LLB (Hons) Law with Politics (International or Placement Year)

Keele University offers an LLB (Hons) Law with Politics program, which can be undertaken with an international study year or a placement year, providing students with valuable opportunities for global experience or practical work experience. This interdisciplinary program combines the study of law and politics, enabling students to explore the connections between legal principles and political theories. The curriculum covers foundational legal subjects such as contract law, criminal law, and public law alongside political theory and analysis of global political systems. Students have the flexibility to tailor their degree by choosing modules that align with their interests in areas such as human rights, international relations, or comparative politics. The option to study abroad or gain professional experience through a placement year enhances students' skills and employability in an increasingly interconnected world.

1. Comprehensive Curriculum: The LLB (Hons) Law with Politics program at Keele University offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates legal studies with political science. Students gain a deep understanding of legal principles and theories while exploring political ideologies and governance structures. The program covers a wide range of topics, including contract law, criminal law, constitutional law, political theory, international relations, and comparative politics. This breadth of knowledge equips students with a robust foundation in both disciplines, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills essential for navigating complex legal and political landscapes.

2. International Study Year Option: One unique aspect of this program is the opportunity for students to undertake an international study year. This allows students to broaden their perspectives by studying abroad at one of Keele's partner universities worldwide. During the international study year, students can immerse themselves in different legal systems and political cultures, gaining firsthand experience of global issues and comparative approaches to law and politics. This international exposure enhances students' intercultural competence and prepares them for careers with international dimensions.

3. Placement Year for Professional Experience: Alternatively, students have the option to undertake a placement year, gaining valuable professional experience in a legal or political setting. This hands-on experience enables students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, develop practical skills, and build professional networks. Students may secure placements in law firms, government agencies, non-profit organizations, or international institutions, enhancing their employability and paving the way for future career opportunities.

4. Flexibility and Specialization: The LLB (Hons) Law with Politics program offers flexibility for students to tailor their studies according to their interests and career goals. Students can choose from a variety of elective modules, allowing them to specialize in areas such as human rights law, environmental law, European Union law, or political economy. This flexibility enables students to pursue specific avenues within the broad fields of law and politics, preparing them for specialized roles in their chosen areas of expertise.

5. Enhanced Employability and Global Perspective: Completing the LLB (Hons) Law with Politics program with an international study year or placement year significantly enhances students' employability and global perspective. Graduates gain a competitive edge in the job market with practical experience and an international outlook. They develop transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability, which are highly valued by employers in diverse sectors including law, government, diplomacy, international organizations, business, and academia.

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.

Graduating with an LLB (Hons) Law with Politics from Keele University, especially with the option of an international study year or placement year, opens up a multitude of career opportunities in various sectors. The interdisciplinary nature of the program, coupled with practical experience or global exposure, equips graduates with a diverse skill set highly sought after by employers.  

1. Legal Practice: Many graduates choose to pursue careers in legal practice, working as solicitors or barristers in law firms or chambers. With their comprehensive understanding of both law and politics, graduates are well-equipped to handle a wide range of legal cases, from commercial law to human rights law. The practical skills developed during the program, along with the theoretical knowledge gained, prepare graduates for the rigors of legal practice.

2. Government and Public Service: Graduates may opt for careers in government or public service, leveraging their understanding of political systems and legal frameworks. They may work as legal advisors, policy analysts, or civil servants, contributing their expertise to the development and implementation of laws and policies. The option of an international study year further enhances graduates' understanding of global issues, making them valuable assets in government roles with international dimensions.

3. International Organizations and Diplomacy: The international perspective gained through an international study year can lead graduates to pursue careers in international organizations or diplomacy. They may work for entities such as the United Nations, the European Union, or diplomatic missions, engaging in diplomatic negotiations, treaty drafting, or international law enforcement. Their cross-cultural understanding and legal acumen are essential in navigating complex global challenges.

4. Non-Profit and Advocacy Organizations: Graduates may choose to work for non-profit organizations or advocacy groups, advocating for social justice causes, human rights, or environmental issues. The practical experience gained through a placement year can be particularly beneficial in this sector, as graduates apply their legal and political knowledge to address real-world issues. They may work as legal advisors, policy advocates, or campaign managers, effecting positive change in society.

5. Journalism and Media: Some graduates may pursue careers in journalism or media, utilizing their expertise in law and politics to inform and educate the public. They may work as legal journalists, political correspondents, or analysts for newspapers, magazines, television, or online platforms. The critical thinking and communication skills honed during the program enable graduates to provide insightful analysis of legal and political developments to diverse audiences.

6. Further Education and Research: For those interested in academia and research, pursuing further education is a viable option. Graduates may undertake postgraduate studies such as Master of Laws (LLM) or Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in law, politics, or related fields. They can delve deeper into specific areas of interest, contribute to academic discourse through research publications, and pursue careers as lecturers or researchers in universities or research institutions.