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Master of Laws - Learning Outcomes

Educational aims

The qualification provides a broad education in law and postgraduate legal research. It is designed for those with a personal or professional interest in law and will be suitable for study by both law and non-law graduates. The qualification develops key postgraduate legal skills and knowledge alongside specialisation in an area of law.

On completion of the LLM you will be able to demonstrate

  • an ability to apply legal knowledge and understanding, in new or unfamiliar environments within broader (or multidisciplinary) contexts
  • problem solving abilities in new or unfamiliar environments within broader (or multidisciplinary) contexts
  • an ability to integrate knowledge, handle complexity and formulate judgements with incomplete or limited information
  • an ability to communicate your conclusions and the knowledge and rationale underpinning these, to specialist and non-specialist audiences clearly and unambiguously
  • skills and knowledge which can usefully be applied in the legal profession, public services or industry.

You will also be able to:

  • act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks
  • deal with complex legal issues both systematically and creatively
  • construct and develop a persuasive legal argument based on evidence
  • demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving legal problems
  • reflect on the social and ethical responsibilities linked to the application of your knowledge
  • undertake critical analysis, evaluation and synthesis of new and complex ideas
  • learn independently, required for continuing professional development.

In relation to research you will be able to demonstrate:

  • the skills required for postgraduate legal research
  • a comprehensive understanding of the techniques and methods applicable to postgraduate legal research and legal methodology
  • the ability to conceive, design, implement and adapt a substantial piece of research with scholarly integrity
  • an ability to evaluate and critique research methodologies.

Learning outcomes

The qualification provides opportunities for you to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding, qualities, skills and other attributes as follows:

Knowledge and understanding

On completion of the LLM you will be able to demonstrate:

  • knowledge and understanding of your chosen specialism, informed by current practice, scholarship and research
  • critical awareness of current issues and developments in the area of your chosen specialism
  • the application of research to practical and theoretical situations
  • the use of a range of techniques and research methods
  • the ability to complete a research project in the your chosen specialism, which may include a critical review of existing literature or other scholarly outputs
  • a systematic understanding of the role of law
  • a critical awareness of current legal issues and developments
  • an ability to critically evaluate current laws, legal thinking and research
  • advanced intellectual engagement with difficult issues in law.

Cognitive skills

On completion of the LLM you will be able to demonstrate the ability to:

  • solve legal problems in creative and innovative ways
  • undertake critical analysis, evaluation and synthesis of new and complex ideas
  • make decisions in complex and challenging situations
  • demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving advanced legal problems
  • reflect on the social and ethical responsibilities linked to the application of your knowledge
  • act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional level.

Practical and/or professional skills

On completion of the LLM you will be able to demonstrate the ability to:

  • exercise initiative and personal responsibility
  • continue to study in a self directed or autonomous manner
  • learn independently and continue to develop professionally.

Key skills

On completion of the LLM you will be able to demonstrate the ability to:

  • communicate effectively, with colleagues and a wider audience, in a variety of media
  • communicate your conclusions and the knowledge and rationale underpinning these, to specialist and non-specialist audiences clearly and unambiguously
  • construct and develop a persuasive legal argument based on evidence
  • use initiative and take responsibility.

Teaching, learning and assessment methods

Assessment will be undertaken through a variety of methods including:

  • essay assignments
  • practical reports
  • problem-solving exercises
  • presentations
  • group work
  • a dissertation or other output from research/project work.

Teaching will be undertaken through specially designed study materials including study guides, interactive module websites, online discussion forums, access to an extensive on-line library and tutor support.

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