Sunderland has one of the best Law Departments in the UK. We were named joint 2nd in the UK for Course Satisfaction - Guardian University Guide 2014 and best in the North East for Satisfaction with Feedback - Guardian University Guide 2015. In the latest (2014) Research Excellence Framework (REF), Law research at Sunderland was recognised as 'internationally excellent'. Law is a very versatile degree that is highly valued in all professions, and it’s also the first step towards a career in the legal profession. This LLB Law course takes you a step closer towards becoming a solicitor or barrister by satisfying the initial academic stage of training that you need. On completion of your course, the next step would be to go onto the Legal Practice Course (for solicitors) or the Bar Vocational Course (for barristers). Our LLB Law course is unusual because we give you the option of a 'dual qualification'. We offer a mix of modules that allow you to qualify as a graduate paralegal, so you can start working in law as soon as you graduate. The option of a 'dual qualification' is an important advantage that marks out Sunderland’s course from many others. Our teaching team has wide professional and academic experience. We are fortunate to have excellent facilities at Sunderland, including a mock courtroom where you can practice your skills in advocacy. There is nothing like standing up in court and arguing legal principles to prepare you for a legal career – and at Sunderland we prepare you for it every step of the way.

Career options: A law course does not commit you to following a career in the law – although it is a useful stepping stone if you choose to do so. It encourages general skills of clear thinking, logical argument and effective writing that are valuable in many different professions and sectors. If you decide to follow a legal path, there are three options once you have completed your course: Legal Practice Course (for solicitors) Bar Vocational Course (for barristers) A job as a paralegal, using your qualification from Sunderland Careers Evening for law students: We invite all final year students to a Careers Evening. Contributors include representatives from local firms as well as a number of our past graduates. Some of these have moved on to a Legal Practice Course (for solicitors), a Bar Vocational Course (for barristers) or another postgraduate programme. Others are now employed in a wide range of careers including the police service and teaching. Guest speakers: Our invitations to guest speakers allow you to listen to people who are already progressing in their legal careers. Examples of past speakers include graduates of our course who are undertaking their Legal Practice Course or Bar Vocational Course, and others who have now progressed to their training contract. It’s a useful way to broaden your learning so that you’re prepared not just for exams but for life. Practical experience: To enhance your experience of standing up in front of people and delivering a clear argument, we encourage competitions run by the Mooting and Debating Group. In Year 2 there is an optional ‘Mooting’ module. It includes an outdoor performance workshop at the coast to engage in activities around voice projection and the power of oral argument. University Language Scheme: It is usually possible to take a module from the free University Language Scheme, which will earn credits towards your degree. The language module can be taken on top of or as part of the 120 credits needed to complete a year. Language skills increase your international mobility and you can choose between French, German, Spanish, Japanese and Chinese at a range of levels. If your first language is not English, please check with your tutor about entry requirements. Volunteering: Our Careers and Employability Service advertises volunteering positions in local organisations, charities and community groups. You can help other people while learning about your strengths and what you can offer. Past opportunities have included working with children and the elderly, conservation work and sporting activities. Experience: The University of Sunderland is committed to ensuring that every student has an impressive range of opportunities to enhance their CV and gain valuable experience. CV-enhancing opportunities include: Work placements Graduate internships Studying abroad Student Ambassador Scheme Mentoring Starting your own business Student jobs and volunteering Careers advice.