Law and Politics

The Law and Politics undergraduate degree programme at the University of Essex offers students a comprehensive exploration of the fundamental principles underlying legal systems and political processes. This interdisciplinary course combines the study of law and politics to equip students with a broad understanding of how legal frameworks shape political institutions, policies, and society as a whole. Throughout the duration of the programme, students will engage with core topics such as constitutional law, criminal law, administrative law, political theory, international relations, and comparative politics. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of contemporary legal and political issues globally and locally.

Students will have the opportunity to develop practical skills through participation in moot courts, simulations, and internships, which prepare them for careers in legal practice, politics, public policy, or further academic research. The programme emphasizes the importance of evidence-based reasoning, effective communication, and ethical considerations in law and politics. With a diverse faculty of legal scholars and political scientists, students benefit from a stimulating academic environment that encourages debate, innovative thinking, and a nuanced understanding of complex societal challenges.

Moreover, the university’s close ties with government agencies, law firms, NGOs, and international organizations provide valuable networking opportunities and practical Experience. The degree prepares graduates for a wide range of careers, including legal consultancy, diplomatic service, policy analysis, advocacy, or continued postgraduate studies such as a Master’s or PhD. The programme’s flexible structure allows students to tailor their learning experience to their interests and career ambitions. Courses are delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and research projects, ensuring a dynamic and engaging learning environment. Overall, the Law and Politics degree at the University of Essex offers an enriching educational experience that blends theoretical foundations with real-world applications, making it an excellent choice for students passionate about understanding and influencing the legal and political landscapes of the future.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 11950 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The special characteristics of our courses are flexibility and choice. In your first year, you usually take four or five modules that include pre-requisite(s) for your course but, in many cases, mean you can try subjects you have not come across before. On our LLB courses, the requirements relating to professional accreditation mean your course content is fairly closely prescribed but there is still some scope for choice after your first year.
We offer a range of optional modules in your second- and final-years and most courses allow you to undertake a final-year project, an individual piece of research on a topic that interests you.
We operate a credit framework for our awards, which is based on principles widely used across the UK university sector. Each module has a credit rating attached and our standard three-year course consists of 360 credits (120 credits in your first year, and 240 credits across your second and final years).
Please note that module information on our course finder provides a guide to course content and may be subject to review on an annual basis.

Year 1
Introduction to Politics;
Introduction to European Politics or Introduction to International Relations;
Public Law 1;
Legal Skills; and
Foundations of the Law of Property.

Year 2
Political Analysis;
Joint Seminar in Politics and Law;
Public Law 2;
Jurisprudence 1;
Foundations of the Law of Obligations; and
Contract.

Year 3
A combination of six half-year politics modules or three full-year politics modules; and
two half-year optional modules.

Year 4
Criminal Law;
Land Law;
Equity and Trusts;
EU Law;
Tort; and
one half-year optional module.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

A-levels: AAB-ABB, including at least one A-level in a subject that demonstrates essay-writing skills
GCSE English: C
IB: 33-32 points
Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 12 level three credits at distinction and the remainder at merit (or above)
Other equivalent qualifications may also be accepted.
English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall with minimum 5.5 in each component (or equivalent). Different requirements apply for second year entry.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Essex.

Funding

For up-to-date information on funding opportunities at Essex, please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/studentfinance.

The Law and Politics programme at the University of Essex offers students an in-depth exploration of the theoretical and practical aspects of law and political systems. This interdisciplinary degree combines foundational legal knowledge with a comprehensive understanding of political institutions, behaviour, and thought. Throughout the course, students examine key legal principles, statutory interpretation, and constitutional law, alongside an analysis of political ideologies, governance structures, and policy processes. The programme is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of the complex relationship between law and politics in contemporary society.

Students enrolled in this programme have access to a diverse faculty with expertise across various legal and political disciplines. The curriculum includes modules on constitutional law, human rights, criminal justice, international law, comparative politics, and public policy. Emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, the course integrates case studies, moot courts, and seminars that promote active learning and real-world application. Teaching methods blend lectures, tutorials, group work, and independent research, supported by extensive access to university resources, including extensive legal and political libraries, online databases, and specialist research centers.

The programme encourages critical engagement and supports students in developing their own perspectives on issues such as democracy, justice, authority, and societal change. It prepares graduates for careers in law, politics, public administration, international organizations, or further academic study. Opportunities for placements, internships, and participation in model United Nations or similar activities are often available, providing valuable practical experience and networking opportunities. Graduates of the Law and Politics degree are equipped with a versatile skill set that includes legal research, policy analysis, advocacy, and an understanding of global political issues, making them well-prepared for the dynamic fields of law and governance.

The University of Essex is renowned for its supportive academic environment, emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, and strong focus on employability. The Law and Politics course is typically offered as a three-year undergraduate degree, with a flexible study option for part-time students. Students are encouraged to engage with contemporary issues through research projects, dissertation work, and participation in events and debates organized by the university's vibrant academic community. The degree program aims to produce well-rounded, critical thinkers who can contribute effectively to law, politics, and society at large.