Law and Criminal Justice

Why people commit crimes, and how criminals should be dealt with, are fascinating questions which lie at the heart of a just and safe society. This course is one of very few in the UK to combine specialist teaching in criminal justice with a qualifying law degree.

Based in central London, the course can be customised to suit your career ambitions. By choosing from a range of optional specialist modules – which are exclusive to this course – you can learn about topics such as criminal evidence and procedure, countering terrorism, and how effectively the international criminal justice system responds to mass atrocities.

Law and justice are about advocacy and communication, and this course is designed to enable you to find your own voice. In line with Westminster’s ethos of diversity and inclusion, you will learn in a supportive environment and be empowered to express your opinions and debate the law.

With a strong emphasis on social justice and human rights, you will analyse legal issues in the media such as police powers and race, and the role of victims in the criminal justice system. You’ll also undertake an extended research project which will enable you to focus on a cause that matters to you. You will get the chance to put your skills into practice by working in Westminster’s Legal Advice Clinic – providing legal support to people in the local community while gaining valuable work experience.

The course will give you a head start towards a range of fascinating career roles. Not only is it a pathway to jobs in the criminal justice sector – such as a campaigner, researcher or policy officer in an NGO or government– it also meets the Bar’s core qualification standards and prepares you for the Solicitors’ Qualifying Exams (SQEs), providing a route into a legal career.

Westminster is a global university in London with a supportive and welcoming community of over 19,000 students from over 160 countries. With over 190 career‑focused courses taught using industry‑standard facilities, Westminster helps you feel ready for the world of work. Build your confidence and develop skills in specialist workshops, labs, galleries, studios and other collaborative spaces, including Zone29, a new building dedicated to career and enterprise success.

Zone29 is your gateway to practical support, designed for networking, collaboration, and innovation. Whether you want to ace your job hunt, gain new experiences, or turn your idea into a thriving business, Zone29 will help you step into your future with confidence. This is where you can explore work opportunities, find out more about studying, volunteering or working abroad, and so much more. You can attend advice sessions, build your digital capabilities or tackle live projects with industry partners. Whatever your ambitions, Westminster helps you build the skills you need to get ahead.