LLB Law with German Law

Program Overview

The LLB Law with German Law program at the University of Birmingham is a four-year undergraduate degree that equips students with a strong foundation in both English and German law. Through a year of study abroad at a German university and specialized modules, the program prepares students for careers in law that require a global perspective, particularly in European contexts. Graduates are well-prepared for careers as barristers, solicitors, and in international law.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The LLB Law with German Law degree is a four-year undergraduate program designed to prepare students for careers in law, particularly those involving international cooperation and negotiation within a European context. The program combines English law with German law, providing students with a comparative understanding of two major legal systems.

Objectives:

• To equip students with a strong foundation in both English and German law.
• To develop students' language skills in German, enabling them to communicate effectively with European partners.
• To provide students with practical experience of the German legal system through a year of study at a German university.
• To prepare students for careers in law that require a global perspective.

Outline:

• Year 1:
• Legal Skills and Methods:
This module introduces students to the fundamental skills and methods of legal study.
• Criminal Law: This module covers the principles of criminal law in England and Wales.
• Public Law: This module explores the principles of public law, including constitutional law and administrative law.
• Contract Law: This module examines the principles of contract law in England and Wales.
• Introduction to German Law and Legal System II: This module continues the exploration of the German legal system.
• Two 10-credit German language modules: These modules enhance students' German language proficiency.
• Year 2:
• Land Law:
This module covers the principles of land law in England and Wales.
• Law of Torts: This module examines the principles of tort law in England and Wales.
• Legal Foundations of the European Union: This module explores the legal framework of the European Union.
• Legal Solutions: This module focuses on practical problem-solving skills in a legal context.
• German Law I: This module delves deeper into specific areas of German law.
• German Law II: This module continues the exploration of German law.
• Two 10-credit German language modules: These modules further develop students' German language skills.
• Year 3:
• Study Abroad:
Students spend a year studying at either Universität Bayreuth or Freie Universität in Berlin, alongside German law students. They receive guidance in selecting appropriate subjects and tailoring their studies to their interests. Upon successful completion, students are awarded a graded certificate by the German university.
• Year 4:
• Equities, Trusts, Wills and Formalities:
This module covers the principles of equity, trusts, wills, and formalities in English law.
• Two 10-credit compulsory German language modules: These modules ensure students maintain their German language proficiency.
• Four optional modules: Students can choose from a wide range of optional modules, including topics such as Counter Terrorism Law, Advocacy, and Employment Law in Practice.
One module must be from the Department of Modern Languages or the Dissertation.

Assessment:

• Examinations: Examinations are held at the end of each semester and typically involve a 3-hour exam for exam-based modules.
• Essays: Essays vary in length (1500-3500 words) depending on the module and assessment criteria.
• Dissertation: The dissertation is an optional module in the final year, allowing students to undertake an individual research project on a specific topic (up to 6,000 words).

Teaching:

• Lectures: Lectures provide a structured framework for learning and convey essential knowledge.
• Seminars: Seminars are smaller group classes that encourage discussion, critical thinking, and student participation.
• Teaching Staff: Students are taught by a diverse group of professors, associate professors, assistant professors, and doctoral researchers, offering a wide range of academic knowledge and experience.
Many staff members have published significant works in their fields and have taught at international institutions.

Careers:

• Career Paths: Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in law, including:
• Barrister:
The program provides exemption from the first stage of the Bar Standards Board examinations.
• Solicitor: Graduates can pursue a career as a solicitor after completing the necessary training.
• International Law: The program's focus on German law and language makes graduates well-suited for careers in international law.
• Legal Research: Graduates can pursue careers in legal research and academia.
• Opportunities: The program provides students with opportunities to:
• Gain work experience:
The Centre for Employability, Professional Legal Education and Research (CEPLER) offers work experience placements with legal firms and organizations.
• Develop advocacy skills: CEPLER offers mooting competitions, debating, and negotiation skills sessions.
• Engage in pro bono work: CEPLER's Pro Bono Group provides opportunities for students to gain practical experience and serve the community.

Other:

• Student Life: The University of Birmingham offers a vibrant student life with a wide range of clubs, societies, and activities.
• Birmingham Law School Skills Academy: The Skills Academy offers workshops and drop-in sessions to help students develop essential skills for legal study, such as seminar preparation, essay writing, case analysis, and time management.