Law LLB (Hons) with foundation year

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Portsmouth

Program Overview

This 4-year LLB (Hons) Law programme with a foundation year is designed to give students a solid start in higher education while building the skills and confidence needed for degree-level study. It’s ideal for those who want to prepare thoroughly for a legal career, combining foundational academic development with core legal knowledge.

Curriculum structure

Foundation Year
The foundation year introduces you to key academic skills and the basics of law and business studies. Modules focus on study skills, research techniques, and an introduction to legal and business principles, preparing you for a smooth transition into the main LLB programme.

Year 1
In the first year of the degree, you’ll dive into the core areas of law, including the English Legal System, Contract Law, and Criminal Law. These modules give you a clear understanding of how the law functions in society and lay the groundwork for more advanced study.

Year 2
The second year deepens your knowledge with modules such as Tort Law, Land Law, and Equity & Trusts. You’ll also explore business-focused modules like Business Law and Financial Management, showing how legal principles apply in commercial contexts.

Year 3
This year focuses on applying your knowledge in more complex legal scenarios through modules like Commercial Law, International Business Law, and optional specialised topics. You’ll also develop research, analytical, and problem-solving skills through projects and case studies.

Year 4
The final year consolidates your learning and prepares you for professional practice. Advanced modules, alongside practical assessments and case studies, help you integrate legal and business knowledge while building confidence to enter the workforce.

Focus areas:
English legal system, contract law, criminal law, tort law, land law, equity and trusts, commercial law, international business law, business law, financial management.

Learning outcomes:
Graduates will be able to analyse legal issues, apply law in practical settings, draft professional documents, advise clients, and understand business implications of legal decisions.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The programme covers core legal knowledge required for solicitor or barrister training and develops skills valued across law firms, corporate organisations, and consultancy roles.

Reputation:
Portsmouth’s LLB with Foundation Year is recognised for supporting students through structured academic preparation, producing graduates who are ready for both higher study and professional legal careers.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Even with a foundation year, this programme emphasises learning by doing. Students don’t just study theory — they actively engage with practical exercises, workshops, and interactive projects that prepare them for real-world legal and business environments. As you progress, you’ll have access to professional tools, resources, and opportunities to build confidence, problem-solving skills, and a network that supports your career goals.

Here’s how practical learning is built into your degree:

Foundation workshops and group projects: Collaborative exercises in research, presentation, and analysis develop critical thinking and teamwork skills.
Replica courtroom and mooting sessions: Practice advocacy, public speaking, and courtroom procedures in realistic settings to gain firsthand experience.
Legal Advice Clinic & community engagement: Apply knowledge to real-life cases, working under supervision to advise clients and draft documents.
Guest lectures and networking events: Meet practicing lawyers, industry experts, and business professionals to gain insights into career pathways.
Digital tools and learning resources: Use legal databases, research platforms, and online systems to support study, case preparation, and project work.
Libraries and study facilities: Access specialist law collections, collaborative study spaces, and research support throughout your degree.

This approach ensures that by the time you complete your LLB, you’ll not only have a strong academic foundation but also practical skills and confidence to thrive in professional legal environments.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this programme leave with a strong academic foundation and practical experience, giving them the confidence and skills to step into a range of professional roles. The combination of the foundation year, core legal modules, and practical exercises ensures you are well-prepared for careers in law, business, or regulatory sectors. Typical roles include solicitor, legal adviser, compliance officer, and business consultant.

To support your career journey, Portsmouth provides targeted services and opportunities:

Career support services: One-to-one guidance, workshops, CV building, and mock interviews specifically tailored for law students.
Industry connections: Partnerships with law firms, corporate organisations, and professional bodies offer networking, guest lectures, and placement opportunities.
Professional experience: Sandwich placements or internship opportunities help you gain real-world exposure and develop practical skills.
Graduate outcomes: Many alumni secure employment in law firms, public sector organisations, or corporate settings, with competitive starting salaries.
Accreditation and long-term value: The degree provides the core legal knowledge required for professional training while equipping you with transferable skills valued across multiple industries.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing your LLB, you could continue your studies with an LLM (Master’s in Law), specialise in areas such as Corporate Law, International Law, or Human Rights Law, or pursue professional legal qualifications like the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) or Bar training, opening doors to advanced legal practice and consultancy roles.