LL.B. Law with Politics

Program Overview

Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) in the United Kingdom offers an LL.B. Law with Politics program, providing students with a comprehensive and critical understanding of legal principles alongside a nuanced appreciation of political systems and theories. This combined honours degree is designed for those who wish to explore the interconnected nature of law and politics, recognizing that legal frameworks often arise from and shape political landscapes. The program delivers the foundational legal knowledge required to progress towards professional legal qualifications while simultaneously equipping students with strong analytical skills to understand, evaluate, and engage with contemporary political issues.

Curriculum: The LL.B. Law with Politics curriculum at CCCU is structured to provide students with a robust grounding in core legal subjects alongside essential political studies. The law component includes all the Foundation of Legal Knowledge Modules required by the Bar Standards Board, making it a qualifying law degree for those aspiring to become barristers, and it also provides a strong foundation for students considering the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE). Alongside these core legal modules (such as Contract Law, Criminal Law, Public Law, European Law, etc.), students will delve into political topics such as key political thinkers and British politics. The teaching methodology emphasizes a blend of theoretical learning and practical skill development through lectures, seminars, workshops, mooting, negotiations, and role-plays. Students also have access to specialist facilities, including the university's Mediation Clinic, which provides opportunities for real-life dispute resolution experience.

Research Focus: The LL.B. Law with Politics program at Canterbury Christ Church University is taught by a team of experienced academics and practitioners, including solicitors, barristers, and international lawyers, who are actively engaged in research. The School of Law, Policing, and Social Sciences houses a vibrant research community. Research interests within the Law department cover a wide range of areas, contributing to both theoretical legal scholarship and applied legal understanding. Similarly, the Politics and International Relations department's research explores contemporary issues such as applied political theory, security studies, constitutional and territorial politics, and global sustainability. This strong research focus ensures that the curriculum is informed by current academic debates and practical developments in both legal and political spheres, allowing students to engage with cutting-edge issues.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a significant aspect of the LL.B. Law with Politics program at CCCU, designed to enhance graduate employability and provide practical exposure. The university has established strong links with the local legal community, including Citizens Advice and local courts. This allows students to gain valuable hands-on experience, such as shadowing a local judge or acting as a Community Legal Companion for unrepresented parties in court. The Mediation Clinic provides further opportunities for students to experience real-life disputes and acquire professional skills in alternative dispute resolution. The program is designed in consultation with senior managers and experienced practitioners, ensuring that the curriculum develops skills highly valued by employers, such as written and verbal communication, initiative, time management, and teamwork. Furthermore, as a student or alumnus, there may be opportunities for discounts on SQE preparation courses with providers like BARBRI Global.

Global Perspective: The LL.B. Law with Politics program at Canterbury Christ Church University inherently incorporates a global perspective through its exploration of European Law and international legal and political concepts. Modules on international relations and European Union law ensure students understand the broader global legal landscape and how political decisions at an international level impact national legal systems. The diverse backgrounds of the academic staff, many of whom have international experience, enrich the curriculum with insights into comparative legal systems and global political dynamics. Opportunities for study visits to international courts and institutions of the EU (such as the European Court of Justice or the European Parliament) further broaden students' understanding of international law and global governance, preparing them for careers in an increasingly interconnected world.