Law (A-level)
The impact of the law can be seen all around us in our daily lives, from headline-grabbing crimes and problem neighbours to the day-to-day issues of buying and selling goods. A knowledge of the law is therefore both helpful and interesting, and can provide you with excellent career prospects.
Course Summary

Course Information for Students
Who is this course for?
The impact of the law can be seen all around us in our daily lives, from headline-grabbing crimes and problem neighbours to the day-to-day issues of buying and selling goods. A knowledge of the law is therefore both helpful and interesting, and can provide you with excellent career prospects.
If you are interested in studying A-level Law, you may also be interested in our alternative pathway, Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Uniformed Protective Services. All A-level applicants are encouraged to research alternative pathways before accepting their offer to study A-levels.
Entry Requirements
You will need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language at grade 5 and Maths at grade 4.
A recent school report will be required which demonstrates a committed attitude to learning.
It is assumed that students enrol on a two-year A-level programme of study consisting of three or more subjects. However, students will be expected to demonstrate a committed attitude to learning and make positive progress in their first year of study.
What will you learn?
Component 1: The Legal System and Criminal Law (LAW01)
For this unit, students will learn about how the legal system works and it introduces the concept of liability in criminal law. Students will develop an understanding of the various procedures that need to be followed when determining whether a defendant is ‘guilty’ or ‘not guilty’ as well as studying the court hierarchy and identifying which court would be most appropriate for each case.
Component 2: Law-Making and the Law of Tort (LAW02)
This unit covers the process by which laws are made as well as exploring how laws can be breached. Students will develop an understanding of how Parliament makes laws and how laws are applied by judges in court. In addition to this, students will analyse the factors that a judge considers when determining whether a civil law has been breached and, if so, what remedies are available to the claimant.
Component 3: The Nature of Law and the Law of Contract (LAW03)
This component will enable students to extend their study of law further. Students will explore and consider in more detail the nature of law by distinguishing between law and morality and evaluating controversial issues such as abortion and euthanasia. Additionally, students will develop their legal knowledge through the study of contract law and will examine the formation and enforcement of contracts as well as how contracts can be revoked.
All the modules consist of applying your learning to scenarios and will help develop your problem-solving skills.
How will you learn?
This course will be delivered on-site at the Joseph Wright Centre.
What will you need to bring with you?
N/A
How will you be assessed?
Assessment is 100% by examination at the end of the second year of study.
- LAW01: The Legal System and Criminal Law (2 hours)
- LAW02: Law-Making and the Law of Tort (2 hours)
- LAW03: The Nature of Law and the Law of Contract (2 hours)
Where next?
Law is an extremely useful qualification for entry to higher education to study a wide range of subjects.
Who do you contact for more information?
For more information contact Derby College on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk
Course Information for Employers
Information for Employers
Career Information
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DCG Success Stories

Uther Naysmith
Former JWC student Uther among the first to gain an Oxbridge place
Joseph Wright Centre offers a university style of teaching and it allows you to discover what interests you within the context of the subjects you’re studying

Alexandra Wood
Trainee solicitor finds Derby College is ideal preparation for law degree
I liked most of my lecturers. They engaged well with the students and made studying more interesting. You aren't spoon-fed like you are at school and the independent reading you have to do prepares you well for university.
Course Information Last Updated On: October 23, 2023 4:17 pm