LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology (International Year)

The LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology (International Year) program at Keele University is a four-year undergraduate degree that offers a blend of legal education and criminological studies. This program stands out due to its integrated international year, allowing students to study abroad for a year at one of Keele's partner institutions worldwide. The course is designed to provide a strong foundation in legal principles alongside a critical examination of criminology. Students gain insight into various areas of law and explore topics such as criminal law, human rights, and criminological theories. This integrated approach prepares students for diverse career paths in law enforcement, criminal justice, legal practice, or further academic study.

1. Comprehensive Legal Education: The LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology (International Year) program at Keele University delivers a comprehensive legal education that covers essential aspects of English law, including contract law, tort law, constitutional law, and criminal law. Students delve into the intricacies of legal systems, learning to apply legal principles to real-world scenarios. The program emphasizes legal research, problem-solving skills, and the ability to analyze complex legal issues critically.

2. Integration of Criminological Studies: In addition to legal education, this program incorporates criminology—a social science that examines crime, criminal behavior, and societal responses. Students explore criminological theories, causes of crime, and the workings of the criminal justice system. This interdisciplinary approach equips students with a well-rounded understanding of law and its societal implications.

3. International Year Experience: One of the distinctive features of this program is the international year, allowing students to study abroad for an academic year. This experience enhances cultural awareness, global perspectives, and adaptability. Students can choose from a range of partner institutions worldwide, gaining exposure to different legal systems and criminological practices.

4. Focus on Skills Development: Throughout the program, there is a strong emphasis on developing key skills essential for legal and criminological professions. Students enhance their communication skills, critical thinking abilities, and legal writing techniques. Practical exercises, moot court competitions, and interactive seminars provide opportunities for skills application and development.

5. Career Opportunities and Further Study: Upon completion of the LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology (International Year) program, graduates are well-prepared for various career paths in law, criminal justice, policy-making, or related fields. The program also serves as a solid foundation for those considering postgraduate studies in law, criminology, or related disciplines. Graduates possess a diverse skill set and a deep understanding of legal and criminological issues, making them valuable assets in today's competitive job market.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education or equivalent with a minimum overall average of 60% or above.  

English Language Proficiency: 

• IELTS: Overall score of 6.5, with no sub-score below 6.0.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 87, with a minimum score of 21 in each section.
• PTE Academic: Overall score of 64, with no sub-score below 58.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Keele University offers a range of scholarships and financial support options to attract and assist international students in pursuing their studies. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and provide financial assistance to deserving students.

International Excellence Scholarship: The International Excellence Scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international undergraduate students. The scholarship provides a tuition fee discount of up to £2,500 per year for the duration of the undergraduate program. Eligibility is based on academic merit and applicants are automatically considered when they submit their application for admission.

Keele International Student Scholarship: The Keele International Student Scholarship is available to international students enrolling in a postgraduate taught master's degree program. The scholarship provides a tuition fee discount of up to £3,000. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, and applicants are automatically considered when they apply for their chosen postgraduate program.

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme: Keele University participates in the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme, which is funded by the UK government. The scheme provides full tuition fees, airfare, and living expenses for students from developing Commonwealth countries. The scholarship is available for selected master's degree programs in specific fields of study.

Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is awarded to international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and contribute to the global community. The scholarship provides a tuition fee discount of up to £5,000 for the first year of study. Eligibility is based on academic merit, and applicants are automatically considered when they apply for an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate program.

Country-Specific Scholarships: Keele University also offers scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships may vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts. Examples include the Keele Nigeria Scholarship and the Keele ASEAN Scholarships, which provide financial support to students from Nigeria and Southeast Asia, respectively.

It's important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria may vary each year.

Graduates of the LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology (International Year) program at Keele University possess a unique blend of legal expertise and criminological understanding, making them well-equipped for diverse career paths within the legal and criminal justice sectors.

1. Legal Practice: Many graduates pursue careers as solicitors or barristers after completing further professional training such as the Legal Practice Course (LPC) or Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC). With a solid foundation in law and the analytical skills gained from criminological studies, graduates are prepared for the demands of legal practice.

2. Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice: The knowledge of criminal behavior and the workings of the criminal justice system acquired during the LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology program prepares graduates for roles within law enforcement agencies, probation services, or the judiciary. Graduates may work as police officers, probation officers, or court clerks, applying their legal and criminological knowledge to contribute effectively to crime prevention and justice administration.

3. Policy and Government: Understanding the intricacies of law and criminology equips graduates for careers in policy-making and governmental roles. Graduates may work in government departments, NGOs, or advocacy organizations, influencing policies related to criminal justice, human rights, or social welfare.

4. Legal Consultancy and Compliance: The ability to analyze legal issues and assess compliance requirements makes LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology graduates valuable assets in legal consultancy firms and corporate compliance departments. They provide expert advice on legal matters, conduct risk assessments, and ensure organizational compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

5. Further Academic Pursuits: Some graduates choose to pursue postgraduate studies in law, criminology, or related disciplines to specialize further in specific areas of interest. Advanced degrees can lead to academic or research positions, contributing to the advancement of legal and criminological knowledge.