Law with Criminology LLB (Hons) with foundation year

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Portsmouth

Program Overview

This foundation year LLB in Law with Criminology at the University of Portsmouth is designed for students who want to build a strong understanding of law while exploring the fascinating field of criminology. It’s perfect for those who are eager to combine analytical thinking with practical insights into crime, justice, and society, preparing for a rewarding career in law or criminal justice.

Curriculum Structure:

Foundation Year:
The first year provides a solid grounding in the essentials of academic study, legal principles, and criminology. Students explore modules such as Introduction to Law, Foundations of Criminology, and Academic Skills for Higher Education, developing critical thinking, research abilities, and effective communication skills to succeed in higher-level study.

Year 1:
This year introduces core legal concepts alongside criminology. Modules like Contract Law, Criminal Law, and Understanding Crime help students understand the legal framework, the nature of criminal behaviour, and the role of law in society, while building skills in legal analysis and reasoning.

Year 2:
Students deepen their knowledge with more specialized modules such as Tort Law, Law of Evidence, and Criminological Theories. This year emphasizes the practical application of legal principles and criminological understanding, preparing students for more complex legal scenarios and research.

Year 3:
The final year allows students to consolidate their learning and prepare for professional life. Modules may include Advanced Criminal Law, Law and Society, and a Criminology Dissertation, giving students the chance to engage in independent research, analyze contemporary legal issues, and develop expertise in areas of personal interest.

Focus Areas: Law, Criminology, Criminal Justice, Legal Research, Crime Analysis

Learning Outcomes: Apply legal knowledge in practical settings, critically analyze criminological theories, conduct independent research, and communicate complex legal and criminological concepts effectively.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Qualifying law degree accredited by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and Bar Standards Board (BSB).

Reputation (Employability Rankings): Portsmouth graduates enjoy strong employability prospects, supported by industry links and practical experience opportunities.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Portsmouth, this program is designed to give you more than just theoretical knowledge—you’ll actively develop the skills needed to thrive in law and criminology careers. From the very first foundation year, you’ll engage in practical exercises, collaborative projects, and real-world case studies that help you understand the legal system, criminal behavior, and business contexts. The university’s dedicated facilities, like mock courts and specialist libraries, alongside access to digital research tools, ensure you gain hands-on experience in a supportive environment.

To give you a clear picture, here’s how your learning experience is brought to life:

Participate in mock trials and role-play exercises in the on-campus Law Courts, building confidence in legal procedures.
Work on group projects and case studies, fostering teamwork, research skills, and practical problem-solving.
Access to legal databases and digital tools, helping you conduct professional-level research and analysis.
Opportunities for work placements or internships, giving you a taste of professional legal and criminology practice.
Make use of specialist libraries and resources, including criminology journals, law texts, and online repositories.
Engage with industry experts and visiting professionals through seminars, workshops, and guest lectures.
Field trips to courts, police stations, or relevant organisations, providing insights into real-world legal and criminal justice environments.

This approach ensures you not only understand the theory but also gain the confidence and skills to apply it effectively in professional settings.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this program leave ready to make an impact in both legal and criminology fields, equipped with practical skills, critical thinking, and an understanding of societal justice systems. Many find themselves thriving in roles that bridge law and criminal justice, gaining hands-on experience that sets them apart in the job market. Typical career paths include working as a solicitor, probation officer, criminal investigator, or legal consultant:

University career services support: The Portsmouth Careers and Employability Service offers one-on-one guidance, CV workshops, mock interviews, and access to a network of employer events tailored for law and criminology students.
Employment stats and salary: Recent graduates report strong employability, with average starting salaries ranging from £22,000 to £28,000 depending on role and sector.
University–industry partnerships: The program benefits from partnerships with local law firms, policing agencies, and criminal justice organisations, providing networking opportunities and work placements.
Long-term accreditation value: Graduates gain an LLB that is recognised for professional legal pathways in the UK, giving a solid foundation for careers requiring legal qualification.
Graduation outcomes: Alumni often progress into meaningful roles within law enforcement, legal practice, and criminology research, with many using their degree as a stepping stone to advanced professional qualifications.

Further Academic Progression:
For students interested in continuing their studies, opportunities include pursuing the Legal Practice Course (LPC) or the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) to qualify as a solicitor or barrister, or undertaking postgraduate programs in criminology, criminal justice, or international law to deepen expertise and expand career options.