Law & Practice HNC/HND/LLB (Hons)

Study level: Undergraduate
HNC/HND courses
Law & Practice student taking a book off of a shelf in the library

Law is one of the world’s oldest professions. Filled with intrigue and complexities, law is a fascinating and exciting subject area that is an essential component of everyday life.

Year of entry

Location

CU London (Greenwich, London)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

4 years sandwich
3 year - Degree
2 year - HND
1 year - HNC

Course code

M102 / M103 / M104

Start date

July 2023

How to apply
Open days
Download a prospectus
Contact us

Course overview

A degree in law can lead you to a wide number of career options, including a lawyer, legal executive or costs negotiator.

Success in this field demands discipline, strategic thinking, a solid knowledge of legislation and the ability to adapt to different scenarios. As legal knowledge is key for success in this career, this course focuses on teaching you key theoretical principles, with fundamental best practices such as making succinct legal arguments. 

Why CU London

We offer a style of education which is flexible and designed to fit around your life, allowing you to benefit from a modern, forward-thinking higher education institution, reinforced by the quality and reputation of Coventry University. We aim to provide career-focused courses, wherever possible, coupled with placement opportunities to help prepare you for the world of work. We are dedicated to making higher education accessible and enjoyable to everyone, so we keep our fees low and made it a policy to cover one module at a time, allowing you to become a specialist in each topic before moving onto the next.

Accreditation & Professional Recognition

This course is accredited and recognised by the following bodies:

Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA)

Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA)

Our LLB Law & Practice course is accredited by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and the Bar Standards Board, and is a Qualifying Law Degree (QLD). This status means that graduation from the programme, having met the necessary requirements, exempts you from the Common Professional Examination (CPE), the initial stage of professional qualification as a solicitor or barrister for both the Law Society of England and Wales, and the Bar Council. In order to qualify for the QLD you must successfully complete the seven foundational subjects, with a maximum of 3 attempts at each, with only one compensatable pass across them all. This will then shorten your professional training, should you wish to practise in England and Wales, by one year.

How can we help?

How can we help?

Chat with an advisor now or leave a message and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

What you'll study

This course aims to provide a thorough understanding of law and practice in modern day circumstances. Focusing strongly on developing practical real-world skills, the degree covers a broad range of topics, from engaging critically with the principles of employment law and how EU law has evolved, through to contractual and tortious liability.

You will develop mooting, advocacy and presentation skills, building a solid foundation for you to become a competent and knowledgeable practitioner of law.

Focused on practical, real-world application, this year encourages you to think practically in the field of law, applying legal rules and principles to real-world scenarios while identifying and evaluating key issues. Throughout the year you will touch upon several principle elements including judicial precedent, vitiating factors and negotiation, aptly preparing you for advanced-level learning in year two. Students who complete year one are eligible for a Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Law.

Modules

  • This introduction to the English legal system describes the distinctiveness of the common-law approach as a legal methodology. In terms of legal method, you will be introduced to statutory interpretation, the operation of the doctrine of precedent the process of legal research and the basics of legal reasoning. 

    Compulsory

  • This module will provide knowledge of the constitutional underpinnings and theory of administrative law. You will gain comprehensive knowledge of the institutions, processes and legal principles of redress for judicial and extra-judicial grievances against public bodies. You will also cover constraints on the exercise of government power, Human Rights protections and administrative law remedies (including Judicial Review).

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to provide a critical understanding of the conceptual and analytical frameworks underpinning the law of Contract. You will examine key topics such as; the formation of contractual relations, the requirements for enforceability of contracts, the rights of third parties and vitiating factors.

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to provide you with the opportunity to understand and critically examine the evidence, concepts, debates, and controversies associated with the study of criminal law. You will be informed of the key cases and legislation which govern criminal law and encouraged to reflect on whether the law could be improved.

    Compulsory

Focusing on the criminal justice system and the English legal system, you undertake a practice-based exploration of the key principles related to the development of effective client-care. In this year, you will develop comprehensive knowledge of the English law of torts, land law and family law. This provides you with an elevated level of legal knowledge, ready for progression into year three. Students who complete year two are eligible for a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Law.

Modules

  • This module aims to equip you with the ability to advise clients in an accurate, clear way, by adopting appropriate planning, research and evaluation techniques. To help you understand the importance of research for legal practitioners, you will engage with real theoretical problems under tutor supervision to identify a legal issue, you'll then research and report upon it.

    Compulsory

  • Tort is a dynamic subject which is constantly growing through case law and the introduction of new legislation. This module places emphasis on tortious obligations such as negligence, including clinical negligence. You’ll be introduced to general principles and have an opportunity to engage with legal rules and apply them in a problem-solving context.

    Compulsory

  • This is an introduction to fundamental principles of Property Law. You will examine property rights in relation to Land and deal with their definition, development, acquisition and transfer. You will also investigate issues such as, the term ‘land’ and its meaning, how ownership of land is transferred and how land can be registered.  

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to ensure students understand the history development of the concepts, principles and rules of equity and trusts, and their impact on English Law. You will explore issues of controversy, such as the ability of trusts to assist in wealth creation and maintenance, developing critical thinking and legal reasoning skills in the process.

    Compulsory

An optional placement or sandwich year gives you the chance to gain further insight into the industry or career you are seeking to follow, enabling you to apply your theoretical knowledge to the workplace. You can also choose to take an optional year abroad between years two and three. If you decide to take advantage of a placement year this version of the degree will help you acquire valuable work experience and gain an understanding of what employers seek in graduates. It is your responsibility to find a placement with an employer within your chosen sector. The careers and employability department, alongside the course team, will support you throughout your placement year.

Modules

  • Optional

In the final year, you undertake learning and practical elements from a professional viewpoint. This year covers a broad range of topics, from engaging critically with the principles and evolution of employment law, through to contractual and tortious liability. The skills and knowledge that you refine during your final year will help to prepare you for further professional development. Students who complete the final year are awarded a LLB (Hons) degree in Law & Practice.

Modules

  • This module aims to introduce you to the law of the European Union and equip you with a thorough understanding of the institutional and procedural law of the European Union and the influence it has on the domestic law of England and Wales.

    Compulsory

  • This unit provides an overview of civil litigation system in England and Wales and the procedures followed in that system. You will consider methods of alternative dispute resolution without the need for formal court proceedings, and how to run a civil client file from initial interview to trial and beyond.

    Compulsory

  • The module explores the criminal litigation system in England and Wales from the perspectives of the criminal defence solicitor and that of the prosecution lawyer. You will learn how to run a criminal client file from initial interview to trial, while considering ethical issues, client care and issues relating to funding and costs.

    Compulsory

  • You will gain a solid grounding in client care skills in the context of a legal environment, including legal writing and complaints management in a legal context. In this practical module, you will develop key legal practice and wider business skill through applied elements such as negotiations in role-play scenarios.

    Compulsory

How you'll learn

This course is available as a full-time three year or optional four-year sandwich course, the latter incorporating a work placement or study year in a related field.

Our teaching methods are varied, offering a number of teaching styles to suit the needs of all our students, so in addition to lectures, we also utilise a blended learning approach, including online aspects, workshops and group work. Additional support is available via email and our online learning platform, Aula.

Progression through the modules develops knowledge and skills, including communication (written and oral), study skills, research methods, project management, presentation and career development. We will also encourage you to consider your employability and/or entrepreneurial development.

Unlike traditional institutions, there are no end of year exams. Instead, learning is assessed through coursework and phase tests, which is more reflective of our learning model.

You can expect up to 20 hours of learning activities per week, made up of face-to-face teaching, individual and group tutorials, online classes and independent learning.

The learning outcomes of modules, assignments and projects will be clearly stated. Your work will be marked according to how well you achieve these learning outcomes and your final feedback will refer to each outcome, as well as providing an overall percentage grade.

Assessment

The learning outcomes of modules, assignments and projects will be clearly stated. Your work will be marked according to how well you achieve these learning outcomes and your final feedback will refer to each outcome, as well as providing an overall percentage grade.

Assessment methods vary and include, practical class and project performance, written practical reports, project thesis, laboratory experiments, tutorial tasks and assessments, which take place at the end of each six-week block.

Course Breakdown:

  • Coursework and Written Assessments
  • Phase Tests
  • Practical Work / Presentations

Job ready

On completion, you should be able to:

  • Demonstrate understanding and knowledge of the theoretical, analytical and practical aspects of legislation and processes.
  • Be proficient in collating and evaluating evidence, with enhanced advocacy and advisory skills.
  • Develop appropriate analysis techniques, alongside the ability to undertake reliable and thorough research of case law, law commissions, statutes and more.
  • Apply appropriate presentation skills to confidently establish the significance of data produced.

Entry requirements

Typical offer for 2022/23 entry.

Entry level What we're looking for
HNC 64 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.
HND 80 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.
Degree 104 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.

If you do not have the typical entry requirements, we offer a number of programmes to help you secure a place. Successful completion of one of the below programmes guarantees you a place on a degree course with us, subject to meeting specified criteria.

Foundation Year
This degree programme has an integral stage 0 attached to it, so if you do not meet the entry requirements you may enter at the foundation level. Successful completion of our Law and Practice Foundation Year will guarantee you progression onto this degree programme.

We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

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Are you eligible for the CU Support Scheme?

We believe every student should have the opportunity to dream big, reach their potential and succeed, regardless of their background.

CU Support Scheme

Entry level What we're looking for
HNC 64 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.
HND 80 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.
Degree 104 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.

If you do not have the typical entry requirements, you may want to consider studying this course with a foundation year. Upon successful completion our Law and Practice Foundation Year will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to progress onto this undergraduate degree.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on how to apply and travelling to and living in the UK.

English language requirements

  • IELTS: 6.0 (HNC - year 1/HND - year 2) or 6.5 (Degree/Top Up - year 3).

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course. 

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Tuition Fees

We pride ourselves on offering competitive tuition fees which we review on an annual basis. Course fees are calculated on the basis of what it costs to teach each course and we aim for total financial transparency.

Student Full-time Part-time
UK £6,800 per year Not available
International £15,300 per year Not available

  • We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the government's Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

    If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

You can study this course on either our Dagenham or Greenwich campuses, both of which provide an outstanding learning environment.

All CU London students will have access to our Library & Learning Services, fully equipped seminar rooms and impressive IT suites.

Careers and opportunities

With an ever-growing demand of legal professionals in all industries, graduates of a law course have an expansive list of career paths to explore. With many students progressing directly into a legal position, some students have also chosen to study further in the field by undertaking a master’s degree in specialised subjects such as International Law.

This course serves as a direct progression route into the legal profession. With additional qualifications such as the CILEx or LPC course, graduates from this course have a variety of professions to explore, such as Costs Negotiator, Barrister or Solicitor.

How to apply

  • Student Contract

    By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the CU Group. A copy of the 2022/23 contract can be found here. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the CU Group will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at CU Coventry.

    Tuition fees

    The tuition fee for the course that is stated on the course webpage and in the prospectus for the first year of study will apply. We will review our tuition fees each year. For UK and EU students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, we may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation. Following the UK’s exit from the European Union, EU students should be aware that there may be a change to UK laws following the UK’s exit, this may change their student status, their eligibility to study part time, and/or their eligibility for student finance. We will act in accordance with the UK’s laws in force in relation to student tuition fees and finance from time to time.

    For International students the tuition fee that is stated on the course webpage and in the prospectus for the first year of study will apply. We will review our tuition fees each year. For international students, we may increase fees for each subsequent year of study but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation.

    Accreditations

    Many of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the CU Group maintaining the same high standards of course delivery. 

    Facilities

    Facilities mentioned on this page may not be relevant for every course. Due to the ongoing restrictions relating to COVID-19, some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) and some non-academic offerings (particularly in relation to international experiences), may vary from those advertised and may have reduced availability or restrictions on their use.

    Placements and study abroad opportunities

    Please note that we are unable to guarantee any placement or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student.

    Additional costs

    This course may incur additional costs associated with any field trips, placements or work experience, study abroad opportunities or any other opportunity (whether required or optional), which could include (but is not limited to), equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas.

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