Course Outline
This programme is designed to offer a unique method of study. It combines the convenience of distance learning with the advantage of regular attendance at seminars where you will receive guidance and support from enthusiastic staff who are experienced in helping students to develop the analytical and research skills necessary for an understanding of the law. Three subjects are studied each year and you will complete your degree in four years.
We welcome students from a wide variety of backgrounds, from those who are looking for a change of career to those who are returning to education after a long absence. Our experience shows that all students bring their own valuable contribution to the programme and all can be equally successful in gaining an LLB provided they demonstrate sufficient commitment and motivation.
Applications are welcomed from mature students of all ages. There are no formal entry requirements for mature students on this programme. However, all candidates are interviewed and motivation and work experience are taken into consideration. Younger students will be expected to have gained the equivalent of three grade Cs at A-level.
The programme is fully recognised as a qualifying law degree by the Law Society and Bar Council. As such, it enables our graduates to proceed to take the professional examinations that lead to qualification as a solicitor or a barrister.
Teaching Method
The LLB (part-time) programme follows a traditional academic year starting in September with examinations each June. Teaching takes place on Wednesday evenings for two 90-minute sessions, and attendance is compulsory. During each evening two subjects will be covered with the subjects rotating on a pre-set timetable. During these sessions there is ample opportunity to explore any areas of difficulty with your tutor.
In addition to the once-a-week contact teaching hours, you will also have to make a substantial commitment to private study and seminar preparation. Rather like a distance learning programme you will be provided with a comprehensive range of materials at the beginning of each year. This will include recommended textbooks for each subject and a comprehensive Study Pack containing seminar study notes and materials, exercises, revision guidance notes and relevant cases and articles. It is a unique feature of our course that you will be able to study at home at a time convenient to yourself allowing time for discussion and exploration of more complex areas of law during the weekly seminars.
Tuition fees and financial assistance
Tuition fees are inclusive of all study materials, textbooks and examination fees.
At the beginning of each year, you will receive copies of the recommended course textbooks and casebooks for each subject to be studied in that year. You will also receive a comprehensive ‘study pack’ containing seminar study notes and materials, exercises, revision guidance notes and pointers, together with relevant cases and articles.
Fees can be paid, interest free, in instalments via monthly direct debit so there is no need for a large up-front payment. One third of your fees for the term (currently £333) is paid on registration, followed by two further monthly payments. If you wish to pay your fees in this way, please contact our Student Fees office.
A ‘Tuition Fee Loan for eligible part-time students at private university or college‘ is also available to Buckingham students. More information is available via the DirectGov website.
What our students and alumni say
I have found the environment at Buckingham welcoming, relaxing, yet very efficient at providing me with the necessary knowledge and supporting information that I need in pursuance of my part-time law degree.
There is nothing detrimental about being a part-time student at the university except I would like to be able to spend more time there! There are also a range of different “studying” environments that you can make use of to suit yourself when not attending lectures.
I would strongly recommend anyone considering part-time study to pay a visit and see for themselves.
David Millard (Law, 2009)
Read more about what our current students and graduates think of the programme
Full information about the programme in the University Handbook
