The LLB Licence in English and French Law at the University of Essex is an exciting opportunity for students who want to gain expertise in both common law and civil law systems. This program is perfect for those interested in international legal careers, offering a strong foundation in English law while providing a deep understanding of French legal principles.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1:
In the first year, students build a solid grounding in the fundamentals of law. Core modules include Introduction to English Legal System, Contract Law, and French Civil Law. These courses help students understand legal concepts, compare the two legal systems, and develop analytical skills essential for future legal study.
Year 2:
During the second year, students explore more specialized areas of law and refine their comparative legal knowledge. Modules such as Criminal Law, Tort Law, and French Business Law deepen students’ understanding of both English and French legal contexts. Practical case studies and legal reasoning exercises help prepare students for real-world legal problem-solving.
Year 3:
The final year allows students to focus on advanced topics and prepare for professional practice or further study. Key modules include Equity and Trusts, European Law, and French Public Law. Students have opportunities to conduct independent research, apply comparative legal analysis, and gain skills that are highly valued by employers internationally.
Focus Areas
Comparative law, international legal systems, bilingual legal proficiency, European law, civil and common law integration.
Learning Outcomes
Graduates will be able to analyze legal problems across English and French law, conduct comparative legal research, communicate effectively in legal contexts, and apply practical legal skills in international settings.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
This program equips students with the knowledge needed for legal practice in multiple jurisdictions and provides a strong foundation for pursuing professional legal qualifications in both England and France.
Reputation (Employability Rankings)
University of Essex is well-regarded for law, consistently achieving high student satisfaction and strong employability outcomes. Its international law programs are recognized for preparing graduates for global legal careers.
At Essex, studying law isn’t just about lectures and textbooks — you’ll gain hands-on experience that prepares you for a real legal career. From day one, you’ll have opportunities to work on real cases in the Essex Law Clinic, take part in moots, negotiation exercises, and use professional legal research tools. You’ll also get access to top-notch library resources, group projects, and even international exposure, so you can see law in action across two countries. Here’s how your practical learning comes to life:
Law Clinic Experience:
Volunteer in the Essex Law Clinic, helping real clients with housing, employment, family, or immigration cases.
Conduct legal research, draft advice letters, and interview clients under the guidance of practicing solicitors.
Internships & Placements:
Take part in internships in the UK or France, gaining hands-on experience and building an international legal network.
The program supports placements in partner institutions in France during your third year.
Mooting & Competitions:
Participate in moot courts, client interviewing, and negotiation competitions to sharpen advocacy and problem-solving skills.
Engage in small-group tutorials and peer mentoring to discuss real legal problems and refine your arguments.
Legal Research & Libraries:
Learn to use industry-standard tools like Westlaw and Lexis Plus, and access online legal databases like HeinOnline.
Benefit from the Albert Sloman Library with dedicated law study spaces, group rooms, and expert support for research and legal writing.
International & Bilingual Exposure:
Spend part of your final year studying in France, getting a real feel for the French legal system and practicing your language skills.
Join the dual-degree student association to network, attend events, and connect with fellow students on the program.
Graduating from this dual-degree puts you in a unique position to work across both English and French legal systems. You could become a solicitor or barrister in the UK, an avocat or legal professional in France, work as in-house counsel for international firms, or take on policy and advisory roles in NGOs. With Essex’s strong career support and global reputation, you’re not just learning the law — you’re building the foundation for an international legal career.
Here’s what that could look like in practice:
University Services Supporting You: From your first day, the Essex Careers Service will be there to help — offering one-on-one career coaching, CV and interview preparation, and guidance on internships, vacation schemes, and graduate roles.
Employment Stats & Graduate Outcomes: A large proportion of Essex graduates move into work or further study within 15 months of graduating, giving you strong confidence in your career prospects.
University–Industry Partnerships: Essex Law School gives you hands-on experience through the Essex Law Clinic, the Business Law Clinic, and the Human Rights Centre Clinic, helping you gain practical skills and professional networks.
Long-term Accreditation Value: This degree is a qualifying law degree in England, meaning you can continue toward professional legal training in the UK.
Graduation Outcomes: Essex law graduates go on to a variety of roles — from solicitors and barristers to positions in public service, policy, human rights, and global organizations.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing this program, you have strong options to continue your studies:
You could pursue a Master’s (M1 / Maîtrise) in France at a partner university, preparing for French legal qualifications like the CAPA to become an avocat.
Alternatively, you could stay in the UK or elsewhere for a specialist LLM, for example in human rights, commercial law, or international trade — using your bilingual and comparative-law skills to stand out in a competitive field.



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