Bachelor of Arts (Honours) - History and Law

The Joint Honours History and Law programme at Derby provides an opportunity to explore 500 years of history in the historical and cultural hub of Derbyshire while developing legal, debating, and drafting skills. The course equips students with a range of transferable skills, including research, analysis, and problem-solving, which are applicable across a variety of graduate career paths, particularly in roles where legal knowledge is advantageous.

The programme aims to broaden understanding of history and its cultural and societal significance, alongside developing knowledge and skills from the legal sector. Derbyshire’s rich industrial past and thriving heritage industry make it an ideal location to study history. History modules cover the period from the sixteenth century to the modern day, providing a broad understanding of major events, movements, and concepts in society, culture, and politics. The programme utilises local archival and heritage materials and longstanding links with regional organisations to enhance teaching.

Students studying Law at Derby have access to the Student Legal Advice Centre, a dedicated space for real-world learning. Volunteering in the Centre allows students to develop practical and transferable skills relevant to post-graduation careers. The Centre offers support in areas such as family law, criminal injuries compensation claims, and immigration family reunion in partnership with the British Red Cross and Paragon Law. Additionally, the Centre provides assistance to Litigants in Person in Family Law matters at the Family Court in Derby. A Business Clinic and Legal Triage Clinic, launched in Autumn 2022, are exclusively available to University of Derby students. The Centre also hosts a Policy Clinic and Justice Project, promoting legal education for the wider community, including school children. The Centre has received recognition for its contributions, including being shortlisted for Best Contribution by a Law School at the LawWorks and Attorney General Student Pro Bono Awards 2022, and highly commended at the 2021 LawWorks Pro Bono Awards for its Immigration Family Reunion Clinic.

While the Law pathways within the Joint Honours Scheme do not lead to a Qualifying Law Degree, certain module combinations, as advised by the Subject Leader, may offer exemptions from the Postgraduate Diploma in Law/Common Professional Examination. Any such exemptions must be arranged individually with PGDL/CPE providers and relevant professional bodies. Module offerings vary depending on whether students choose to study both subjects equally or to focus on one as a major or minor.