The details
Location: Online Mode of study: Part-time Qualification: LLB (Hons) Indicative duration: 4 years
Start date: Awarding body: University of Essex Delivered by: Kaplan Open Learning For queries: Call +44 (0) 1206 489 358

Law at Essex Online isn’t like law at other places. We’re used to doing things a bit differently – and that runs through our entire course syllabus. We’re one of the only 100% online providers offering an LLB (Hons) Law with no requirement to travel to assessment centres or complete timed examinations.

Our programme is ideal for aspiring barristers and solicitors, as it will enable you to progress onto a Bar Practice Course and prepare you in part for the new Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE). This course also incorporates practical assessments and real-life scenarios to help reflect the new SQE regime.

This academically rigorous course will start by covering the essentials of using online resources for your law studies. The second module in the English Law System, which will give you a robust basis for your future studies in a wide range of legal areas including:

  • criminal law, burden of proof and proposal for reform
  • legally enforceable contracts and the factors that render them unenforceable
  • tortious liability, negligence and duty of care
  • real property law, easements, covenants and mortgages
  • public law, how the constitution works in these changing times

You will also have the choice of completing your studies with an advanced independent programme of research into a topic of your own choosing, or the option to specialise through specialist optional modules.

As well as gaining the essential knowledge for an exciting career in law, you will gain excellent critical thinking and debating skills, honed through regular discussion forums with your fellow students. These skills will prepare you for success in a wide range of related disciplines.

Why we’re great

  • Our programme is employability focused and will equip you with the skills required for careers in the legal sector as well as related fields.
  • Experienced academics and legal practitioners will deliver your modules. They will help you to develop legal knowledge and skills that are required for legal practice.
  • Gain a recognised qualification from the University of Essex, one of the top 40 universities in the UK (Complete University Guide 2023).

The LLB (Hons) Law is made up of the following modules and, upon completion, is equal to a total of 360 credits.

Optional modules: choose modules equal to 45 credits at Level 5; choose three at Level 6.

This module is designed to give you an introduction to the English legal system, including case analysis and statutory interpretation. You'll gain a thorough understanding of the role of lawyers in society and the duties upon their conduct. You'll also develop interpretive and critical reading skills, as well as essential skills in legal writing, presentation and interviewing.  

Gain a thorough introduction to the role of substantive criminal law, including the classification of offences and modes of participation. You'll gain an understanding of the principles of criminal liability and elements of major offences, including homicide, theft and offences against the person. You'll also explore topics such as defences, sentencing and inchoate offences.  

Learn all about constitutional law, administrative law and human rights law. In this thought-provoking module, you'll examine key constitutional principles such as separation of powers, the rule of law and constitutional conventions. You'll also cover the legal framework that underpins the UK judiciary, executive and parliament, and explore the Human Rights Act and European Convention on Human Rights.   

Discover the principles of contract law and application, on both an academic and practice basis. You'll explore key topics, including consideration, promissory estoppel, termination and remedies. You'll be equipped to critically evaluate the relationship between key contract law rules and to apply these to solve legal problems.  

Who's liable for causing psychiatric harm or economic loss? Explore key torts and principles including topics such as defamation, duty of care, negligence, trespass to the person and vicarious liability. You'll also cover defences and remedies for aggrieved parties.  

Ready to discover the key features of land law? On this valuable module, you’ll learn to distinguish between land and property, and cover topics such as co-ownership of homes, mortgage law, landlord and tenant law, the law of easements and restrictive covenants.  

Have you considered the role of the European Union in business? Delve into the nature of EU law, and the roles and functions of its institutions, with this in-depth module. You’ll also gain insight on how EU law interacts with key decision-making procedures within organisations – while exploring the considerations that need to be taken with regards to different legal documentation. 

Companies are a vehicle for doing business and an understanding of the rules that govern them is necessary for anyone keen on a career in commerce and industry. Through this in-depth module, you'll examine key areas of company law, from corporate governance to management issues – including the concept of separate legal personality, the roles and protections of stakeholders, and the duties of directors.  

Delve into the legal profession, legal services and related ethical considerations. This exciting module encourages you to think critically and creatively while developing an understanding of a range of topics, including regulation and codes of conduct; a lawyer's duty to their client and wider obligations; diversity in the legal profession; and funding.  

Through this insightful module you'll develop an understanding of the fundamental doctrines and principles of law relating to organisations, from their inception until their end. You'll also cover topics such as equity finance, debt finance, distribution of gains and profits, and various types of business taxation – including income, capital gains and inheritance tax.  

What is the relationship between national law and public international law? Find out in this insightful module. You’ll explore the roles, powers and jurisdiction of public international law when it comes to human rights – and upon completion, you’ll have a strong understanding of international cooperation in both national and global disputes.

Explore the principles of the establishment and management of trusts and complex property transactions. This defining module provides an ideal starting point to undertake independent research, giving you the opportunity to identify key legal issues and apply solutions to solve the problem.  

Focus on the creation, alteration and revocation of wills and the administration of estates in this insightful module. You’ll learn to critically engage with relevant legal concepts, values, principles and rules of English Law by exploring the relationship between them, and appreciate the uncertainty, ambiguity and limits of knowledge. 

This defining module will expand and reinforce the knowledge you’ve gained from your study. Under the guidance of your supervisor, you’ll complete a written dissertation on a topic of interest – allowing you to demonstrate your research, analytical and critical thinking skills. 

This module focuses on the processes involved at every stage of litigation. You'll explore criminal proceedings, from the police station to trial, sentencing and appeal. You'll also examine civil proceedings – including various methods of dispute resolution, issuing and responding to a claim, statement of case, interim applications, trial, appeal and costs.  

How do you apply the law to contracts between business parties and private consumers? Through this innovative module, you'll examine the key legal and policy issues surrounding the regulation of contracts. You'll also develop the ability to critically evaluate the rules and apply this knowledge to problem situations. 

How does the law and family justice systems regulate familial relationships? Through this module you'll develop a sound legal understanding of how the law affects families and resolves conflicts. You'll delve into issues such as marriage, divorce and custody, and explore key features of family law – including the protective function, adjustment of property rights and responsibilities of family members.  

Explore the process and procedure involved in presenting evidence in civil and criminal proceedings. Through this fascinating module, you'll gain a grounding in key rules and issues of the law of evidence. You'll also delve into topics such as burden of proof, illegally obtained evidence, and confessions and credibility of witnesses. 

What are the key legal principles underlying international trade transactions? How is English law applied to international trade? What international instruments help establish an autonomous law of international trade? What current issues are caused by new technology? Understand, develop and deploy legal arguments in the context of international trade law. 

This module has a strong practical focus as you'll explore practicalities involved in settling workplace disputes, communicating with clients and bringing a claim to an employment tribunal. You'll also examine employment relations through the lens of the employment contract and delve into topics such as termination, redundancy and unfair dismissal and regulation. 

Examine the legal issues and ethical considerations in medical law. You'll delve into issues such as clinical negligence, consent, confidentiality, contraception, conception and death. Through this intensive module, you'll also gain a grounding of general principles of medical law and assess current topics and real-life case studies. 

Teaching methods 

Studying online gives you the freedom to study when and where it suits you – at home, during your lunch hour or anywhere else you have internet access.  

Our courses are delivered through a virtual learning environment (VLE) instead of a traditional campus. This means you’ll have access to your study materials 24/7, including:  

  • multimedia lecturecasts made up of written content, short videos, animation, audio recordings, infographics, short tests and mini-assignments 
  • discussion forums for you to chat about the course content with fellow students 
  • live seminars and Q&A sessions with your tutors 
  • a comprehensive eLibrary of textbooks and academic journals  
  • support from academic staff and your dedicated Student Support team 

 

Assessments 

You’ll be assessed through a series of assignments. This can be by engaging in discussion forums throughout your modules, completing reflective journal entries, delivering live presentations or by submitting longer written pieces. 

We’re committed to providing frequent and transparent feedback in the following ways: 

  • our assessment criteria are designed to be simple and transparent 
  • you’ll always be aware of your current provisional grade, right from the start of the programme 
  • you’ll be able to view your marks clearly in your gradebook whenever you log into the learning platform 
  • there’s a 7-day turnaround for marking and feedback of assessed work 
  • you’ll have regular contact with your Student Support team, with whom you can discuss any concerns as soon as they arise 

 

Online learning experience 

Your learning experience will be fully supported by high-quality learning materials and resources, delivered via our state-of-the-art virtual learning environment (VLE).  

On average, your learning experience will include the following: 

  • directed learning (40%) this includes participating in tutor-led discussions and seminars, completing interactive exercises on the VLE, and watching videos and lecturecasts. You’ll also be able to book appointments with your module tutor during their office hours, which can be found on the VLE 
  • self-directed learning (30%) – including undertaking wider reading and research in your area of study to develop your understanding of the subject area 
  • assessment (30%) time spent preparing ad completing assignments and activities that contribute towards your overall assessment. 

Typically, you’ll need to dedicate a minimum 15-20 hours of study per module, per week. 

 

Study duration 

Our LLB (Hons) Law has an indicative study duration of 4 years, which is a guide to how long your course will take to complete. The actual duration may be longer or shorter depending on your speed of study, study options chosen and module availability.  

It’s possible to complete your studies faster than the indicative course duration by doubling up on modules at certain times; however, minimum study durations do apply.  

Our academic year is organised into modules, typically with a one or two-week break between modules and a structured three-week break for the Christmas period. Students will receive a course timetable during the application process.  

All our courses have regular start dates throughout the year.  

On successful completion of your degree, you’ll be invited to attend a graduation ceremony at the University of Essex’s Colchester campus. 

 

Academic staff 

A quality teaching experience is at the heart of everything we do.  

The dedicated tutors who teach our course modules are subject matter experts, experienced academics and leading industry thought leaders. They play a vital role in ensuring the latest theories and areas of study are covered in our courses, and are proud to provide a high level of academic support. 

You can find more information on our key academic staff and their experience here. 

 

Quality and assurance  

We’re proud to provide a first-class education to students anywhere in the world and adhere to the strictest quality standards 

The University of Essex Online is a recognised member of the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and registered with the Office for Students (OfS)

All our degrees are delivered by Kaplan Open Learning, a world-leading education provider with over 15 years’ experience. 

 

If you’re interested in qualifying as a lawyer, you can find out more about the career path here.

Legal knowledge is also highly useful in a huge rage of industries – from management, finance and human resources to education, the government and the voluntary sector.

Gaining an undergraduate qualification with the University of Essex Online puts you in good stead for your career prospects. Results from our 2021 student survey showed:

  • 92% of students said their course helped develop their research skills
  • 89% of students say their studies fit with their future plans
  • Almost 60% said their studies had a positive effect on their career
  • 25% of students saw their salaries increase by up to 10%

We know that many people from non-traditional backgrounds would succeed on our courses! That’s why we offer two different entry routes, taking into account your prior work experience and relevant qualifications. You will also need to meet our English language requirements.

Additionally, you will need to pass your first assignment set within the first three weeks of the course in order to continue with your studies.

 

Academic entry route

In order to satisfy the academic entry route requirements for our LLB (Hons) Law, you must have the following qualifications as a minimum:

  • three A-levels or equivalent

 

Work experience entry route

In order to satisfy the work experience entry route requirements for our LLB (Hons) Law, you must meet the following criteria:

  • GCSE Maths and English at grade C or above, or equivalent
  • three years’ relevant work experience

 

English language requirements

As our courses are delivered in English, a high proficiency with English is required. If English is not your first language, your English ability should be equivalent to an IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0. Don’t worry if you don’t hold an IELTS or equivalent qualification – we offer a free online English test to assess your proficiency.

You don’t need to prove your English ability if you are a national of, or have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in, any of these countries.

Full tuition fee:
£18,500 UK / £19,425 International (2023-24) Δ
£18,500 UK / £20,396 (2024-25) Δ 

  • Designated for undergraduate student loans in England. 
  • Simple monthly payment plan available, enabling you to spread the cost over the duration of your studies. 
  • Full payment discount of 5% if you pay upfront. 
  • Regional scholarship available for international students based overseas in eligible countries. 
  • 10% corporate discount available when three or more of your employees study with us.   

Please note, a maximum of two discounts or scholarships can be applied. The corporate discount can only be used in combination with our upfront payment discount, but not in conjunction with any other discount or scholarship. Find out more information about our discounts and scholarships here. 

Our course fees are fully inclusive – all teaching materials and required reading are included, and there are no hidden charges for assessments or resits.  

Δ All tuition fees shown are net of any applicable sales tax payable by you in your country of residence. Where we are required to add sales tax at the local statutory rate, this will be added to the tuition fees shown and confirmed during the payment process. 

Subject specialists, industry authorities and experienced academics: the tutors who teach modules on our LLB (Hons) Law are experts in the field of law.

What our students say

testimonials

Eli Friedland - LLB (Hons) Law

Studying online has allowed me to live in a country of my choice while having access to an amazing learning experience.

I recently completed my first year of the LLB (Hons) Law and I’m loving it. I’m originally from Vancouver, Canada, where I was born and raised, and now live in Israel. I live with my husband and our very cute dog, Buddy. Outside of my LLB, I am also completing a BA in Linguistics at a local university and work part-time at a cybersecurity company. I love to read, write, spend time in nature and travel.  I chose...

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Breshana Francis - LLB (Hons) Law

The University of Essex Online law degree programme has developed and shaped my mind to think like a lawyer from the start of my studies. I am a Jamaican living in Qatar with my family as expats; we can be called upon to relocate to another country at any time. The University of Essex Online law programme fits perfectly with this lifestyle, as it provides the flexibility that I need to pursue my studies vigorously and to keep up with my ever-changing environment. I was able to achieve my CertCE Law, which allows me to continue studying towards an LLB qualification. The University of Essex Online law degree programme has developed and shaped my mind to think like a lawyer from the start of my studies. During this time, I can work, take a holiday and have family time as this is only possible through The University of Essex Online programmes.

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Adam Newman - LLB (Hons) Law with Business

It’s never too late to follow your passions.

I’m considered a mature student and the first thing I want to say is it’s never too late to follow your passions. I’ve always had a keen interest in law, mostly because when you think about it, there isn’t much in life that isn’t affected by law in one way or another.  As the owner of a company, I couldn’t afford to take time away to attend university. The University of Essex Online offered and delivered on flexible learning, the course structure is easy to follow and I can fit studying around work and family life. It’s a struggle at times, but nothing worthwhile is ever easy. 

Read more

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