UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION

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1 UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION Programme Title: Awarding Body: Teaching Institution: Final Awards: BA (Hons) Law Studies (Progression) Staffordshire University Staffordshire University BA (Hons) Law Studies Intermediate Awards: Mode of Study: Full-Time and Part-Time UCAS Codes: QAA Subject Benchmarks: JACS Code: Professional/Statutory Body: Law M100 N/A Date of Production: May 2014 Date of Revision: If you require this document in a larger text or a different medium please contact us. 1

2 EDUCATIONAL AIMS OF THE PROGRAMME BA (Hons) Law Studies is part of a suite of awards in Law.The Law Awards aim to develop intellectual, communication and problem solving skills and foster an enquiring,creative and analytical approach to study which will encourage independent thought,critical self awareness and future employability. Each award of the University is defined by Learning Outcomes that indicate the knowledge and skills the holder of the award will be able to demonstrate.each module also has it s own set of Learning Outcomes which are tested by the module s assessment The BA (Hons) Law Studies award has the following general educational aims: To enable you to develop as an independent, autonomous and reflective learner. To provide you with a learner-centred environment. To provide a creative and imaginative range of student-centred learning opportunities which will stimulate your interest in, and commitment to, reflective, individual and collaborative study. To provide you with good quality personal and academic support and guidance in order to facilitate your academic, personal and professional development. To develop your intellectual skills in understanding, analysing, interpreting and applying legal rules. To develop the transferable skills that will enhance your employability, including problem-solving, communication and the application of information technology and team-working. To develop an appreciation of the value of life-long learning in society and the skills to become life-long learners on graduation. To provide a programme of development that inspires you to develop a passion for your subject and for learning and to encourage further development and study What is distinctive about this programme? Staffordshire University Law School is a long established and well regarded law school which offers both undergraduate and post-graduate awards. The Law School is located in a dedicated building on the Leek Road Campus in Stoke on Trent. You will be taught by a team of experienced professionals including qualified solicitors and barristers and research active staff. An excellent support team assists the academic staff within the department to provide guidance and support throughout your studies. The Law School is the place to learn cutting-edge skills in a life-like environment. You will have the opportunity to develop advocacy skills in an authentic courtroom setting as well as having access to a dedicated law library. You will also have the 2

3 opportunity to participate in our Legal Advice Centre providing legal advice to real clients. Learning in the Law School is up-to-the-minute, relevant, and very flexible. This is a distinctive award for those who have already acquired some qualifications but wish to study at a higher level and attain a legal degree. Whilst this award will provide you with exemptions from the academic stage of qualification as a solicitor or barrister, (enabling you, if you wish, to complete the professional stage by progressing to a Graduate Diploma in Law award such as that offered here at Staffordshire University), this award provides opportunities within other areas of employment which require legal knowledge but not a Qualifying Law Degree ( QLD). Although this award is not a Qualifying Law Degree,( as recognised by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and the Bar Standards Board (BSB) you will study two Foundations of Legal Knowledge ( FLKs) together with other law options. You will receive advice and guidance on option selection and careers advice from the dedicated Law School Careers Guidance Adviser. This award offers a legal progression route from a number of different routes ( see entry requirements below) The Staffordshire Graduate The Staffordshire Graduate represents a set of qualities that the University passionately believes is necessary for success in the 21st century. The Staffordshire Graduate is a reflective and critical learner with a global perspective, prepared to contribute in the world of work. The following statement shows how the law awards address the Staffordshire Graduate qualities. Across all levels and all modules, we aim to provide you with discipline expertise. We instil a critical knowledge of the discipline that is underpinned by the experience and research of the academic staff and which strives to reflect the key issues that affect the world in which we live. We aim to equip you to enter the world of work as an enterprising and entrepreneurial individual. We develop your written and verbal communication skills in a variety of ways to enhance your skills and confidence. Many modules include a large element of evidence based problem solving. By studying these modules, you will become innovative in how you think and conduct your work, and creative in seeking solutions based on your knowledge and skills. Employers value independence of thought and a creative ability to find solutions Studying on an undergraduate Law award will enable you to take ownership of your learning whether individually or with your fellow students and encourages independence of thought and problem-solving across a spectrum of activities. These are essential attributes of the critical, reflective and life-long learners that Staffordshire graduates are expected to become. Throughout your degree, you will be encouraged to develop your understanding through critical reflection; to question different views and perspectives and to use both generic and specialist skills to recognize and resolve problems. 3

4 BENCHMARKING The QAA Law Benchmark statement informed the learning outcomes of the BA (Hons) Law studies Progression, which is designed to build upon previous experience within the subject of Law and draws emphasis from the following statements from the benchmark: Knowledge 6.1 A student should demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of the principal features of the legal system(s) studied. Application and problem solving 6.2 A student should demonstrate a basic ability to apply their knowledge to a situation of limited complexity in order to provide arguable conclusions for concrete problems (actual or hypothetical). Sources and research 6.3 A student should demonstrate a basic ability to: identify accurately the issue(s) which require researching; identify and retrieve up-to-date legal information, using paper and electronic source; use primary and secondary legal sources relevant to the topic under study. Analysis, synthesis, critical judgement and evaluation 7.1 A student should demonstrate a basic ability to: recognise and rank items and issues in terms of relevance and importance; bring together information and materials from a variety of different sources; produce a synthesis of relevant doctrinal and policy issues in relation to a topic; make a critical judgement of the merits of particular arguments; present and make a reasoned choice between alternative solutions. Autonomy and ability to learn 7.2 A student should demonstrate a basic ability, with limited guidance, to: act independently in planning and undertaking tasks in areas of law which they have already studied; be able to undertake independent research in areas of law which they have not previously studied starting from standard legal information sources; reflect on their own learning, and to seek and make use of feedback. Communication and literacy 8.1 Both orally and in writing, a student should demonstrate a basic ability to: understand and use the English language (or, where appropriate, Welsh language) proficiently in relation to legal matters; present knowledge or an argument in a way which is comprehensible to others and which is directed at their concerns; read and discuss legal materials which are written in technical and complex language. Numeracy, information technology and teamwork 8.2 A student should demonstrate a basic ability: 4

5 where relevant and as the basis for an argument, to use, present and evaluate information provided in numerical or statistical form; to produce a word-processed essay or other text and to present such work in an appropriate form; to use the internet and ; to use some electronic information retrieval systems; to work in groups as a participant who contributes effectively to the group's task. PROGRAMME OUTCOMES What will this programme teach me to do? At the end of your studies you should be able to: Knowledge & Understanding Demonstrate a critical knowledge and understanding of key aspects of law, including coherent knowledge of some areas of current development and change. Learning Carry out inquiry based learning, critical analysis and creative thinking and demonstrate an understanding of the uncertainty and ambiguity inherent in the study of law. Enquiry Demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research and critical equiry. Analysis Critically analyse arguments, concepts and data in order to make appropriate judgments Problem Solving Demonstrate a range of approaches to the analysis of law related problems, and identify possible solutions to more abstract problems. Communication Communicate complex ideas, problems and solutions clearly and succinctly through a variety of media. Application Use problem-solving skills developed at earlier levels of study to address more complex issues and problems Reflection Demonstrate a high level of competence as independent learners by selecting appropriate strategies for study and assessments, and taking full responsibility for determining and achieving personal goals. Engage in informed critical reflections of your own practice throughout the course. 5

6 PROGRAMME STRUCTURE, MODULES AND CREDITS Programme Title: BA (Hons) Law Studies (Progression) Full-Time L E V E L 6 Teaching Block 1 Teaching Block 2 Law of Contract (30 credits) Tort Law (30 credits) 60 credits of Level 6 options selected from the lists below (2 x 30 credits or 1 x 30 credits + 2 x 15 credits) Programme Title: BA (Hons) Law Studies (Progression) Part-Time Y E A R 1 Teaching Block 1 Teaching Block 2 Law of Contract (30 credits) OR Tort Law ( 30 Credits) 30 credits of Level 6 options selected from the lists below (1 x 30 credits or 2 x 15 credits) Y E A R 2 Teaching Block 1 Teaching Block 2 Law of Contract (30 credits) OR Tort Law ( 30 Credits) Note- Tort Law and Contract Law are core subjects. You only have a choice as to when you study these modules. 30 credits of Level 6 options selected from the lists below (1 x 30 credits or 2 x 15 credits) 6

7 Level 6 Teaching Blocks 1 and 2 (30 Credits) LIST A Criminal Justice Company Law Dissertation Evidence Environmental Law Information Technology Law Sport the Individual and the Law Land Law Equity & Trusts Level 6 Teaching Block 1 (15 Credits) LIST B Law of Sale (15 credits) The Contract of Employment (15 credits) Environmental Criminology (15 credits) Family Relationships Law (15 credits) Human Rights: International Criminal Law (15 credits) The Legal Regulation of Sport (15 credits) Legal and Contractual Issues for Special Events (15 credits) Social Welfare Law and Practice (15 credits) Work Experience Module (15 credits) Research Project Level 6 Teaching Block 2 (15 Credits) LIST C Child Law (15 credits) Consumer Protection (15 credits) Crime Prevention (15 credits) The Commercial Regulation of Sport (15 credits) Discrimination in the Workplace (15 credits) Work Experience Module (15 credits) Housing Law and Advice (15 credits) Human Rights: Foundation (15 credits) Research Project Caveat- This list is an example of option modules which may run (subject to student numbers) 7

8 HOW WILL I BE TAUGHT AND ASSESSED? Teaching and Learning You will be taught by a combination of different face to face methods, including lectures, tutorials and workshops. Although timetabled as lectures and tutorials/workshops, class contact sessions are interactive, whenever possible. For example, lectures may be linked to tutorial work-plans and lecture outlines may include mini-problems. From time-to-time guest speakers will make a presentation. Lectures which will provide a basic framework of concepts in addition to interactive learning activities such as group discussion, oral presentations, videos and web based activities. There will also be hands-on development of computing skills and legal study skills. In tutorial sessions, knowledge and skills will be developed through a variety of methods including mooting, client interviewing and other forms of roleplay as well as working on case studies and other problem-based scenarios. A high degree of online support is provided by a module Blackboard VLE page and independent study is supported by a range of electronic databases, many of which can be accessed from outside the University. You will be guided through your studies by a teaching support network of module tutors, award leaders, personal tutors and supporting academic and business managers, together with dedicated and involved support and pastoral staff. All students in the Law School are allocated an individual personal tutor. The Award will have a dedicated Award Manager who will also be your personal tutor. As new students to the campus, you will have the opportunity to attend the Level 4 induction week at the start of the academic year. Assessment We will utilise a wide variety of assessment strategies in order to assess your ability to achieve the award learning outcomes. These will include reflective portfolios, case study analysis, assignments, examinations (both open and closed book) and poster presentations amongst others. The assessment programme will also build in a feedback programme to help develop your confidence in meeting the demands of different approaches to assessment. 8

9 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Entry Requirements (including IELTS score) 6.0 What qualifications would I need to join this programme? The entry requirements for the award are normally: This award is available as a top-up for students who have successfully completed an appropriate Foundation degree in a legal-related award. Students who do not meet the above criteria but who have relevant experience may be considered by interview to determine the equivalence of their experience. Disability Statement Staffordshire University operates a policy of inclusive teaching and learning to ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to fulfil their educational potential. Details about how to apply to have your needs assessed can be found at: Further information about the award can be found in the relevant Student Handbook and on the University Website. This includes information about optional modules, learning outcomes at levels below honours, student support, and academic regulations. ==================================== 9

10 THE STAFFORDSHIRE GRADUATE The Staffordshire Graduate represents a set of qualities that the University passionately believes is necessary for success in the 21 st century. The Staffordshire Graduate is a reflective and critical learner with a global perspective, prepared to contribute in the world of work. The table below indicates where, within your award, these characteristics are addressed: AWARD TITLE: Characteristic Award Module(s) including level and number of credits Method of Assessment Work-ready and employable Work Experience (15 credits) - Work experience (either legal or non-legal; reflective report & portfolio) 1. Work experience diary. 2. Work experience evaluation Understanding of enterprise and entrepreneurship Company Law (30 credits) Contract Law (30 credits) 3. Research report - 3,000 words You will undertake a 'placement' in a legal environment Understanding of global issues and their place in the global economy Environmental Criminology (15 credits) Environmental Law (30 credits) Assignment Poster & assignment Communication skills Contract Law (30 Credits) Contract of Employment (15 credits). An assessed class participation & 3000 word assignment All modules at all levels assess 10

11 Presentation skills The ability to interact confidently with colleagues Independence of thought Skills of teamworking Ability to carry out inquiry-based learning and critical analysis Skills of problem solving and creation of opportunities communication skills The Law of Evidence (30 credits) Tort Law (30 credits) All modules at all levels are tutorial or workshop based. Group based exercises and discussion Dissertation (30 credits) Tort Law (30 credits) Core modules- both 30 credits- tutorial teaching Core modules both 30 credits Problem questions Family Law (30 credits) - problem based learning Company Law (30 credits) - formation, operation and dissolution of companies Tort Law (30 credits) An oral and an unseen exam The oral assessment will require you to make or oppose an application to have evidence excluded before a court. Various Various Various Assignment & exam Technologically, digitally and information literate Information Technology Law (30 credits) Assignment & 11

12 Contract Law (30 credits) Able to apply Staffordshire Graduate attributes to a range of life experiences to facilitate life-long learning Dissertation Contract Law (30 credits) Exam Award Modules Assessment Notes Indicate which module(s) within the award Indicate how achievement of the develop this characteristic characteristic is assessed 12