LL.B. Law with History

Program Overview

Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) in the United Kingdom offers a comprehensive LL.B. (Hons) Law with History degree, providing a unique interdisciplinary approach that combines rigorous legal education with a deep exploration of historical contexts. This program is specifically designed to equip students with a critical understanding of how legal systems have evolved over time and the historical influences that shape contemporary law. As a Qualifying Law Degree, it satisfies the academic component requirements for those pursuing careers as solicitors or barristers, while simultaneously developing a strong foundation in historical research and analysis. This innovative course is crafted to produce dynamic and adaptable graduates who possess both theoretical legal knowledge and a nuanced historical perspective.

Curriculum: The LL.B. Law with History curriculum at CCCU integrates core legal modules with in-depth studies in history, ensuring a well-rounded and intellectually stimulating experience. Students will engage with the essential Foundations of Legal Knowledge (FLK), which typically include Public Law (Constitutional Law, Administrative Law, and Human Rights), Law of the European Union, Criminal Law, Obligations (Contract, Restitution, and Tort), Property Law, Equity and the Law of Trusts, 1 and the English Legal System. Alongside these, the history component allows students to explore diverse historical periods and themes, ranging from ancient civilisations to the Cold War, and can be tailored to specific interests like medieval European history or modern British and American history. Learning is fostered through a combination of lectures, seminars, and practical workshops, encouraging critical thinking, legal research, historical analysis, and effective communication. The curriculum also provides opportunities for practical legal experience, such as participation in the university's in-house Mediation Clinic.  

Research Focus: The LL.B. Law with History program benefits from the expertise of academic staff from both the School of Law, Policing, and Social Sciences and the School of Humanities and Educational Studies. Many of these faculty members are active researchers in their respective fields, ensuring that teaching is informed by current scholarship and debates. Research interests within the Law School may include areas such as Public International Law, Human Rights Law, and the evolution of criminal law, while the History department boasts specialists in areas like medieval European history, early modern British and Atlantic history, and modern Irish and British history. This rich research environment encourages students to engage with complex historical and legal questions and to develop their own research capabilities.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a significant aspect of the LL.B. Law with History program at CCCU, designed to enhance graduate employability through practical experience and professional networking. The teaching team includes experienced legal practitioners (solicitors and barristers) who bring real-world insights into the classroom. Students have unique opportunities for practical justice involvement, such as shadowing local judges and participating in live mediations at the university's in-house Mediation Clinic. The university also maintains strong links with local law firms, Citizens Advice, and local courts, which can provide further opportunities for gaining hands-on experience, such as acting as a Community Legal Companion for unrepresented parties. While direct 'History' industry placements may be less formal, the program's emphasis on critical analysis, research, and communication skills is highly valued across a range of sectors.

Global Perspective: The LL.B. Law with History program at Canterbury Christ Church University inherently fosters a global perspective by examining how legal systems and historical events are interconnected across different cultures and jurisdictions. The study of Law of the European Union provides insights into supranational legal frameworks, while the History modules can delve into global historical trends, international conflicts, and the development of societies worldwide. The diverse backgrounds of academic staff contribute to a rich learning environment that encourages discussions on comparative law and history, exploring how different legal traditions have emerged from specific historical contexts. While international field trips may vary, the program aims to prepare students for careers in an increasingly interconnected world where understanding global legal and historical dynamics is crucial.