Law

Criminal Law

Module code: M3068
Level 5
30 credits in autumn & spring teaching
Teaching method: Seminar, Lecture
Assessment modes: Multiple choice questions, Essay

On this module, you’ll be introduced to the structure and core elements of criminal liability. 

You’ll focus on:

  • substantive criminal offences and defences
  • statute and case law
  • how substantive legal rules are applied.

You’ll explore:

  • the extent to which offences and defences are clearly defined
  • elements of the offence that are open to competing interpretations
  • types of conduct that should be criminalised
  • the circumstances in which individuals should be held criminally responsible for their actions.

Module learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of the principles of criminal liability, and the offences and defences listed in the syllabus.
  • Systematically apply relevant legal sources and principles to factual situations and demonstrate problem-solving skills.
  • Engage in structured legal analysis and effectively communicate legal arguments in writing, using appropriate legal terminology.
  • Select and apply concepts studied on the module to critically evaluate arguments about the criminal law and how it does and should assign criminal responsibility.