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Choosing to study law at the University of Derby means joining a dynamic and forward-thinking institution that prepares you for a successful legal career. Our LLB programme offers flexibility, allowing you to pursue a general LLB or specialize in Company and Commercial Law, International and Comparative Law, International Business Law, or Social and Public Policy. This means you can tailor your studies to align with your career ambitions and interests.
A Career-Ready Legal Education
Our law programme is designed to equip you with the essential skills needed to excel in the legal sector. You will develop expertise in:
✔ Drafting – Mastering legal documentation and case preparation
✔ Advocacy – Enhancing your ability to argue cases effectively
✔ Interviewing – Learning how to engage with clients professionally
✔ Negotiation – Developing the skills to resolve disputes and reach settlements
Professional Recognition and Career Pathways
The LLB at Derby is a qualifying law degree meeting the criteria set by the Bar Standards Board (BSB) and the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). This accreditation ensures you are well-prepared for the next steps in your journey to becoming a solicitor or barrister.
For students interested in becoming a solicitor, we recognize that qualification routes are evolving. Our Derby Law School is committed to adapting its undergraduate and postgraduate courses, ensuring that you receive maximum opportunities and flexibility to progress in the legal profession.
⚖️ 1. Mooting and Mock Trials
Derby Law School emphasizes 'learning by doing,' incorporating mooting competitions and mock trials into the curriculum. These activities allow students to practice courtroom procedures, develop advocacy skills, and gain confidence in legal argumentation. University of Derby+1University of Derby+1
📄 2. Legal Drafting and Application Exercises
Students engage in drafting legal documents such as contracts and bail applications. These exercises provide practical experience in legal writing and familiarize students with the documentation processes in legal practice. University of Derby+1University of Derby+1
🧠 3. Research Projects and Dissertation
The LLB program includes opportunities for students to undertake research projects and a final-year dissertation. These components develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and in-depth understanding of specific legal topics.
🌍 4. Community Engagement and Public Legal Education
While specific programs are not detailed, the University's emphasis on practical learning suggests involvement in community-based legal education initiatives, enhancing students' ability to communicate legal concepts to the public.
📁 5. Internships and Work-Based Learning
The University encourages students to participate in internships and work placements to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings. These experiences aim to enhance employability and provide insights into various legal careers.
⚖️ Legal Career Pathways:
Solicitor: Graduates can progress to the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) route, supported by DU’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
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. 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.Qualifying Law Degree: The LLB (Hons) Law program is recognized as a qualifying law degree, providing exemptions from the academic stage of training for aspiring solicitors and barristers.Professional Accreditation: The program meets the requirements set by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and Bar Standards Board (BSB), ensuring nationwide recognition of your qualifications. Hands-On Learning: Derby Law School emphasizes practical experience through mooting competitions, mock trials, and real-world legal practice, enhancing employability skills.Innovative Teaching Methods: Students benefit from case-based learning, interactive workshops, and simulated courtroom sessions that mirror real legal practiceDedicated Facilities: The university boasts purpose-built facilities at One Friar Gate Square, including a mock courtroom and a student legal advice center, providing an authentic learning environmentPersonalized Learning Environment: As a relatively small law school, Derby fosters strong relationships between students and staff, offering personalized support and networking opportunities.Joint Honours Flexibility: The university offers Joint Honours degrees, allowing students to combine law with other disciplines, tailoring their education to specific career goals.Diverse Career Opportunities: Graduates can pursue various roles in education, civil service, management, marketing, and uniformed services, reflecting the degree's versatility.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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University of Derby
