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Undergraduate Course

Law LLB (Hons)

Study Law as part of a small group, with academic staff who get to know you and put your learning experience first.

This degree will put you in the best possible position to start your legal career. The skills you learn on this course could also prepare you for many other exciting professions.

88% of Law students were satisfied with their course. (National Student Survey 2022)

96% of Law students thought that the course was intellectually stimulating. (National Student Survey 2022)

  • Bar Standards board logo
  • Solicitors Regulation Authority logo

York campus

  • UCAS Code – M100
  • Duration – 3 years full time
  • Start date – September 2023, September 2024
  • School – York Business School

Minimum Entry Requirements

    104 UCAS Tariff points

    3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language.

Tuition Fees

    UK 2023 entry £9,250 per year full time

    International 2023 entry £13,000 per year full time

Discover why York St John is The One

Course overview

This varied and flexible LLB course covers of the crucial areas of law, while also giving you options to choose modules which suit your interests and aspirations. You will spend your first year familiarising yourself with the foundational knowledge and skills essential to the study and practice of law, then as you move on to years 2 and 3 you will have the freedom to choose your own specialisms. All students will study key areas such as contract and criminal law, but you may choose to specialise in an area such as:

  • Employment law
  • Law of terrorism
  • Property law
  • Cyberlaw

We will teach you the specific techniques and skills associated with the legal profession, such as statutory interpretation and legal reasoning. You will also acquire the habits of mind associated with legal thinking, including critical thinking, analytical awareness and problem solving.

At York St John Law School, and across the University, our research and teaching is led by principles of social justice. This means we will encourage you to critique and question the law according to principles of equality and fairness. This will help you to develop as an independent, critical student and ethical professional, aware of the cultural and social contexts in which law operates.

The course meets the requirements of a Qualifying Law Degree in England and Wales and has been accredited by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and Bar Standards Board. This means you can progress directly to the professional stages of training ( the LPC for aspiring solicitors and BPTC for Barristers) when you graduate.

Course structure

Year 1

Our academic year is split into 2 semesters. In your first year you will study:

  • 3 compulsory modules in semester 1
  • 3 compulsory modules in semester 2

You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.

Modules

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

This module will provide the framework for your legal study. You will develop the various legal and practical skills required to successfully undertake a law degree. We will introduce you to the study of law, along with its core principles and values. You will gain a basic understanding of the Anglo-Welsh legal system and its component institutions, principal sources of law, legal professions and types of legal relationship. You will also learn about the wider, international context that English law operates within. This module will involve independent and group work, as well as critical self reflection. 

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

Contract Law is a foundational area of legal study and is required for a qualifying law degree. It is central to the understanding of private law. This module provides an introduction to the legal principles relevant to the formation, content and breakdown of contractual arrangements. You will develop your ability to identify and address problems, undertake research, and synthesise relevant doctrinal and policy issues in this area.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

This module will provide you with an understanding of public law in the United Kingdom. We will introduce you to key concepts, traditions and principles, as well as more recent constitutional reforms. You will also explore the wider international contexts the UK operates within. On this module you will develop your ability to use, analyse and critique primary and secondary materials, and learn to describe and discuss public law issues.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

On this module you will develop a working knowledge of a key area of public law. We will introduce you to some of the major offences in Anglo-Welsh criminal law, and you will learn to evaluate contemporary criminal law and proposals for reform. You will apply your knowledge to solve theoretical and practical problems and will learn to make and communicate a reasoned logical argument. Topics you will study include:

  • The functions of criminal law and aims of the criminal justice system
  • Principles of liability and the nature of criminal offences
  • Defences
  • Offences (fatal, non-fatal and sexual)
  • Property offences

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

We have designed this module to give you an understanding of the concepts and principles underpinning land law in England and Wales. You will learn to effectively identify, apply and critique the rules and principles regulating the ownership, acquisition and enforceability of proprietary rights of the land.

On this module you will explore:

  • The fundamental principles of, and distinctions between, personal and proprietary rights
  • The distinctions between law and equity
  • Ownership of land and interests in land
  • Rights over land and interests in land

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

On this module you will design, develop and undertake a project of your own choosing. We will support you as you identify an area you are interested in and undertake a project to explore this topic, applying the research and information skills you have learned so far. You will also have the opportunity to engage in independent activity, reflection and research, while also having a high level of support to build and hone these skills in workshops and supervision sessions.

Year 2

In your second year you will study:

  • 3 compulsory modules in semester 1
  • 3 optional modules in semester 2

Optional modules will run if they receive enough interest. It is not guaranteed that all modules will run every year.

You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.

Modules

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

Tort law refers to a civil wrong that causes a claimant to suffer loss or harm. On this module you will learn to communicate accurately about tortious liability, producing information from primary and secondary legal sources. You will learn how to formulate and communicate sound arguments in relation to tortious liability and apply your knowledge to example problems. This module will involve critically examining the role of tort in modern society, reflecting on its changing uses and purposes, and considering its limitations.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

This module will give you an overview of the international context of Anglo-Welsh law. You will study the European Union (EU): its creation, constitution, institutions and substantive laws. You will prepare and communicate sound arguments, applying your knowledge to issues relating to the EU. You will also take part in team projects, developing the skills you will need to research EU and international law. We will explore the tensions between the social, political and economic issues at the heart of the EU.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

This module will give you an understanding of human rights law, extending your knowledge of UK public law. You will examine domestic human rights law and its international history. You will have opportunities to examine the role of human rights law in modern society, considering its limitations and the ambiguities of laws in this area. Topics you will cover include:

  • The regional and international contexts of Human Rights
  • The European Convention of Human Rights
  • The Human Rights Act 1998
  • Judicial review

Credits: 20

Optional module

This module gives you the opportunity to study an area that is important for practising solicitors. PLP will extend your knowledge of Land, Contract and Tort laws as you examine interests in land, and the transfer of land in business and residential contexts. You will investigate professional practice issues throughout the module and cover topics such as:

  • Proving ownership of land
  • Dealing with disputes concerning ownership of land
  • Conveyancing

Credits: 20

Optional module

On this module you will develop your understanding of the law that governs business, commerce transactions, and consumer relationships. You will study national law alongside its wider international contexts, focusing on practical problem solving and the application of your knowledge to different legal scenarios. Topics you will cover on the module include:

  • The sale of goods and relevant statutory framework(s)
  • The supply of goods and services and relevant statutory framework(s)
  • International and transnational issues in commercial law
  • Consumer protection
  • Insurance and ethical considerations in commercial practice

Credits: 20

Optional module

On this module you will develop your knowledge of the substantive law by looking at the criminal process, from arrest through to disposition. You will explore theoretical concepts and apply your knowledge to typical practice scenarios. You will also gain practical insight and knowledge of the workings of the criminal law. Topics you will consider include:

  • Criminal justice system and procedure
  • Police powers
  • Juvenile justice
  • Magistrate and Crown Court
  • Sentencing and appeals
  • Human rights issues in criminal law and practice

Credits: 20

Optional module

On this module you will analyse crime from different critical perspectives. You will consider how we decide what a crime is, why people engage in crime, and how society responds to crime. You will improve your analytical and research skills and your abilities to construct coherent and convincing arguments. On the module we will explore:

  • The construction and representation of crime in society
  • Causes of crime and criminality
  • Responses to crime

Credits: 20

Optional module

This module will give you the opportunity to gain practical experience. You will take part in a Community Legal Outreach Collaboration (CLOC) scheme in partnership with the University of York, local law firms, local courts, and charities that support families and victims of domestic abuse. You will provide support to litigants at local courts who need help with form filling, note taking and signposting to other services. We will give you a detailed induction to prepare you for your role as a Community Legal Companion. You will receive support from fellow students, your teachers, court staff, and the judiciary and legal professionals. 

Credits: 20

Optional module

Employment law is fascinating because of the influences that affect it and the potential for rapid change and reform. You will investigate employment law in its social and political context, and consider how this topic can be a tool for social justice. You will explore ethical practice and human dignity, and consider the national and international influences on employment law. By the end of the module you will have developed a framework for understanding and assessing employment rights and be able to apply your knowledge to different legal scenarios.

Year 3

In your third year you will study:

  • 1 compulsory and 1 optional module in semester 1
  • 2 optional modules in semester 2
  • An optional dissertation module across semesters 1 and 2. If you choose not to do this you will instead choose 1 extra optional module per semester.

You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.

Optional modules will run if they receive enough interest. It is not guaranteed that all modules will run every year.

Modules

Credits: 40

Optional module

This module builds upon all your previous work and skills development by giving you the opportunity to pursue a research study of a law related topic of your choice. An academic tutor will support you as you carry out an independent investigation in your chosen area. At the end of the module you will have learnt to produce a coherent piece of extended legal writing.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

On this module you will explore the main principles of the modern law of trusts. You will also consider the controversies and difficulties people encounter in this area of law. You will research aspects of trusts law, and explore the competing tensions and policy considerations in this area. You will also consider your positioning in relation to the controversial aspects of this field. We will think about trusts law in its broader European and international contexts. As you examine the limitations of the law, you will also identify potential areas of reform.

Credits: 20

Optional module

On this module you will gain an understanding of the law of succession, and the practice of wills and probate. You will develop your skills in research, analysis and legal reasoning in this specific field. We will consider how competing tensions and policy considerations shape the law and regulations in this area. Topics we will cover include:

  • Intestacy 
  • Formalities
  • Taxation issues
  • Will drafting
  • Administering the estate and inheritance
  • Powers of Attorney, Living Wills and post death arrangements

Credits: 20

Optional module

This module has two aims. In the first instance, you will reflect on the standards and ethical conduct that are expected of legal professionals. The second element of the module gives you the opportunity to develop and refine legal skills such as advocacy and negotiation. You will study:

  • The lawyer-client relationship
  • Confidentiality and conflicts of interest
  • Equality and justice
  • Litigation
  • Alternative dispute resolution (ADR)
  • Writing and drafting

Credits: 20

Optional module

On this module you will examine in detail the role of research in law. You will develop your knowledge and understanding of the main theories and methodologies in social science research. You will also learn to form a critical appreciation of how research can assist us in evaluating, analysing and understanding core aspects of law and legal institutions. You will design and undertake independent research, which will help you develop the skills needed for further study or work in legal and social research roles.

Credits: 20

Optional module

On this module you will consider some of the major theories surrounding gender and sexuality. You will use an interactive case study approach in workshops. This will actively involve you in legal research, critique and analysis of important issues in this field. You will examine the law’s efficacy in providing social justice, challenge traditional legal reasoning, and develop coherent, evidenced arguments and ethical standpoints.

Credits: 20

Optional module

This module will give you an understanding of the law of evidence, the substantive law, and how to present evidence in criminal and civil proceedings in England and Wales. You will evaluate and apply the theories and principles of evidence and analyse these rules in a wider social, political and economic context. We will explore national law in its European and international contexts, including the impact of human rights considerations. 

Credits: 20

Optional module

On this module we will consider the legal responses to terrorism both nationally and internationally. You will examine law and policy alongside the social and political discussions surrounding terrorism. You will take a critical and analytical approach, identifying the ethical and moral problems raised by counter-terrorism measures and laws in a democratic state. By the end of the module you should be able to confidently debate the philosophical, social and cultural problems surrounding the law of terrorism and its limitations.

Credits: 20

Optional module

On this module you will develop your understanding of civil law in an area that is important to the most vulnerable in society. We will encourage you to critically consider the law in its historical, political, economic and social contexts, and assess its utility from the perspectives of social justice and fairness. You will use your skills to undertake independent research and identify both disparities in law and practice, and gaps in the law.

Credits: 20

Optional module

On this module you will study the substantive law and procedures that regulate domestic relationships in England and Wales. You will use your legal research skills to interrogate primary and secondary sources, apply your knowledge to problems, and build coherent, logical arguments. You will also develop an appreciation of the different social and political influences on the evolution of the law in this area. As part of this module you will study:

  • Family law
  • The family justice system
  • Marriage and divorce
  • Cohabitation
  • Domestic violence
  • Legal parentage

Credits: 20

Optional module

Jurisprudence is the philosophy of the law. It is intimately related to all the other areas you will have studied on the course, but while other modules focus on what the law is, jurisprudence asks why the law is. On this module you will consider the ontological (philosophical study of being) basis of law, its rationale and the meaning of core concepts such as justice and equality. You will immerse yourself in the work of a range of theorists and writers who have grappled with law’s legitimacy, and attempted to ascertain its limits.

Some of the topics you will explore on this module are:

  • Natural law
  • Positivism
  • Law’s legitimacy
  • Legal realism and justice
  • Feminism

Credits: 20

Optional module

On this module you will examine the historical and contemporary recognition of, and regulation of, race and religion in UK law.

This module will use a case study approach to examine the interaction of regulation, race and religion in various contexts. You will engage in independent legal research, critique and analysis of cutting edge issues in this field.

On this module you will explore:

  • Race, religion and the law
  • Key concepts and a range of critical perspectives including postcolonial, feminist, and critical race theory
  • A range of case studies, examining a selection of the most contemporary issues in this field at the time of delivery

Credits: 20

Optional module

International criminal law is a fascinating contemporary area of study in the field of public international law. This module will help you to develop your understanding of criminal and public law in their international contexts. You will use an interactive case study approach in the workshops, actively involving you in legal research (using primary and secondary sources), critique and analysis in this emerging area of law.

On this module you will explore:

  • The theory and practice of international criminal law
  • Institutions of international criminal law
  • Procedure and evidence
  • Victim participation and witness protection
  • War crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide and the crime of aggression

Credits: 20

Optional module

On this module you will investigate aspects of the law relating to intellectual property. Intellectual property refers to intellectual, business and creative efforts, such as literary works and inventions. Fundamental principles of intellectual property will be considered in broader political, geographical, economic and social contexts. You will have the opportunity not only to consider the rationale and theory of regulation, but also the practical implementation (and inherent problems) in this area.

On this module you will explore:

  • Rationales for intellectual property rights and the nature of intellectual property
  • The European and international context
  • The evolution of the law pertaining to breach of confidentiality and privacy
  • Patent law
  • Copyright law and trademarks
  • Database rights

Credits: 20

Optional module

Recent estimates suggest that cybercrime is the most prevalent form of criminal behaviour in the UK today. On this module you will research and analyse how crime is developing and evolving in contemporary society. We will encourage you to think about the future directions, and potential reforms, to law and policy in this field, both nationally and internationally. Topics you will study include:

  • Defining cybercrime
  • The European and international context
  • Crimes against the machine
  • Property crimes
  • Hate, harm and trolling
  • Sexualised content and images

Credits: 20

Optional module

On this module you will gain an appreciation of the main principles of modern company law. You will develop a solid grounding in the core legal principles relating to the management of limited companies in England and Wales, as well as an understanding of the beliefs and values that underpin this area of law. You will learn to recognise and critique current debates in company law. On this module you will explore:

  • The historical development of company law
  • European and international influences and issues
  • Duties of Directors, including enforcement and disqualification
  • Memorandum and articles
  • Company records, company shares and debentures
  • Financial assistance, insolvency, shareholder remedies

Credits: 20

Optional module

On this module you will examine relevant legal concepts, principles and regulations in this controversial area of law. We will focus on social justice, and you will discuss contemporary legal principles in their broader historical, political and economic contexts. You will immerse yourself in relevant policy, case law and academic theory, as you develop an appreciation of the multiple influences on this complex and challenging area of law. We will consider topics such as:

  • Sources of immigration law
  • The evolution of UK immigration, nationality and asylum law
  • Family, marriage and immigration
  • Asylum, refugees and exceptional leave to stay
  • The impact of UK, European and international human rights law
  • Enforcement, expulsion and remedies

Credits: 20

Optional module

On this module you will develop your knowledge of Land Law, Contract Law, and Tort by further examining interests in land and the transfer of land in practical business and residential contexts. You will consider different scenarios and identify relevant legal issues. You will then apply your knowledge to solve these problems. This will help you to recognise the uncertainties of law in this area, and make appropriate suggestions for reform. On this module you will explore:

  • Proving ownership of land
  • Dealing with disputes concerning ownership of land
  • Dealing with disputes concerning land
  • Conveyancing

Credits: 20

Optional module

This module will help develop your understanding of the law that governs business, commerce and consumer transactions and relationships. You will learn about the main principles of commercial law and evaluate it with reference to wider principles, ideas and values. You will develop a sound understanding of critical aspects of commercial law, with a focus on practical problem solving and the application of your knowledge to different scenarios. 

On this module you will explore:

  • Sale and supply of goods and relevant statutory framework(s)
  • International and transnational issues in commercial law
  • Consumer protection and insurance
  • Agency
  • Partnership
  • Ethical considerations in commercial law practice

Credits: 20

Optional module

This module will develop your knowledge of the substantive law by looking at the criminal process from arrest through to disposition. You will learn about the main principles in this area and evaluate them. You will also develop your skills in research and critical analysis in this specific field. You will gain practical insight and knowledge of the workings of the criminal law. On this module you will explore:

  • The criminal justice system and procedure
  • Police powers and at the police station
  • Juvenile justice
  • Magistrate and Crown Court
  • Sentencing and appeals
  • Human rights issues and ethical considerations in criminal law and practice

Credits: 40

Optional module

The Law Clinic is a clinical legal educational experience, where you will offer pro bono (without charge) legal advice and assistance to small businesses and members of the public under the supervision of teaching staff. This module is a great opportunity to develop transferable professional skills. You will gain a rich experience to add to your CV, and it will give you confidence in the competency based interviews used by many employers.

Credits: 20

Optional module

The Law Clinic is a clinical legal educational experience, where you will offer pro bono (without charge) legal advice and assistance to small businesses and members of the public under the supervision of teaching staff. This module is a great opportunity to develop transferable professional skills. You will gain a rich experience to add to your CV, and it will give you confidence in the competency based interviews used by many employers.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching and learning

In most of your modules you will learn through:

  • Lectures, which will include the whole year group
  • Smaller seminars and workshops. These smaller group sessions allow you to receive more individual support as you learn. They are an opportunity to discuss and debate the ideas raised in the lectures.
  • Moodle, our online learning platform. We use this to provide group work, quizzes and directed independent study.

All of the modules will include activities which will be relevant in your future career. In Law Clinic, for example, you will experience legal practice under the supervision of qualified lawyers, and have opportunities to network with local practitioners. In Advanced Legal Research, case studies are taken from real research projects and studies, helping you to understand how theory operates in professional practice.

Our teaching draws on both our research and professional experience. This means your learning is informed by the most current thinking in the subject area. You can find out more about our research and backgrounds by visiting our staff pages.

Assessment

On this course you will experience a wide range of different assessment types, giving you a varied set of skills and a rounded legal education. This will include:

  • Exams
  • Essays
  • Reports
  • Portfolios
  • Letters
  • Oral presentations
  • Research projects.

In every module you will have the opportunity to practise your assessment technique before submitting your final projects. This will help you to gradually develop your skills, confidence, research skills and academic writing.

Career outcomes

Your future with a degree in Law

This course will prepare you for a career in the legal sector. The skills you build will also open up many other career options. These skills include critical thinking, problem solving and researching.

This degree could be the first step toward your career as a:

  • Barrister
  • Solicitor
  • Paralegal
  • Human resource professional
  • Business manager
  • Civil Service worker

Discover more career options on Prospects careers advice pages.

You could also progress onto a postgraduate degree and take your learning even further.

Postgraduate degrees at York St John University

Legal Practice LLM

PGCE at York St John University

Further your education and work towards a rewarding career in teaching by studying for a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) after you graduate. For over 180 years, we have worked with enthusiastic individuals who want to shape the future of young people across both primary and secondary school settings. You'll spend a lot of time in schools, developing your practice by teaching. You will graduate with Qualified Teacher Status and become part of the well respected alumni of York St John educators.

Discover more about PGCE

Whatever your ambitions, we can help you get there.

Our careers service, LaunchPad provides career support tailored to your ambitions. Through this service you can access:

  • Employer events
  • LinkedIn, CV and cover letter sessions
  • Workshops on application writing and interview skills
  • Work experience and volunteering opportunities
  • Personalised career advice

This support doesn't end when you graduate. You can access our expert career advice for the rest of your life. We will help you gain experience and confidence to succeed.

Entry requirements

Qualifications

Minimum Entry Requirements

    104 UCAS Tariff points

    3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language.

Calculate your UCAS Tariff points

International Students

If you are an international student you will need to show that your qualifications match our entry requirements.

Information about international qualifications and entry requirements can be found on our International pages.

If English is not your first language you will need to show that you have English Language competence at IELTS level 6.0 (with no skill below 5.5) or equivalent.

International entry requirements

This course is available with foundation year

If you do not yet meet the minimum requirements for entry straight onto this degree course, or feel you are not quite ready for the transition to Higher Education, this is a great option for you. Passing a foundation year guarantees you a place on this degree course the following academic year.

Law with foundation year

Mature Learners Entry Scheme

If you have been out of education for 3 years or more and have a grade C GCSE in English Language or equivalent, you are eligible for our entry scheme for mature learners. It's a scheme that recognises non-traditional entry qualifications and experience for entry onto this course. Information on how to apply can be found on our dedicated page.

Mature entry offer scheme

Terms and conditions

Our terms and conditions, policies and procedures contain important information about studying at York St John University. You can read them on our Admissions page.

Fees and Funding

To study for an undergraduate degree with us, you will need to pay tuition fees for your course. How much you pay depends on whether you live inside the UK, or internationally (outside the UK). Tuition fees may be subject to inflation in future years.

UK 2023 entry

The tuition fee for 2023 entry onto this course is:

  • £9,250 per year for full time study
  • £6,935 per year for the first 4 years if you study part time

These prices apply to all UK, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man students

You can find out more about funding your degree by visiting our funding opportunities page:

Funding Opportunities

Placement year funding

If you choose to take a placement year, and your course offers it, you can apply for the Tuition Fee and Maintenance Loan for your placement year. How much you are awarded is based on the type of placement being undertaken and whether it is a paid or unpaid placement. The tuition fee for your placement year will be reduced.

Tuition Fees

    UK 2023 entry £9,250 per year full time

    International 2023 entry £13,000 per year full time

International 2023 entry

The tuition fee for 2023 entry to this course is £13,000 per year for full time study.

This price applies to all students living outside the UK.

Due to immigration laws, if you are an international student on a Student Visa, you must study full time. For more information about visa requirements and short-term study visas, please visit the International Visa and Immigration pages.

Find out more about funding your degree:

International Fees and Funding

Additional costs and financial support

There may also be some additional costs to take into account throughout your studies, including the cost of accommodation.

Course-related costs

If your application is successful, you will be invited to a portfolio day. On the day, you will show your work to our tutors and discuss your work and the ideas behind it.  You should prepare your portfolio with a range of work that may include finished projects, sketch books, digital work, paintings, photographs, drawings, 3D work, storyboards, short films or animations.

Study Abroad

For more information on tuition fee reductions and additional costs for studying abroad, please visit our study abroad pages.

Accommodation and living costs

For detailed information on accommodation and living costs, visit our Accommodation pages.

Financial help and support

Our Funding Advice team are here to help you with your finances throughout your degree. They offer a personal service that can help you with funding your studies and budgeting for living expenses. 

For advice on everything from applying for scholarships to finding additional financial support email fundingadvice@yorksj.ac.uk.

Course highlights

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