Type of module:

Summary module description:
Critical analysis of legal theories and different approaches to the study of law as a question of justice and politics.

Aims:
This module aims to provide students with the opportunity to explore various approaches to legal philosophy, to encourage students to question the nature of the phenomenon of law and its significance as a form of social control, and to undertake an extended research paper on an area of their choice.

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of this module it is expected that students will be able to:
- outline and draw upon ongoing debates over the connections between law, morality, society and politics;
- critically evaluate competing theses regarding the question 'what is law?' and articulate coherent arguments (both written and oral) in support of theoretical positions;
- contrast theories regarding the nature of legal reasoning and the disparate social forces acting upon its operation.
- demon strate an in-depth grasp of the debates and literature in an area of particular interest to them.

Additional outcomes:
This module will also encourage the development of independent learning, as well as communication skills and personal responsibility.

Outline content:
Students will research and write a major essay on a topic to be agreed with the module convenor.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Teaching and learning is in a combination of attendance at classes (in a programme agreed with the module convenor) and regular supervision. Students will be given the opportunity to attend other relevant lectures or seminars in Masters (level 7) or Honours (level 6) modules.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:
15 page essay (formatted in accordance with the School of Law's Assessed Work Rules

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:
50% overall

Reassessment arrangements:
See School of Law PGT Programme Handbook

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 28 April 2020