Criminal Law and Criminal Justice

The LLB in Criminal Law and Criminal Justice at the University of Edinburgh offers students an in-depth exploration of the legal systems, principles, and practices that underpin criminal justice both in Scotland and internationally. This program is designed for individuals passionate about understanding the complexities of criminal law, the functioning of the justice system, and how legal frameworks impact society. Throughout the course, students will engage with a wide range of topics including criminal law theory, criminal procedure, evidence law, human rights issues related to criminal justice, and the social context of crime and punishment. The curriculum combines rigorous legal analysis with practical skills such as legal research, critical thinking, and effective communication, preparing graduates for careers in law, policy-making, public service, or further academic research.

The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating perspectives from sociology, psychology, and political science to provide a comprehensive understanding of criminal justice issues. Students will have opportunities to participate in moot courts, legal clinics, and internships which enhance practical experience and employability. The university's strong links with legal practitioners and organizations offer valuable networking opportunities and insights into contemporary criminal justice challenges. Graduates of this program will be equipped with a detailed knowledge of criminal law, a keen understanding of justice policy, and the analytical skills necessary to navigate complex legal problems. Whether pursuing a career in legal practice, advocacy, policy development, or academia, students will benefit from the university’s expert faculty and its vibrant legal community. The program’s flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies to their interests, with options for specialized modules in areas such as forensic evidence, cybercrime, and international criminal justice. This program is ideal for individuals committed to making a meaningful contribution to the justice system and advocating for legal reform and fairness.

This programme offers a range of courses across the fields of criminal law and criminal justice from an international perspective, allowing you to tailor a programme to suit your interests.

The programme structure and courses for 2017/18 are currently being finalised.

To give you an idea of what the programme structure and courses might consist of, the below information details the structure and courses for this programme in 2016/17.

The programme structure for 2016/17 consists of 180 credits, comprised of taught courses worth 120 credits (60 credits of mandatory, core and option courses per semester) and a 10,000 word dissertation worth 60 credits.

The 120 credits of taught courses are made up of the following:

40 credits of mandatory courses:

• General Principles of Criminal Law (20 credits, semester 1)
• Current Issues in Criminal Law (20 credits, semester 2)

40-80 credits of core courses from the following:

• International Criminal Law (full-year course, 40 credits)
• Criminal Justice and Penal Process (semester 1, 20 credits)
• Global Crime and Insecurity (semester 1, 20 credits)
• Cybercrime (semester 2, 20 credits)
• Police and Policing (semester 2, 20 credits)
• Responding to Global Crime and Insecurity (semester 2, 20 credits)
• Sexual Offending and the Law (semester 2, 20 credits)

You may also choose up to 40 credits from a list of option courses that will be made available in September.

• A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in law.
• We may also consider a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in a social science subject.

• an undergraduate or masters degree, that was taught and assessed in English in a majority English speaking country as defined by UK Visas and Immigration

• ​IELTS: total 7.0 (at least 6.5 in each module)
• TOEFL-iBT: total 100 (at least 23 in each module)
• PTE(A): total 67 (at least 61 in each of the "Communicative Skills" sections)
• CAE and CPE: total 185 (at least 176 in each module)
• Trinity ISE: ISE III with a pass in all four components

The University of Edinburgh offers a range of financing options for students enrolled in its Criminal Law and Criminal Justice programmes. Tuition fees vary depending on the student’s residence status, with UK and EU students typically benefiting from different fee structures compared to international students. For UK students, the annual tuition fee for undergraduate programmes in Law is approximately £9,250, which includes modules related to criminal law and justice. International students may face higher fees, often exceeding £20,000 per year. Postgraduate students pursuing master's degrees in Criminal Justice or related fields can expect tuition fees to range between £13,000 and £22,000 annually.

The university provides various financial aid opportunities, including scholarships, bursaries, and grants, many of which are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or specific eligibility criteria. For example, the Edinburgh Law School offers multiple merit-based scholarships that can reduce the overall cost of studies. Additionally, students may access government-funded loans and grants, particularly in the UK where students are encouraged to apply for student loans through the Student Loans Company. International students are often advised to seek external sponsorships or scholarships from their home countries, as funding options from the university may be limited for non-UK residents.

Part-time work is also a common way for students to supplement their income during their studies, with the university facilitating employment opportunities on campus. The university’s Career Services provides guidance on securing part-time jobs, internships, and placements relevant to students’ academic interests in criminal law and justice. Furthermore, various external organizations and legal trainee schemes may offer funding or paid positions aligned with students’ career goals.

For postgraduate research students in Law, the university offers research council funding and specific scholarships supporting doctoral candidates in criminal law and criminal justice fields. These funding sources often cover tuition fees and provide a stipend for living expenses. Application procedures generally involve submitting academic records, research proposals, and demonstrating financial need or merit. It is advisable for prospective students to consult the official university website or contact the university’s admissions and financial aid offices for up-to-date information on available funding sources, application deadlines, and eligibility criteria.

Overall, the University of Edinburgh strives to make criminal law and criminal justice education accessible through a comprehensive range of financing options, support schemes, and external funding resources designed to assist students in managing the costs associated with their degrees.

The University of Edinburgh offers comprehensive programs in Criminal Law and Criminal Justice, designed to equip students with in-depth knowledge of the legal system, criminal law principles, and the functioning of justice processes. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including criminological theories, criminal legislation, human rights, forensic practices, and criminal procedure. Students engage with both theoretical concepts and practical applications, preparing them for careers in legal practice, policy development, public service, and research within the criminal justice sector. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and a thorough understanding of ethical and social issues surrounding crime and justice. Courses are delivered through lectures, seminars, case studies, and interactive tutorials, often involving discussions on contemporary criminal justice issues and legal reforms. The university's strong links with legal practitioners and criminal justice agencies provide students with opportunities for internships, work placements, and networking, thereby enhancing employability. The program also offers optional modules in related areas such as international criminal law, cybercrime, and juvenile justice, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests. The university's location in Edinburgh, a historic city renowned for its legal traditions, provides an enriching environment for students interested in the legal and criminal justice fields. Graduates of these programs are well-prepared to pursue careers as criminal lawyers, policy advisors, criminal investigators, prosecutors, or further academic research. The university is committed to fostering an inclusive learning environment that encourages academic excellence, ethical awareness, and social responsibility, equipping students with the skills needed to make meaningful contributions to the criminal justice system and society at large.