A central aim of the Leeds course is to develop the traditional skill of thinking like a lawyer . However we recognise that to understand, use and apply the law involves the development of generic transferable intellectual skills. Expertise in analysis, synthesis, logical argument, research techniques and methodology, organisation of information, oral and written presentation of materials is promoted and enhanced throughout the degree programme. The study of the substantive law is complemented in many courses by a broader contextual and critical approach in which the law as a social institution and its relationship with the real world is examined. There is a large amount of reading and much information to assimilate.
Much preparatory work is done independently.
Learning support is provided by the induction week for new students, while subject tutors offer structured guidance in relation to the study skills demanded by particular courses. However the programme is geared towards the self-motivated and independent learner. It culminates in a substantial piece of independent research conducted by the student in the final year. The LL.B., together with the other programmes of study, offered by the Department of Law, is designed to allow students to obtain maximum exemption from the academic stage of training of both the Bar Council and the Law Society of England and Wales, in effect shortening the professional training of those who wish to practise in England and Wales by one year. The first year syllabus at Leeds comprises five subjects.