The LLB is a qualifying law degree for entry into bar training for intending barristers or for the preparation of the SQE for intending solicitors. However, you are warned that not all LLB modules are created equal. You are normally required to study 5 or 6 compulsory modules for the LLB. However, you are required to complete seven foundation modules to satisfy the academic component of legal training for intending barristers. For intending solicitors, you are required to pass the SQE1 which covers many areas of law and practical issues that no LLB programmes in the UK can fully cover. However, you can select your modules wisely to maximise your chance of success in the SQE. Here is an overview of what modules you will study.
(Graduate) This module is compulsory for the LLB Graduate Entry Route.
(Standard) This module is compulsory for the LLB Standard Entry Route.
(SQE) This module is tested in the SQE1.
(BAR) This module is required for entry into bar training.
Year 1
Contract Law (Standard) (Graduate) (SQE) (BAR)
This module focuses on the principles and rules that govern contractual agreements. You will study the formation, interpretation, and enforcement of contracts, as well as the rights and obligations of parties involved. Topics may include offer and acceptance, consideration, contractual terms, breach of contract, remedies, and the impact of statutory regulations.
Criminal Law (Standard) (Graduate) (SQE) (BAR)
This module explores the fundamental principles of criminal law, including the elements of different offences and their corresponding punishments. You will study topics such as the principles of liability, actus reus (the physical act of a crime), mens rea (the mental state of a crime), defences, and the structure of criminal trials.
Legal System and Method (Standard) (SQE)
This module introduces you to the legal system and its institutions. You will study the sources of law, including legislation and case law, and understand how legal principles are developed and applied. The module also covers legal research, legal reasoning, analysis of legal problems, and the basics of legal writing.
Public Law (Standard) (Graduate) (SQE) (BAR)
Public Law focuses on the relationship between individuals and the state. You will explore the constitutional framework of government, including the separation of powers, the rule of law, and the protection of individual rights. Topics may include constitutional law, administrative law, human rights, judicial review, and the role of public institutions.
Year 2
Tort Law (Standard) (Graduate) (SQE) (BAR)
This module deals with civil wrongs and the legal remedies available to individuals who have suffered harm or injury. You will study various types of torts, such as negligence, trespass, defamation, and nuisance. The module covers the elements of tort liability, defences, and the assessment of damages.
This optional module explores the legal framework that governs the actions and decisions of administrative bodies, such as government agencies and public authorities. You will study principles of administrative law, including judicial review, the scope of administrative powers, procedural fairness, and the relationship between the state and its citizens.
This optional module focuses on the legal principles and regulations that govern commercial transactions. Topics covered may include the law of sale of goods, agency, consumer protection, business organisations, and commercial contracts. You will gain an understanding of legal concepts relevant to the business and commercial sector.
EU Law (SQE) (BAR)
This optional module examines the legal framework of the European Union and its impact on national legal systems. You will study the institutional structure of the EU, the sources of EU law, the relationship between EU law and national law, and specific areas of EU law, such as the internal market, competition law, and human rights.
This optional module explores legal issues related to family relationships, marriage, divorce, child custody, adoption, and domestic violence. You will study the legal principles that regulate family matters, including marriage and civil partnerships, financial provision, and child welfare.
International Protection of Human Rights
This module focuses on international human rights law and the mechanisms for the protection and enforcement of human rights globally. You will explore the development and content of human rights treaties, the role of international organisations, and the challenges of enforcing human rights in different jurisdictions.
Property Law (SQE) (BAR)
Property Law examines the legal concepts and principles related to the ownership, use, and transfer of property. Topics may include the nature of property rights, the legal framework for land ownership, leasehold and freehold estates, co-ownership, and the role of property law in commercial transactions.
Year 3
Jurisprudence and Legal Theory (Standard) (Graduate)
This module delves into the philosophical and theoretical foundations of law. You will explore different schools of legal thought, such as natural law, legal positivism, legal realism, and feminist jurisprudence. The module examines fundamental questions about the nature of law, its purpose, morality, and the relationship between law and society.
Company Law (SQE)
This optional module focuses on the legal framework governing the establishment, operation, and regulation of companies. You will study topics such as company formation, corporate governance, shareholder rights, directors' duties, and the legal implications of corporate transactions and insolvency.
This optional module examines the legal rules and principles that determine which legal system and rules apply when legal issues involve multiple jurisdictions. You will study the resolution of conflicts of laws in areas such as contracts, torts, family law, and commercial disputes.
Criminology
This optional module explores the causes, consequences, and responses to crime from a social and psychological perspective. You will study theories of crime, patterns of criminal behaviour, the criminal justice system, punishment, and the effectiveness of crime prevention strategies.
Dissertation
This optional module allows you to undertake an in-depth research project on a legal topic of your choice under the guidance of a supervisor. You will conduct extensive research, analyse data, and produce a substantial piece of independent scholarly work.
Equity and Trusts (SQE) (BAR)
This optional module explores the principles and rules that govern trusts and equitable remedies. You will study the nature of trusts, trustees' duties and powers, the creation and termination of trusts, and the role of equity in providing remedies beyond those available in common law.
Evidence (SQE) (BAR*)
The Evidence module focuses on the rules and principles governing the admissibility and presentation of evidence in legal proceedings. You will study the law of evidence, including the burden of proof, the rules of evidence, witness examination, and the evaluation of evidence in both civil and criminal cases.
*This module is not required for entry into bar training but you will study this module in the bar training course.
Intellectual Property law covers the legal protection of intellectual creations, such as inventions, trademarks, copyrights, and designs. You will study the principles of intellectual property rights, the registration process, infringement issues, and the enforcement of intellectual property law.
Introduction to Islamic Law
This module provides an introduction to Islamic law and its historical development. You will study the sources of Islamic law, the principles of Islamic jurisprudence, and the application of Islamic law in areas such as family law, contracts, and commercial transactions.
Public International Law
Public International Law examines the legal principles and rules that govern the relations between states and other international actors. You will study topics such as the sources of international law, state sovereignty, diplomatic immunity, human rights, international treaties, and the resolution of international disputes.
Although some modules are compulsory, we suggest you study the following modules to maximise your chance of success.
Standard Route (12 modules)
Year 1
1. Contract Law
2. Criminal Law
3. Public Law
Year 2
1. Tort Law
2. EU Law
3. Property Law
4. Commercial Law, Family Law or Administrative Law
Year 3
1. Jurisprudence and Legal Theory
3. Company Law
4. Evidence
Graduate Route (9 modules)
Year 1
1. Contract Law
2. Criminal Law
3. Public Law
Year 2
1. Tort Law
2. EU Law
3. Property Law
Year 3
1. Jurisprudence and Legal Theory
3. Company Law or Evidence
Please also refer to our LLB Module List to select your optional modules wisely.
