Some people seem to think there is a difference between a Bachelor of Laws and an LLB degree, and sometimes also get confused about whether it’s the same thing. Then there are those who don’t really know what the term LLB actually stands for.
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What is the meaning of ‘LLB’?
Abbreviations for academic degrees are often expressed in Latin, the language of instruction in European monastic traditions (there was a time when all studies were undertaken in Latin).
A Bachelor of Laws is a four-year undergraduate law degree. LLB stands for legum baccalaureus, a Latin phrase that translates to bachelor of laws in English. Then you have the postgraduate Master of Laws degree, often referred to as an LLM – the abbreviation for legum magister (master of laws).
Likewise, the abbreviation PhD – Doctor of Philosophy – is an abbreviation for philosophiae doctor.
Is a Bachelor of Laws the same as an LLB degree?
A Bachelor of Laws is exactly the same thing as an LLB degree. If you are wondering why the abbreviation is LLB, not LB, if it stands for legum baccalaureus, here’s why….
Let’s break down the term legum baccalaure. Law in Latin is lex, a third declension, feminine, noun. The nominative plural of lex is leges, and the genitive plural case, indicating possession, is legum. The legum, therefore, translates to “of laws”. In Latin, when an abbreviated word is in plural form (in this case, laws), the initial letter in the abbreviation is doubled. So the L representing legum becomes LL. The complete abbreviated term, therefore, is LLB, with the B representing baccalaureus, which means “bachelor degree”.
Roman-Dutch law came to South Africa as a result of the occupation of the Cape by the Dutch. When the Netherlands was conquered by Napoleon, the Dutch embraced the Code Napoleon. Nonetheless, Roman-Dutch law remained in use in the Cape. When Napoleon was defeated by the British, they took over administration of the Cape, but again Roman-Dutch Law remained in place. Today Roman-Dutch law is practised in the Republic of South Africa, Namibia, Lesotho, Swaziland, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.
A great deal of legal terminology is Latin-based, so learning and understanding the basics of Latin is useful to law practitioners. An LLB degree provides this knowledge of legal Latin terms, which are covered in a module such as Legal English.
Legal English is the type of English used in legal writing. Much of the vocabulary used in legal writing derives from French and Latin.
The Bachelor of Laws degree from Regenesys, for example, incorporates a first-year module in Legal English, as well as:
- Law of Criminal Procedure I
- Criminal Law I
- Labour Law
- Legal Ethics and Practice
- Environmental Law
- International Business Law
It is no longer compulsory to study Latin as a language in order to complete a law degree.
The Regenesys Bachelor of Laws degree
Regenesys’ law degree provides students with an extensive education for success in a variety of legal roles. It fosters an appreciation of the values and ideals outlined in the Constitution, a thorough comprehension of legal methods and approaches, and the capabilities to be dependable and accountable in academic, professional, and social surroundings.
An LLB degree is useful for those who wish to become legal practitioners in aspects ranging from litigation to constitutional law, and to secure great Bachelor of Law career opportunities.
Choosing a high-quality LLB degree is therefore important, as you need to be sure it will give you the capacity to confront complex matters, interpret common law, case law and statutes, and assess situations with rational acuity.
Conclusion
A great LLB degree will help you build a career to make a great impact in the legal system. You don’t need to be confused about whether or not an LLB is the same as a Bachelor of Laws degree. They are the same thing.
Is Bachelor of Laws the same as LLB – FAQs
What does LLB stand for?
“Legum Baccalaureus,” the Latin term for “bachelor of laws,” is what LLB stands for.
Is an LLB and a bachelor of laws equivalent?
Indeed, an LLB degree and a bachelor of laws are equivalent. Both phrases are interchangeable.
Why is the abbreviation for Bachelor of Laws “LLB” and not “LB”?
The Latin phrase “Legum Baccalaureus” is where the acronym “LLB” originates. In Latin, the first letter is doubled when a word is shortened and plural. “Legum” is derived from the plural version of “lex” (law), so “LL.”
How important is Roman-Dutch law historically to South Africa?
During the Dutch rule of the Cape, Roman-Dutch law was introduced to South Africa. It is still in use in South Africa and other Southern African nations, even after British authority gained control.
Is Latin coursework required to complete an LLB degree?
No, studying Latin is no longer required to complete an LLB degree.
What subjects are typically included in an LLB degree program?
An LLB degree program typically includes subjects like Legal English, Criminal Law, Labour Law, Legal Ethics and Practice, Environmental Law, and International Business Law.
What is Legal English?
Legal English is the specialized language used in legal writing. It includes many terms derived from French and Latin.
How does an LLB degree from Regenesys prepare students?
The Regenesys LLB degree provides extensive education in legal roles, fostering an understanding of the Constitution, legal methods, and the ability to handle complex legal issues responsibly.
What kinds of jobs may one get with an LLB?
Careers in litigation, constitutional law, and other legal specialties can be attained with an LLB degree.
Why is choosing a high-quality LLB degree important?
A high-quality LLB degree ensures you have the skills to tackle complex legal matters, interpret laws, and make well-reasoned decisions, which are essential for a successful legal career.
