The LLB (Hons) at Northumbria gives you a strong and practical foundation in the core areas of law, while letting you explore specialist subjects that match your interests. It’s a great fit if you’re aiming for a career as a solicitor, barrister, or in any legal or business-focused profession, and want a degree that blends real-world skills with academic depth.
Curriculum structure
Year 1
Your first year focuses on building a solid understanding of how the legal system works. You’ll explore the fundamentals through modules such as Criminal Law and Academic and Professional Practice, while also developing essential skills in legal writing, case analysis, and research. This year is all about helping you gain the confidence to read, think, and communicate like a law student.
Year 2
In the second year, you dive into more complex areas like Constitutional and Administrative Law, Tort Law, and Land Law. You’ll also start shaping your direction through optional subjects, giving you space to discover which areas of law truly excite you. This stage strengthens your analytical abilities and prepares you for more specialised learning.
Year 3
Your final year brings everything together with advanced topics and a wide choice of optional modules — from Commercial Contracts to Family Law, or even unique options like Law, Film & Popular Culture. Many students also take advantage of practical opportunities such as working with real clients through the Student Law Office. This year allows you to refine your interests and prepare for life after graduation, whether that’s professional training or further study.
Focus areas
Criminal law, constitutional and administrative law, property law, human rights, legal research and writing, professional legal skills, specialised electives.
Learning outcomes
Ability to apply legal principles confidently, strong legal research and writing skills, critical analysis of cases and legislation, effective communication, and a clear understanding of professional ethics and responsibilities.
Professional alignment (accreditation)
The degree is recognised as a Qualifying Law Degree, meaning it provides the academic foundation needed for progressing toward solicitor or barrister training under the current professional pathway.
Reputation (employability rankings)
Northumbria’s Law School is consistently well regarded, with strong national rankings for both teaching quality and graduate outcomes, and an excellent reputation for producing career-ready law graduates.
1. Student Law Office (SLO) The SLO provides students with the opportunity to work on real and simulated cases under the supervision of qualified legal professionals. Through this, students develop essential lawyering skills and gain insights into professional ethics and the socio-economic contexts of law.
2. Policy and Law Reform Clinic In this module, students engage in research projects for external organizations or academic researchers, aiming to influence policy and law reform. This experience enhances skills in teamwork, communication, project management, and stakeholder engagement.
3. Street Law: Empowering Communities This initiative involves educating the public on legal rights and responsibilities. Students research legal issues and present findings through various mediums, such as leaflets, blogs, or presentations, fostering public legal education.
4. Property Issues in Practice Delivered through Problem-Based Learning, this module allows students to explore trusts and land law by engaging in simulated client interviews and collaborative research, culminating in a written report.
5. Equity and Trusts This module incorporates clinical and experiential learning by using realistic problem-based scenarios and trust documents, enabling students to apply legal principles in practical contexts.
Legal Career Pathways:
Solicitor: Graduates can pursue the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) to qualify as solicitors. NU's offers SQE-aligned support and practical legal training.
Barrister: Those aiming for the Bar can undertake a Bar Training Course (BTC) and apply for pupillage.
Other roles include paralegal, legal executive, advocate, or tribunal officer.
Further Study & Specialisation:
LLM (Master of Laws) in areas like Criminal Justice, Human Rights, or International Law
Postgraduate diplomas in legal practice, dispute resolution, or compliance
PhD or MPhil for research or academic careers
Careers Outside the Traditional Legal Route:
Public sector and civil service roles, including local government and policy-making
Regulatory and compliance roles in finance, healthcare, and corporations
Charity, advocacy, and NGO work, especially in legal aid, immigration, or social justice
Careers in education, human resources, and corporate governance
Transferable Skills Developed:
Legal analysis and reasoning
Oral and written advocacy
Negotiation and mediation
Problem-solving and strategic thinking



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