Law (BCL), Criminology and Criminal Justice

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Law (BCL), Criminology and Criminal Justice undergraduate degree at the University of Galway is designed for students passionate about understanding and engaging with the complexities of crime, law, and societal justice. You will explore the fundamental principles of law while delving into criminological theories that explain offending behaviour and the practical workings of the criminal justice system. This programme equips you with a critical perspective on crime and punishment, preparing you for a variety of legal and justice-oriented careers. If you are driven to analyse societal issues and contribute to the legal framework, this degree offers a comprehensive and engaging academic journey.

This full-time, on-campus degree is studied over four years, providing a structured progression from foundational legal and criminological concepts in your first year to advanced topics and practical application. You will develop essential advocacy and analytical skills through modules like mooting and engage deeply with subjects such as criminal law, evidence, and advanced criminology. In your third year, you have the unique opportunity to undertake a professional work placement within the criminal justice sector or to study abroad, gaining invaluable real-world experience. You will graduate with the qualifications and practical insights necessary to pursue careers as solicitors or barristers, or to work within criminal justice agencies.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive study of law, criminology, and criminal justice. Students will explore foundational legal principles such as contract, constitutional, and tort law, alongside core criminology and criminal justice concepts. The curriculum progresses to advanced topics including criminal law, European Union law, evidence, and specialized areas like victimology and policing, with opportunities for in-depth research and optional modules in diverse legal fields.

1 Year 1 (60 credits)

Understanding the Law Compulsory
Contract Law Compulsory
Constitutional Law Compulsory
Tort Law Compulsory
Criminology Compulsory
Criminal Justice Compulsory
Critical Thinking for Lawyers Optional
Family and Child Law Optional
Legal French/ Legal German/ Teanga an Dlí (Legal Irish) Optional

2 Year 2 (60 credits)

Criminal Law I & II Compulsory
European Union Law I & II Compulsory
Evidence I & II Compulsory
Advanced Criminal Justice Compulsory
Advanced Criminology Compulsory
Mooting Compulsory
Forensic, Abnormal & Clinical Psychology Compulsory
Labour Law I Optional
Labour Law II Optional
Industrial And Intellectual Property Law Optional
Comparative Disability Law Optional
Information Technology Law Optional
Legal French/ Legal German/ Teanga an Dlí (Legal Irish) Optional

3 Year 3 (60 credits)

4 Year 4 (60 credits)

Land Law I & II Compulsory
Equity Law I & II Compulsory
Company Law I & II Compulsory
Guided Research Essay Compulsory
Policing Compulsory
Victimology Compulsory
Applied Legal Theory Optional
Administrative Law I Optional
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Animal Law Optional
Comparative Competition Law Optional
Comparative Disability Law Optional
Environmental Law I Optional
Environmental Law II Optional
Equality and Law Optional
Housing Law and Policy Optional
Industrial And Intellectual Property Law Optional
Information Technology Law Optional
International Trade Law Optional
Jurisprudence Optional
Labour Law I Optional
Labour Law II Optional
Law and Analytics Optional
Lawyering, Technology and Innovation Optional
The Protection of Prisoner Rights under International Law Optional
International Protection of Human Rights I Optional
International Protection of Human Rights II Optional
European Human Rights Law - Systems & Themes I Optional
European Human Rights Law - Systems & Themes II Optional
Legal French/ Legal German/ Teanga an Dlí (Legal Irish) Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,645.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,645.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,645.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,645.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 90,580.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 864.00 - USD 1,085.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,807.00 - USD 4,491.00
Transport USD 702.00 - USD 1,684.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 4,913.00 - USD 8,280.00

Living cost estimates are based on Galway Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Corporate & Commercial LawCorrections & RehabilitationCybersecurity & Digital ForensicsDefense & Military SecurityEmergency Services & Disaster ResponseForensic Science & Criminal JusticeIntellectual Property LawLegal Aid & Public Interest LawPolice & Public SafetyPrivate Security & Risk Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Courts Service

Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission

Legal Aid Board

Why Study Law (BCL), Criminology and Criminal Justice at University of Galway

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at University of Galway in Ireland

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Law (BCL), Criminology and Criminal Justice at University of Galway

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and up to 40 hours per week during breaks without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, students must achieve specific scores: TOEFL total score of 88, IELTS overall score of 6.5, or PTE overall score of 61.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as barristers, solicitors, criminal law specialists, legal advisors, or with criminal justice agencies.

What will I actually study in this course?

Students complete all the modules required to support them to undertake the entrance exams for the Law Society of Ireland, should they wish to qualify as a solicitor. Students who wish to qualify as a barrister will have the option of taking all modules required by the Honourable Society of King’s Inns.

Graduates of this programme will be well positioned to pursue careers as barristers or solicitors specialising in criminal law or working with the agencies and organisations of

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The course intake occurs every September, allowing students to start their academic journey in Law, Criminology, and Criminal Justice during this month.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️