Law

Entry requirements:

Six GCSEs 9-4, two from English, Maths OR Science

Two at least grade 6

Specific requirements for Law:
It is useful to have a grade 5 or above in GCSE English, but not essential.

Course details

A Level Law gives students an insight into the law of England and Wales, including the study of the legal system, how laws are made, criminal law (including murder and manslaughter), tort law (including negligence and nuisance), concepts of law and the law of human rights.

Paper 1: English Legal System and Criminal Law

Percentage of total mark: 33.3%
Method of assessment: 2 hour written exam

In this module you will learn about the structure and function of criminal courts, as well as how laws are interpreted and developed by judges. You will also learn about the work of professional lawyers and judges, and of lay people in the criminal justice system – magistrates, judges and juries – as well as how access to justice is funded.

You will also study criminal law in depth, including topics such as murder, manslaughter, theft and robbery, as well as defences.

Paper 2: English Legal System and Tort Law

Percentage of total mark: 33.3%
Method of assessment: 2 hour written exam

In this module you will focus on the creation of law and the influences on Parliament in making new law, including pressure groups, public opinion and the media. The role of the Law Commission will be studied in the context of law reform, and students will learn how civil courts operate, and how access to justice is funded in civil case.

You will also study tort (civil) law, including negligence, the potential liability of occupiers and employers, nuisance, as well as defences and remedies.

Paper 3A: English Legal System and Contract Law

Percentage of total mark: 33.3%
Method of assessment: 2 hour written exam

In this module you will study the rule of law, delegated legislation and the European Union.

You will also study the law of contract, including how contracts are made, the terms that are included, and consumer law, as well as how contracts can become frustrated and discharged, and the remedies available when they are breached.

Skills

You will learn to ‘think like a lawyer’ and apply legal rules to the facts. You will also develop your ability to critically analyse and evaluate legal concepts, institutions and processes.

Across the three papers, you will also explore the law in a wider context by considering the role of law in society, and the way in which the law seeks to balance conflicting interests. You will use your knowledge and understanding gained from all areas of the course to address such questions as whether the law always achieves justice, and to what extent it should enforce moral values.

Many of our A Level law students go on to study law at Russell Group Universities and to pursue careers in the legal profession as solicitors and barristers. Others go on to undertake legal apprenticeships or degrees in other social science subjects. Law is also a great A level to prepare students for a wide variety of careers including business, the civil service, local government, banking and finance.

News

Law Department maintaining links with leading law firm