LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Laws
- UCAS Course Code
- M2L3
- Typical Offer
- AAB
- Contextual Offer
- BBB
- Course Length
- 3 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
Join a top Law School that offers an intimate and engaging, student-focused learning experience. Gain the skills and confidence you need to excel within or beyond the legal profession or the field of crime and criminal justice.
UEA Law School is housed in historic Earlham Hall. You will join a welcoming and collegiate community of legal and criminology scholars and students. You will be taught by dedicated lecturers with expertise in a range of legal and criminological fields and will be part of a vibrant student body with an active law society.
This course is aimed at students who want to combine a traditional English Law Degree with the fascinating and popular field of Criminology. This is the study of the nature and causes of crime, of criminality and those who commit crime, and responses to crime, including the Criminal Justice System. Combining Law and Criminology will give you a strong understanding of the evolving state of our society and the challenges it faces.
You will be able to enrol on Sociology modules taught across UEA Schools. This is a closely related subject that focuses on the development and functioning of society. It will allow you to explore diverse and sometimes conflicting ideas of what the key issues are and how they should be addressed.
Much of your study will be anchored around contemporary events and live issues that are affecting the world today. This course will give you a broad knowledge and skills base with which to succeed in a wide variety of law and non-related careers.
The course combines the seven foundation subjects of a traditional law degree with a foundation module in Criminology (Crime and Society), a theories of crime module (which explores various explanations of the causes of crime), and a more advanced Criminology module (Contemporary Concerns in Crime and Justice) and the introductory modules of English Legal System and Law in Practice. These subjects enable students to understand the different ways in which the law impacts and regulates our lives, and the relationship between the individual and the state. They will lay the foundation for you to gain an advanced understanding of law and crime related subjects in your final year.
Thanks to the UEA Law School’s semesterised approach to teaching, each of our modules are taught in one semester, freeing you up to have more choice later in the course. You will choose seven optional modules across your second and final years of study.
The wide range of choices the course affords allows you to tailor your degree around the subjects that interest you and stimulate your curiosity. Choices combine a wide variety of areas within law. Uniquely, you will also be able to choose from optional modules available to UEA students enrolled on the BA Sociology programme.
Throughout the course, you will develop important skills in research, writing, critical analysis, and constructing a reasoned and evidenced argument. The point of legal study is not simply to memorise the law, but to be able to engage with it skillfully. Similarly, in Criminology, you will learn how to think critically and apply different explanations of crime and various perspectives on how we should respond to crime to contemporary issues. As such, many of the skills You will acquire are transferable and will be valuable in your chosen career path.
Throughout your degree, you will be given guidance on your work and constructive feedback to help you improve. You will be allocated an Academic Advisor to help you get the most from your studies and help you reach your full potential.
You will also have many opportunities to build your skills, confidence, and professional CV through extra-curricular activities. During your studies, you will enjoy the support of our outstanding employability programme and have the opportunity to take part in many voluntary activities. You could, for example, complete an internship at a law firm, or ‘marshal’, spending a day on the bench with a judge during a trial. You could get involved in our Justice Project, where you will work on cases of prisoners who maintain they were the victims of miscarriages of justice. You could also benefit from the alumni-mentoring scheme, where Law School graduates offer career mentoring to individual students. Our many events with law firms, barrister chambers, criminal justice agencies and alumni create great opportunities for finding out about the options for when you graduate. You can also make a difference in the local community, working for the public good (pro bono) with the UEA award-winning Law Clinic, providing free legal advice under the supervision of local solicitors, to members of the local community who cannot otherwise access it.
You can also have fun, build your profile and hone valuable skills by joining in Law Society activities. As well as social events, these include beginner and advanced mooting contests where a point of law is debated in a simulated court hearing. Finals are judged by actual judges or barristers. The Law Society also holds negotiation, client interviewing, mediation and legal triathlon competitions, the finals of which are hosted by law firms. In 2016, the UEA Law Society won LawCareers.Net award for ‘Best Pro Bono’ activities and in 2019 the award as the best law society for Commercial Awareness.
Study and Modules
Structure
In your first year, you will establish a strong grounding in foundational subjects necessary for further criminological and legal study. You will take three modules per semester, six in total. The Law School also runs Skills Development workshops throughout the year. You will begin to cultivate important legal skills such as legal reasoning, research and writing, and ways of thinking and writing criminologically.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Students can typically expect two hours of lectures a week for each module. This is where a lecturer sets out the structure of the subject, identifies key issues and provokes critical thought. The size of lectures varies depending on the subject. Each module will typically also have a two-hour seminar (or tutorial) every fortnight. This is where students are given reading and guiding questions to consider and prepare ahead of class. Seminars are an opportunity to really deepen your understanding of the subject, through critical discussion and debate. Seminars are in small groups, so everybody has a chance to contribute and engage with the scholar leading the session. Seminars can include elements of group work.
Academics at UEA are given the freedom to experiment and innovate with their teaching, so while the above describes the general format of modules, some subjects will vary.
Independent Study
For each seminar, students will be set around 10-12 hours of preparatory work. This will mainly consist of researching, reading and engaging with other sources of material such as video, to formulate thoughts, arguments and ideas that will then be discussed in class. This is an important part of university study, allowing students to make the transition between School and Sixth Form to a professional context after graduation, where individuals will be expected to complete tasks with a high degree of independence.
Students on this programme will be based in the Law School, located in the beautiful and historic Earlham Hall building, although your teaching may be scheduled for other locations on campus. When they need it, help and advice is available through our advising system and our lecturers pride themselves in being approachable and getting to know our students. We also maintain a strong sense of community, in which students and staff provide each other with support and advice.
Additional Support
The UEA Learning Enhancement team, based in the Student Support Service, are on hand to help in various study areas, including study, writing and research skills.
If you have additional needs due to disabilities such as sensory impairment or learning difficulties such as dyslexia, please talk to our Student Support Service about how they can help.
Assessment
Autumn semester modules are generally assessed by coursework and Spring semester modules by examination. This is to ensure a good balance of assessment methods. You will have the opportunity to submit non-assessed assignments during the semester to practice your academic writing skills and receive feedback on your work.
Structure
In your second year, you will take the remaining law subjects which are the essential building blocks of a legal education. These subjects will complete the introductory and core teaching on the course, and by the end of your second year, you will have completed the seven foundation subjects of a traditional English law degree. As in your first year, you will take three modules per semester, six in total. You will also learn about the perspectives on crime and explanations of crime its causes. You will begin to tailor your degree by selecting one optional module from a wide range of law and crime related modules taught within the Law school, or other modules taught on the BA Sociology course delivered within other UEA Schools.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Teaching
Students can typically expect two hours of lectures a week for each module. This is where a lecturer sets out the structure of the subject, identifies key issues and provokes critical thought.
Each module will typically have a two-hour seminar (or tutorial) every fortnight. This is where students are given reading and guiding questions to consider and prepare ahead of class. Seminars are an opportunity to really deepen your understanding of the subject, through critical discussion and debate. Seminars are in small groups, so everybody has a chance to contribute and engage with the scholar leading the session.
Independent Study
For each seminar, students will be set around 10-12 hours of preparatory work. This will mainly consist of researching, reading and engaging with other sources of material such as video, to formulate thoughts, arguments and ideas that will then be discussed in class. This is an important part of university study, allowing students to make the transition between School and Sixth Form to a professional context after graduation, where individuals will be expected to complete tasks with a high degree of independence.
Additional Support
The UEA Learning Enhancement team, based in the Student Support Service, are on hand to help in various study areas, including study, writing and research skills.
If you have additional needs due to disabilities such as sensory impairment or learning difficulties such as dyslexia, please talk to our Student Support Service about how they can help.
Assessment
Autumn semester modules are generally assessed by coursework and Spring semester modules by examination. This is to ensure a good balance of assessment methods. You will have the opportunity to submit non-assessed assignments during the semester to practice your writing skills and to receive feedback.
Structure
In your third year, you will be able to tailor your course according to your interests, by selecting six optional modules, three per semester. By your final year, you will have a better sense of the career path you would like to pursue after you graduate and so can make choices accordingly. There is a wide range of optional modules to choose from.
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 100, Max Credits: 120)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Teaching
Students can typically expect two hours of lectures a week for each module. This is where a lecturer sets out the structure of the subject, identifies key issues and provokes critical thought.
Each module will typically have a two-hour seminar (or tutorial) every fortnight. This is where students are given reading and guiding questions to consider and prepare ahead of class. Seminars are an opportunity to really deepen your understanding of the subject, through critical discussion and debate. Seminars are small groups, so everybody has a chance to contribute and engage with the scholar leading the session.
Independent Study
For each seminar, students will be set around 10-12 hours of preparatory work. This will mainly consist of researching, reading and engaging with other sources of material such as video, to formulate thoughts, arguments and ideas that will then be discussed in class. This is an important part of university study, allowing students to make the transition between School and Sixth Form to a professional context after graduation, where individuals will be expected to complete tasks with a high degree of independence.
Additional Support
The UEA Learning Enhancement team, based in the Student Support Service, are on hand to help in various study areas, including study, writing and research skills.
If you have additional needs due to disabilities such as sensory impairment or learning difficulties such as dyslexia, please talk to our Student Support Service about how they can help.
Assessment
Autumn semester modules are generally assessed by coursework and Spring semester modules by examination. This is to ensure a good balance of assessment methods. You will have the opportunity to submit non-assessed assignments during the semester to practice your writing skills and to receive feedback.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels
- AAB If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer, if you achieve an A in the EPQ.
- T Levels
- Not accepted.
- BTEC
- DDD in related subject, Applied Science, Business, Applied Law, Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Health and Social Care. Excluding BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration . See below for accepted subjects and combinations
- Contextual Offer
A Level - BBB
BTEC L3 Extended Diploma - DDM in related subject, Applied Science, Business, Applied Law, Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Health and Social Care.
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Scottish Highers
- AAAAA
- Scottish Advanced Highers
- BBC. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3
- Access to HE Diploma
- Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits and merit in 9 credits
- International Baccalaureate
- 33
- GCSE
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
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IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
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- Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Hub. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required, the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Intakes
This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.
Additional Information or Requirements
Extended Diploma: DDD in related subject, Applied Science, Business, Applied Law, Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Health and Social Care. CTECH DDD in Business. Excluding BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration
Diploma: DD in related subject, Applied Science, Business, Applied Law, Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Health and Social Care plus B at A-level. Excluding BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration
Extended Certificate: D in related subject, Applied Science, Business, Applied Law, Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Health and Social Care plus AB at A-level. Excluding BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, or are taking a combination of qualifications, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
International Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree: International Foundation in Business, Economics, Society and Culture or International Foundation in Humanities and Law
Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of additional course-related costs.
The Law School invests heavily in online resources and so most prescribed reading is available for free to UEA students.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
You’ll graduate ready to begin your chosen career path having acquired a range of transferable skills. If you are looking to the legal profession, you will progress to the next stage of training and continue the process of qualifying as a barrister or solicitor. Alternatively, you’ll be equipped to pursue other routes, such as business, banking, accountancy, the civil or diplomatic service, the charitable sector, management and human resources, teaching, journalism or academia to name a few.
Many of our graduates have gone on to build careers as solicitors in leading firms in London and internationally, such as Clifford Chance, Linklaters, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, Clyde & Co, Herbert Smith Freehills, Baker McKenzie, and Eversheds Sutherland, and at a wide variety of other firms of all sizes and types.
Others work as in-house counsel in companies, public authorities and the Government Legal Service. We also have a significant number of alumni who are barristers, including several Queen’s Counsel.
Careers
A degree at UEA will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. We've been ranked 1st for Job Prospects by StudentCrowd in 2022.
Career destinations related to your degree include:
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Legal Practice (solicitor, barrister -with further study)
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Other law related careers (NGOs, international organisations, in-house compliance, legal researchers, police)
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Public Sector (civil service, local government, politics, education, research)
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Criminal Justice related agencies and organisations (police, prison or probation Services, Ministry of Justice, Home Office, campaigning and reform, charities working with offenders and their families, youth offending teams)
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Media/Journalism
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Financial and Management Services (banking, tax, insurance, investment, accountancy, HR)
Discover more on our Careers webpages.