Sunderland Law School | Sunderland law course | llb degree

Law at Sunderland continues to grow in terms of both national and international recognition and popularity. This year, the National Student Survey ranked the Law Department first in the U.K. for academic support, teaching, assessment and feedback and organisation and management.

For two consecutive years the Guardian has viewed Sunderland as the best new University in the country for studying law, and last year the Times Higher Education Supplement declared that Sunderland University is the best for student experience. This year the Sunday Times recognised law at Sunderland as the best in the UK for student satisfaction.

The Law Department has a large suite of programmes. As well as offering the LL.B with combined Paralegal accreditation, Sunderland offer Foundation Degrees and the chance to combine the study of law with another subject. The Graduate Diploma in Law offers non-law graduates the chance to convert their degree into a recognized legal qualification.

New to the LLM suite is the LLM in Human Rights and the LLM general allowing students to specialise in a wide range of contemporary legal subjects at Postgraduate Level.

The law building, with its modern and spacious design, allows students to study in comfortable surroundings. All lecture theatres and seminar rooms are fitted with the latest technology and the Campus has a dedicated law library. In addition to volumes of law reports, there is an extensive range of textbooks and journal articles which complement the modules offered at Sunderland, enabling students to keep up to date with the law and contemporary academic debate.

Students have access to a myriad of online legal databases that provide a vast array of legal resources including journals, cases and legislation, at the touch of button.

A diverse range of teaching and assessment methods are utilized that provide a stimulating and dynamic learning experience, as evidenced by the National Student Survey 2008, which ranked Sunderland Law Department first for teaching and assessment and feedback. The department boasts expert staff that have international recognition in their field of research, and this underpins and informs teaching on the programme. A high level of support and guidance outside of lectures and seminars is offered through online facilities and an open-door policy.

The university is unique in offering its 2 in 1 paralegal accreditation alongside the LLB. The accreditation prepares students for a great alternative career in law. Paralegals undertake similar work to solicitors and can be employed as fee earners with their own client base. Students who complete a number of option modules over the course of their LL.B programme will be able to graduate with both a law degree and a Diploma in Paralegal Studies, without any additional assessment.

Students will also be eligible for associate membership of the Sunderland Student Law Society and the MaD (Mooting and Debating) team. Using the department's newly constructed law court, students can develop their advocacy skills in practical surroundings. These are invaluable skills for those planning to embark upon a legal profession or for those who want to differentiate themselves from the crowd.

The faculty of Business and Law is situated in the stunning and modern environment of the University’s award winning Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter’s. Set in a peaceful location overlooking the River Wear, the campus is only a short walk or metro ride into the heart of the city.

Sunderland itself is well connected by bus, rail and general transport networks. As Sunderland is situated close to Newcastle, it is also well connected by air, whether it is for the convenience of international students or for a weekend break from your studies.

Tuition fees are currently £3145 for the academic year 2008/9. The University operates a very attractive bursary scheme whereby a substantial payment is paid directly into every student’s bank account upon successful completion of every year of study. There is an also an additional payment made at graduation.

Halls of residence are offered to first year students as a priority. The Halls are self-catered, modern and fully equipped. Prices for accommodation in Sunderland, together with general living expenses, are very reasonable in comparison with other major cities.

Sunderland is a vibrant major city with a vast array of bars, restaurants and night clubs that cater for a wide variety of tastes and budgets. Additionally the university boasts a newly refurbished onsite Campus Bar.

The American themed bar provides a contemporary backdrop in which students can socialise during the day and enjoy nightlife without leaving the campus. For those who enjoy the gym, the Sunderland Aquatic Centre, with an Olympic sized pool opened earlier this year, and is a ten minute walk from the campus.

Sunderland’s student support network offers support ranging from personal issues to securing that dream job. A dedicated careers service is always available to give specialist advice and highlight vacancies in the legal sphere. The Student Union is set up at the main city campus a short walk or metro ride away.

They offer support and advice on all areas, whether work experience, interview tips or finding employment whilst studying. The Union are knowledgeable in many areas and are happy to provide assistance.