an extra year, yes, and a year I could be working as perhaps a paralegal or, in really optimistic chances, my first year of my TC. Additionally, family law firms are less likely to fund the GDL & SQE — I understand this too. That being said, given the similarity of outcomes, if I would enjoy Psychology more, is it really a lazy pathway? Would I look like a directionless person applying to law firms in the future, even with work experience & joining a law society in university?

My parents say that at least, after the LLB, I can call myself a solicitor (which is untrue), and even if not, I have legal knowledge to apply ahead.

I apologize if this post comes across as, 'tell me I'm right!!!', but I genuinely mean to seek a realistic answer on whether I am making a mistake in my future.

TL;DR — student finally entering into an undergraduate after 2 gap years, applying for Psychology instead of the LLB. Psychology appeals more, and will study Law & SQEs either way. Parents disagree and think it's a poor decision, and should take the LLB instead. Is this a misstep?

Posted Aug 31, 2026, 2:19 AM UTC

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