Police officers in a line up with face masks on

Law with Criminology LLB (Hons)

This law degree gives you an understanding of criminology alongside your legal studies. You’ll have everything you need to go onto a career as a solicitor or barrister, or in the police or probation service. 

University of Portsmouth Connected Degree - 3 year course with 4th year placement

Key information

UCAS code:

M1L6, M1L0

Typical offer:

112-120 UCAS points from 3 A levels, or equivalent

See full entry requirements
Study mode and duration
Start date

Showing content for section Overview

Overview

Complement your law studies with an understanding criminal behaviour and the processes of criminal justice. 

On this LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology degree you’ll learn about competing perspectives of crime, how social order can be challenged and maintained, and how the world deals with the crimes of the powerful — such as genocide and war crimes. You’ll develop your knowledge of the law and legal frameworks too, which builds an ideal foundation for a career in the police or prison services. 

You'll apply your learning throughout the course with real world scenarios or live client work, and gain practical experience with opportunities such as the Community Lawyer module.

By taking an optional paid placement year before or after your final year of study, you'll graduate with a year of industry experience too. Our Placement Club will support you throughout the placement application process, whenever you choose to complete your placement. 

Many of my lecturers have either been barristers or solicitors. This is really good, as they know what is needed to succeed in this field.

Joy Mazhambe, LLB Hons Law student

Course highlights

  • Enrich your study of law by developing your understanding of criminal behaviour and criminal justice 
  • Apply your learning in community settings to gain real-world legal practice skills
  • Have confidence in your learning with our research expertise in areas such as data protection, policing and financial crime
  • Benefit from teaching shaped by expert staff who have been practicing lawyers and criminologists, and who understand how the legal landscape is changing
  • Be able to obtain module exemptions from the Professional Qualification in Probation
  • Have the opportunity to apply your learning in a paid placement year before or after your final year, where you can apply your knowledge in a criminal justice organisation
  • Opt to do a foundation year with ICP to get uni-ready ahead of this course, then take up a guaranteed place on this full Bachelor's degree when you successfully finish your foundation year

New Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE)

The route to qualifying as a solicitor has changed for new applicants.

If you accept an offer on this course after 21 September 2021 you'll need to take the new Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) after you graduate to qualify as a solicitor. The content and mode of assessment of many of our modules provide a good foundation for further specific SQE preparation.

If you completed or started this course, accepted an offer of a place, or paid a non-refundable deposit (international students only) before 21 September 2021 (inclusive) you can choose to take either the new SQE or the Legal Practice Course (LPC) after graduation.

94%

of graduates in work or further study 15 months after this course

(HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021/22)

Top 30

for student satisfaction

(Times Higher Education, 2024)

Contact information

Admissions

+44 (0) 23 9284 5566

Contact Admissions

Clearing is open

This course is available through Clearing.

How to apply for accommodation

We have a variety of accommodation options, including studios, en-suites, catered, self-catered and private rental options. See how our housing team can help you find a place to call home.

Find out more

Clearing FAQs

To work out your UCAS points, use our UCAS Calculator to work out how many UCAS points you have.

The tariff calculator will allow you to see what grades you need to get into your preferred course at Portsmouth.

You can apply through Clearing if:

  • You don't meet the conditions of your offer for your firm (first) or insurance (second) choice courses
  • Your exam results are better than you expected and you want to change your course or university 
  • You don't hold any offers
  • You've accepted an offer but changed your mind about the course you want to do
  • You're applying for the first time after 30 June 2024 

Find out more on UCAS

After we make you an offer we'll send you a confirmation email. This email will let you know what you need to do next and it will tell you what you need to provide us. In some instances we may ask you to send us copies of certificates or you may need to send us a portfolio. 

If you've previously applied through UCAS you'll need to use your UCAS Hub to accept our offer by adding us as your Clearing choice. 

If you're having issues, please contact us on +44 (0)23 9284 8090 or admissions@port.ac.uk

Once you've accepted your Clearing course offer, we'll be in touch with details of available accommodation in the area. This will include our latest hall availability and support to find local rented accommodation via portsmouthstudentpad.co.uk

See our accommodation page for more information. 

No, it's not too late and you should make your application for student finance as soon as possible. You don't have to wait for your results. You can make your application now and just amend it when you know where you're going to be.

If you've already applied for your student loan, you'll need to log into your account and update details about your new course/university. If you haven't applied for your student loan yet, don't panic. Apply today – it only takes 30 minutes.

Find out more in our Student finance for Clearing guide

If you're an EU or international student and you need a visa to study here, you need to start the process quickly as visas can take some time to come through. Get in touch with our visa support team if you have a question or problem.

See more on visa advice.

If you would like further information or guidance, please contact our international office or call our International Clearing Hotline on +44(0)23 9284 8785.

Facilities and clinics

Learn your craft in our courtroom

Replica Crown Court 

Watch this short video to discover our replica courtroom and see where you'll practise trials and take part in mooting competitions.

The benefits of having a replica Crown Court are that if one of our students wants to be a barrister in the future or a solicitor advocate, then it really gives them the opportunity to practise a trial and various court hearings in a courtroom setting.

Although this is a crown court, so it's a criminal court, we also use it for civil cases too. We're one of the only universities in the country that has a replica courtroom. This really gives students, when they go on from university, some really important skills that are valuable not only in a legal career, but also in a lot of other careers as well.

The student Law Society do a lot of activities in here, run mock trials, mooting competitions, and it gives our students really a chance to let their hair down and have a bit of fun in here.

We use the wigs, we use the gowns, we get a real judge in and we've got the cameras in here so you can go and film your performances.

You can -- it's a really good learning space. It's so lovely to see how our students grow in the years that they're with us. Our replica courtroom helps us to do that.

Develop your legal practice skills working with real clients

Legal Advice Clinic

Volunteer in our Legal Advice Clinic where you can help Portsmouth residents with their real legal problems, such as consumer or employment issues.

Watch this short video to find out how it works and what students think of the experience.

Gemma Hargrave (tutor):

The legal advice clinic is a live clinic. We have real life clients coming in. They ask us questions about any area of law. We have students who are from level six at the university who come in and work in the clinic. They do it as part of a module called the Law and Practise Module. Rather than doing a dissertation and writing 10000 words, they come into the clinic every week and work with clients to work out their problems.

Callum Goddard (student):

So I chose to take part in the legal clinic for a number of reasons, really, having gone through a sort of assessment process with a law firm, I realised in myself that I sort of had a lack of examples to draw on in terms of how I can demonstrate my competencies to future employers. So for me, it was really beneficial to get some proper legal experience.

Gemma Hargrave:

So, the student role at the clinic is as a legal advisor. They will see the client, they will gather information from the client and then they will go away and research the problem.

Jack Macfarlane (student):

What I gained from taking part in the legal advice clinic was very much the interpersonal skills that I developed from speaking with everyday people that had everyday issues.

Gemma Hargrave:

The legal advice clinic benefits students in their further studies and future careers because it gives them the opportunity to have real life experience of the law, but it lets them build on those skills that they've got, so skills that they will have to take into the workplace: communication skills, organisation skills, they'll know how to deal with a difficult client. These are all skills, whether they go into the law or not, that will really help them in their future careers.

Katie Yeoman (client):

The legal advice clinic has helped me on mainly discrimination law. Because I'm transgender, I face discrimination and I've taken action and they've helped me sort things out. Working with the students, they've responded really well, and if they didn't know what the answer was, they've gone away and they've either emailed me or phoned me. So the students have been really good.

Callum Goddard:

In terms of how the legal clinic has helped me and my future role now, I think the clinic was really great at building those core skills of a lawyer: conducting interviews, taking the time to research matters and then also having the confidence to deliver the legal outcomes. The clinic is unmatched really for how it can develop you in those areas.

Gemma Hargrave:

I'm incredibly proud of what the students have achieved over the years. We've written multiple witness statements for some clients that have enabled them to be able to keep contact with their children in the future. We have had one case where students were able to prevent, on the day, an illegal eviction of a client who would be homeless without that help. The students have been able to take what they've learnt in the clinic and then make a real impact in the community.

Law Photoshoot;19th November 2018

Community Lawyer module

Work with one of our partners to apply your learning by giving them legal advice. Partners have included the British Red Cross and Citizens Advice.

Learn more about the community lawyer module

Entry requirements

Entry requirements (September 2025 start)

Typical offers for LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology

  • A levels - BBB-BBC
  • UCAS points - 112-120 points from 3 A levels, or equivalent (calculate your UCAS points)
  • T-levels - Merit
  • BTECs (Extended Diplomas) - DDM-DMM
  • International Baccalaureate - 29

You may need to have studied specific subjects or GCSEs - see full entry requirements and other qualifications we accept.

English language requirements

  • English Language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 6.0.

See alternative English language qualifications.

We also accept other standard English tests and qualifications, as long as they meet the minimum requirements of your course.

If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

Worried about your grades?

If you're not sure you meet the entry requirements, or need some help to get uni-ready, then we offer LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology with a Foundation Year through our partners at ICP to bring you up to speed. When you successfully finish, you'll get a guaranteed place on LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology.

Find out more about our foundation years with ICP

 

Typical offers for LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology with Foundation Year

You may need to have studied specific subjects – find full entry requirements and other qualifications we accept.

English language requirements

  • English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 5.5 with no component score below 5.5.

See alternative English language qualifications.

We also accept other standard English tests and qualifications, as long as they meet the minimum requirements of your course.

If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

Please note this foundation year with ICP isn't currently open to EU or International students.

Ideal skills and qualities for this course

As well as meeting the entry requirements, we’re looking for excellent skills in academic reading and writing and the ability to think critically and express yourself clearly - verbally and in writing.

You do not have to be a confident presenter to get a place on this degree; we'll help you develop those skills throughout the course.

To prepare for this course, knowledge of current affairs and law in the news is useful. Reading a quality newspaper is a good starting point.

We look at more than just your grades

While we consider your grades when making an offer, we also carefully look at your circumstances and other factors to assess your potential. These include whether you live and work in the region and your personal and family circumstances which we assess using established data.

Explore more about how we make your offer

Smiling student in library in placements meeting

The course is very interactive. We have been able to engage with lawyers on a practical scale. I have had the opportunity to take part in the practical lawyer unit which enables me to engage directly in the field of legal advice which has greatly boosted my confidence.

Patricia Asekenye, LLB (Hons) Law

Careers and opportunities

Law is an incredibly flexible degree. If you don't believe us, take a look at our blog about the 7 reasons to study law.

When you graduate you'll be ready to take your next step to train as a solicitor, a barrister or a Chartered Legal Executive. It's worth noting that Chartered Legal Executives can now become judges, coroners, advocates and partners in law firms.

Law degrees are in the top 10 degrees for employability. You'll graduate with a wide range of transferable skills that will make you very employable across a range of other sectors. Your knowledge of criminology will be particularly helpful when applying for roles within the criminal justice system, such as the police or the probation service.

Graduates of this course have gone on to work for companies such as:

  • DC Kaye & Co
  • The Home Office
  • Surrey Police
  • Willis Towers Watson (risk management)
  • Invicta law
  • Parker Bullen LLP
  • Fidelity Investments
  • Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

Graduates of this course have secured jobs as:

  • trainee solicitor
  • legal executive
  • probation service officer
  • Border Force executive officer
  • police community support officer
  • account manager
  • paralegal
  • criminology teacher

Other graduates have continued their studies at postgraduate level or set up successful businesses with help and support from the University.

Meeno Chawla Headshot

Portsmouth gave me a real insight into how the law works in the real world. There were several opportunities to do work experience, network with professionals and attend talks about the profession. This is what made Portsmouth unique.

Meeno Chawla, Law LLB with Criminology

Female student at computer

Ongoing career support – up to 5 years after you graduate

Get experience while you study, with support to find part-time jobs, volunteering opportunities, and work experience.

Towards the end of your degree and for up to five years after graduation, you’ll receive one-to-one support from our Graduate Recruitment Consultancy to help you find your perfect role.

Work placement year

You can boost your employability even more by taking an optional paid placement after your second or third year of study.

Previous students have had placements in organisations such as:

  • Verisona Law
  • Opus 2 International
  • GE Capital
  • Oracle
  • Rolls Royce Motor Cars

Whatever your career ambitions, our placements team will be there to help and guide you and you'll maintain contact with your tutors throughout the year.

The average salary for a 12-month paid placement is £19,800 for students in the Faculty of Business and Law. It could be more or less than this amount depending on your placement. You'll only pay a very small percentage of your tuition fee for this year.

You could also choose to set up your own business, or take a voluntary placement.

Ways to enrich your study

Prague cityscape

Study abroad year

Between your second and third year, you can choose to study abroad at one of our partner universities in Europe, Asia, Australia or North America. All classes are delivered in English and you'll still be able to get both your tuition fee and maintenance loans. You may also qualify for a government travel grant.

 

"Students that go abroad are more likely to obtain first-class honours [and] more likely to be in graduate employment than their non-mobile peers."

 

Universities UK International: 'Gone International, Rising Aspirations', 2019

Modules

Each module on this course is worth a certain number of credits.

In each year, you need to study modules worth a total of 120 credits. For example, 4 modules worth 20 credits and 1 module worth 40 credits.

Modules

Foundation year

If you're not sure you meet the entry requirements, or need some help to get uni-ready, then we offer this course with a foundation year to bring you up to speed.

  • You'll study with our partners ICP on the University of Portsmouth campus with access to all facilities, support and societies
  • When you finish your foundation year successfully, you get a guaranteed place on LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology
  • Get used to how lectures, seminars and tutorials work, so you can move on to your degree ready for success
  • Learn how to meet the demands of taking on a bachelor's degree at university

Find out more about our foundation years with ICP

The module introduces candidates to the interesting challenges that ICT presents today and covers many anchor points that may serve as a bridge to their interests and lifestyles.

It also means you understand the value of scholarships, allowing you to move on to postgraduate programs at the University of Portsmouth.

You'll explore theories of international relations, the nature of the international system, and factors like conflict, globalisation, and international organisations. You'll also dive into key global issues such as climate change, gender, and human rights.

You'll learn to conduct research using both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. You'll also enhance your ability to understand and construct arguments, evaluate the rationale and evidence behind claims, assess the credibility of sources, and deliver well-structured, critically reasoned arguments and opinions both verbally and in writing.

You'll learn to identify and evaluate different types of constitutions, learn the structure of the UK government and institutions, and analyse systems of government using comparisons with other states.

You'll cover the principles governing offer, acceptance, consideration and the intention to create legal relations.

You'll also discuss the content of contracts, the incorporation of different terms and the common law and statutory controls on exclusion clauses as well as practical drafting techniques employed by contract lawyers. 

You'll explore the basics of what the law seeks to achieve within a democracy, identification of the main classifications and sources of law, and detailed examination of the process of parliamentary and judicial law making.

You'll also look at European influences during the UK's time in the EU, and a detailed study of the Human Rights Act.

You'll learn how to use academic databases and journals through a series of tasks which will have direct relevance to topics you studied in other modules.

You'll develop your abilities in academic writing by writing a short essay, case study analysis or similar written artefact in each lecture session.

You'll gain an overview of the history of legal scholarship. By the end of the module, you'll have a solid understanding and the ability to apply essential legal knowledge and skills. This will prepare you to progress onto degree level study at the University of Portsmouth.

Core modules

You'll gain a comprehensive understanding of key constitutional principles, legal frameworks and political dynamics that shape the British constitution. You'll also examine European Union laws in the context of the post-Brexit relationship between the UK and the EU. The module also explores mechanisms through which citizens can seek redress against public bodies, including judicial review.

Develop legal arguments and apply the knowledge you'll gain from seminars and discussions to current issues. Learn to demonstrate your understanding of key principles, identify relevant law, and reach reasoned conclusions.

You'll look at the historical development of criminal justice, as well as the duties of the criminal justice agencies that exist today, and how they work together.

You'll also explore the ideas behind the different types of punishment used within the criminal justice system.

In studying this module, you will be equipped with the knowledge and understanding of these principles, whilst embedding study skills throughout the module. The module will equip students with knowledge and understanding of these principles in order to provide advice to fictional clients.

This module aims to equip students with the knowledge and understanding of these principles in order to understand the English Legal System as it is today, whilst embedding study skills throughout the module.

You'll examine the origins of criminology, considering the rise of the scientific study of crime and criminality.

You'll also think about the social, cultural, political and economic factors that led to the development of the study of criminology that we know today.

Core modules

Lectures will outline the principles and rules of equity and the law of trusts, their application, current issues and contentious areas. Seminars will require students to apply these principles to problem situations, using their knowledge of statute and case law to develop their analysis. This will develop the identified skills, and these will then be utilised in tackling the assessments for this module.

This module aims to equip students with knowledge and understanding of these principles in order to provide advice to a notional client.

You'll examine the criticisms and challenges of criminology as a social science, thinking about the part it plays in creating social order.

You'll also explore theories of social control and cultural resistance through debate and published ideas on the subject, which will help you develop an understanding of justice and dissent.

Through focused seminar discussions, you'll get to examine key concepts of tort law. You will develop a critical understanding of how tort law impacts society and the challenges faced by both claimants and defendants.

The module combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, while embedding essential study skills throughout. You'll engage with case law analysis and problem-solving to evaluate complex legal scenarios and propose reasoned solutions.

Optional modules

You'll learn about crimes against humanity (such as war crimes and genocide), state crimes against democracy, state-corporate crime, contemporary slavery and human trafficking - shining a light on oppression and injustice.

By examining the responses to these crimes, you'll think about the ways international judicial, state and inter-governmental, and global civil society actors tackle state crime.

You'll develop your ability to think critically about complex global issues, taking many different perspectives into account.

You’ll analyse the essence of security, exploring how security needs are addressed around the world and on a national level, down to a community and even an individual basis.

You’ll explore different forms of societal risk and insecurity, and approaches to dealing with security threats, taking into account the nature and impact of economic and political developments.

You’ll analyse the essence of security, exploring how security needs are addressed around the world and on a national level, down to a community and even an individual basis.

You’ll explore different forms of societal risk and insecurity, and approaches to dealing with security threats, taking into account the nature and impact of economic and political developments.

You'll examine the history, role and organisational structures of the police in the UK, including the wider policing `family' and agencies that are involved in governance and oversight of the police.

You’ll tackle the changing nature of crime and the associated challenges for the police, alongside associated governance, trust and legitimacy issues.

You'll analyse major cases of economic crime and weigh up their wider societal implications.

You'll also learn how to recognise disciplinary perspectives, become familiar with the key investigating organisations, identify investigative techniques, and gather and analyse real case information.

Through interactive lectures with academics, speakers and professionals, you'll discuss, debate and complete practical exercises exploring wildlife crime alongside your classmates.

You'll spend time examining wildlife crimes and the factors behind them, as well as environmental justice and sustainability.

Core modules

You’ll cover a wide range of human rights such as the right to fair trial, the right to be free from torture, and the right to life, evaluating how states incorporate (or fail to incorporate) these rights into their criminal justice systems.

You’ll analyse the primary instruments of human rights and the case-law of different international and regional human rights bodies.

This module puts crime into a social context and develops a critical approach in addressing how global issues impact the dynamics of the relationship between human rights and criminal justice.

You'll compare the latest modern and contemporary theories, analysing how crime and social control are managed today.

By thinking critically about the work of leading theorists, you'll evaluate shifts in state power, punishment, and the expanding boundaries of criminology.

This module will help you to confidently engage with current debates and new perspectives in criminology.

Optional modules

This will be achieved by students working in the University's general legal advice clinics. There will be an emphasis on transferring academic legal knowledge that has been acquired throughout the degree programme into substantive legal help for members of the local community. The module will support students in developing skills such as client interviewing and management, note taking, report writing, legal letter writing, and document drafting, together with administrative skills such as replying to emails and making return phone calls. The students will also be involved with the marketing of the clinics(s) to the wider community, thus developing students' confidence in communication, and providing a critical awareness of how a client base is founded and developed. In preparation for entry into a post degree professional environment, the module will provide a focus on self-reflection.

Students will be offered the opportunity to work in a weekly placement with one of our external partners where the emphasis will be on application of legal theory to real life issues/situations, to assist the clients of the partner organisation.

Students will learn a range of skills, which will be communicated to the student at the outset of their placement (depending on the partner organisation) but in all organisations there will be an emphasis on the ability to communicate using different mediums, organisation and independent learning.

Students will be required to integrate into their partner organisation, contributing to the overall achievement of the organisation's own aims and objectives, and identifying areas of difficulty. In preparation for entry into a post degree professional environment, the module will provide a focus on self-reflection.

At these meetings, the student and supervisor may discuss the topic(s), research strategy and direction and/or review drafts submitted by the student.

You'll develop practical skills in business formation, management, and dissolution while understanding key aspects of employment law and taxation relevant to business operations.

This module also delves into the legal framework for children's rights in the domestic legal system, the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and the European Social Charter (ESC). It further examines the specific legal and thematic aspects related to children in care, children in the asylum and refugee system, and children within the court system, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the legal and practical aspects of safeguarding children's rights.

The topics covered in this module will be common with the equivalent module at UC ' Berkeley. The teaching for this module will involve 10 synchronous joint 2-hour online classes hosted by UC ' Berkeley and joined by all participating institutions and 11 synchronous UoP-only 2-hour online classes. The joint online classes will consist in mini-lectures (approx. 45 mins) by guest lecturers, seminar-style discussion in breakout sessions (2 x 15 minutes) with small groups of students from all participating institutions and plenary discussions (2 x 15 mins). The UoP-only online classes will be delivered 'locally' by the module coordinator. The UoP-only online classes will introduce students to the basic concepts of Comparative Equality Law and bring the questions / issues discussed in the joint class within a UK and / or European normative context.

Reference will be made to what intellectual property actually is as well as how UK law enables it to be protected. All the major intellectual property rights will be identified, dicussed and critically examained. These intellectual propertry rights will include patents, trademarks, copyright, design rights, passing off and the law of confidence. Reference will be made, where appropriate, to other jurisidictions as a means of critically evaluating the IP framework in the UK. Reference will also be made to international treaties and other external legal sources as and when the module demands.

The module explores both the historical and theoretical foundations of the subject, before providing participants with an awareness of the sources, the nature and the core institutions of international law. It also seeks to engage with specific regimes of international law and to explore these in relevant contemporary contexts. The module will also specifically endeavour to develop the independent research skills of students.

You'll develop the essential knowledge and skills required to understand trust law, will drafting, and intestacy rules while considering professional risk management and ethical considerations.

Students' in this module will provide support to the local community in the form of a legal information presentation on a relevant and informative legal issue.

You will work in teams to research, plan, and deliver a presentation on a legal issue ( or range of issues) to your designated organisation (such as; charities, schools/colleges, and community organisations).

You will develop skills in; teamwork, research, communication methods, reflection, and learn to practically apply your academic knowledge acquired across the degree programme.

After an introduction to your designated organisation you and your group will be supported through the process of research, planning, design and presentation of the legal issue. There will be an emphasis on reflection throughout the process.

Not only will you gain skills and knowledge in liaising with, and presenting a legal issue to real life clients' but further, you will have experience to draw from, when engaging in interviews with employers.

Each student will already have been allocated to a supervisor based on their 'topic area'. Each topic has a different tutor and the topic area will have been decided by the tutor based on their own expertise and research interests. The module will have four timetabled tutorial sessions, where each group will meet with their tutor and throughout the module, tutors and students will make use of the Module's VLE to post queries and discuss issues arising out of their research.

While the focus will be practical, students will also develop an understanding of the theoretical, professional and ethical aspects of advocacy. Students will reflect on their own performances and those of their peers. Students will develop a range of skills appropriate to both civil and criminal court/tribunal appearances to include the law of evidence. The Presentations will be individual advocacy exercises based on the criminal and civil case studies that students will engage with on the module. The Portfolios will consist of critical commentaries on a collection of advocacy activities recorded by the individual student through the module. Students will be required to demonstrate their development of advocacy skills through feedback, peer observation and self-reflection with reference to theoretical and professional writing on advocacy

It outlines the different sectors of environmental law as well as provides an insight and understanding of the principles and concepts upon which environmental law is based.

It also analyses the ways in which particular issues are addressed and, where appropriate, places these in their international context.

It introduces students to the role that international environmental law has within the development of national environmental law.

Seminar activity will follow on from the lectures and will concentrate on discussion and application of the legal principles and policies of the European Union.

Directed activity will focus on discussion of issues using taught knowledge and the student's independent research.

Student's will apply law to problem situations, as well as improve the ability to critically reflect on the human rights issues involved in family law.

Relevant skills will be developed through seminar activities and utilised in tackling the assessment for this module.

In the first half of the module students will explore the rules that regulate the use of force in international law (the jus ad bellum), whilst the second half focuses on international humanitarian law (the jus in bello). The module aims to teach both historical and modern contexts of these areas of law and will engage with specific contemporary case studies, informed by the academic research of the co-ordinators. Weekly lectures will outline fundamental principles, whilst seminars will encourage students to critically reflect on the state of the law and the contexts in which it applies. The substantive content of the module is also, in parts, multidisciplinary in its nature, drawing on work from connected academic disciplines such as international relations. The module also aims to develop the independent research skills of students and this is reflected in the nature of the assessment.

To satisfy the CILEx accreditation requirements students must pass all the CILEx modules. This module develops the legal principles learned in land law at L5 and provides a practical context. This modules meets the CILEx requirements for application of accounts rules. The Hallmarks that the module seeks to address are: Have a critical and reflective knowledge and understanding of their subject, with both the ability and readiness to question its principles, practices and boundaries; Think independently, analytically and creatively, and engage imaginatively with new areas of investigation, within and across discipline boundaries; Be intellectually curious, embrace challenges and seize opportunities for development; be able to locate, access and critically engage with information, using current and emerging digital technologies; Be informed citizens, with a sense of responsibility allied to a commitment to ethical practice and social justice issues, such as quality, respect and sustainability.

You'll spend your working industry, with support from our Placement Office.

You'll complete a placement portfolio for the duration of the placement, which will outline your key learning activities, and attend a Placement Student Day at the University to discuss your placement experience with the Placement Officer or your course leader.

When you successfully complete your placement it will be recognised in your degree transcript of achievement, and your degree certificate will state `in the sandwich mode'.

You may also choose to receive a Certificate of Professional Practice from the Faculty of Business and Law.


Changes to course content

We use the best and most current research and professional practice alongside feedback from our students to make sure course content is relevant to your future career or further studies.

Therefore, some course content may change over time to reflect changes in the discipline or industry. If a module doesn't run, we'll let you know as soon as possible and help you choose an alternative module.

If you'd like to study a fully accredited law degree that covers all the foundations of legal knowledge, but combines this with an understanding of business and management our LLB (Hons) Law with Business may be the right degree for you. This is a great option if you're interested in going on to work in corporate law.

This fully accredited single honours LLB (Hons) Law degree is our most traditional, pure law course. We recommend this option if you're interested in going on to be a barrister, if you're an international student, or if you think you may want an academic career in the law.

This new and practically focussed LLB (Hons) Law with Legal Practice is specifically tailored to today's legal career pathways, preparing you for your next step as a solicitor or a chartered legal executive. Like our other law courses it includes all the foundations of legal knowledge, but gives you more practical experience of applying your knowledge. This course is ideal if you want to be a solicitor, a chartered legal executive, or a paralegal.

Teaching

Around 20% of your timetabled teaching will be online.

The majority of your timetabled teaching will be face-to-face and will include:

  • seminars
  • tutorials
  • workshops
  • practical sessions

We pride ourselves on the academic support we offer our students. You'll have a personal tutor, student engagement officers and study support staff to help you throughout your studies.

Assessment

The way you qualify as a solicitor has changed and we want to make sure that we prepare you as much as possible for the new SQE exams. The SQE exams are multiple choice, so we're adapting our assessment methods so that you're confident with this method of assessment.

Your assessment will depend on which modules you take, but it's likely to include:

  • exams
  • problem scenarios
  • written reports and essays
  • presentations
  • practical projects

How you'll spend your time

One of the main differences between school or college and university is how much control you have over your learning.

We use a blended learning approach to teaching, which means you’ll take part in both face-to-face and online activities during your studies.  As well as attending your timetabled classes you'll study independently in your free time, supported by staff and our virtual learning environment, Moodle.

A typical week

We recommend you spend at least 35 hours a week studying for this degree.

Your total study time will depend on the modules that you take, but in your first year this is what your week may look like:

  • timetabled teaching activities (seminars, tutorials, classes and workshops) = about 13 hours a week
  • independent study (research, reading, coursework and project work, alone or in a group) = about 22 hours a week

You'll probably do more independent study and have less scheduled teaching in years 2 and 3, but this depends on which modules you choose.

Term dates

The academic year runs from September to June. There are breaks at Christmas and Easter.

See term dates

Supporting you

The amount of timetabled teaching you'll get on your degree might be less than what you're used to at school or college, but you'll also get support via video, phone and face-to-face from teaching and support staff to enhance your learning experience and help you succeed. You can build your personalised network of support from the following people and services:

Types of support

Your personal tutor helps you make the transition to independent study and gives you academic and personal support throughout your time at university.

As well as regular scheduled meetings with your personal tutor, they're also available at set times during the week if you want to chat with them about anything that can't wait until your next meeting.

In addition to the support you get from your personal tutor, you'll also have access to our student engagement officers. They can give you confidential, impartial advice on anything to do with your studies and personal wellbeing, and refer you to specialist support services if you need extra help or support.

You'll have help from a team of study support tutors. Based within the Faculty of Business and Law, these tutors are familiar with the specific requirements your assignments and work closely with faculty academics. This means they can give you focused support with the specific study skills you need to be successful on your course. They're available face-to-face, by phone, email, and by video call.

They can help with:

  • Academic writing (for example, essays, reports, dissertations, projects and literature reviews)
  • Reflective writing skills
  • Critical thinking skills
  • Delivering presentations (including observing and filming presentations)
  • Understanding and using assignment feedback
  • Managing your time and workload
  • Revision and exam techniques

If you're a mature student, specialist support to help you return to learning is available.

During term time, Faculty Academic Skills Tutors (AST) are available for bookable 1-to-1 sessions, small group sessions and online sessions. These sessions are tailored to your needs.

Support is available for skills including:

  • University study
  • Getting into the right study mindset
  • Note-taking and note-making skills
  • Referencing
  • Presentation skills
  • Time management, planning, and goal setting
  • Critical thinking
  • Avoiding plagiarism

If you have a disability or need extra support, the Additional Support and Disability Centre (ASDAC) will give you help, support and advice.

Library staff are available in person or by email, phone, or online chat to help you make the most of the University's library resources. You can also request one-to-one appointments and get support from librarians who specialise in business and law.

The library is open 24 hours a day, every day, in term time.

Our online Learning Well mini-course will help you plan for managing the challenges of learning and student life, so you can fulfil your potential and have a great student experience.

You can get personal, emotional and mental health support from our Student Wellbeing Service, in person and online. This includes 1–2–1 support as well as courses and workshops that help you better manage stress, anxiety or depression.

If you require extra support because of a disability or additional learning need our specialist team can help you.

They'll help you to

  • discuss and agree on reasonable adjustments
  • liaise with other University services and facilities, such as the library
  • access specialist study skills and strategies tutors, and assistive technology tutors, on a 1-to-1 basis or in groups
  • liaise with external services

If English isn't your first language, you can do one of our English language courses to improve your written and spoken English language skills before starting your degree. Once you're here, you can take part in our free In-Sessional English (ISE) programme to improve your English further.

Course costs and funding

Tuition fees (September 2025 start)

  • UK/Channel Islands and Isle of Man students – £9,535 a year (may be subject to annual increase)
  • EU students – £9,535 a year, including our Transition Scholarship (may be subject to annual increase)
  • International students – £17,200 a year (subject to annual increase)

You won't pay any extra tuition fees to another university for taking part in a study/work abroad activity if you choose to do it for the whole academic year. During a year abroad you'll only have to pay a reduced fee to the University of Portsmouth.

  • UK/Channel Islands and Isle of Man students – £5,760 per year (may be subject to annual increase)

Please note this foundation year with ICP isn't currently open to EU or International students.

Funding your studies

Find out how to fund your studies, including the scholarships and bursaries you could get. You can also find more about tuition fees and living costs, including what your tuition fees cover.

Applying from outside the UK? Find out about funding options for international students.

Additional course costs

These course-related costs aren’t included in the tuition fees. So you’ll need to budget for them when you plan your spending.

Our accommodation section shows your accommodation options and highlights how much it costs to live in Portsmouth.

You'll need to read several recommended books or textbooks for each module that you study with us.

We have an extensive library on campus and most of these books will be available for you and other students to borrow. 

However, there will be limited numbers of these available so if you choose to buy your textbooks instead, they’ll cost around £40 each.

We recommend that you budget £75 a year for photocopying, memory sticks, printing charges, binding and specialist printing.

If your final year includes a major project, there could be cost for transport or accommodation related to your research activities. The amount will depend on the project you choose.

If you take a placement year or study abroad year, tuition fees for that year are as follows:

  • UK/Channel Islands and Isle of Man students – £1,430 a year (may be subject to annual increase)
  • EU students – £1,430 a year, including Transition Scholarship (may be subject to annual increase)
  • International students – £2,875  a year (subject to annual increase)

Apply

September 2025 start

To start LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology in 2025, apply through UCAS. You'll need:

  • the UCAS course code – M1L6
  • our institution code – P80

Apply now through UCAS

If you'd prefer to apply directly, use our online application form.

You can also sign up to an Open Day to:

  • Tour our campus, facilities and halls of residence
  • Speak with lecturers and chat with our students 
  • Get information about where to live, how to fund your studies and which clubs and societies to join

If you're new to the application process, read our guide on applying for an undergraduate course.

To start LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology with Foundation Year in 2025, apply through UCAS. You'll need:

  • the UCAS course code – M1L0
  • our institution code – P80

 Apply now through UCAS

If you'd prefer to apply directly, use our online application form:

Please note this foundation year with ICP isn't currently open to EU or International students.

 

You can also sign up to an Open Day to:

  • Tour our campus, facilities and halls of residence
  • Speak with lecturers and chat with our students 
  • Get information about where to live, how to fund your studies and which clubs and societies to join

If you're new to the application process, read our guide on applying for an undergraduate course.

Applying from outside the UK

As an international student you'll apply using the same process as UK students, but you’ll need to consider a few extra things. 

You can get an agent to help with your application. Check your country page for details of agents in your region.

Find out what additional information you need in our international students section

If you don't meet the English language requirements for this course yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

Admissions terms and conditions

When you accept an offer to study at the University of Portsmouth, you also agree to abide by our Student Contract (which includes the University's relevant policies, rules and regulations). You should read and consider these before you apply.