MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
LLB (Hons) Law with American Studies (with a study abroad year)
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The LLB (Hons) Law with American Studies (with a study abroad year) at the University of Sussex offers a distinctive and interdisciplinary educational experience, combining a qualifying law degree with in-depth exploration of the history, politics, and culture of the United States. This innovative program is ideal for students who are passionate about law and fascinated by American society and its global influence. Structured over four years, the degree not only provides a comprehensive understanding of English law but also offers the invaluable opportunity to spend a year studying at a partner university in the United States. This unique blend of legal education and American studies positions graduates for dynamic careers in international law, public policy, diplomacy, and more.
Curriculum: The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to ensure students gain the academic and practical competencies needed to pursue a legal career while developing expertise in American studies. Core law modules include Contract Law, Criminal Law, Tort Law, Constitutional and Administrative Law, Land Law, EU Law, and Equity and Trusts—essential for qualifying as a solicitor or barrister in England and Wales. In parallel, students undertake American Studies modules covering areas such as U.S. politics, civil rights, race and gender studies, and American history. The third year of study abroad at a prestigious American university enriches the academic journey, allowing students to experience the U.S. legal and political systems firsthand while enhancing their cultural literacy and global perspective.
Research Focus: The University of Sussex is globally recognized for its groundbreaking research in both law and American studies. Sussex Law School leads research in areas such as human rights, international law, and socio-legal studies, while the American Studies program is one of the oldest and most respected in the UK, noted for its work on race, identity, and transatlantic relations. Students benefit from a research-led teaching environment, gaining insights into critical global issues and contributing to scholarly debates. Opportunities to participate in legal research projects, academic conferences, and American studies symposiums further enhance the academic depth of the program.
Industry Engagement: Sussex has strong ties with the legal profession, public sector, NGOs, and international organizations, providing students with a range of career development opportunities. Law students benefit from internships, legal clinics, networking events, and guest lectures delivered by top practitioners and policymakers. The American Studies department also connects students with research centers, cultural institutions, and think tanks. The study abroad year includes access to internships and professional experiences in the U.S., offering practical insights into the American legal and political landscape, and building a network of international contacts that can be leveraged for future career prospects.
Global Perspective: A strong global outlook is at the heart of the LLB (Hons) Law with American Studies program. The curriculum encourages students to view legal and political issues through an international lens, comparing British and American legal frameworks and cultural systems. The study abroad year provides immersion in a new educational and cultural environment, fostering adaptability, cross-cultural communication skills, and a broader understanding of global legal and political challenges. Graduates of this program are uniquely prepared for careers in international law, diplomacy, multinational corporations, government service, and NGOs, where expertise in both British and American contexts is a significant asset.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 19050
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
Graduating with an LLB (Hons) Law with American Studies (with a study abroad year) from the University of Sussex opens a wide range of exciting career opportunities both in the UK and internationally. This unique degree equips students with a solid legal foundation, an in-depth understanding of American politics and culture, and valuable global experience gained through studying abroad. These attributes make Sussex graduates highly competitive across a variety of sectors.
Legal Practice (Solicitor or Barrister): Graduates are fully prepared to pursue professional legal training as solicitors or barristers. The qualifying law modules covered in the program meet the academic requirements needed for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) or Bar Practice Course (BPC). With added expertise in American legal and political systems, graduates can specialize in international law, comparative law, or cross-border legal practice, working with multinational law firms and international organizations.
International Law and Human Rights: The global perspective and American studies expertise make Sussex graduates ideal candidates for careers in international law and human rights organizations. Roles at institutions like the United Nations, Amnesty International, and various global NGOs often value candidates who understand both British and American legal frameworks and can navigate complex international legal issues.
Diplomacy and Foreign Service: Combining legal expertise with knowledge of American political and cultural systems prepares graduates for roles in diplomacy, international relations, and foreign service. Graduates often pursue careers as diplomats, policy advisors, or international development officers in government agencies or intergovernmental organizations.
Public Policy and Government Roles: The intersection of law and American studies opens opportunities in public policy, legislative advising, and political analysis. Graduates are well-suited for careers within government departments, think tanks, and non-profit organizations focusing on transatlantic relations, human rights, civil liberties, and social justice initiatives.
Corporate and In-House Legal Roles: Graduates can also pursue careers in corporate law, working for multinational companies as legal advisors, compliance officers, or corporate governance specialists. Their understanding of both UK and U.S. regulatory environments makes them valuable assets for corporations operating across borders.
Media, Journalism, and Publishing: Legal training combined with expertise in American culture and society positions graduates for careers in media, journalism, and publishing. They can work as legal correspondents, political analysts, editors, or writers focusing on legal affairs, transatlantic relations, or international issues.
Academia and Research: Students with a passion for research can pursue postgraduate studies such as an LLM, MA, or PhD in law, American studies, or international relations. Academic careers in universities, research institutes, or policy think tanks offer opportunities to shape scholarly and public debates on global legal and political challenges.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and International Agencies: NGOs focused on human rights, environmental law, international development, and humanitarian aid actively seek graduates who can analyze and interpret laws across jurisdictions. Sussex’s interdisciplinary training prepares students to advocate for change and influence policy on a global scale.
Legal Consultancy and Arbitration: With strong critical thinking, negotiation, and cross-cultural communication skills, graduates are well-suited to careers in international arbitration, legal consultancy, and dispute resolution. These roles often involve resolving complex legal issues between parties from different legal traditions.
