Law with Legal Practice LLB (Hons) with foundation year

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Portsmouth

Program Overview

This Law with Legal Practice LLB (Hons) with Foundation Year is designed for students who are passionate about law but want to start with a strong grounding before diving into the core legal studies. It suits those who are eager to build practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge, exploring the fundamentals of law, legal systems, and professional practice.

Curriculum Structure:

Foundation Year:
Students begin with a solid introduction to academic study, developing essential skills in research, writing, and critical thinking. Core modules like Academic Skills for Law, Introduction to the Legal System, and Foundations of Business and Society prepare students for higher-level legal study.

Year 1:
The first year of the LLB explores core legal concepts and the workings of the law in practice. Students study modules such as Contract Law, Criminal Law, and Public Law, learning to analyze cases, understand legislation, and develop structured arguments.

Year 2:
In the second year, students build on their legal knowledge with subjects like Tort Law, Land Law, and Professional Skills for Legal Practice. This stage emphasizes practical skills, including legal research, drafting, and advocacy, bridging theory with real-world application.

Year 3:
The final year focuses on advanced legal topics and professional preparation. Modules such as Commercial Law, Employment Law, and a Dissertation in Legal Practice allow students to refine their expertise and prepare for careers in law, while optional modules can be tailored to specific interests.

Focus areas: Legal systems, professional practice, criminal and civil law, advocacy, and research skills.

Learning outcomes: Graduates will develop critical thinking, legal analysis, practical legal skills, and the ability to apply law in professional contexts.

Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and the Bar Standards Board (BSB), preparing students for a career as solicitors or barristers.

Reputation (employability rankings): Portsmouth Law graduates are highly regarded, with strong employment rates in the legal sector and a track record of successful placements in law firms, corporate legal departments, and public service roles.

This program also offers flexibility with: 4 years sandwich with work placement, 4 years with foundation year, and 5 years sandwich with foundation year and work placement.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Portsmouth, students on the Law with Legal Practice LLB (Hons) with foundation year program don’t just study theory—they dive into practical legal experiences that prepare them for real-world careers. From engaging in interactive workshops to using cutting-edge legal software, students develop essential skills in research, analysis, and client communication. The program also encourages collaborative learning through group projects, simulations, and opportunities to observe legal practice firsthand:

Gain hands-on experience through mock trials and legal clinics, applying law in realistic settings.
Access to the state-of-the-art Law School facilities, including dedicated legal research spaces and digital resources.
Use legal databases and software such as LexisNexis to support case research and analysis.
Participate in group projects and collaborative assignments to build teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Opportunity for placements or work experience with law firms and legal organisations during the course.
Field trips to courts and legal institutions, providing exposure to professional environments.
Comprehensive library support with a wide range of legal texts, journals, and digital resources.

This practical approach ensures that by the time students graduate, they’re confident, skilled, and ready to step into the legal profession.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from this program equips you with a strong understanding of both law and practical legal skills, opening doors to a wide range of professional opportunities. Many graduates step confidently into roles within law firms, corporate legal departments, or public sector organisations, while others explore careers in policy, advocacy, or compliance:

University Career Services: The Portsmouth Careers and Employability Service offers tailored support including CV workshops, interview coaching, law-specific career guidance, and access to internship opportunities.
Employment stats & salary figures: Graduates from this program typically secure roles with starting salaries ranging from £25,000 to £35,000, depending on the sector and location.
University–industry partnerships: The law school collaborates with local law firms, barristers’ chambers, and professional networks, providing students with practical experience and valuable industry connections.
Long-term accreditation value: This program is professionally aligned to meet the academic requirements for legal practice, giving you a solid foundation towards qualifying as a solicitor or barrister.
Graduation outcomes: Students leave with both academic knowledge and practical legal experience, ready to take the next steps in their professional journey.

Further Academic Progression: After completing this degree, you can continue your studies through postgraduate qualifications such as the Legal Practice Course (LPC), Master’s in Law (LLM), or other specialised professional courses to further enhance your expertise and career prospects.