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Legal education is evolving, and the University of Northampton has redesigned its LLB Law (Hons) course to align with these changes, ensuring a strong foundation for your legal career. This degree covers the seven core areas of legal knowledge required by the Bar Standards Board for eligibility to pursue the Bar Training Course.
For those aiming to become solicitors, our LLB program is structured to support preparation for the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE). In addition to the traditional foundations of legal knowledge, students can choose from optional modules covering key SQE subjects such as civil litigation, property law and practice, business law, and criminal litigation.
⚖️ 1. Pro Bono Legal Clinic
In collaboration with Access Legal from Shoosmiths and Citizens Advice, the University supports a pro bono clinic that provides free legal advice on issues such as employment, landlord and tenant disputes, and consumer rights. Law students participate under the supervision of legal experts, gaining practical experience in client interaction and legal research. University of Northampton
🎤 2. Mooting and Advocacy
The University actively encourages participation in mooting competitions, including prestigious events like the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition. Students develop advocacy skills by arguing hypothetical legal cases, enhancing their legal reasoning and public speaking abilities. LinkedIn
🤝 3. Client Interviewing and Negotiation
Students have opportunities to engage in client interviewing and negotiation exercises, simulating real-world legal scenarios. These activities help in developing essential skills for legal practice, such as effective communication and problem-solving.
🧠 4. Research Projects
The curriculum includes opportunities for students to undertake research projects, allowing them to explore legal topics in depth and contribute to academic discourse. This experience fosters critical thinking and analytical skills.
📚 5. Street Law Program
Through the Street Law initiative, students deliver interactive legal education sessions to community groups, schools, and other organizations. This program enhances students' ability to communicate legal concepts to non-specialist audiences, promoting public legal awareness.
📁 6. Internships and Work-Based Learning
The University offers funded internships and work-based learning opportunities, enabling students to gain practical experience in legal settings. These placements help students apply their academic knowledge in real-world contexts, enhancing employability.
⚖️ Legal Career Pathways:
Solicitor: Graduates can progress to the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) route, supported Northampton’s focus on practical legal skills and professional preparation.
Barrister: Students aiming to become barristers can take a Bar Training Course (BTC) and apply for pupillage.
Other legal roles include paralegal, legal assistant, caseworker, or court clerk.
📚 Further Study Options:
Postgraduate qualifications such as an LLM (e.g., International Human Rights Law, Business Law)
PhD in Law for those interested in academic or policy-related careers
Courses in criminology, international relations, or business
💼 Careers Beyond Law:
Public sector roles in civil service, local government, or legal aid
Compliance and risk management in financial or corporate sectors
Advocacy and policy work with NGOs, charities, or international bodies
Opportunities in media, human resources, or education
🧠 Transferable Skills Developed:
Legal research, analysis, and drafting
Verbal advocacy and negotiation
Ethical reasoning and problem-solving
Teamwork, leadership, and communication
Applying for an LLB in the UK requires strong A-levels (AAB–BBB) or equivalent, a UCAS personal statement, a reference, and possibly the LNAT. IELTS 6.5–7.0 is needed for international students.Integrated Foundation Year Option – Students who do not meet standard entry requirements may apply through the Foundation Year, which requires DEE at A Level, MPP at BTEC, or Pass (D or E) at T Level.Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) Preparation – The program includes optional modules to prepare for the SQE.Core Legal Knowledge – Covers the seven foundations of legal knowledge required by the Bar Standards Board for aspiring barristers.Flexible Pathways – The course offers customizable modules to align with different career goals and interests.Pro Bono Opportunities – Students have opportunities to participate in pro bono legal activities to gain practical experience.Moot Court Experience – Access to a purpose-built Moot Room for mock trials and advocacy training.Work Placement Year (Optional) – Students can gain real-world legal experience through an optional work placement year.Industry Connections – Strong links with law firms and barristers who provide career guidance and professional networking opportunities.Technology Support – Eligible students receive an HP laptop and software as part of their studies (subject to terms and conditions).Law graduates can specialise through an LLM or postgraduate studies in fields like International Law, Human Rights Law, Corporate Law, Intellectual Property, Criminal Law, Environmental Law, Cyber Law, Tax Law, Health Law, and Maritime Law. Interdisciplinary options include an MBA, MPP, IR, Criminology, or Human Rights, expanding career opportunities.Solicitor – Requires passing the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) and a two-year Qualifying Work Experience (QWE)Barrister – Requires completing the Bar Course (BTC/BPC) and a one-year pupillage in chambersLegal Executive – Qualify via CILEx (Chartered Institute of Legal Executives)Paralegal – Assisting lawyers without full solicitor/barrister qualificationJudge – Requires years of legal practice before applying to the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC)Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) Lawyer – Prosecuting criminal cases on behalf of the governmentIn-House Legal Counsel – Providing legal advice to businesses banks or NGOsGovernment Legal Service (GLS) Lawyer – Advising UK government departmentsHuman Rights Lawyer – Specializing in cases related to justice equality and freedomCriminal Lawyer – Defending or prosecuting in criminal casesCorporate Lawyer – Handling mergers & acquisitions and company law mattersIntellectual Property Lawyer – Advising on trademarks patents and copyrightsFamily Lawyer – Specializing in divorce or child custody and domestic disputesEmployment Lawyer – Advising on workplace disputes and contractsImmigration Lawyer – Helping clients with visas or asylum and citizenship issuesReal Estate Lawyer – Handling property transactions and disputes
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The University of Northampton
