LLB Law and Criminology

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Lincoln

Program Overview

The LLB Law and Criminology degree at the University of Lincoln gives you a unique blend of legal knowledge and an understanding of criminal behaviour, preparing you for a wide range of careers in law, criminal justice, or public service. It’s perfect for students who are curious about how laws are made and applied, as well as how society responds to crime, combining academic study with practical skills that you can use in the real world.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In your first year, you’ll build a strong foundation in the key principles of law and criminology. Core modules include English Legal System, Criminal Law, and Introduction to Criminology, which help you understand how the legal system works, the nature of criminal offences, and the social and psychological aspects of crime. You’ll also develop essential skills in research, critical thinking, and legal writing that will support your studies throughout the degree.

Year 2
The second year allows you to explore more complex legal and criminological topics. Modules such as Tort Law, Contract Law, and Criminological Theory dive deeper into civil and contractual responsibilities and the theories behind criminal behaviour. Optional modules let you tailor your studies to your interests, such as human rights, policing, or forensic psychology, while practical exercises like case studies and scenario analyses bring theory to life.

Year 3
In your final year, you’ll focus on advanced and specialised areas of law and criminology. Modules may include Advanced Criminal Law, Sentencing and Punishment, and Law and Social Justice. You’ll have opportunities to apply your knowledge through research projects, practical simulations, or placements, preparing you for professional practice or further study after graduation.

Focus Areas

Legal foundations, criminal law, criminological theory, civil law, social justice, human rights, forensic studies, research and analytical skills, practical legal and criminological applications.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to critically analyse legal and criminological issues, understand the interaction between law and society, conduct independent research, present evidence-based arguments, and apply practical skills in legal, social, or criminal justice contexts.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program equips students with the academic foundation required for professional legal training and roles within the criminal justice sector, providing knowledge recognised for further study or career pathways in law enforcement, probation, or legal practice.

Reputation (Employability)

Lincoln’s strong links with local and national legal and criminal justice organisations, combined with practical experiences such as the Law Clinic and work placements, help boost graduate employability and professional readiness.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Studying LLB Law and Criminology at the University of Lincoln gives you more than just theoretical knowledge—it’s designed to immerse you in real-world legal and criminal justice experiences from day one. You’ll develop practical skills that prepare you for a range of careers in law, policing, probation, and the wider criminal justice sector. The program blends rigorous academic study with hands-on opportunities that bring your learning to life, helping you build confidence, professional expertise, and a strong network in the field.

Here’s how you’ll gain practical experience at Lincoln:

Simulated Courtrooms & Mooting: Practice legal procedures and advocacy in purpose-built facilities, giving you real courtroom experience in a safe learning environment.
Criminology Labs & Research Facilities: Engage in forensic and criminological research using state-of-the-art equipment to explore crime patterns, evidence analysis, and social justice studies.
Group Projects & Collaborative Work: Tackle real-life case studies and group assignments that develop teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills essential for legal and criminal justice careers.
Work Placements & Internships: Gain professional experience through placements with law firms, local authorities, probation services, or charities, giving you insights into day-to-day professional practice.
Field Trips & Observational Visits: Visit courts, police stations, and correctional facilities to see the criminal justice system in action and understand its practical challenges.
Extensive Library & Digital Resources: Access a wide range of legal texts, criminology journals, and online databases to support your research and learning.
Specialist Software & Digital Tools: Use industry-standard legal and criminology software for case management, data analysis, and crime mapping, preparing you for modern professional environments.

At Lincoln, the LLB Law and Criminology program ensures you leave not just with knowledge, but with hands-on experience, professional skills, and the confidence to step straight into your career.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with an LLB Law and Criminology from the University of Lincoln opens the door to a variety of exciting career paths in law, criminal justice, and social policy. Many graduates move into roles such as solicitor, legal advisor, probation officer, or policy analyst, equipped with the practical skills and confidence gained during their studies. This program gives you a strong foundation for both immediate employment and long-term professional growth.

To support your career journey, Lincoln offers:

Dedicated Careers Service: Tailored guidance, one-to-one mentoring, CV workshops, and interview preparation specifically for law and criminology students to help you secure roles that match your ambitions.
Graduate Employability Stats & Salary Insights: Lincoln graduates enjoy strong employability, with many securing full-time positions within six months of graduation; typical starting salaries in legal and criminal justice sectors range from £22,000 to £28,000 per year.
University–Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with local law firms, legal clinics, policing services, and probation agencies provide networking opportunities, internships, and live case projects to bridge academic learning with professional practice.
Professional Recognition & Accreditation: The law component of the program aligns with the requirements of the Solicitors Regulation Authority and the Bar Standards Board, ensuring your qualification is valued by employers.
Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of Lincoln’s LLB Law and Criminology program have gone on to rewarding careers in law, policing, the probation service, government agencies, and social justice organisations, demonstrating the degree’s practical impact in the workforce.

Further Academic Progression: For those wishing to continue their studies, graduates can pursue postgraduate qualifications such as the Legal Practice Course (LPC), Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC), or a Master’s in Criminology, Law, or related social sciences, giving you even greater opportunities to specialise and advance your career.