To introduce students to the fundamental concepts of criminal law;
To introduce students to the most important specific offences and defences in the criminal law of England and Wales;
To enhance students' acquisition of key skills in the study of law;
To develop students' understanding of how the study of law differs from practising law;
To equip students to carry out independent tasks and research to a reasonably good level.

(LO1) Ability to attain a reasonably good theoretical and doctrinal understanding of the criminal law.

(LO2) Proficiency in extracting the law from legislation and cases.

(LO3) Proficiency in tracing the development of the law through legislation and case law.

(LO4) Proficient ability to analyse and assess the law.

(LO5) Proficient ability to apply their knowledge of the law to hypothetical factual situations.

(LO6) Proficient ability to effectively use traditional and electronic sources of material.

(LO7) Ability to complete specified tasks with minimal direction from academic staff.

(S1) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Presentation skills – oral

(S2) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Presentation skills - written

(S3) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Influencing skills – argumentation

(S4) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Academic writing (inc. referencing skills)

(S5) Critical thinking and problem solving - Critical analysis

(S6) Critical thinking and problem solving - Problem identification

(S7) Working in groups and teams - Group action planning

(S8) Skills in using technology - Information accessing

(S9) Reflection on performance, including the use of feedback to develop the quality of work produced and self-assess work.

Indicative Syllabus

SEMESTER I:

Introduction to the criminal courts, criminal law theory/principles and structure of criminal offences * ;
Actus Reus;
Mens Rea;
Homicide;
Sexual offences;
Non-fatal,
Non-sexual offences against the person;
Exam revision lecture(s).

SEMESTER II:
Property offences;
Complicity;
Inchoate liability;
Defences.

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description: These will outline the basic principles of criminal law as they relate to the syllabus topics, together with some discussion of the context of those principles. All lectures will be supported by guidance as to additional reading or study.
Attendance Recorded: Not yet decided

Teaching Method 2 - Tutorial
Description:
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Unscheduled Directed Student Hours (time spent away from the timetabled sessions but directed by the teaching staff): These take place in small groups of up to 12 students, where questions are set in advance of the sessions for students to prepare.