Are you interested in exploring the complementary fields of law and criminology while simultaneously obtaining a qualifying law degree? If so, our LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology degree could be right for you.
It is designed for students who are interesting in pursuing a career within the police, prison and probation service, and other criminal justice positions. As a Qualifying Law Degree (QLD), it can also be used to pursue careers within the legal sector, particularly ones that interact with criminal law.
You will be introduced to a wide range of specialist topics within both criminal law, criminology and criminal behaviour. You will learn about legally enforceable contracts and the factors that render them unenforceable. You’ll also gain a sold grounding in many different essential legal topics preparing you for a career within this sector.
In this blog we will explore the module content, course length, and future employment opportunities. This will help you decide if this is the right programme for you to realise your future career aspirations.
What makes this course different?
At University of Essex Online we take a different approach when teaching the subject of law. After all, we are the only institution to offer LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology 100% online, with no requirement to travel to assessment centres or complete timed examinations. This means you can study these complementary fields from the comfort of your own home, achieving a Qualifying Law Degree while gaining specialist knowledge in the field of criminology.
What do I learn first?
During your first module you will cover the operation of the English Legal System, including sources of law, case analysis, statutory interpretation and the court system. These are some of the core elements which make up the LLB, helping students better understand the role of lawyers in society and the duties placed upon their conduct.
You will then move on to explore criminal law, another crucial element of your studies. As part of this module students will receive a grounding in key criminal law concepts and principles. This will also include developing an understanding of substantive criminal law, including the classification of offences, modes of participation, defences and sentencing.
How will I be assessed?
Rather than facing the stress of revising for and then sitting exams, all assessment is conducted through online assignments. This is carried out in a variety of formats, such as engaging in discussions, completing reflective journal entries and submitting written assignments.
What if I want to study a shorter course or don’t meet the entry requirements?
Then perhaps our Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) might be of interest to you – you don’t need any prior work experience or qualifications to start studying. This course has an indicative duration of 16 months, as opposed to four years, and is designed to help you develop interpersonal skills and knowledge about criminal law. Not only will this programme help to enhance your CV with an impressive standalone qualification, but it can also make it easier to progress to the full degree should you wish to do so in the future.
Can I tailor my studies to my interests?
Yes, you can! One of the benefits of this course is the option to tailor the modules you study in line with not only your interests but also your desired career path. We have outlined below the optional modules you can choose from across levels 4, 5 and 6.
Level 4:
- Crime and Society
- Dealing with Offending Behaviour
- Justice and Punishment
Level 5:
- Forensic and Criminal Psychology
- Criminal Investigation
- Youth Crime and Justice
- Prisons and Penology
- Probation and Community Justice
Level 6:
- Victimology and Criminal Victimisation
- Criminal Justice in the Information Age: Cyber Crime and Security
- The Economics of Crime
- Policing
These optional modules, combined with the core course elements, will help you to develop a strong understanding of these complementary subject areas.
Towards the end of your studies you have the opportunity to produce an individual research project on the topic of your choice within the scope of the LLB degree programme, applying research methodology and deploying appropriate materials.
How will this help my career?
Legal knowledge is very useful in a range of roles, including management, finance, human resources, education, local and central government and the voluntary sector. Combining this with your criminology studies will be of benefit should you wish to pursue a career within the police, prisons, probation and other criminal justice positions.
As a qualifying law degree (QLD), this is recognised by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) for the purposes of satisfying the academic stage of training to become a solicitor. If this is your objective, you must complete all your degree studies in no more than six years and achieve a minimum of a lower second-class honours degree. See more about the path to qualifying as a lawyer here.
What are the benefits of online learning over campus-based?
All our programmes are delivered 100% online and part-time. As a result, you have the flexibility to study where and when is best for you. You have the opportunity to work and learn at the same time, gaining a new qualification without the need for a career break.
All course content, study materials, and assessment submissions are available and completed through our sophisticated Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). This removes the need to visit a physical library or purchase additional textbooks as these are all available through our extensive eLibrary.
Your interactive lecturecasts will be available through the VLE which also hosts live Q&A seminar sessions and immersive discussion forums. All you need to complete your studies is a good internet connection.
Once your studies are completed you are invited to attend a graduation ceremony at the University of Essex’s Colchester campus. This is a great way to celebrate your success with friends, family, classmates and your tutors.
Interested in learning more? Click right here or you can download a prospectus to find out more details.