Undergraduate

Bachelor of Laws (LLB)

Who is it for?

External students face a considerable challenge. The examinations are of a high standard and are designed to test whether you are beginning to think like a lawyer. The primary hallmarks of a lawyer's approach are a keen desire to be both precise and concise in the use of language, a sharp eye for the uncertainties and ambiguities which may still remain – possibly deliberately – in a much thought over text, and a willingness to discard irrelevant material and concentrate on what is relevant to the matter in hand.

Behind this approach lies a critical (and self-critical) turn of mind, always ready to question, for example, why a particular word or phrase has been chosen in a statutory provision when another one would seem to do just as well, or whether a new decision of the courts is seeking to expand or restrict a principle for which the previous authorities are thought to stand.

The need for a critical approach must also include a willingness, when necessary, to question whether the law, though clear, does not produce results which are undesirable in wider terms of policy.

Warning

Students should be aware that an exemption awarded by the University from all part of the Intermediate examination may result in the degree not being recognised by the professional body in the country in which they hope to practise after graduation.

In England and Wales, the Law Society and the General Council of the Bar may not accept the degree eventually obtained as a Qualifying Law Degree if the University granted exemption from one or more Intermediate subjects.

Applicants are, therefore, strongly advised to verify with the relevant professional body that the degree which they are likely to obtain will satisfy that professional body's requirements in all respects.