Program Overview

We teach the Law that matters. We are ‘freer, more daring and more experimental’ than a traditional law school, so your legal education is relevant and responsive to the needs of a changing society. Our approach is global in outlook, based on justice, and engaged with real-world problems.

On the four-year MLaw version of this course (five years if taking a year abroad or placement year), you develop the same key skills for Law as on the LLB, as well as investigating more advanced topics by achieving a masters-level qualification. You cover all key areas of law, as well as a wide range of optional topics including:

• Copyright and trademark law
• International environmental law
• Law and literature
• Human rights
• The use of evidence

As well as the following advanced masters level topics;

• Maritime Law
• International Criminal Law
• Protection of Refugees
• Business and human rights
• Artificial intelligence and human rights

You will develop a critical awareness of the nature of law within its social, political and economic contexts. Not only will you learn legal rules, but you will also consider the function of law in society, the philosophy of law, policy issues and law reform. You will also have the option to specialise into one of three pathways; human rights law, international law or commercial law.

Placement year

When you arrive at Essex, you can decide whether you would like to combine your course with a placement year. You will be responsible for finding your placement, but with support and guidance provided by both your department and our Employability and Careers Centre.

If you complete a placement year you'll only pay 20% of your usual tuition fee to Essex for that year.