LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Liverpool

Program Overview

The LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology at Liverpool blends in-depth legal training with a focus on crime, criminal behaviour, and the justice system. It’s perfect for students who want to pursue a career in law while understanding the social and criminological factors that shape justice and policy, preparing graduates for a wide range of professional pathways.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
Your first year lays the groundwork in both law and criminology. Core modules like Public Law, Contract Law, and Criminal Law introduce you to the legal system, legal reasoning, and key professional skills. In criminology, courses such as Introduction to Criminology and Crime and Society explore the causes and effects of crime, helping you understand the social context of justice.

Year 2:
The second year builds on your foundation, challenging you to think critically and analyse complex issues. Law modules like Tort Law and European Union Law develop your understanding of legislation and case law, while criminology courses such as Criminal Justice Systems and Victims and Offenders examine real-world applications of policy and practice. You’ll also gain experience in research methods, preparing you for analytical work in law and criminology.

Year 3:
In your final year, you’ll focus on advanced topics and independent research. Options like Human Rights Law, Sentencing and Punishment, and a Dissertation in Law and Criminology allow you to specialise in areas of personal interest. This year emphasises critical thinking, professional application, and preparation for careers in law, criminal justice, or related fields.

Focus areas: Law, Criminology, Criminal Justice, Legal Analysis, Social Policy, Research Methods

Learning outcomes: Develop the ability to apply legal principles, understand criminological theories, critically evaluate policies, conduct independent research, and communicate effectively in professional contexts

Professional alignment (accreditation): Meets the academic stage requirements for Graduate Membership of the Law Society, a key step toward legal practice in England and Wales

Reputation (employability rankings): Liverpool Law School is recognised for excellent graduate employability and high student satisfaction, consistently ranking among the UK’s top law schools

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Liverpool, studying Law with Criminology is far more than just attending lectures — it’s about gaining practical, hands-on experience that prepares you for real-world legal and criminological work. You’ll engage in interactive workshops, group projects, and practical exercises that build professional skills, while benefiting from access to the Law School’s expert staff and resources. The program also offers opportunities to work directly with clients, participate in research, and experience the criminal justice system firsthand.

Some of the practical learning opportunities include:

Liverpool Law Clinic: Advise real clients under supervision, applying your legal knowledge in practice while building confidence.
Mooting, negotiation, and advocacy: Practice legal argumentation, debating, and negotiation skills in realistic scenarios.
Professional mentoring and placements: Gain guidance and experience through placements with law firms, businesses, and public sector organisations.
Criminology field experience: Engage with local criminal justice agencies, prisons, or community projects to observe and analyse criminological practice in action.
Digital and research tools: Use online legal databases, case study software, and virtual simulations to enhance your practical learning.
Library & study resources: Access the Law School’s specialist library and the nearby Sydney Jones Library for research, journals, and quiet study spaces.
Group projects and collaborative learning: Work in teams to tackle complex legal and criminological problems, preparing you for professional collaboration.

This blend of practical workshops, placements, and research ensures you graduate with the skills and confidence needed for a career in law, criminal justice, or related fields.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a Law with Criminology degree from Liverpool equips you with a unique combination of legal expertise and insight into criminal behaviour, preparing you for a wide range of professional roles. Many graduates move into careers such as criminal solicitor, legal advisor, policy analyst, or roles within public and private sector justice organisations. This dual perspective also gives you the flexibility to explore opportunities in social research, compliance, or corporate risk management:

Careers & Employability Support: The University’s Careers & Employability Service and the Law School’s employability team provide tailored guidance, mentoring, and access to placement schemes to help you secure relevant roles.
Practical Experience: Participation in the Liverpool Law Clinic and criminology-focused projects provides hands-on experience that makes your CV stand out.
Professional Mentoring: Mentorship from practising lawyers, criminologists, and industry experts helps you network and prepare for specific career paths.
Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with local law firms, public sector agencies, and criminal justice organisations give you real-world exposure and potential employment connections.
Graduate Outcomes: Many Liverpool Law with Criminology graduates secure roles in legal services, government departments, social research, or policy organisations, often with competitive starting salaries for graduate-level positions.
Long-Term Value: The combination of law and criminology provides a strong foundation for future professional credibility in both sectors.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing your degree, you can pursue postgraduate options such as an LLM in Criminal Law, Criminology, or International Law, or specialised master’s programmes in public policy, forensic psychology, or criminal justice. These pathways allow you to deepen your expertise and enhance your career prospects in legal, academic, or applied criminology roles.