Law foundation year pathway

The module develops students’ skills and approaches necessary for successful written communication and essay writing at undergraduate level, through an interdisciplinary focus on the place of law in society. Students will study the place of law in society; consider what ‘law’ is and what it looks like; and consider law as a social system. Students will be introduced to key criminological and sociological concerns in society including social order, individual behaviour, crime and justice. Students will learn how to find, use, and apply theories of law, criminology and sociology to create a sustained piece of writing.

The module develops students’ understanding of the legal system looking at private/public law; institutions of the law; reflecting on law in society; and types of legal skills, interpretations of rules and statutes; case comprehension; and argumentation. Students will also learn about the criminal justice system and understand the purpose of the criminal justice process; learn about the role and responsibilities of police, courts and prisons; and about crime justice and human rights. Students will learn how to find, use, and apply theories of law, criminology and sociology to create a sustained piece of writing.

This module explores what makes “thinking” rigorous and logical, and how to detect specious arguments or ideas based on prejudice or fallacies in reasoning.

It will also encourage students to start reflecting on how to present ideas in creative and critical ways, whilst developing a strong understanding of the constant need to be ethical.

This module introduces the students to learning in HE and provides them with a framework for reflection and understanding of their own personal learning identity as well as tools for continuing educational success.

This module will equip students with the knowledge, confidence and practical skills to help them to develop their employability skills.

Students will be introduced to the workplace through a short observation and will work independently and in groups to understand and recognise work-related success and build their own potential.

This module is an opportunity for students to expand their knowledge in an area of their choice. Students will work closely with a supervisor to choose a topic of interest for investigation.

Alongside pursuing their interest in a topic, students will engage with academic research skills such as finding sources, building an argument and organising ideas, design and delivery of output, and will require planning, preparation, research and autonomous working. Students will produce a portfolio of work.

This module will also culminate in a small “conference” where all students showcase their findings.