LLB (Hons) Law for non-Law graduates 2yr

Why Study Law at DBS Incorporating Portobello College?

• The LL.B (Hons) in Irish Law at DBS incorporating Portobello College is jointly awarded by the Higher Education & Training Awards Council (HETAC) and University of Wales.
• Strong pastoral care ethos.
• Up to date careers guidance and counselling.
• Key transferable skills (including research, IT, presentational etc.) taught and developed through the course.
• Emphasis on advocacy training and mooting.
• Focus on examination technique.
• Competitive fee structure.
• Flexible delivery - daytime or evening classes.
• The study of law improves & develops the student's power of reasoning, clarity of thought and the ability to analyse and express complicated ideas.
• Studying law has an appeal to any student considering a career in the legal profession.
• A Law Degree opens up a range of career opportunities apart from the practice of law (commercial industry, social sciences, politics, the media and public service).
• You will be taught by very experienced and enthusiastic lecturers who really 'connect' with the students and most of whom have significant experience of legal practice which they use to illustrate and enrich their teaching.
• The curriculum is orientated towards employability.
• Track record of excellent examination results.
• You will receive a rounded and stimulating educational experience in Ireland's largest independent third level institution which comprises a diverse and vibrant student community over 9,000 strong, thus facilitating greater social, leisure and sporting opportunities than can be provided by smaller institutions.

Those who wish to study for a law degree over two years may apply to study for the Postgraduate LL.B (Hons) in Irish Law by entering the second year and completing their degree in third year.

Please note that upon successful completion of this programme, graduates will obtain the award title of LL.B (Hons) in Irish Law.


Many graduates of this course continue to take professional exams. This degree is an eligible degree for those who wish to sit the FE1 Examinations for the solicitor's profession. Please note as postgraduate students enter directly onto LL.B 2, the core subjects contained in LL.B 1 (Criminal Law, Constitutional Law & Contract Law) will need to be studied outside of regular class time if students intend to sit the FE1 examinations.

Holders of the Postgraduate LL.B (Hons) in Irish Law degree may only undertake the professional training to become barristers, upon completion of a two year diploma at the Kings Inns after graduation.

Programme Structure

The law degree programme is taught through lectures, tutorials and workshops with students taking responsibility for a significant amount of study outside scheduled class contact hours. Assessment will consist of traditional end of year examinations, timed essays plus a significant element of continuous assessment based on coursework. Such coursework may involve research based reports, case studies, essays and practical assignments. Students study four subjects in LL.B 2 and four subjects in LL.B 3. Second year subjects are compulsory but three of the four subjects taken in the third year are selected from a list of options.

Assessment

Most subjects are assessed by way of an assignment worth 25% of the overall marks each year and a sessional examination worth 75% of the overall marks for the subject. The subjects with a different assessment regime are as follows :

Dissertation - 100% thesis

EU Law and Equity and Trusts - two timed essays worth 25% and a sessional examination worth 50%

The subjects marked with an asterix * are known as "core" subjects and should be studied for those wishing to sit the entrance examination to the Law Society (solicitors).

Entry Requirements

To be considered for admission, applicants must hold:

• A primary honours degree award of at least pass level in a non-cognate discipline from a recognised third level institution, or equivalent qualification.
• An IELTS score of a minimum 6.0 or equivalent, where full-time study has been conducted in a language other than English or applicants whose first language is not English.

Programme Content

Learner protection for this programme is provided in accordance with Section 43 of the Qualifications (Education and Training ) Act 1999.