Law, Criminology and Criminal Justice (with Foundation Year)

This course includes a foundation year - ideal if you need additional preparation or if you don't have sufficient grades to join Year 1 of a degree.

Course overview:
The law, criminology and criminal justice degree is a multi-disciplinary course that allows you to develop expertise in law and provides you with a strong introduction to core principles relating to crime, criminality and the criminal justice process.

A law degree is a highly regarded qualification. You are trained to think, to question and to challenge. Many students study law to become a legal professional such as legal executive, solicitor or barrister, but a Teesside law degree opens up a wide range of professional roles for you, including within the criminal justice field, probation services, law enforcement and in the charitable and voluntary sectors. You could also be successful in management, recruitment or human resources. Whether you’re starting a career, developing an existing one or changing direction, a law degree presents many opportunities to you.

The law can, and does, change on a daily basis – that's what makes it such a fascinating and vibrant subject to study. As a graduate you’ll be a creative problem solver, and an effective researcher with the ability to interpret, analyse and critique complex information. You’ll have highly developed written and oral communication skills and be able to formulate reasoned arguments and challenge decisions. You gain a valuable suite of skills and attributes, confidence, adaptability and resilience to succeed in your chosen career.

Studying law at Teesside isn’t just about attending traditional lectures and sitting exams. We recognise that students learn in different ways and our innovative teaching and learning approaches, as well as diverse assessment methods, prepare you for the 21st century workplace. You have the opportunity to spend time in our replica court room which has the features of a modern court and offers invaluable courtroom experience in first-class facilities.

In Year 2 you have the option to study a work-based learning module, where you obtain real-world experience through empowering members of the local community to access justice by providing pro bono legal advice through the work of our award-winning Law Clinic which works in partnership with lawyers, charities and voluntary organisations. This experience gives you chance to develop professional and practical skills, experience and knowledge in law which are crucial to any future career in legal practice as well as being very transferrable and useful in careers beyond law.

We have strong employment links with law firms, charities and voluntary sector organisations in our region which provide unique employability opportunities.

Top three reasons to study this course at Teesside University:
1. You will be a valued member of our law, criminology and criminal justice community – fully supported and encouraged to succeed on the course, and beyond.
2. Your skillset is transferable and highly valued by a range of employers.
3. Your fellow students will come from a range of backgrounds. You will study in an inclusive, diverse and supportive environment, which will enrich your learning experience.
4. Your experienced and knowledgeable course team are research active and are highly regarded researchers within their field.
5. Our well-established links with the legal, criminal justice and other professions across the region and beyond creates opportunities for work experience, placements and permanent employment.

After the course:
This degree provides the knowledge and skills to pursue a variety of careers in the legal professions, criminal justice agencies and beyond. The transferable skills you develop can be used in a wide range of professions including the probation service, prison service, police, voluntary organisations and the public sector

Choosing Teesside University means joining a modern, ambitious university that puts students first. Named Modern University of the Year 2026 (Daily Mail University Guide 2026) and recognised for its outstanding student experience, Teesside combines award-winning teaching with the support you need to succeed.

Based in Middlesbrough, the university has invested millions into creating a vibrant campus packed with industry-standard facilities, study spaces and social hubs. You'll also have access to Adobe Creative Campus tools, helping you build valuable digital skills alongside your degree.

From day one, you'll be part of a welcoming student community with excellent support services, societies, sports clubs and opportunities to boost your career prospects. If you're looking for a university that helps you achieve more and make the most of student life, Teesside could be the perfect fit.