Sarah Barnes - LL.B with Criminology
Sarah is studying her LL.B (Hons) with Criminology, having spent the last 17 years working as an accountant.
We learn from real cases, were assessed on our practical skills and have the opportunity to participate in extra-curricular activities. So we learn practical skills as well an academic framework and knowledge needed to prepare us for our future careers.
”Sarah is currently studying LL.B (Hons) with Criminology.
A change in career
After working as a qualified accountant I decided that I wanted a career change and to work in financial crime investigation, so I started my LL.B with Criminology at Derby.
I chose Derby because the course combined the practical elements of law with my interest in criminal theories, and the staff had a positive ethos and attitude towards mature students and parents returning to study.
A practical course
The assessments are set in a variety of different ways, and the practical application and learning of the course will truly prepare me for my career after graduation. The Legal Context and Skills module has been the most challenging so far as the assessment was practical and involved courtroom skills and mooting. We learn from real cases, are assessed on our practical skills and have the opportunity to participate in extra-curricular activities. So we learn practical skills as well as the academic framework to prepare us for our future careers.
Summer school
I have recently been accepted onto an International Summer School for Law, Crime and Psychology with the Centre for Public Policy in the Czech Republic.
The week long programme looks at the current research and the application of psychological knowledge in legal practice. To secure my place I had to provide a written application, which I was supported with by my lecturers. The School will enhance my knowledge of the subjects and will prepare me for my second year of study. I'm looking forward to meeting other students from across the world studying law and criminology. It will be a great learning experience.
Bringing learning to life
All of the lecturers have been fantastic. They are friendly, always happy to help, have a wealth of knowledge and are passionate about their subjects. The Courtrooms provide a great learning environment and the resources available through Udo online books, Westlaw and Blackboard, have meant that I have been able to obtain resources and undertake research and reading from home to make the most effective use of my time.
Additional activities, opportunities and support
The School and the Law Society hold a series of additional lectures and events, including trips to law fairs across the country. This gives us an additional insight into the subjects and opportunities to make industry contacts.
With the help of my lecturers and student support services I was assessed and diagnosed with dyspraxia. I now receive the resources, help and support I needed to overcome these difficulties, so that I can now continue with my studies and learn effectively. Everyone is friendly, enthusiastic and helpful and it's a wonderful place to study.
