Criminal Law refers to the part of legal studies that defines criminal offenses. Students interested in careers in criminal law will study the punishment of actions that cause harm to the well-being of individuals and to society as a whole.
Universities and colleges in Ireland are offering courses in the following subject areas:
Most first year study involves an overview of the subject. This will offer students an introduction to the foundational areas of law, including legal skills, contract law, tort law, and constitutional law. Criminal law will often be a core area of study in subsequent years of study.
Depending on the sub-discipline of legal studies, students will likely move from exam-based study modules to more hands-on 'clinical' modules. Most Criminal law modules will combine lectures, exams, case studies, and written practical work.
Most undergraduate Criminal Law courses run for three or four years. In some cases universities will facilitate work or internship experience as well.
It is common that all law-based courses will required students to complete long-term research projects including a final dissertation or Capstone project. This will ensure the completion of a rigorous curriculum and prepare students for postgraduate studies and/or careers in criminal law.
A bachelor's degree in Criminal Law is adequate for many jobs in the legal field. For example, graduates with a bachelor's degree may start working as solicitors or barristers, or as diplomats, journalists, and broadcasters.
Graduating from college with a degree in Criminal Law will serve you well in the job market as it provides you with a unique and marketable skill set. A law degree teaches students how to think logically and analytically as well as equipping them with invaluable research and communication skills.
Many recent graduates have entered into 'entry-level' positions working as journalists, accountants, solicitors, and barristers in Ireland and abroad. Some have gone on to work as research assistants, lawyers, or teachers.
Other careers in criminal law that require a higher degree of responsibility will typically require further education, training, and/or experience to qualify for.
An undergraduate degree in Criminal Law is often the first step towards further postgraduate study. Postgraduate students will often specialize in their particular legal sub-disciplines, often times while working as an assistant or junior lawyer for a local firm in their field.
Visit postgrad.ie for more information.
What points do I need to study Criminal Law?
Are there any particular qualities you need to study Criminal Law?
Where can I study Criminal Law?
