Why Is LLB Spelled as Bachelor of Laws?

The abbreviation LLB stands for Bachelor of Laws. This article explores the reasoning behind this unique term and provides a detailed explanation of the historical and academic context in which it exists.

Components of the LLB Abbreviation

The abbreviation LLB is derived from Latin, a language deeply embedded in the educational systems of many English-speaking countries. The components of LLB can be broken down as follows:

Law and Its Classification

Legum (plural of lex) – This term means laws, indicating that the field of study covers a pluralistic and comprehensive approach to legal knowledge. Baccalaureus – This term translates to Bachelor, signifying the introductory level of this academic pursuit.

Together, Legum Baccalaureus (LLB) means Bachelor of Laws. This title accurately reflects the nature of the degree, which is designed to provide a foundational understanding of the legal system.

Historical Context of LLB

The term LLB is much older than its counterparts such as BSc (Bachelor of Science). The BSc is a modern invention, making the term LLB particularly appropriate for a field as ancient and complex as law. Traditionally, most law degrees were granted in the form of LLB, reflecting the enduring legacy of Latin in academic nomenclature.

Latin Terms in Academic Titles

During the era when Latin was the standard academic language, many academic titles were derived from Latin:

MD (Medicinae Doctor) – means Doctor of Medicine BA (Baccalaureus Artium) – means Bachelor of Arts

It is important to note that the term Baccalaureus Artium originally referred to someone honored with a crown of laurels for success in sports or study. The broader term Arts encompassed a wide range of subjects, including law, medicine, and theology, which were the main fields of study in the medieval period.

Current Usage and Misconceptions

There are several misconceptions about the LLB degree:

LLB vs. Bachelors Degree in Law

It is often assumed that a law degree is a professional degree earned after completing an undergraduate degree. However, this is not always the case. In many countries, the LLB is recognized as a graduate degree rather than a traditional bachelor's degree. For example, at Oxford and Cambridge, the first degree in law is a BA, which can be converted to an MA after a further period of study.

LLB in the United States and Canada

In the United States and Canada, the standard degree issued by law schools is a Juris Doctor (J.D.). Prior to the J.D., many law schools in these regions also used the LLB. However, in most cases today, one must already possess a bachelor's degree to enter law school. The LLB is seen as a graduate degree and not a bachelor's degree in these contexts.

LLB vs. BA and BSc

The LLB provides a clear and precise indication of the academic discipline, unlike a BA or BSc, which simply denote the possession of a bachelor's degree without differentiating between the various fields of study. For instance, a BA degree in physics still falls under the broader term of arts, but it tells us what subject the person has expertise in.

Conclusion

In summary, the LLB is a term deeply rooted in academic tradition and accurately reflects the nature of a bachelor's degree in law. It distinguishes itself from other bachelor's degrees by clearly indicating the academic field of study, thus providing a transparent and precise description of what the degree represents.