Undergraduate and Postgraduate Law Courses

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1 App -- UniBox Download our free app for a VIP experience. You can access exclusive videos, course information and book your place at an Open Day. Plus it s the easiest way to keep up with what s happening at the University of South Wales. Available for Apple and Android devices. Undergraduate and Postgraduate Law Courses School of Law, Accounting and Finance Call: (UK) Call: +44 (0) (Overseas) Visit: Information in this brochure is correct at the time of print, but may be subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, call or check our website: As part of its commitment to the Welsh language, the University provides information through the medium of Welsh. To find out more, visit or cymraeg@decymru.ac.uk. Fel rhan o i ymrwymiad at yr iaith Gymraeg y mae r Brifysgol yn darparu gwybodaeth drwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg. I wybod mwy, ewch i neu e-bostiwch cymraeg@decymru.ac.uk. Some images on page 33 provided by Thinkstock. Produced by the s Marketing & Student Recruitment department. Design: USW Print & Design The is a registered charity. Registration No Aida Issazadeh LLB (Hons) Law (Major) graduate

2 Contents Welcome to Law at the Welcome 3 Why Study Law at the? 4 Employability 6 Routes into Law 8 LLB (Hons) Legal Practice 10 LLB (Hons) Law 12 LLB (Hons) Law (Major) 15 LLB (Hons) Law Accelerated Route 16 Foundation Degree in Paralegal Studies 19 Progressing to the Profession 20 Legal Practice Course (LPC) 23 Postgraduate Taught Courses 27 Welsh Language 28 Research 28 Legal and Financial Advice Clinic 30 A Great Student Experience 32 Visit Us 35 Fees 35 How to Apply 35 The law plays an important role in the successful operation of business and society. Laws regulate and provide codes for human behaviour, and give shape to governmental structures and commercial enterprises. At the we are proud of our excellent teaching and research in law. As part of our commitment to providing an excellent student experience, you will practise your legal skills in our state-of-the-art facilities, which include a moot courtroom and interview suites equipped with the latest technology. You will also have an opportunity to put your knowledge into practice through our specialist Legal and Financial Advice Clinic which is dedicated to advising members of the public and businesses. Staff are research-active, ensuring you obtain a legal education that reflects the needs of the ever-changing legal landscape. Our law graduates leave us confident, knowledgeable, articulate and with a range of transferable skills suitable for a career in law, education, management, the public sector and many others. I have always had a passion for law. The University has a great reputation for their level of teaching and facilities, and I received a great amount of support from my lecturers. The quality of teaching and support is amazing. The course content is delivered so everyone can understand. There are extra materials and seminars for students who would like to go that one step further and develop a broader knowledge. We pride ourselves on our flexible and innovative portfolio of courses, from foundation degrees and qualifying law degrees to Masters qualifications. We also offer an innovative LLB (Legal Practice) course, which combines the requirements of an LLB with the LPC in just three years instead of the usual four years great for students who want a direct route to becoming a trainee solicitor, and removes the need to source further funding for the LPC. We run a series of open events throughout the year, which will give you the opportunity to come and see for yourselves what we have to offer. Visit to book your place today. You should take advantage of all opportunities provided by the University such as developing extra business and personal skills. I have gained a lot of valuable skills and experiences. I would definitely recommend studying at the University of South Wales. I don t think any student could want more. Front cover image -- Aida Issazadeh, LLB (Hons) Law (Major) graduate

3 Why Study Law at the? Widely recognised for its excellent teaching, facilities and professional accreditations, the School of Law, Accounting and Finance offers an academically challenging environment for those wishing to excel in their career. Law is a fascinating subject that affects every aspect of our lives. From high-profile divorce cases and murder trials to fights for human rights, legal issues feature prominently in the news on a daily basis. If you have an analytical mind, enjoy the challenge of solving problems and want to study a discipline that is constantly evolving and developing, then law could be for you. Gain Practical Legal Experience Alongside your studies, you ll have the opportunity to become a Student Clinic Volunteer working with our Legal and Financial Advice Clinic in Cardiff. The Clinic is a free, community-based service run by the University for members of the public and businesses seeking face-to-face legal and financial advice. As a Student Clinic Volunteer, you ll get the chance to put your knowledge into practice by working under the supervision of practising solicitors and barristers. Following initial on-the-job training, you ll interview and assess clients, and assist qualified solicitors in advising clients in particular areas of law. The Clinic will allow you to engage directly with the legal profession, and work with a number of reputable law firms. You will gain experience in advising clients and delivering first-class client care, enabling you to develop practical skills that are highly valued by employers. For more information about the Legal and Financial Advice Clinic, see page 30 or visit: A Broad Portfolio We offer a full range of undergraduate, taught postgraduate and professional courses in law. Our courses are designed to equip students with the intellectual training and professional skills to succeed in today s competitive employment market. All our LLB degrees are qualifying law degrees for the purpose of the Solicitors Regulation Authority and the Bar Council, which means it meets the requirements for the academic stage of your training. Graduates can continue their studies by taking either of the professional courses the Legal Practice Course if they want to be a solicitor, or the Bar Vocational Course if they want to be a barrister. At the, law can be studied as a single degree subject or combined with other subjects such as Criminology or Professional Welsh. Trainee Solicitor in Just Three Years Our innovative LLB (Hons) Legal Practice degree integrates the academic and vocational stages of legal training an LLB degree and the Legal Practice Course (LPC). This means you can graduate and enter the profession as a trainee solicitor in just three years, instead of the usual four years. Years one and two are taught at our Treforest Campus, Pontypridd. Your third year is taught at the Cardiff Campus. See page 10 for details. Two-year Accelerated Course Our two-year LLB (Hons) course has been designed for graduates of other disciplines, or those who have successfully completed an HND or one year of study at university. Whether you want to become a barrister, solicitor or study law for another reason, the University of South Wales is the only university in south Wales that offers the opportunity to achieve an LLB (Hons) degree through two years full-time study. Flexible Study Our courses can be studied part-time through daytime or evening study, or a combination of the two. The is the only institution in south Wales that offers a part-time LLB (Hons) option. You could also combine day and evening study, enabling you to develop a programme of study that fits your needs and circumstances. If your circumstances change, you have the opportunity to transfer to the full-time law degree course at various stages. Excellent Facilities At the, we are continually investing in our facilities to ensure you get the best possible learning experience. The School is based in the Grade II listed Tŷ Crawshay building on the University s Treforest Campus, Pontypridd, and offers facilities specifically designed for law students. Facilities include a mock moot courtroom with state-of-the-art technology. Here, you can hone your advocacy skills in a realistic environment and build confidence in a courtroom setting. Not only will you gain the knowledge, skills and values that employers want, but you will also use the latest technology and practitioner-standard databases to prepare for a successful career. Tŷ Crawshay also has two interview practice rooms. Here, you can practise your interview techniques in a mock police interview room and a meeting-style interview room. These rooms are linked to a central control room with recording equipment, which allows you to reflect on your performances. The interview rooms can also be linked to the courtroom via a live feed. Tŷ Crawshay, Treforest Campus, Pontypridd Atlantic House, Cardiff Campus Legal and Financial Advice Clinic Moot Courtroom, Treforest Campus, Pontypridd Recorded Lectures Lectures delivered as part of the LLB courses are video recorded by Panopto software, so you can watch or listen again anytime and anywhere for revision and clarification. This is supported by online materials and research through the University s virtual learning environment. Research-informed Teaching Legal research at the University is recognised nationally and internationally. Key research areas include family law, sexual and violent offences, pensions law, intellectual property law, and legal education. This expertise directly influences our teaching, ensuring it is current and relevant. There is more information on our research on page 28. Study Abroad As part of your degree, you may be able to study abroad for up to a year either in Europe, at our partner universities in the USA or Canada, or further afield. Studying abroad is a great boost to your CV you will get an international perspective on the legal profession, become more independent and confident, make new friends, and you might even pick up new language skills. What s more, it s not a gap year, so the time you spend overseas can count towards your degree. Even if you don t opt to study abroad, the attracts students from all over the globe. The experiences and practices they bring with them will give your studies added international insight. Student Law Society The School has lots to offer in addition to its academic programmes. We have a very active Student Law Society that organises a varied programme of social events, including Law Society Balls and trips abroad. The Society also co-ordinates mooting activities that help to develop practical legal skills, including research, interpretation and argument, and presentation. In mooting, two opposing students argue a case before a mock court. The School regularly enters teams in national mooting competitions. Progress to the LPC You can complete your legal education for practice as a solicitor without having to move to another institution. The Legal Practice Course (LPC) is the professional course that all would-be solicitors must complete. It is the vocational stage of training to be a solicitor and designed to be a bridge between academic study and training with a law firm. At the time of print (September 2014), University of South Wales LLB (Hons) graduates are offered a discount on the LPC course fee. The School maintains strong links with the legal profession and, as a result, there is a well-developed and highly successful work placement scheme on the LPC. See page 23 for more information. You can also study modules that will allow exemptions towards membership of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx). On completion of the appropriate modules, you can apply for exemption from Part 2 of CILEx, which will enable member status

4 Employability 93% of our law students are in employment or further study six months after graduation.* The has a long track record in the field of law, including the provision of courses, research and consultancy. Our law graduates can be found in a variety of successful legal roles locally, nationally and internationally. Pathway to Employability We are committed to delivering the highest quality legal education. We ve designed our courses in consultation with solicitors to meet the demands of today s legal profession and to give you the practical skills to become a highly employable lawyer. Our links with businesses in Wales, the UK and overseas mean that our teaching is informed by actual practice, and our modules are regularly updated to reflect real-life trends. The delivery of our modules is varied and innovative, ranging from the traditional large-group lecture to more clinical legal education and online simulations. We offer an excellent careers provision, including opportunities to meet prospective employers. Our Courses are Recognised All our LLB (Hons) degrees are recognised by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and the Bar Council as qualifying law degrees. As such, they give you exemption from the academic stage of professional training, provided that you pass certain foundation subjects. The academic stage of training is the first part of a twostage programme for qualifying as a solicitor or barrister. If you study the LLB (Hons) Law and wish to become a solicitor, you have the option of staying at the University for an extra year on a full-time basis, or two years on a part-time basis to complete the Legal Practice Course for entry to the solicitors profession. Alternatively, you may prefer the LLB (Hons) Legal Practice. The LLB (Hons) Legal Practice course backs up my view that we need to get students in a position where they have the necessary skills to get jobs within the legal profession on graduation. From an employer s perspective, it would be great to have access to students who have taken the extra responsibility on a course such as this, and have learned the requisite skills. Gain Work Experience You may have the opportunity to undertake work-based learning through a one-week work placement. We have extensive links with over 40 firms and legal departments of local authorities. Students participating in the placement scheme acquire valuable professional skills and business contacts, which can often lead to full-time employment. There are also opportunities to gain practical experience as a Student Clinic Volunteer through our Legal and Financial Advice Clinic. See page 30 for more information. Careers and Employability Service Entry to the legal and other professions remains intensely competitive. The School of Law, Accounting and Finance recognises the need to equip students with the knowledge, skills and motivation to succeed in such an environment. Through the University s Careers and Employability Service, you can take part in career workshops and employer talks that aim to improve your skills in CV writing, creative job-hunting, completing effective application forms, interview techniques and psychometric testing. They can also discuss in detail your CV, recognised training (training contract) applications, work experience, career networking opportunities or alternative career options. There is a dedicated Law Adviser who is available to give one-to-one guidance to all law students, and you will have access to a mock interview service as preparation for any career-related interview. You will also have access to the Careers Information Room, where you can research career areas, employers, further study, job vacancies, voluntary work, vacation work, work experience and work overseas. Grad Edge As a student, you can take part in the University s Grad Edge scheme. In addition to everything you learn and develop as part of your course, you will be encouraged to take part in extra activities to boost your employability. So whether you are interested in becoming a course representative, completing a work placement or attending our informal guest lecture series, you will find ways to enhance your employability and have fun at the same time. For more information on Grad Edge visit: My experiences at the University helped create the foundation on which to build a successful career in law. Adam Johnson, Eversheds LLP, Legal Practice Course graduate Paul Kerslake, Remortgage Manager, Conveyancing Direct *Graduate Destination Survey,

5 Routes into Law Whether you want to qualify as a solicitor or barrister, the University of South Wales offers different pathways that allow you to progress to the legal profession. For many, the first step involves undertaking an undergraduate degree in law, followed by the further study and training required to qualify as a solicitor or barrister. However, as illustrated in the diagram below, this is not the only route into the profession. Through a broad portfolio of courses, we offer you the opportunity to enter at various stages of the required academic and vocational training. The pathways available to you are dependent on your existing qualifications and your intended practice. For example, you may study our LLB (Hons) Legal Practice, which combines the academic and vocational stages of your training, making you exempt from the Legal Practice Course that is usually required to become a solicitor. Whichever your chosen pathway, the will provide you with a stimulating and challenging legal education in readiness for a career in law. Entry point: 300 UCAS points from a minimum of two A-levels or equivalent. Entry point: 160 UCAS points from a minimum of one A-level or equivalent. Entry point: An HND or 120 credits from a HE programme. Entry point: An undergraduate degree in a non-law subject. LLB (Hons) Legal Practice Length: 3 Years* See page 10 LLB (Hons) Law / LLB (Hons) Law (Major) Length: 3 Years* See pages 12 and 15 Foundation Degree in Paralegal Studies Length: 2 Years* See page 19 LLB (Hons) Law Accelerated Route Length: 2 Years* See page 16 LLB (Hons) Law Accelerated Route Length: 2 Years* See page 16 LLM Length: 1 Year* See page 27 LLB (Hons) Legal Practice Year 2 entry Length: 2 Years* See page 10 LLB (Hons) Law Year 2 entry Length: 2 Years* See page 12 Legal Practice Course** Length: 1 Year* See page 23 Legal Practice Course** Length: 1 Year* See page 23 Recognised Training (Training Contract) Legal Practice Course** Length: 1 Year* See page 23 Recognised Training (Training Contract) Recognised Training (Training Contract) Recognised Training (Training Contract) Recognised Training (Training Contract) Legal Practice Course** Length: 1 Year* See page 23 *Full-time course length. Please see individual course information for details of part-time study. **For a career as a barrister, graduates can also apply for the BPTC. Recognised Training (Training Contract)

6 Key Facts LLB (Hons) Legal Practice UCAS Code Y54M Course Length Full-time: 3 years Part-time: 4-6 years Location Years 1 and 2: Treforest Campus, Pontypridd Year 3: Cardiff Campus Atlantic House Entry Requirements 300 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of two A-level passes, eg, BBB at A-level. GCSE: Five at grade C or above, including Mathematics and English Language. This course integrates the academic and vocational stages of legal training an LLB degree and the Legal Practice Course. This means you ll be ready to go straight into a law firm as a trainee solicitor after just three years of study. This course has been designed in consultation with legal professionals and professional bodies, so it provides innovative teaching based on actual practice. You ll be equipped with the vocational skills needed to become a highly employable lawyer in an increasingly competitive environment. How you will Study For the first two years, you will study at our Treforest Campus, Pontypridd. You ll be taught through a combination of lectures, workshops and tutorials. Assessment includes formal examinations, self, peer and tutor assessment, written coursework, a learning portfolio, and problem-based exercises delivered in class. Your learning will be supported by excellent study facilities, including a moot courtroom modelled on those you will experience as a qualified practitioner. It s fully equipped with the latest digital video equipment, a legal practice library, and dedicated teaching and practice rooms. All activities are based on authentic scenarios and you can take part in moots or mock trials. Year One Contract and Problem-Solving Criminal Law and Human Rights Legal Skills, Sources and Systems Constitutional Law and Mooting Tort and Transactional Learning Year Two Law on Trial EU Law Land Law Property Law and Practice Solicitors Accounts Rules Wills and Administration of Estates Practical Legal Research and Drafting Year Three Equity and Trusts Clinic and Advanced Client Skills (including interviewing) Business Law and Practice Litigation Advocacy Three elective modules You will be introduced to legal rules and concepts from day one, along with their theoretical and practical contexts. In addition to specific knowledge of the law and its applications in the real world, you will gain a vast range of transferable skills, such as the ability to communicate effectively, retrieve and handle information competently, analyse and solve problems, and have the confidence to present logical, reasoned arguments. You will also get to practise your skills with real clients at our Legal and Financial Advice Clinic in Cardiff. This practical application of skills and knowledge in a real-life setting will ensure you will be well equipped to enter the legal profession. In your first year, you will cover some of the foundation subjects, including contract law and problem solving, tort law and simulated learning, criminal law and human rights, and constitutional law and mooting. In your second and third years, you will study a combination of foundation subjects and legal practice subjects, along with your choice of electives. Your third year will be delivered at our Cardiff Campus and, where possible, your legal knowledge and skills will be assessed in the Legal and Financial Advice Clinic. In your final year, teaching, learning and assessment will be at Atlantic House in Cardiff. Here, you can also put theory into practice at our Legal and Financial Advice Clinic, which is a free, face-to-face advice service open to the public and local businesses. Working under the supervision of practising solicitors and barristers, you ll provide legal advice and guidance for real-life problems. You ll be assessed on your interviewing, client care and advising skills, as well as how you apply your legal knowledge. Career Opportunities This course integrates the academic stage of legal education with the requirements of the Legal Practice Course, so graduates are eligible to enter into a period of recognised training (the new name for a training contract) with a firm of solicitors, without having to undertake a separate Legal Practice Course. While this LLB (Hons) Legal Practice programme satisfies the academic and vocational stages of training for the legal profession, a qualification in law can also be used as the basis for many other careers, including accountancy, management and advisory work. Moot Courtroom, Treforest Campus, Pontypridd Elective modules could include: Employment Law and Practice Family Law and Practice Personal Injury Law Advanced Property Law Advanced Business and Corporate Law Wills and the Elderly Client Legal and Financial Advice Clinic

7 Key Facts UCAS Code M100 Course Length Full-time: 3 years Part-time: 4-6 years Location Treforest Campus, Pontypridd Entry Requirements 300 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of two A-level passes, eg, BBB at A-level. GCSE: Five at grade C or above, including Mathematics and English Language. Year One Contract and Problem-Solving Criminal Law and Human Rights Legal Skills, Sources and Systems Constitutional Law and Mooting Tort and Transactional Learning Year Two Law on Trial EU Law Land Law Plus three optional modules Year Three Equity and Trusts Plus five optional modules LLB (Hons) Law This course has been designed to provide you with a balanced and stimulating legal education, plus the practical skills for future employment. It will give you excellent preparation for a career in law and a wide variety of other professions. In addition to developing specific knowledge of the law and its applications in the real world, you will gain a vast range of transferable skills such as the ability to communicate effectively, retrieve and handle information competently, analyse and solve problems, and have the confidence to present logical, reasoned arguments. This emphasis on the acquisition of skills means that our graduates are well equipped for the challenges of the workplace. This single Honours LLB award offers you the widest choice of optional modules and is recognised as a qualifying degree for professional purposes in the UK. A qualifying law degree satisfies the academic stage of training set by the professional bodies in law, and is the first part of a two-stage programme for qualifying as a solicitor or barrister. On completion of the appropriate modules, you can obtain exemption from Part 2 of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx), which will enable member status. Final year optional modules may include: Corporate Law and Governance, Commercial Law, Consumer Law, Early English Legal History, Family Law, Medical Law, European Human Rights Law, The Law of Criminal Evidence, Domestic Conveyancing, The Law of Testate and Intestate Succession, Criminology, Social Security Law and Policy, Legal Philosophy, Employment Law, Intellectual Property Law, Internet Law, Sports Law, Media Law, Immigration Law, Environmental Law, and Law and Technology. You may also choose to complete a dissertation. How you will Study You will be taught through a combination of lectures, workshops and tutorials, amounting to approximately 12 hours a week of formal teaching. Lectures serve as a basic introduction to subjects and are intended to provide the framework to enable you to carry out further in-depth study. You will also have tutorials, which take place in smaller groups to provide a forum for more detailed discussions and debates on assignments that you will have prepared in advance. In addition to these contact hours, you will be expected to undertake a substantial amount of private study. Assessment includes formal examinations, self, peer and tutor assessment, written coursework, a learning portfolio and problem-based exercises delivered in class. A number of part-time study options are available, providing an attractive alternative for anyone interested in the legal field. Study for the part-time degree is over a maximum six-year period. Career Opportunities To improve your career prospects, your studies will not only offer intellectual development, but also essential skills for the workplace. We actively encourage personal development and invite external speakers throughout the year. We have an active Student Law Society, with extracurricular activities that include mooting and debating in our new facilities students also take part in internal and national competitions. Many graduates use this degree as a first step towards becoming a solicitor or barrister, while others establish careers in financial services, management, education and public services, or progress to postgraduate study. All the staff have an open door policy they are very approachable and I feel comfortable asking them about any issues I have. Daniel Woods, LLB (Hons) Law student

8 The course is aimed at developing employability and key skills. Knowing how to communicate properly is vital to almost all jobs and it s being instilled in us from the beginning! Carys James, LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology student Key Facts UCAS Code Law with Criminology: M1M9 Law with Professional Welsh: M1Q5 Course Length Full-time: 3 years Part-time: 4-6 years Location Treforest Campus, Pontypridd Entry Requirements 300 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of two A-level passes, eg, BBB at A-level. GCSE: Five at grade C or above, including Mathematics and English Language. Year One Legal Skills, Sources and Systems Constitutional Law and Mooting Criminal Law and Human Rights Two modules from your Minor subject Year Two Law on Trial Contract and Problem-Solving Tort and Transactional Learning Land Law Two modules from your Minor subject Year Three EU Law Equity and Trusts Two optional Law modules Two modules from your Minor subject LLB (Hons) Law (Major) The difference between this and our LLB (Hons) Law on page 12 is that you can study another subject alongside law. This means you can complement your legal skills with study in a related area, such as criminology. Studying law with another subject in this way will improve your knowledge and employability. This course is a qualifying law degree for the purpose of the Solicitors Regulation Authority and the Bar Council, which means it meets the requirements for the academic stage of your training. Graduates can continue their studies by taking either of the professional courses the Legal Practice Course if they want to be a solicitor, or the Bar Vocational Course if they want to be a barrister. Many students choose the Major route as it provides greater flexibility and choice, while still allowing you to obtain a qualifying law degree for professional purposes. Approximately two thirds of your time will be devoted to studying law and one-third to studying your Minor subject. Possible Combinations include: LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology LLB (Hons) Law with Professional Welsh For an up-to-date list of combinations, including studying law as a Joint or Minor subject, visit How you will Study You will learn through lectures, workshops and tutorials. Assessment methods include self, peer and tutor assessment, written exercises and coursework, a learning portfolio, in-class work and examinations. We actively encourage all students to focus on personal development and career planning, and to make full use of guest speakers and careers events, which are offered throughout the year. We have excellent links with the legal profession and you will benefit from the expertise of a member of staff in the University s Careers and Employability Service who has responsibility for law students. Career Opportunities Your studies will give you a specific knowledge of the law and its application in the real world, as well as skills that will be valuable in any workplace effective communication, problem solving and presenting logical arguments. This balance of intellectual training and professional skills means you will be well-equipped for the challenges of the modern workplace. Studying law in combination with another subject will enhance your knowledge and demonstrate a high level of organisational skill to any employer. A number of our graduates use this qualification as the first step in becoming a solicitor or barrister. Others have successful careers in financial services, management, education and public services, or progress to postgraduate study

9 Key Facts UCAS Code M101 Course Length Full-time: 2 years Part-time: 3-4 years Location Treforest Campus, Pontypridd Entry Requirements An Honours degree, an HND, or the first year of an undergraduate programme at a higher education institution. International students are required to have a degree or a qualification that is equivalent to having successfully completed year one at a university or another higher education institution in the UK. Contract Law and Problem- Solving Legal Skills, Sources and Systems Tort and Transactional Learning Criminal Law and Human Rights Constitutional Law and Mooting EU Law Land Law Equity and Trusts Optional modules LLB (Hons) Law Accelerated Route This two-year LLB course has been designed for graduates of other disciplines, or those who have successfully completed an HND or one year of study at university. Whether you want to become a barrister, solicitor or study law for another reason, the University of South Wales is the only higher education institution in south Wales that offers the opportunity to achieve an LLB (Hons) degree through just two years full-time study. This course is a qualifying law degree for the purpose of the Solicitors Regulation Authority and the Bar Council, which means it meets the requirements for the academic stage of your training. Graduates can continue their studies by taking either of the professional courses Legal Practice Course if they want to be a solicitor (see page 23), or the Bar Vocational Course if they want to be a barrister. This degree has been designed to provide a balanced and stimulating legal education, as well as vital practical skills for your professional development. By the time you graduate, you will have had excellent preparation for a career in law and a wide variety of other professions. As well as the core areas of English and Welsh law outlined under in the side panel, you can specialise in areas that interest you, such as Commercial Law, Consumer Law, Equity and the Law of Trusts, Family Law, Medical Law, Human Rights Law, Law of Criminal Evidence, Legal Philosophy, Employment Law, Intellectual Property Law, Internet Law and Media Law. How you will Study This accelerated LLB (Hons) Law degree is taught through a combination of lectures, workshops and tutorials. Assessment includes formal examinations, self, peer and tutor assessment, written coursework, a learning portfolio and problem-based exercises delivered in class. The programme is delivered full-time, so you will study six modules a year for two years. If you would prefer to study part-time, you will complete four modules a year for three years. We actively encourage all our law degree students to focus on career planning and personal development, making full use of guest speakers and careers events, which are offered throughout the year. Career Opportunities An LLB (Hons) Law degree is a gateway to many careers and the skills gained from studying law are valued highly by employers in public and private sectors. A number of our graduates use this qualification as the first step in becoming a solicitor or barrister we offer the Legal Practice Course, so law graduates who wish to practise as solicitors can complete their studies at the. Others have successful careers in financial services, management, education and public services, or progress to postgraduate study. Our law degrees are carefully designed to develop the intellectual training and professional skills to succeed in today s competitive employment market. We have excellent links with the legal profession and students benefit from the expertise of a Careers and Employability Service Adviser with responsibility for law students. I definitely made the right decision to embark on this course. I can honestly say that it has probably been one of the most rewarding years of my life. The support I have received has been fantastic. Veronica Price, LLB (Hons) Law Accelerated Route student

10 This qualification ticks all the boxes for me from utilising my past work experience to developing my practical skills for future employment. Stefanie Oldfield, Foundation Degree in Paralegal Studies student Key Facts UCAS Code M250 Course Length Full-time: 2 years Part-time: 3 years Location Cardiff Campus Entry Requirements 160 UCAS tariff points or relevant professional or industry experience. GCSE: Five at grade C or above, including Mathematics and English Language. Year One Legal Skills, Sources and Systems Criminal Law and Human Rights Contract and Problem-Solving Tort and Transactional Learning Client Care and Professional Conduct Year Two Constitutional Law and Mooting Work-Based Learning Three optional modules Foundation Degree in Paralegal Studies This Foundation Degree offers a flexible, work-related learning experience that provides the skills to succeed in the legal sector. You can study full-time, or part-time while you are working, so it is ideal if you already work in the profession and want a recognised and transferable qualification. Throughout the course, you will be encouraged to transfer your learning directly to and from the work environment. This approach benefits you and your employer, as course content and assessment methods are based on work-related knowledge and skills. Students who are already working can gain accreditation for their work experience and qualifications. The Foundation Degree in Paralegal Studies has been approved by the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx) and students can achieve exemption from the CILEx Level 3 Professional Diploma in Law and Practice. Additionally, on successful completion of this course, you can gain an LLB (Hons) Law degree with a further two years of full-time study at the University. In your first year you will study five modules including Legal Skills, Sources and Systems, Criminal Law and Human Rights, Contract and Problem-Solving, Tort and Transactional Learning, and Client Care and Professional Conduct. How you will Study With the support of extensive online learning materials, formal contact delivery time for each 20 credit module will be 40 hours. The work-related learning theme of the course will be supported and developed outside the classroom. This includes an introduction at induction, weekly support sessions, online materials, and the advice and the support of a dedicated work-based learning tutor. A student/employer liaison adviser will also develop and maintain relationships with you and your employer. Career Opportunities The Foundation Degree in Paralegal Studies has been developed in response to the growing demand for suitably skilled and qualified paralegals. You will develop key skills for employment, including communication, team working, leadership, problem solving, critical selfreflection, business and customer awareness, enterprise and entrepreneurship, and an understanding of the ethical context in which law, business and the public and voluntary sectors operate. You will graduate with a vocational qualification that will allow you to pursue a variety of career paths in business and legal environments. In addition, you will have the opportunity to progress to other areas of business and legal studies such as professional examinations or a full Honours degree. Your second year will reflect the practical side of the course and its focus on work-based learning. You will complete a four week work placement in a local law firm or within our Legal and Financial Advice Clinic. You will also choose three modules from: Employment Law and Practice Family Law and Practice Property Law and Practice Case Management and Litigation Wills and Probate Did you Know? Students on this course can achieve exemption from the CILEx Level 3 Professional Diploma in Law and Practice

11 Progressing to the Profession We offer innovative taught and professional law courses that develop recognisable and transferable skills for this sector. Through our courses you can successfully progress from the undergraduate stage of legal education to legal practice. Our courses have been designed in consultation with practitioners to equip you with the intellectual training and professional skills needed to meet the demands of today s legal profession, and to give you the skills to become highly employable in the legal sector. Here are just some of the reasons why you should choose the. Links with the Profession We have strong links with the legal profession and local law firms. Our committed and experienced team of staff has a wealth of practical legal knowledge. All LPC teaching staff have been solicitors, with experience across a broad range of practice areas, including national and local government law, corporate and commercial law, media law, civil and criminal litigation, and family law. We have links with many south Wales firms who offer places to students on our work placement scheme. This scheme offers you the opportunity to gain experience of legal practice and develop contacts in the legal profession. In many cases, due to our links with the local profession, you will have exclusive access to career opportunities before they are advertised to the wider market. Gain Practical Legal Experience Alongside your studies, you ll have the opportunity to become a Student Clinic Volunteer working with our Legal and Financial Advice Clinic in Cardiff. The Clinic is a free, community-based service run by the University and for members of the public and businesses seeking face-to-face legal and financial advice. As a Student Clinic Volunteer, you ll get the chance to put your knowledge into practice by working under the supervision of practising solicitors and barristers. Following initial on-the-job training, you ll interview and assess clients, and assist qualified solicitors in advising clients in particular areas of law. Excellent Support We offer a supportive learning environment where we focus on developing you as an individual. Staff to student ratios are very good and a mentoring system is in place, so we can offer tailored advice to meet the particular strengths and needs of each student. In addition, there are weekly drop-in clinics to discuss any difficulties you may encounter. Students frequently praise the friendly atmosphere, and the high level of guidance and support they receive from academic and administrative staff. Small Group Interactive Teaching On the LPC you will mostly work in an interactive, small group setting that replicates the environment of the law office, the courtroom and the solicitor/client relationship. The tasks you will perform have been designed in collaboration with current practitioners. They are hands on, interactive and contemporary to prepare you for the work you will undertake in legal practice. Careers and Employability Service As a student on the LPC, you will have access to the University s Careers and Employability Service. The School has developed a full careers programme to assist students in entering into a period of recognised training (the new name for a training contract). This typically includes: Presentations from local law firms on topical issues in practice Workshops delivered by practitioners (including former LPC students) on how to obtain a training contract Support in sourcing work placements notification of job vacancies A mock interview service Workshops on CV writing Talks on law-related careers Additional Online Support The uses Blackboard, one of the most widely used virtual learning environments, to support learning and teaching. All LPC course materials are available on Blackboard, together with test and feedback exercises, so you can check your progress, and seek extra help from tutors where it s needed. We also use Blackboard to notify you of job vacancies, work placement opportunities, careers events and social activities. Attending the University has prepared me for a profession which is dynamic and constantly changing. An excellent combination of staff, legal resources and facilities. James Donaldson, Harding Evans, Legal Practice Course graduate The Clinic will allow you to engage directly with the legal profession, and work with a number of reputable law firms. You will gain experience in advising clients and delivering first-class client care, enabling you to develop practical skills that are highly valued by employers. Through Blackboard, you can access a wide range of practitionerendorsed legal databases, so you will have all the resources that would be available to a professional firm. Access to Blackboard is available on and off-campus, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information about the Legal and Financial Advice Clinic, see page 30 or visit:

12 Key Facts Legal Practice Course (LPC) Course Length Full-time: 1 year Part-time: 2 years Location Cardiff Campus Entry Requirements For more information on entry requirements, see page 24. The Legal Practice Course is accredited by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and prepares students for a career as a solicitor. It is a practical course, during which students will develop the skills necessary for legal practice. Stage Two The second stage will run immediately after Stage One and is delivered over a period of approximately ten weeks. It comprises vocational electives, which give you the opportunity to tailor the course to the kind of practice you want to enter. You will choose three modules from the following: The University s support helped me find the edge required to succeed in the real world. Their links with local solicitors assisted me in obtaining a work placement, which led to a training contract and, on qualification, a position as a solicitor. Claire Lewis, Berry Smith LLP, Legal Practice Course graduate Full-time Stage One Litigation Business Law and Practice Property Law and Practice Drafting Writing Practical Legal Research Advocacy Interviewing and Advising Wills Professional Conduct Taxation and Accounts Stage Two Three elective (optional) modules as detailed opposite. Part-time Year One Business Law and Practice Property Law and Practice Drafting Writing Practical Legal Research Professional Conduct Tax Year Two Litigation Wills Solicitors Accounts Advocacy Interviewing and Advising Three elective (optional) modules to be taken either in year one or year two The University has been delivering professional legal education for over 25 years, offering the Legal Practice Course (LPC) and its precursors, the Law Society Finals and the Law Society s Part 2 Qualifying Examinations. The LPC at the is run by a team with extensive experience across a wide range of legal practice and in delivering the LPC. The team aims to prepare students for legal practice in whatever area they may choose, and the feedback we receive from students and employers is extremely positive. Many of our former students have gone on to successful careers in a wide variety of legal environments, ranging from large commercial firms to smaller high street practices, local government, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), and the Court Service. The LPC is divided into two stages. Stage One The first stage lasts approximately 24 weeks. You will study: A foundation phase introducing the aims and ethos of the LPC and the Stage One subjects and skills Three core practice areas Litigation, Property Law and Practice, and Business Law and Practice Five core skills Drafting, Writing, Advocacy, Interviewing and Advising, and Practical Legal Research Professional Conduct Taxation and Accounts Wills and Administration of Estates Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence Litigation Employment Law and Practice Family Law and Practice Advanced Property Law and Practice Advanced Business, and Corporate Law and Practice Wills and the Elderly Client How you will Study The LPC course begins in September each year. You can choose to study either full-time or parttime. Our part-time study option allows students to combine study with full-time work. Part-time students will attend one day per week over two years. Part-time students can take all their Stage Two elective subjects in Year One, or divide them over both years. It may also be possible to study some of the Stage Two electives at different points during the year. Both stages of the course will be delivered mostly through small-group practice sessions. These practice sessions have been designed in consultation with local practitioners and will simulate real-life professional environments, enabling you to develop the skills and knowledge necessary for legal practice. Online resources will be used to support face-to-face learning, and you will use electronic and online resources such as LexisLibrary and Westlaw, which are used in practice. There are ten Stage One assessments spread throughout the course, and one assessment for each of the Stage Two elective subjects. Before every assessment, you will be given the opportunity to take mock examinations and receive detailed feedback

13 Career Opportunities The LPC is a requirement for qualification as a solicitor and develops the skills you will need on entering the profession. Our graduates have successfully entered a variety of legal roles locally, nationally and internationally. While you are studying on the course, you will be supported by a specialist careers adviser and will be encouraged to attend a range of careers events, including those supported by solicitors practices, at various stages during the year. Entry Requirements Admission to Stage One and Stage Two of the LPC is conditional on a student having: Obtained a qualifying law degree of class 2:2 or above; or Passed the Graduate Diploma in Law/Common Professional Examination (GDL/CPE) after obtaining either a degree which is not a qualifying law degree or an equivalent alternative qualification; or Been exempted by the SRA from the requirement to pass the GDL/CPE by virtue of relevant alternative qualifications or experience. Admission to Stage Two of the course will also be open to applicants who have completed an Exempting Law Degree or an Integrated Course. How to Apply All applications for the full-time LPC (Stages One and Two, and Stage One only) must be made via the Legal Practice Course Central Applications Board at Alternatively, you can obtain an application form from: Central Applications Board, PO Box 84, Guildford, Surrey, GU3 1YX. Call: +44 (0) Forms are available from early autumn and should be returned by the end of November for study the following September. Competitive Fees The LPC fee is subject to review each year, but students can pay their fees in instalments. Our fees are highly competitive and include all course manuals, specifically prepared course materials, access to ICT resources and the SRA registration fee of 15. Professional development loans may be available, and some law firms may offer sponsorship for this course. At the time of print, LLB (Hons) graduates are offered a 750 discount on the LPC course fee. The discount applies to full-time and part-time students. For more information on fees, visit Facilities Our LPC is delivered in purpose-built facilities, specifically designed to prepare you for practice. All briefings and practice sessions take place in Atlantic House, a recently refurbished building in the heart of Cardiff. Atlantic House houses first-class IT facilities, client interview suites, and resource rooms. You will also get to practise your skills with real clients at our Legal and Financial Advice Clinic. This practical application of skills and knowledge in a real-life setting will ensure you will be wellequipped to enter the legal profession. For more information on the Legal and Financial Advice Clinic, see page 30. I use the skills and knowledge gained on the LPC in my daily activities as a paralegal. I am shortly due to start my training contract. Thanks to the University, I am now one step closer to qualifying as a solicitor. Kerys Thomas, Hugh James, Legal Practice Course graduate Applications for the part-time LPC Stage One, and for Stage Two only, must be made to the University directly. Visit for more information