LLB Hons Law with Criminology

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Swansea University

Program Overview

This degree blends core legal study with an in-depth look at criminology, giving you a strong foundation in law while exploring the causes, consequences, and prevention of crime. It’s perfect for students who want to pursue careers in law, criminal justice, or related fields, offering both analytical skills and practical understanding of the legal system and criminal behaviour.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
The first year introduces you to essential legal principles and criminological ideas with modules such as Contract Law, Criminal Law, and Introduction to Criminology. You’ll gain a solid understanding of how laws operate, what drives criminal behaviour, and start developing critical research and analytical skills.

Year 2
In the second year, you’ll explore more specialised topics including Tort Law, Law of Evidence, and Criminological Theory. This year focuses on applying legal concepts to criminal contexts, understanding policing and investigation, and engaging in case studies and group projects to build practical problem-solving skills.

Year 3
The final year allows you to integrate your legal and criminological knowledge with advanced modules like Advanced Criminal Law, Criminal Justice Policy, and optional research projects or dissertations. You’ll also have the opportunity to focus on areas of interest, honing independent research, legal analysis, and professional communication skills that prepare you for the workplace.

Focus Areas : Criminal Law, Criminology, Legal Research, Policing, Crime Prevention, Criminal Justice Policy

Learning Outcomes : Graduates will be able to critically analyse legal and criminological issues, apply law to real-world crime contexts, conduct independent research, and communicate effectively, equipping them for careers in law, policing, criminal justice, and related professions.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation) : This LLB satisfies the academic requirements for solicitor training under the SQE and provides a recognised foundation for careers as a barrister, solicitor, or in criminal justice roles.

Reputation (Employability & Rankings) : Swansea Law School is recognised for combining practical and research-led teaching, supportive learning, and strong connections with legal and criminal justice organisations. Graduates leave prepared to enter professional legal practice, policing, or criminal justice careers with confidence and competence.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Swansea, studying Law with Criminology goes beyond theory — you’ll gain practical, hands-on experience that prepares you for the professional world. Through a mix of simulations, case studies, and real-world engagement, you’ll develop critical skills in legal analysis, investigation, and problem-solving. The program combines academic rigour with practical application, giving you access to specialist facilities, digital tools, and opportunities to connect with professionals in law and criminal justice.

Some of the experiential opportunities and resources you’ll use include:

Mooting and Mock Trials: Practice legal argumentation, advocacy, and courtroom procedure in realistic settings.
Group Projects and Case Studies: Collaborate with peers to solve complex legal and criminological problems, mirroring workplace scenarios.
Law and Criminology Facilities: Access to seminar rooms, dedicated study spaces, and the law library for research and collaborative learning.
Professional Legal and Criminology Tools: Use databases like Westlaw and LexisNexis to conduct legal research and analysis.
Field Trips and Observational Visits: Opportunities to visit courts, law firms, and criminal justice agencies to see legal practice and policing in action.
Internships and Placement Opportunities: Optional placements in legal firms, police departments, or probation services give you real-world experience and networking possibilities.
Guest Lectures and Workshops: Learn directly from experienced solicitors, barristers, and criminology experts who share insights into the profession.

These experiences ensure that you graduate not only with strong academic knowledge but also with practical skills and professional confidence to pursue careers in law, criminal justice, or related fields.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this program are well-prepared for a variety of careers that combine legal knowledge with an understanding of criminal behaviour. Many go on to work as solicitors, crime analysts, probation officers, or legal advisors, while others pursue roles in policing, forensic investigation, or criminal justice policy. The combination of practical experience, academic study, and professional guidance ensures that students leave Swansea ready to take their next steps with confidence:

Careers and Employability Support: Swansea’s dedicated Careers and Employability Service offers one-on-one guidance, CV and application workshops, mock interviews, and assistance securing internships or placements in legal and criminal justice settings.
Employment outcomes: Graduates have strong career prospects, with many securing roles in legal practice, policing, or criminal justice within the first year of graduation.
University–Industry Partnerships: Swansea maintains links with law firms, police forces, probation services, and other criminal justice organisations, giving students opportunities to network, learn from practitioners, and gain practical experience.
Accreditation and Professional Value: The LLB meets the academic requirements for solicitor training under the SQE and provides a solid foundation for careers as a barrister or in other legal professions.
Graduate success: Alumni move into skilled roles in law, criminal justice, forensic analysis, policy-making, and consultancy, equipped with both practical and analytical skills.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, students can continue their studies with an LLM in areas such as criminal law, international law, or forensic law. Opportunities also exist for research-focused pathways like a PhD, or for professional qualifications leading directly into careers in policing, probation, or criminal investigation.