law books on shelf

Available with:

  • Foundation Year


Course Summary

Our Law with Business degree builds the foundation of your future career. Gain a rich understanding of the key components and fundamentals of law as well as business practice. Chester Law School maintains strong links with local legal professionals and the wider community to enhance our course and to ensure you make the most out of your time at University. Specialist opportunities such as guest lecturers and co-curricular outreach and pro bono (free legal advice) opportunities can enhance your skillset and transform you into a graduate that stands out from the crowd.

Studying our Law with Business degree allows you to combine two disciplines to enhance your skillset and your employability options. Gain a rich understanding of key concepts in your first year of study and experience our Work Based Learning module in second year. Final year students have the opportunity to focus their studies on areas of Law that particularly interest them, developing their skills within their chosen specialist modules before they graduate.

Outside of your studies, join our Law Society which hosts a variety of events throughout the year, gain an insight into law in the real world by volunteering with the department’s Legal Advice Clinic, or get involved with Chester Community Law Project, the Law School’s student-led outreach programme which enables volunteers to use their legal knowledge to benefit our local community.

Our team is made up of former practitioners and nationally recognised academic lawyers, committed to helping our students make their career aspirations a reality. 

Why you'll Love it


What you'll Study

Module content:

  • Reading and writing critically.
  • Constructing and evaluating an argument.
  • Note-taking techniques for reading and listening.
  • Understanding plagiarism and academic integrity.
  • Introduction to reflective practice.
  • Preparing for, and delivering, powerpoint presentations.
  • Referencing and citation.
  • Summarising and paraphrasing written sources.
  • Literature searching.
  • Report writing.
  • The culture and expectations of higher education.
  • The assessment process including the role of assessment criteria and feedback.
  • The nature of research journal publishing.

Whilst much of the content above is generic, students will be encouraged to situate skills within the context of the undergraduate discipline they are entering, which leads to some variation in emphasis for certain skills.


Module aims:

1.To raise awareness of the range of study skills required for successful higher education studies, including the process of academic writing, reading strategies, seminar skills, organisation of time and materials, planning for and meeting deadlines, understanding and responding to feedback.

2. To introduce students to concepts such as plagiarism, academic integrity and appropriate use of artificial intelligence tools.

3. To facilitate an effective transition into higher education by exploring, and providing guidance in, the key elements of successful undergraduate studentship including students' understanding of taking responsibility for their own learning.

4. To teach students how to undertake a literature, visual or data review for their discipline and be able to differentiate between a valid, reliable source and an unsubstantiated or irrelevant source.  

Module content:

  • Research and planning skills.
  • Becoming familiar with topics that comprise their undergraduate degree subject.
  • Developing a knowledge base for a discipline of study.
  • Identifying areas of interest.
  • Application and development of critical analytical skills.
  • Development of self-directed study.
  • Use of learning resources.

Module aims:

1. To develop students' skills in planning and writing an essay.

2. To familiarise students with the process of tutor supervision for a written piece of work.

3. To give students an opportunity to focus on a topic within their undergraduate degree subject.

4. To write a piece of work that allows the student to broaden and deepen knowledge on a topic of their choice.

5. To prepare and deliver an academic poster presentation outlining the student's research topic.

Module content:

 

  • Introduction to fundamental principles and basic structure of the English Legal System
  • Sources of law
  • Key legal personnel
  • Concepts of criminal law and the Criminal Justice System
  • Principles of the Tort of negligence and bringing an action in a civil court

Module aims:

 

  1. To introduce students to the fundamental principles and basic structure of the English Legal System
  2. To enable students to develop awareness of key principles, legal institutions and areas of law in the English Legal System
  3. To gain an understanding of the role of legal personnel
  4. To develop basic knowledge of areas of legal learning, namely criminal law and the law of negligence
  5. To begin to develop key skills in the context of legal research, critical evaluation and legal problem solving

Module content:

How do we define a crime? How do we understand what causes crime? How does criminal behaviour affect individuals and society as a whole and how does society respond to criminal behaviour?

This module introduces students to fundamental debates surrounding the questions above, and more. Indicative content includes: 

  • The meaning and scope of criminology
  • Defining and measuring crime
  • The effects of crime
  • Explanations for and causes of crime
  • Responses to crime and the role and functions of the Criminal Justice System

Module aims:

This module has been designed with the specific aim of enabling students to understand criminology in a realistic and contextualised manner.  By the end of the module students will be able to answer key questions about what is meant by crime and will appreciate trends in criminal behaviour and who criminals are.   Students will have an overview of the criminological theories and the question of why people commit crime. Students will understand criminology to be a scientific form of study which cuts across the disciplines of sociology, psychology and law.  Students will be able to analyse social, philosophical and legal issues relating to crime, criminal justice and social policies.

Module content:

  • Introduction to business functions (including human resources management, operations, marketing & finance)
  • Examples of leadership and management
  • Corporate social responsibility
  • Understanding organisational structures and behaviour
  • Introduction to strategy
  • Influences on business (including contract law & the formation of contracts)
  • Introduction to entrepreneurship

Module aims:

  1. To introduce students to a range of business functions.
  2. To develop students' understanding of operational and strategic practices in the modern world of business.
  3. To provide a foundation-level knowledge base of business and entrepreneurship.

Module content:

  • An introduction to creative and critical thinking concepts
  • Considering credibility; belief and truth
  • Identifying how language is used for persuasion
  • Identifying how image is used for persuasion
  • Recognising how media is used for manipulation
  • An introduction to advertising and marketing techniques
  • Representation and misrepresentation of data
  • Applying critical thinking skills to contemporary media and technology

 


Module aims:

1. To introduce approaches to analytical and critical thinking.

2. To develop an understanding of critical thinking when applied to language, image, traditional and online media.

 

Our course includes a range of modules designed to cover the basic building blocks of English Law, such as the English Legal System, Criminal Law, Property Law and the Law of Obligations.

Module content:

The module explores a number of key themes to introduce students to the concepts of people management and organisations and supports students to develop core skills for managing people and working in teams.  

  • The development of management and organisations as subjects - changing theories of management and leadership perspectives
  • People in organisations – indicative content: motivation, culture, personality, identity, how people work in groups and effective teamworking, learning in an organisational context
  • Managing people in organisations - indicative content: organisation and job design, talent management, goal setting, communication, perception and the psychological contract, job satisfaction, stress 
  • Skills for managing people in teams and organisations - indicative content: team formation, team working and leading, managing performance, giving feedback, managing conflict

Module aims:

  1. To enable students to examine a range of management themes and activities
  2. To introduce students to theory underpinning organisational behaviour
  3. To enable students to consider the significance of different environmental contexts in which organisations operate, and the effects of the environment on its activities
  4. To enable students to develop transferable skills for managing people in teams and organisations

Module content:

Academic Concepts Covered

  • Introduction of obligations: Classification of obligations and introduction to contract and tort law.
  • Formation of contract: Offer and acceptance; consideration, exercise of common law and equitable jurisdiction by the courts - promissory estoppel; capacity to contract and intention to create legal relations.
  • Obligations arising from contract: Ascertaining the parties' intentions; types of terms, terms implied by the common law and by statute.
  • Performance and enforcement: Performance and breach. Remedies for breach, damages and remedies in equity and through restitution.
  • Contracts that are void, voidable or the parties are discharged from performance: Mistake, duress and undue influence, misrepresentation, frustration and issues of illegality.

Key Skills Developed

  • Legal writing and drafting: producing different types of documents
  • Practical legal research: retrieving and using information from primary and secondary sources
  • Application of knowledge and understanding
  • Communication skills: explaining and discussing contractual concepts orally and in writing
  • Time and task management: working effectively in order to meet a series of deadlines across the module and produce answers under examination conditions.

 


Module aims:

  • To introduce students to contractual obligations under the common law as affected by statute.
  • To explore contract formation, resulting obligations, vitiating factors, performance, breach and remedies.
  • To enable students to have some appreciation of the operation of contract law in practice and the factors that have influenced its development and that may affect its future development.
  • To enable students to recognise the importance and role of tortious liability and the law of restitution.
  • To reinforce key legal and academic skills.
  • To provide students with a foundation for study in other law modules with a commercial basis.

Module content:

• Principles of the UK constitution: the meaning of democratic governance; sources of the Constitution in the UK; theories and concepts underpinning the Constitution in the UK; arguments for and against codification.
• Parliamentary sovereignty
• The Rule of Law and the Separation of Powers; judicial regulation of governmental behaviour; the importance of an independent judiciary
• Political accountability: ministerial responsibility; mechanisms of Parliamentary accountability; freedom of information
• Legal mechanisms of accountability: judicial review
• Introduction to The Human Rights Act 1998: consequences for the relationship between Parliament and the Judiciary


Module aims:

  • To introduce students to the concept and theories of Public Law and place them in a political and historical context.
  • To provide a knowledge and understanding of the main United Kingdom institutions of constitutional law.
  • To explore the relationship between legislative and executive bodies.
  • To provide a knowledge and understanding of how public bodies may be challenged
  • To introduce the concept of reform and to engage students in a critical approach to reform.
  • To develop skills relating to: legal research, academic writing, referencing, evaluation.

Module content:

Indicative Content:

  1. Introduction to conceptions of Property
  2. Introduction to the nature of Equity
  3. The nature and classifications of Property within the English Legal System
  4. The various rights, estates and interests which may exist in relation to land
  5. The system of registration of title (and its contrast with unregistered land)
  6. Formal methods and mechanisms for acquiring, protecting and transferring estates/interests in Land
  7. Informal methods of acquiring estates/interests in Land, including adverse possession
  8. Interests in and over land, including, for example, leases, licences, covenants, and mortgages.

Key Skills:

  • Application of knowledge and understanding
  • Critical thinking and evaluation
  • Producing an argument
  • Communication skills

Module aims:

  1. To introduce students to the concepts of property, land, and ownership. 
  2. To introduce students to the ways in which the law of England and Wales classifies property rights. 
  3. To enable students to understand the principles relevant to the acquisition, use and transfer of interests in land. 
  4. To examine and understand the rights, estates and interests over land and the ways in which these may be created, protected and transferred. 
  5. To introduce students to the importance of the use of land in relation to mortgages and leases. 
  6. To introduce students to the acquisition of rights and interests over land otherwise than by acts of the parties.

Module content:

Knowledge content: 

  • Sources of law and the structure of the English Legal System; 
  • Domestic and external sources of law; 
  • The doctrines of judicial precedent and statutory interpretation; 
  • Personnel in the legal system;  
  • The Legal Profession. 

Skills content: 

  • Notetaking 
  • Good academic conduct, including, legal referencing 
  • Legal and academic databases 
  • Writing skills, including, how to write with academic integrity 
  • Using information and legal technology, including, appropriate use of AI 
  • Time management 
  • Group work 
  • Undertaking time constrained multiple choice examination 
  • Reflective writing 

These key areas of skills development will be undertaken through the module’s blended learning activities, seminar activities and engagement with a number of legal skills and career information sessions. 


Module aims:

  • To introduce students to the sources and classifications of law and structure of the English legal system, the principles that underpin it, and those that work within it; 
  • To explore and develop a variety of generic academic skills and subject specific legal skills; 
  • To begin to develop the ability to reflect on their skills and knowledge as relevant to the world of la

Module content:

  • The role of marketing within organisations and society.
  • The development of marketing and marketing concepts.
  • Introducing the Marketing Environment.
  • An introduction to Marketing research.
  • Introducing consumer behaviour.
  • Understanding segmentation, targeting and positioning.
  • The Marketing Mix
  • Marketing in context - this may focus on various contexts (e.g Public Sector, Non-profit Organisations,  Marketing Events, Destination Marketing & Sports Marketing).
  • Introducing international marketing

Module aims:

  1. To provide students with fundamental knowledge of concepts, principles and theories of marketing.
  2. To introduce students to marketing techniques and applications.
  3. To develop the students' understanding of the linkages between concepts and contexts.
  4. To enable students to relate these principles to a range of organisational contexts.

 

As the course progresses, there are opportunities to study a range of specialist optional modules in both the Law School and Chester Business School, enabling you to tailor your final year to support your future career goals.

Module content:

Indicative Content

  • Understanding People Management: role and function
  • Introduction to Human Resource Management
  • The key objectives of the HR function
  • Strategic HRM: Achieving the business strategy through HRM
  • Managing and coordinating the Human Resource Function
  • Employee engagement and the psychological contract
  • Resourcing strategy, workforce planning, defining jobs, recruitment and selection, attraction and retention strategies
  • Managing the employee relationship including employee contracts.
  • Managing performance; The Performance management journey, from entry to exit including, developing the reward
  • Strategy induction, performance review, learning and development, the role of the line manager and managing people through change. Managing performance including capability, absence, dismissal, redundancy, retirement.
  • Evaluating People Management: Measuring HRM's contribution to organisational success; Measuring human capital, corporate social responsibility and employee wellbeing

Module aims:

  • To enable students to uphold and maintain the standards and behaviours set out in the CIPD code of professional conduct (2023).
  • To develop within students a body of knowledge and understanding relevant to the successful management of people in the workplace.
  • To enable students to recognise and carry out the key activities of the HRM function.
  • To enable students to evaluate and where necessary, formulate improvements pertaining to the techniques used in managing people in the workplace.

Module content:

Indicative content:

  • Types of decisions and decision making processes
  • The dynamics of decision making at individual, group and organisational levels (including the impact of psychology, leadership styles, power and politics)
  • Data, information and knowledge management
  • Skill development: Constructing and communicating persuasive arguments
  • Skill development: Effective business reports
  • Project management
  • Risk and uncertainty
  • Ethics in decision making
  • Communicating decisions
  • In-depth exploration of operations management and underpinning concepts e.g.  the volume/ variety mix and its implications for product/ process design, process layout, use of technology, operations planning and control. 
  • Strategic decision-making and operations management - levels of strategic contribution; the challenges of market evolution for operations
  • Comparative study of the management challenges of manufacturing and service operations

Module aims:

To develop students' ability to:

- assess the key influences on effective and ethical decision making

- analyse an organisation according to its operational capabilities

- apply management tools and techniques in operational planning, monitoring and control

Module content:

It is anticipated that the module will focus upon the following areas depending upon their relevance in any particular academic session:

  • The functions of the criminal law and the aims of the criminal justice system
  • Principles of liability and the nature of criminal offences
  • Defences
  • Offences against the person (fatal, non-fatal and sexual)
  • Property Offences
  • Any other criminal offences of specific relevance in a given academic session.

Module aims:

The aims of the module are 

  • To enable students to identify and comprehend the key concepts and principles of Criminal Law in England and Wales including when criminal responsibility and liability arises in law and may be defended.
  • To introduce the major criminal offences and ways of committing offences including, for example, homicide (murder and manslaughter) , offences against the person (the different levels of assaults and battery), sexual offences (rape/ sexual assault and other non-consensual sexual offences) and property offences / offences of dishonesty (theft / burglary / robbery / fraud).
  • To explore the acts or omissions (actus reus) and mindset (mens rea) necessary for an offence/ offences to be committed, and any defences which may apply.
  • To consider definitions of offences from statute and the common law, and how definitions have been interpreted and applied in cases in the Court of Appeal and House of Lords / Supreme Court

Module content:

Indicative content includes:

  • Research-informed analysis of graduate legal skills development.
  • Self- assessment of needs: identification of the range of transferable skills, competencies and attitudes employees need and employers expect graduates to possess. (Employability Skills: e.g. verbal and written communication, analytical / problem solving capabilities; self-management; team working behaviours; negotiation skills; influencing people; developing a positive work attitude, resilience, building rapport with co-workers)
  • Devising strategies to improve employability
  • Critical analysis/evaluation of skills already acquired and gaps
  • Plan to address gaps in transferable skills based on organisational analysis and sector opportunities.
  • Engagement with a range of graduate, legal-related events and activities
  • Theoretical approaches to reflective analysis of personal and professional development through engagement with activities and events

Module aims:

This module aims to enhance students’ prospects of gaining graduate level employment through engagement with a range of legal employability events, which will enable them to:

  • Develop their understanding of workplace practice and lifelong learning;
  • Enhance their work readiness and employability prospects through development of transferable skills;
  • Take responsibility for their own learning and acquisition of employability skills;
  • Articulate, in writing, their employability skills.

Module content:

Indicative Content:-

1. Principles of Tort law

2. Specific areas of Tort Law – these may include Negligence, Occupier’s Liability, Private Nuisance, Defamation, Vicarious liability, Product liability , Employer’s Liability and intentional torts such as those involving Trespass to the Person

3. Defences and Remedies in in Tort Law. 


Module aims:

1. To enable students to develop an understanding of the historical development of the law of tort.

2. To enable students to develop a critical understanding of the contemporary law of tort within its social and political contexts. 

3. To encourage a critical approach to legal concepts within the law of tort.

4. To enable students to understand and evaluate the impact of public policy upon the law of tort.  

5. To develop existing academic writing skills and to analyse a range of primary and secondary sources. 

 

 

 

Module content:

The role of Equity in the English legal system and the nature, classification and characteristics of trusts, including: 

  • The development of Equity and an introduction to trusts
  • The Three Certainties
  • Legal and equitable interests in property 
  • The creation of express trusts, the administration of express trusts and aspects of breach of trust and equitable remedies
  • Implied trusts, including Trusts of the family home, and principles of Co-ownership 
  • Charitable trusts 

Module aims:

This module is designed to appraise the scope and legal framework of the law regarding Equity and Trusts. The module aims to enable students to develop the requisite knowledge of the main concepts, principles and rules of contemporary equity and trusts.

Students are required to demonstrate both theoretical awareness, and the practical application, of equitable and legal principles within the field of Equity and Trusts.

The module enables students to build upon their skills and knowledge, gained in the LA4008 Principles of Property Law, to develop an understanding of the use of the trust in the modern context both domestic and commercial.

  • To enable students to examine the reasons for creating trusts 
  • To develop students’ ability to explain and apply to factual situations the equitable principles relating to the creation and administration of express private and public trusts, the fiduciary nature of trusteeship and aspects of breach of trust 
  • To develop students’ ability to explain and apply the equitable principles relating to the creation of implied trusts, the role of trusts in commercial contexts and in relation to private and family property 
  • To develop students’ ability to critically evaluate the principles of the law of trusts and the role of equity in developing that law 

Module content:

Part A:      

Preparation for Experiential Overseas Learning will take place at the university of Chester during level 5 and will include:  

  • The multiple facets of Global citizenship
  • Ethical engagement and practice
  • Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
  • Intercultural communication

Theories, models and strategies of learning

  • Theories and models Intercultural competence
  • Theories and models of Integration and Multiculturalism
  • Critical thinking skills and models of Reflection
  • Experiential learning models
  • Self-directed experiential learning

Personal and placement-related skills

  • Enhanced independence
  • Improved command of multicultural behaviour
  • Increased knowledge and confidence in their individual facets of personal identity
  • Effective time management and organisational skills
  • Project management – working away from University and independent study
  • Self-management and personal development
  • Team building and team work

Part B:            Overseas

Students will engage in experiential learning activities overseas for at least 150 hours 


Module aims:

The purpose of this module is to enhance students’ prospects of completing an overseas placement to the best of their ability consequently it aims to:

  • To equip participants with appropriate knowledge and skills to study or work in a different cultural, linguistic and/or social environment; enhancing ethical, cultural and intercultural awareness.
  • To enhance students understanding of the ethical issues related to living and working abroad.
  • To increase students Global Citizenship skills
  • To provide an opportunity for students to reflect critically on their experience of living and learning within an unfamiliar culture, to their 'home' culture or ethnic group.

To challenge students to learn about themselves as global citizens in terms of life skills, career choices and academic development outside the classroom.

Module content:

Preparation for the year abroad will take place in Chester during level 5 and will include:

  • Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
  • Host-country orientation, study methods– economic, political and social reality of the country
  • Orientation specific to exchange – health, education, gender issues
  • The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
  • Practical matters relating to living and studying in the wider world

Theories, models and strategies of learning

  • Critical thinking skills, experiential learning       and models of reflection

Personal and placement-related transversal skills

  • Effective self-motivation and independent resourcefulness
  • Effective time management and organisational skills
  • Project management – working away from University and independent study
  • Self-management and personal development

Whilst abroad:

Students will undertake study at one of UoC’s partner universities; it is expected that students will choose a series of modules at the university abroad, which equal a full-time study load. This must be agreed by the host institution and the International Tutor. Students must supply details of their courses/modules on a learning agreement within 4 weeks of arrival at the host university, note students who fail to supply this within 4 weeks may have the opportunity withdrawn.


Module aims:

  1. To experience academic life in country outside of the EU, enhancing cultural and intercultural awareness and increasing transversal skills.
  2. To reflect on the impact of the experience in their destination on one’s own personal, academic and professional development.
  3. To engage with the experience of study at a partner university to gain extensive first-hand knowledge and understanding of the relevant society from the perspective of the resident.
  4. To further develop independent learning techniques.
  5. To foster critical evaluation.

Module content:

Pre-placement:

  • Structured approaches to researching, selecting and securing a suitable work placement relevant to the student’s interests and career aspirations*.
  • Writing an effective CV. Constructing a letter of application.*
  • Interview skills.*

 *Note: Students are required to undertake these pre-placement tasks during term 1 level 5, as part of the placement acquisition process and will be supported by the Work Based Learning team and the Careers and Employability department.

 Induction Programme and Placement:

  • The organisational context: research-informed analysis of the placement organisation’s aims, structure, culture.
  • Self- assessment of needs: identification of the range of transferable skills, competencies and attitudes employees need and employers expect graduates to possess. (Employability Skills: e.g. verbal and written communication, analytical / problem solving capabilities; self-management; team working behaviours; negotiation skills; influencing people; positive attitude, resilience, building rapport).
  • Devising a strategy for integrating into the workplace and work based teams
  • Completion of online assignment tasks covering sourcing and obtaining placement; health and safety procedures in general; general workplace integrity; placement requirements. 

During and post-placement: Learning effectively in and from the workplace:- 

  • Devising and implementing strategies to improve own approach and performance
  • Critical analysis/evaluation of approach to skill development and performance in the workplace;
  • Influencing the Placement Provider’s appraisal;
  • Devising an action plan to develop gaps in transferable skills based on the placement experiences;

Module aims:

This module aims to enhance students’ prospects of gaining graduate level employment through engagement with a University approved work placement**, which will enable them to:

  • Develop their understanding of workplace practice and lifelong learning;
  • Enhance their work readiness and employability prospects through development of transferable skills;
  • Take responsibility for their own learning and acquisition of workplace employability skills;
  • Articulate, in writing, their employability skills.

Module content:

This module is delivered in the context of the modern business environment, therefore, contemporary case studies and reports on companies and industries are integral to learning on the module.

Topics include:

  • The macro, industry and market environments,
  • The internationalisation process,
  • Strategic mergers, acquisitions and alliances,
  • Innovation and knowledge management,
  • Writing and delivering strategy,
  • Undertaking analysis on organisations and their strategic successes/failures.

Module aims:

As well as the subject knowledge and understanding set out in the module content, this module is designed to bring together and build on prior levels 4 and 5 knowledge, and current learning in the functional areas of business and/or tourism and events management (or suitable equivalent).

The seminars and assessments, both formative and summative, are designed to enhance the students' abilities in critical evaluation of sources and academic texts.  The module is designed to enhance critical faculties in balanced judgements within a context of imperfect information, risk and uncertainty, using both deductive logic and inductive lateral thinking while recognising the constraints of both. 

Module content:

Indicative Content: 

  • Leadership versus Management
  • Theories/Approaches to Leadership (eg Trait, Situational, Contingency, Transformational)
  • Leadership dilemmas: conflict management, power, influence and trust 
  • Responsible and ethical leadership
  • Leadership and management development
  • Group leadership
  • Leading in the 21st Century (e.g. cross-cultural contexts, communication technology)
  • Nature and process of change
  • Planned versus emergent change
  • Impact of technology on change (eg BPR)
  • Resistance to change
  • Managing change
  • Approaches for leading and embedding change
  • Leadership and change management skills (eg EI, project and event management)

Module aims:

The module focusses on the nature and significance of leadership in organisations,  evaluating contemporary and future contexts in the light of developments in theoretical approaches to leadership and change , providing critical insight into the challenges inherent in successfully leading change and the role of the future leader in doing so.

Module content:

Aspects of

  1. Parentage and parenthood; rights and responsibilities 
  2. Private law decision-making; children’s welfare and autonomy 
  3. Public law: role of the Local Authority; child protection, care and supervision, adoption and special guardianship 
  4. International law affecting children of relevance at the time of study.
  5. Systematic Literature Review and Doctrinal Legal Research

 


Module aims:

Development of the students' understanding and critical enquiry of the law and procedure relating to arrangements for children's family life in England and Wales.

Development of real word research techniques (systematic literature review and doctrinal legal research) and presentation skills (report writing) on the subject of need (or not) for law reform.

Module content:

  1. The historical development of the laws of marriage and ending marriage. 
  2. The relationships of marriage, civil partnership and cohabitation. 
  3. Nullity, divorce and other decrees 
  4. Ancillary relief: financial and property orders and the basis on which they are made, financial provision for children, pre-nuptial and separation agreements. 
  5. Rights and duties of cohabitants on death and separation. 
  6. Property ownership of the family home  
  7. Domestic abuse and legal remedies
  8. Comparisons with law in some other jurisdictions
  9. Family legal responsibility to the elderly and the vulnerable 

Module aims:

  • To give students a good grounding in the present law of adult, personal relationships.
  • To analyse the policies that lie behind the law of personal relationships.
  • To identify the legal rules relating to marriage and civil partnership and relationship breakdown and assess their consequences and apply them to hypothetical scenarios.
  • To compare the rules for married couples and civil partners with those of unmarried partners, whether same sex or opposite sex and apply those rules.
  • To develop the ability to think in a legal and rational manner as to the present parameters of family law.
  • To consider criticisms and proposals for reform and contrast the law in England and Wales with the law in other jurisdictions.

Module content:

  • The relationship between law, medicine and ethics: paternalism and autonomy
  • Medical negligence
  • Consent to treatment and capacity
  • Abortion and related issues
  • Artificial reproduction
  • End of life areas, such as euthanasia, assisted suicide and organ transplantation
  • Topical areas of medical law, such as Female Genital Mutilation 

Module aims:

  • To develop an understanding of substantive and ethical issues in medical law
  • To discuss the socio-legal concepts of medical law in both academic and legal discourse
  • To critically consider conflicting ethical arguments about medical treatment
  • To examine the current regulation of the law on key topics, such as abortion
  • To understand the issues surrounding the refusal of withdrawal of medical treatment, euthanasia, and other end-of-life issues
  • To understand and evaluate the current legal issues involving particular medical technological advances

Module content:

  • Introduction to the history and concepts of Human Rights and of Human Rights Law.
  • Introduction to the European Convention on Human Rights.
  • The European Convention on Human Rights and the UK: The Human Rights Act 1998.
  • The Human Rights Act 1998: Framework, Mechanisms and Remedies.
  • The Human Rights Act 1998: The Protection of Convention Rights.
  • The Effectiveness of the European Convention on Human Rights and the Human Rights Act 1998: a critical assessment.
  • Freedom of Speech.
  • Freedom of Assembly and Association.
  • Open Government: The Right to Know.

Module aims:

  • To draw upon and develop the understanding gathered from Public Law at level 4.
  • To outline the history and sources of UK and European Human Rights Law.
  • To develop the students’ ability to describe and evaluate the relevance and impact of this law in protecting human rights.
  • To develop the students’ critical awareness of the merits and shortcomings of the UK and European system of Human Rights law.
  • To engender a general awareness and interest in these matters and a willingness to look beyond the law to social, political and economic factors.
  • To develop a critical review of the law and consider possible reform.

Module content:

  • Introduction to the institutions and sources of Discrimination Law and its historical development at domestic and EU level.
  • The concept of discrimination: direct, indirect, victimisation, harassment,
    etc; affirmative action.
  • Sex discrimination and equal pay.
  • Race Discrimination.
  • Disability Discrimination.
  • Discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation, religion or belief, age and transgender.
  • Positive action.
  • Employment Tribunal procedure.
  • The development of the Commission for Equality and Human Rights.

Module aims:

  • To outline the law relating to discrimination in the UK in the light of the impact of past EU membership.
  • To develop a critical understanding of the policy behind anti-discrimination law.
  • To develop the students’ critical awareness of the merits and shortcomings of the UK system of anti-discrimination legislation.
  • To explore the equality legislation as a means of promoting social justice and prepare students for consideration of broader concepts of social justice in LA6039.

Module content:

The module covers a spectrum of topics commonly dealt with by employment law advisers in practice relating to:

  • Employment status
  • The terms of the employment contract
  • Breach of the employment contract
  • Termination of employment
  • Employment tribunal procedure

Module aims:

To equip students with a broad working knowledge of the legal aspects of employment.

To enable students to acquire an understanding of the principles underpinning the relationships between employers and workers.

To enable students to apply knowledge and understanding to solve problems.

To enable students to develop their practical skills such as interpreting real-world documentation and understanding the importance of providing advice tailored to the needs and priorities of the client.

Module content:

The module covers a spectrum of Company Law topics and introduces students to the areas commonly dealt with by corporate lawyers in practice.  Indicative areas considered by this module include:

  • The regulation of shareholders;
  • The regulation of company directors; and
  • Legal principles pertaining to corporate insolvency.

Module aims:

To enable students to acquire an understanding of the legal principles underpinning the regulation of limited companies, their shareholders and directors.

To enable students to apply knowledge and understanding to solve problems.

To enable students to develop their practical skills such as interpreting real-world documentation and understanding the importance of providing advice tailored to the needs and priorities of the client.

Module content:

  1. The purpose of the law of evidence and how evidence is classified and the terminology used.
  2. The Burden and standard of proof
  3. Competence and compellability of witnesses, especially children, the accused and the spouse of the accused including inferences to be drawn from silence of the accused at trial.
  4. Examination-in-chief and cross examination
  5. Corroboration
  6. Identification evidence
  7. Expert Evidence
  8. Hearsay in criminal proceedings.
  9. Character Evidence
  10. Confessions

Module aims:

  • To explore and learn the sources of evidence and the rules relating to the admissibility of such evidence in criminal and civil trials.
  • To examine the historical development and the principles underlying the law of evidence in criminal and civil cases.
  • To critically analyse the different evidential frameworks in existence in the civil justice system and the criminal justice system.
  • To consider with particular emphasis recent legislation and case law on the rules of evidence
  • To criticially analyse the present law and consider and propose whether law relating to evidence is 'fit for purpose' or whether it requires further reform.

Module content:

The role of Equity in the English legal system and the nature, classification and characteristics of trusts, including: 

  • Legal and equitable interests in property 
  • The creation of express trusts, the administration of express trusts and aspects of breach of trust and equitable remedies
  • Implied trusts, including Trusts of the family home, and principles of Co-ownership 
  • Charitable trusts 

Module aims:

  • To enable students to examine the reasons for creating trusts 
  • To develop students’ ability to explain and apply to factual situations the equitable principles relating to the creation and administration of express private and public trusts, the fiduciary nature of trusteeship and aspects of breach of trust 
  • To develop students’ ability to explain and apply the equitable principles relating to the creation of implied trusts, the role of trusts in commercial contexts and in relation to private and family property 
  • To develop students’ ability to critically evaluate the principles of the law of trusts and the role of equity in developing that law 

Module content:

Key concepts covered by the module:

  • Professionalism and professional ethics in the context of the legal profession
  • Professional legal skills
  • Reflective practice in the context of professional development

Key skills developed by the module:

  • Professional legal skills drawn from the following range:
  1. interviewing
  2. advocacy
  3. case matter analysis
  4. legal research
  5. legal writing
  6. legal drafting
  7. Negotiation
  • Reflective writing: keeping a reflective journal, writing a reflective essay and articulating specific goals for professional development

Module aims:

1. To introduce students to concepts of professionalism, integrity and ethical conduct.

2. To enable students to develop skills appropriate to professional practice.

3. To provide opportunities for students to work both independently and collaboratively with peers and to reflect on their skills.

4. To provide opportunities for students to receive, reflect on and act on feedback in a formal and structured manner.

Module content:

It is anticipated that the module will focus upon the following areas depending upon their relevance in any particular academic session:

  • The purpose of specific criminal trial processes
  • Advocacy skills and administrative requirements for a no case to answer submission
  • Theft
  • Robbery
  • Burglary
  • Inchoate offences

Any other criminal offences of specific relevance in a given academic session.


Module aims:

The aims of the module are 

  • To introduce students to the major criminal offences and ways of committing offences including, for example, property offences / offences of dishonesty (theft / burglary / robbery / fraud and the inchoate offences)/ hate crime / firearms / knife crime / serious sexual offences
  • To consider and apply definitions of offences from statute and the common law, and how definitions have been interpreted and applied in cases in the Court of Appeal and House of Lords / Supreme Court.
  • To enable students to understand the core criminal procedural requirements of applications in the criminal courts
  • To enable student to acquire the necessary advocacy and administrative skills in preparing and delivering submissions in a criminal court.
  • To provide students with opportunities to work collaboratively with their peers, and develop practical skills in teamwork, written and verbal communication skills.

Module content:

The module covers a broad spectrum of commercial law topics and serves as an introduction to the areas commonly dealt with by commercial lawyers in practice, including the legal considerations involved in matters such as:

  • setting up and funding a business;
  • trading goods and services; and
  • expanding business operations.

 


Module aims:

  • To introduce various topics of commercial law to students which they can build on in later academic or professional studies
  • To provide students with an understanding of the concept of commercial awareness which is crucial for entering the world of work.

Module content:

Indicative content includes:

  • Sources of International Law
  • International Legal Personality
  • Statehood
  • Treaties
  • Jurisdiction and Immunities
  • State Responsibility
  • Use of Force
  • Law of the Sea

Module aims:

  • Develop students' ability to identify sources of international law and enhance their research skills using both standard and electronic research tools.
  • To foster in students a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the principles of international law through reference to relevant primary and secondary sources.
  • To enable students to analysis complex problem scenarios within specific areas of international law, evaluate conflicting arguments, and apply legal principles to address these problems.
  • Encourage students to critically examine key concepts and principles in public international law.
  • Enhance students' written communication skills, enabling them to articulate legal findings clearly and accurately in a style suitable for various stakeholders.

Module content:

The intended principal areas of study will cover:

  1. The nature and sources of European Union law.
  2. The European single market and the UK’s relationship to that market.
  3. Free movement of goods within the EU.
  4. Trade between the UK and the EU's single market.  
  5. The development and enforcement of competition law within the EU.
  6. The effect and relevance of EU competition Law in the UK post Brexit.
  7. The nature of the UK’s (changing) relationship with the EU.

Module aims:

  1. To introduce students to the legal framework within which the European Union operates. 
  2. To enable students to comprehend the core principles underpinning the regulation of the free movement of goods within the European single market and to evaluate the effectiveness of these principles in practice.
  3. To enable students to understand and appreciate the general aims of EU competition law, as well as recognize the impact of Brexit on EU and UK competition law.
  4. Students will be encouraged to identify and evaluate the key actors in the formulation, implementation and enforcement of Union Law at both national and European levels and the impact of European law on UK law.
  5. Students will explore the actions that can be taken against Member States, the UK and private companies for infringement of European Union law.

Module content:

The module covers a diverse range of topics within international trade and investment law, including:

  • Foundations of International Economic Law
  • International Trade Law
  • World Trade Law and Regional Trade Agreements
  • International Investment Law
  • Dispute Resolution in International Trade and Investment
  • The Intersection of Trade and Investment Agreements

Module aims:

The aims of this module are:

  • To provide students with foundational knowledge of the key principles in international trade and investment law, taking into account the latest developments in these fields.
  • To enable students to formulate effective solutions for legally and factually complex problems within the domain of international trade and investment.
  • To enable students to critically assess and apply legal concepts within the field of international trade and investment.
  • To develop students' ability to construct sound arguments through critical legal analysis in written and oral communication, focusing on international trade and investment.
  • To provide students with understanding of dispute resolution mechanisms relevant to international trade and investment.

Module content:

Indicative content includes:

  • Testamentary Intention and Capacity
  • Wills, Formality and Drafting
  • Types of Will, Amendment, Revocation and Failure
  • Intestacy and Personal Representatives
  • Taxation on Death and Administration of Estates
  • An Introduction to Inheritance and Succession Planning

Module aims:

This module aims to enhance students’ knowledge of the law of succession (also known as inheritance). This is a core area of legal practice that enables the transfer of wealth from one generation to another.

Students will develop understanding of the legal mechanisms for inheritance and understand the difference between the law of wills, where there is a valid will, and the law of intestacy where someone dies without a valid will.

Module content:

This module considers the challenges faced by socially disadvantaged clients, and those who advise and represent them, in seeking access to justice.

Indicative areas of practice considered by this module include: 

  1. Asylum and Immigration;
  2. Housing;
  3. Debt and Benefits;
  4. Decreased mental capacity (e.g. Lasting Powers of Attorney).

 


Module aims:

The module aims to enable students to:

  • engage with the broader concepts of 'social justice';
  • recognise the importance of social justice lawyers and other advisors in today's society;
  • understand the work commonly undertaken by social justice lawyers and other advisors; and 
  • appreciate the challenges to access to justice faced by economically disadvantaged clients and their advisors.

Module content:

This module provides an opportunity for students to undertake a significant project demonstrating individual creativity and the exploration and application of knowledge gained on the course. The substantive content will be determined by the student’s own focus and context, developed initially as a negotiated proposal, but with the ultimate aim of providing a Project Portfolio. The outcomes of this project would either be presented or exhibited as part of the department’s end of year project exhibition.


Module aims:

The module aims to provide an opportunity for sustained and independent study in the final year of the Law programmes. It intends to develop knowledge of, and critical insight into, a topic of the student's choice. Students are encouraged to develop an analytical approach to the subject identified for study. The module aims to encourage the articulation of a critically informed perspective on the subject being studied. It also intends to enable the production of a coherent document of rigorous academic standards. 

  • Develop students’ ability to: learn independently; design, develop and critically reflect on a resolution to an identified issue; project management, interpersonal skills, time management.
  • Enhance the experience of students in carrying out research in an academic and/or relevant practical context.
  • The project is expected to involve the development of a project topic; searching for, and organisation of, source material; collection, analysis and evaluation of appropriate primary and secondary source materials; interpretation of meaning and discussion of findings; presentation of project design; referencing sources.
Study Law at the University of Chester

Study Law at the University of Chester

Who you'll Learn from

Dr Niel Gillard

Senior Lecturer in Law, Programme Leader for Law, Law with Business, and Law with Criminology
Dr Niel Gillard

Karen Cregan

Senior Lecturer in Human Resources & Business Management
Karen Cregan

Keith Chandler

Senior Lecturer in Business and Management
Keith Chandler

How you'll Learn

The University of Chester Law School has its own building, which includes a moot room, seminar rooms and a student study suite with desktop computers.

Beyond the Classroom

As part of your studies you may take our Work Based Learning module, where you will be fully supported in securing a work placement of at least 150 hours, which you may be able to use in trying out a future career.

Entry Requirements

120 UCAS points

UCAS

120 UCAS points

GCE A Level

120 UCAS points from GCE A Levels or equivalent. Typical offer - BBC/BBB

BTEC

BTEC Extended Diploma: DDM

BTEC Diploma: D*D*

T Level

T Level with a Merit grade

Irish / Scottish Highers

Irish Highers - H3, H3, H3, H3, H3

Scottish Highers - BBBB

International Baccalaureate

28 points

Access requirements

Access to HE Diploma, to include 45 credits at level 3, 30 of which must be at Merit

OCR

OCR National Extended Diploma: Merit 1

OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma - DDM

OCR Cambridge Technical Diploma - D*D*

Extra Information / General Entry Requirements

Please note that we accept a maximum of 8 points from GCE AS Levels and that Welsh Baccalaureate (core) and A level General Studies will be recognised in our offer. We will also consider a combination of A levels and BTECs/OCRs.

Students from countries outside the UK are expected to have entry qualifications roughly equivalent to UK A Level for undergraduate study and British Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) for postgraduate study. To help you to interpret these equivalents, please click on your country of residence to see the corresponding entry qualifications, along with information about your local representatives, events, information and contacts.

We accept a wide range of qualifications and consider all applications individually on merit. We may also consider appropriate work experience.

English Language Requirements

  • IELTS Academic: Undergraduate: 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band)
  • Postgraduate: 6.5 (minimum 5.5 in each band)

For more information on our English Language requirements, please visit International Entry Requirements.

72 UCAS points

UCAS

72 UCAS points

GCE A Level

72 UCAS points overall including a D at A Level

BTEC

BTEC Extended Diploma: MMP

T Level

T Level: Pass (D or E on the core)

Irish / Scottish Highers

Irish Highers - H4, H4, H4, H4, H4

Scottish Highers - CCDD

International Baccalaureate

24 points

Access requirements

Access Diploma - Pass overall

OCR Cambridge Technicals

OCR Extended Diploma: MMP

Extra Information / General Entry Requirements

Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced and A level General Studies will be recognised in our offer. We will also consider a combination of A Levels and BTECs/OCRs.

If you are a mature student (21 or over) and have been out of education for a while or do not have experience or qualifications at Level 3 (equivalent to A Levels), then our Foundation Year courses will help you to develop the skills and knowledge you will need to succeed in your chosen degree. 

Where you'll Study Wheeler, Chester

Fees and Funding

£9,250 per year (2024/25)

Our full-time undergraduate tuition fees for Home students entering University in 2024/25 are £9,250 a year, or £1,540 per 20-credit module for part-time study.

The University may increase these fees at the start of each subsequent year of your course in line with inflation at that time, as measured by the Retail Price Index. These fee levels and increases are subject to any necessary government, and other regulatory, approvals.

Students from the UK, Isle of Man, Guernsey, Jersey and the Republic of Ireland are treated as Home students for tuition fee purposes.

Students from countries in the European Economic Area and the EU starting in or after the 2021/22 academic year will pay International Tuition Fees.

Students who have been granted Settled Status may be eligible for Home Fee Status and if eligible will be able to apply for Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans.

Students who have been granted Pre-settled Status may be eligible for Home Fee Status and if eligible will be able to apply for Tuition Fee Loans.

Irish Nationals living in the UK or Republic of Ireland are treated as Home students for Tuition Fee Purposes.

£13,950 per year (2024/25)

The tuition fees for international students studying Undergraduate programmes in 2024/25 are £13,950. 

This fee is set for each year of study. All undergraduate students are eligible for international and merit-based scholarships which are applicable to each year of study.  

For more information, go to our International Fees, Scholarship and Finance section.

Irish Nationals living in the UK or ROI are treated as Home students for Tuition Fee Purposes. 

Your course will involve additional costs not covered by your tuition fees. This may include books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery and related materials, specialist clothing, travel to placements, optional field trips and software. Compulsory field trips are covered by your tuition fees.

If you are living away from home during your time at university, you will need to cover costs such as accommodation, food, travel and bills.

Course specific additional costs

There may be optional trips to locations such as Brussels and Germany. These may cost approximately £50 if the cost is subsidised by the Law School. Such trips and cost subsidies are not guaranteed. 

The University of Chester supports fair access for students who may need additional support through a range of bursaries and scholarships. 

Full details, as well as terms and conditions for all bursaries and scholarships can be found on the Fees & Finance section of our website.

Your Future Career

Job Prospects

The range of teaching and assessment methods used on the course, as well as the excellent opportunities for self-development offered via our Work Based Learning module, assist students in demonstrating, on graduation, an extensive range of skills that are transferable to a variety of professions. 

Progression options

Our graduates have gone on to successful careers as solicitors and barristers as well as other professional roles and further study.

Careers service

The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice and guidance.

Careers and Employability aims to deliver a service which is inclusive, impartial, welcoming, informed and tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, to enable you to develop as an individual and contribute to the business and community in which you will live and work.

We are here to help you plan your future, make the most of your time at University and to enhance your employability. We provide access to part-time jobs, extra-curricular employability-enhancing workshops and offer practical one-to-one help with career planning, including help with CVs, applications and mock interviews. We also deliver group sessions on career planning within each course and we have a wide range of extensive information covering graduate jobs and postgraduate study.