Law, LLB (Hons)

Course summary

Durham Law School is a world leader in legal education and research. Our top-ranking LLB forms the first stage of the professional training you need to qualify as a solicitor or a barrister.This cutting-edge, research-led degree provides an in-depth understanding of the law of England and Wales, as well as legal research and practice. It offers a variety of optional modules which allows individual specialisation across a range of pathways in public and private law, including international law.The Law School is home to a number of leading research centres and groups, and all teaching staff are actively involved in research. This research feeds into the curriculum to create a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment which is in step with developments in the real world.Academic expertise is supported by a range of first-class learning facilities. The moot court, dedicated workrooms and pro bono room allow you to immerse yourself in a law-focused environment. And outside of structured learning there are ten different law-related student societies which offer plenty of opportunities to get involved in extracurricular activities.You can also apply to add an international dimension to your LLB with a year abroad in one of our overseas partner institutions. Places on these pathways are in high demand and if you are chosen your studies will extend from three years to four.The rigorous academic curriculum, first-class facilities and supportive learning environment provide the legal and academic skills you will need to progress to a career in the legal sector, as well as equipping you with the transferable skills that are in demand across a wider range of sectors including business, local and national government and academia.

Year 1 Core modules: Tort Law provides a general understanding of the structure of the law of tort in England and Wales. You will examine the nature of the major torts and the place of tort law within the legal system. Contract Law offers an understanding of the nature and functions of the law of contract in England and Wales. You will critically examine key elements of the law of contract and begin to develop an understanding of the common law in action. EU Constitutional Law gives a overall understanding of basic institutions, concepts and principles relating to the European Union. This module covers elements such as the historical, political and economic foundations of the EU, institutions of the EC, the legal structure of the EC and judicial protection of ‘community rights’. UK Constitutional Law provides an understanding of the basic institutions, concepts and principles relating to the constitution of the UK. This module includes elements such as the nature of the UK Constitution, The Rule of Law, parliamentary sovereignty, and the separation of powers. The Individual and the State provides a general understanding of the basic institutions, concepts and principles relating to the relationship between the individual and the State. You will study aspects of The European Convention on Human Rights, The Human Rights Act 1998, and judicial review of administrative action. Introduction to English Law and Legal Method gives a hands-on grounding in legal research, analysis, writing and IT skills. It seeks to establish critical analytical and transferable skills essential in your legal studies and beyond. It introduces you to the English legal system and the diverse forms legal analysis can take.