Law with International Relations LLB (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Sussex

Program Overview

The Law with International Relations LLB at Sussex is a unique program that combines the study of law with the dynamics of global politics. It’s perfect for students who want to understand how legal systems work while exploring international affairs, diplomacy, and global policy.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Building a Strong Foundation
In your first year, you’ll get a solid grounding in both law and international relations. You’ll study modules like Contract Law, learning how agreements are formed and enforced; Public Law, exploring the relationship between citizens and the state; and Foundations of International Relations, where you’ll get introduced to key global concepts and theories. This year is all about giving you the tools to think critically and approach complex issues from multiple perspectives.

Year 2: Diving Deeper
In the second year, you’ll expand your knowledge and begin to see how law and international relations intersect. Modules such as Criminal Law give you insight into the justice system, European Union Law examines legal frameworks across Europe, and International Political Economy looks at how politics and economics interact globally. You’ll start to apply what you’ve learned in more analytical and practical ways, preparing for advanced study.

Year 3: Specialization and Real-World Experience
In your final year, you’ll focus on areas that interest you most and get hands-on experience. International Human Rights Law explores legal protections worldwide, a Dissertation lets you research a topic you’re passionate about, and the Law Clinic provides practical experience giving legal advice under supervision. By the end of this year, you’ll be ready to step confidently into professional roles or further study.

Focus Areas

International Law, Human Rights, Global Governance, Legal Practice, Political Economy

Learning Outcomes

Critical Thinking, Legal Research, International Legal Analysis, Professional Legal Skills, Ethical Judgment

Professional Alignment

This degree covers the academic requirements for Bar training (with standard pass requirements) and can lead to qualification as a solicitor or barrister. Graduates wanting to become solicitors will also need to complete the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE).

Reputation

Sussex is widely recognized for its research excellence and supportive teaching environment. Its Law School offers strong professional links, and the International Relations department is one of the largest dedicated departments in the world, giving you access to a broad network of expertise.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Sussex, studying Law with International Relations isn’t just about lectures and textbooks — it’s about getting real-world experience. From day one, you’ll have opportunities to practice your skills, work with actual cases, and engage with global issues, all while using the university’s excellent facilities and resources. This hands-on approach helps you build confidence, develop professional skills, and see how the theory you learn applies in real life:

Sussex Law Clinics: Work on real cases in areas like family, housing, employment, migration, and sports law, giving free legal advice under supervision.
Professional Skills: Law in Action Module: Tackle law-related employer briefs, developing teamwork, leadership, and project management skills.
Global Work Experience Module: Take a placement in your third year to gain professional experience directly relevant to your degree.
Mooting Room: Practice legal arguments in a simulated courtroom in the Freeman Centre, preparing for competitions and honing advocacy skills.
Law Library & Digital Resources: Access extensive print and online resources, including Lawtel, LexisNexis, and Westlaw, for research and study.
Employer Advisory Board: Connect with industry experts and potential employers who contribute to your learning and career development.
Outreach & Widening Participation Programs: Engage in programs aimed at pre-university students, giving you opportunities to lead, mentor, and share knowledge.

These experiences make sure you graduate not only with strong academic knowledge but also with the practical skills, professional confidence, and global perspective that employers value.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from Sussex’s Law with International Relations LLB leave ready to step into a range of exciting and meaningful careers. Combining legal expertise with a global perspective, students often move into roles such as a solicitor or barrister, diplomat, human rights advocate, or policy advisor. The skills you develop — from legal reasoning to understanding international systems — make you highly adaptable and in demand across sectors:

Sussex Law Clinics: Gain hands-on experience by working on real cases, providing free legal advice, and developing practical skills that employers value.
Professional Skills: Law in Action Module: Work on employer briefs, building teamwork, leadership, and project management skills essential for your future career.
Global Work Experience Module: Take a placement in a relevant professional setting, putting theory into practice and boosting employability.
Employer Advisory Board & Industry Partnerships: Connect with top employers and legal professionals who help shape your learning and offer networking opportunities.
BARBRI Partnership: Access workshops and discounted fees, giving a head start for those aiming to qualify as solicitors.

With Sussex’s combination of practical experiences, professional support, and global outlook, graduates leave with confidence, strong skills, and excellent career prospects.

Further Academic Progression:
After your LLB, you can continue your studies to specialize further, such as:

International Human Rights Law LLM – deepen your understanding of global human rights law.
International Law LLM – explore trade, environmental, and humanitarian law on an advanced level.
Criminal Law and Criminal Justice LLM – focus on advanced criminal law concepts and justice systems.
Law (Graduate Entry) LLB – a fast-track law degree for graduates from other disciplines.

These pathways give you the chance to specialize further, enhance your skills, and open doors to higher-level legal and international relations careers.