The Certificate of Higher Education in Common Law (CertHE Common Law), offered by the University of London through its international programmes, is a standalone qualification designed to provide foundational knowledge in English common law. It serves as an accessible entry point for students who may not meet the traditional academic requirements for direct entry into a full law degree, such as mature learners or those seeking to build core legal skills without committing to a longer program. This certificate is equivalent to the first level (Level 4) of the University of London’s Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree, allowing successful completers to progress directly into the second year of the LLB if desired.
How It Is Done
The program is delivered primarily through flexible distance learning, making it suitable for students worldwide. Participants study online via the University of London’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), which provides access to comprehensive resources including module guides, recorded lectures (for select modules), past examination papers, and an extensive Online Library with academic journals and professional legal databases like LexisNexis and Westlaw. While the core delivery is online and self-paced, students are encouraged to enroll at one of the University’s recognized teaching centers for additional in-person support, such as tutorials, library access, and face-to-face guidance from tutors. The program can be completed in as little as one year (full-time equivalent) or up to three years part-time, allowing flexibility to balance studies with work or other commitments. Assessment is conducted through formal examinations, typically held at approved exam centers worldwide in May/June or October each year. Each module is evaluated via a three-hour unseen written exam, with some modules incorporating elements like multiple-choice questions or problem-based scenarios to test understanding and application of legal principles. Students must pass all required modules to earn the certificate, and the program emphasizes independent study skills alongside legal knowledge. Modules Completed in the Course The CertHE Common Law consists of four compulsory Level 4 modules, which mirror those in the first year of the LLB program. These modules build essential legal foundations and total 120 credits (30 credits per module).
They are:
● Legal System and Method: This module introduces the structure of the English legal system, sources of law, statutory interpretation, precedent, and basic legal research and writing skills. It equips students with the tools to navigate legal institutions, courts, and processes in England and Wales.
● Contract Law: Covering the formation, terms, performance, and remedies for breach of contracts, this module explores key concepts like offer and acceptance, consideration, intention to create legal relations, and defenses such as misrepresentation or duress.
● Criminal Law: This focuses on the principles of criminal liability, including actus reus and mens rea, defenses (e.g., insanity or self-defense), and specific offenses like homicide, theft, and assault. It examines how criminal law operates within the common law framework.
● Public Law: Addressing constitutional and administrative law, this module covers topics such as the UK constitution, separation of powers, judicial review, human rights, and the relationship between the state and individuals.Upon successful completion, graduates receive a University of London certificate, enhancing career prospects in legal support roles or providing a stepping stone to the full LLB and potential qualification as a solicitor or barrister (subject to further professional requirements).
