1. Introduction

The programme empowers individuals to systematically and creatively solve complex problems in the field of criminal justice, and in particular to contribute to the fight against corruption. Graduates must demonstrate their ability to use legal practice conventions to convey analytical thinking and communicate conclusions.

The degree is the ideal mechanism for jurists to acquire and demonstrate professional expertise by preparing legal documents that comply with practical conventions instead of the traditional research dissertation. It does this without detracting from a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence.

Furthermore, crime in general and corruption in particular are specific threats to South Africa’s constitutional democracy and necessitate further specialisation in the field of criminal law and procedure. The degree is registered with the South African Qualifications Authority as a professional master’s degree. As such, instead of writing a traditional mini-dissertation, students may be required to complete a single research or technical project or series of smaller projects demonstrating innovation and professional expertise.

Students must also complete a coursework programme requiring a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence, and demonstrate the ability to relate knowledge to the resolution of complex problems in appropriate areas of professional practice.

1. Prior knowledge required

To gain admission into the programme, student should have obtained an average of 60% for the final year of the LLB degree (or similar recognised four-year degree).

Prior work or court experience is not required. However, it may be used to support application for admission if the student had not obtained the required 60% average.

1. Programme outcomes

The qualification aims to provide an academic deepening and broadening of professional experience for law graduates. It serves as an academic qualification in support of careers in criminal justice, especially for prosecutors, candidate attorneys, attorneys, advocates, members of the judiciary and prospective practitioners.

1. Modules

LLMP811 Criminal Law
The themes under this module include participation in crime, corporate criminal liability, hate crimes and racketeering offences.

LLMP812 Law of Criminal Procedure
In this module we cover the themes constitutional criminal procedure, prosecutorial discretion, search & seizure and asset forfeiture, as well as appeals and reviews.

LLMP821 Law of Evidence
Themes include digital evidence, legal professional privilege, expert evidence, and forensic (DNA) evidence/establishment of bodily features.

LLMP822 Combatting Corruption
The module comprised the themes International Instruments on combatting corruption, public procurement principles, and combatting corruption in public procurement.

LLMP871 Research Project
For the research project, students submit a series of theoretical and practice-based assignments (e.g., application and drafting Heads of Argument). There is no mini-dissertation.

1. Lecturers

• Prof P du Toit
• Prof H Combrinck
• Dr T van der Walt
• Mrs F Steenekamp
• Mr M Stoffels
• Ms E Barnard

1. Research

The programme does not include a mini-dissertation. This is substituted with the research project.

1. Employment options or further study opportunities on completion of the programme

This degree is designed in such a way that it sets successful candidates apart from the rest in the marketplace and creates better employment and promotion opportunities.

Seminar Programme 2024 2nd Semester