| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2025-01-01 | - |
Program Overview
The LLM in Criminal Justice at the University of Aberdeen provides a comprehensive understanding of criminal justice systems and their implementation worldwide. Designed by experts, the program equips students with critical thinking, research, and analytical skills through a combination of compulsory and optional courses. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in law enforcement, legal practice, research, and international organizations, with a focus on the global job market.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
LLM in Criminal Justice at the University of Aberdeen
This program focuses on critical and comparative thinking around criminal procedures and systems. It aims to equip students with a deeper understanding of criminal justice systems, how criminal law is implemented in various societies around the world, and how crucial elements like criminal law, evidence, and the causes of crime influence the field. The knowledge gained from this program is applicable in various countries, allowing graduates to work internationally. The LLM has been designed by academics and external experts, ensuring a comprehensive and industry-aligned curriculum that meets the demands of the modern global job market.
Outline:
Semester 1:
- Compulsory Courses:
- Critical Legal Thinking and Scholarship (LS551T)
- Optional Courses:
- International Cybersecurity Law (LS554A)
- Criminal Evidence and Proof (LS551R)
Semester 2:
- Compulsory Courses:
- Master of Laws Dissertation (LS5904)
Semester 3:
- Optional Courses:
- Issues in Criminal Justice (LS5096)
- International Criminal Law (LS502N)
- Critical Legal Thinking and Scholarship: This course equips students with essential research, analytical, and writing skills required for LLM courses through lectures, workshops, and an individual assignment.
- Criminal Evidence and Proof: This comparative course delves deep into key evidentiary doctrines, focusing on the European Court of Human Rights jurisprudence and differences in national approaches. It emphasizes not just the legal rules, but also the underlying principles and policies.
- Master of Laws Dissertation: This compulsory component allows students to research and explore a specific legal area of their choice in depth, culminating in a 10,000-word dissertation produced between May and mid-August.
Assessment:
Assessment methods vary for different courses but generally include coursework, written examinations, or a combination of both as per the course specifications. For the dissertation, a grade of D3 or above is required, and failure to achieve this will result in a Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate instead of the LLM degree.
Teaching:
The program utilizes an inclusive and friendly teaching style that encourages open discussions and sharing of experiences among international students, allowing for exploration of diverse legal systems and perspectives.
Careers:
Graduates of the LLM in Criminal Justice can pursue careers in various fields, including law enforcement, legal practice, research, academia, and human rights organizations. The program's focus on international legal issues and its alignment with current job market demands equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in a global environment.
Other:
- The program attracts students from over 40 nationalities, creating a vibrant and diverse learning community.
- Students benefit from individualized attention and access to teaching staff due to small learning groups.
- The University offers a Law Careers and Employability Service that helps students develop essential career-related skills.
EU / International students: £23,800 UK: £11,900
University of Aberdeen
Overview:
The University of Aberdeen is a renowned institution of higher learning located in Aberdeen, Scotland. It boasts a rich history, having been established in 1495, making it one of the oldest universities in the UK. The university is known for its commitment to research and teaching, offering a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.
Services Offered:
The university provides a comprehensive range of services to support students in their academic journey. These include:
Academic Support:
Access to libraries, study resources, and academic advisors.Student Life:
Opportunities for extracurricular activities, clubs, societies, and sports.Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus housing options for students.Career Services:
Guidance and support for career planning and job hunting.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, bursaries, and other financial assistance programs.International Student Support:
Dedicated services for international students, including visa assistance and cultural integration programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Aberdeen can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, including:
Sports:
Participation in various sports teams and leagues.Societies and Clubs:
Joining student-led clubs and societies based on interests.Events and Activities:
Attending social events, concerts, and cultural performances.Student Union:
Engaging with the student union for representation and advocacy.Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
The university is recognized for its high-quality teaching and research.Global Reputation:
It holds a strong international reputation, attracting students from around the world.Beautiful Campus:
The university is situated on a picturesque campus with historic buildings and modern facilities.Vibrant City:
Aberdeen offers a lively city environment with a rich cultural scene.Strong Research Focus:
The university is a leading research institution, with a focus on innovation and impact.Academic Programs:
The University of Aberdeen offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Degrees:
Bachelor's degrees in various disciplines, including Arts, Science, Engineering, Medicine, and Law.Postgraduate Taught Degrees:
Master's degrees and postgraduate diplomas in specialized fields.Postgraduate Research Degrees:
PhD programs and research opportunities in various research areas.Online Learning:
Flexible online programs for students who prefer distance learning.Other:
The university is committed to sustainability and has been recognized for its efforts in this area. It is also a member of the Russell Group, a group of leading research-intensive universities in the UK.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
While the context mentions some aspects of student life, it does not provide a detailed description of the campus experience.Key Reasons to Study There:
The context mentions some advantages, but it does not explicitly highlight the main reasons to study at the University of Aberdeen.Entry Requirements
EU Home Students:
- Normally a 2:1 honours degree in Law (or another related discipline) or equivalent.
- Document requirements for application:
- A full transcript showing all the subjects you studied and the marks you achieved in your degree(s).
- CV/Resume optional.
- Reference letter from your university discussing your academic ability.
International Overseas Students:
The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:
- IELTS Academic: OVERALL - 6.5 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 6.0; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0
- TOEFL iBT: OVERALL - 90 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 21; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21
- PTE Academic: OVERALL - 62 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59
- Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency: OVERALL - 176 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 169; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169
