

LL-M in Criminal Law at Chandigarh Engineering College


Mohali (S.A.S Nagar), Punjab
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About the Specialization
What is Criminal Law at Chandigarh Engineering College Mohali (S.A.S Nagar)?
This Criminal Law program at Chandigarh Engineering College, Mohali, focuses on advanced legal studies pertaining to criminal justice, crime, and punishment. It delves into the theoretical and practical aspects of various criminal statutes, international criminal law, and modern challenges like cybercrime, aligning with India''''s evolving legal landscape. The program aims to create legal experts equipped for the nation''''s judicial and enforcement sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for law graduates (LL.B.) seeking to specialize in criminal justice, aspiring public prosecutors, defense lawyers, legal advisors in law enforcement, or academics. It also suits professionals looking to enhance their understanding of complex criminal laws and policy for roles in NGOs, human rights organizations, or government bodies involved in crime prevention and victim support in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths as Public Prosecutors, Defense Counsels, Legal Consultants for police/investigative agencies, or researchers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning INR 8-15 lakhs or more. Opportunities exist in district courts, high courts, the Supreme Court, CBI, NIA, and various legal firms across India.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Legal Research & Writing- (Semester 1-2)
Develop robust research skills by regularly accessing university e-resources like Manupatra and SCC Online. Focus on structuring legal arguments logically and precisely for assignments and moot court memorials.
Tools & Resources
Manupatra, SCC Online, University Library Databases, Legal Writing Guides
Career Connection
Strong research and writing are fundamental for drafting legal documents, judgments, and academic papers, essential for any legal career, especially in criminal law.
Engage in Moot Court Competitions- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in intra-college and inter-college moot court competitions. This refines advocacy, argumentation, and public speaking skills crucial for a criminal lawyer. Join study groups to prepare extensively.
Tools & Resources
Moot Court Society, Faculty Mentors, Legal Journals, Simulated Case Briefs
Career Connection
Builds confidence and practical courtroom experience, highly valued by law firms and for judicial service exams.
Understand Criminal Law Fundamentals Deeply- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on conceptual clarity in core subjects like Law of Crimes I & II, Constitutional Law. Utilize commentaries on IPC, CrPC, and Evidence Act. Attend seminars by legal experts to solidify understanding.
Tools & Resources
Bare Acts (IPC, CrPC, Evidence Act), Renowned Commentaries, Case Law Databases
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation is indispensable for tackling complex real-world criminal cases and excelling in judicial or prosecution roles.
Intermediate Stage
Advanced Stage
Pursue Specialised Internships- (Semester 3-4)
Seek internships with senior criminal lawyers, Public Prosecutors, District Legal Services Authorities, or NGOs working on criminal justice. Aim for exposure to court proceedings, client counseling, and case file management.
Tools & Resources
University Placement Cell, Online Legal Internship Platforms, Networking with Alumni
Career Connection
Provides practical insights into the daily workings of the criminal justice system and builds professional contacts for future opportunities.
Prepare for Judicial & Public Prosecutor Exams- (Semester 3-4)
Begin systematic preparation for competitive exams like the Judicial Services Exam or Public Prosecutor exams. Focus on mastering procedural laws (CrPC, Evidence Act) and recent Supreme Court judgments relevant to criminal law.
Tools & Resources
Coaching Institutes, Past Papers, Legal Current Affairs Magazines, Online Exam Prep Platforms
Career Connection
Directly targets high-profile government legal positions in India, offering stability and significant impact.
Develop a Research Dissertation- (Semester 2-4)
Select a contemporary and impactful topic in criminal law for the dissertation. Conduct in-depth original research, analyze data, and present findings in a scholarly manner. Seek extensive faculty guidance throughout.
Tools & Resources
Faculty Supervisors, University Library, Academic Databases, Statistical Software (if applicable)
Career Connection
Showcases independent research capability, a key skill for legal academia, policy-making, or high-level legal advisory roles.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- LL.B. degree with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks from Punjabi University, Patiala or any other recognized Indian/Foreign University. (45% for SC/ST candidates)
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 72 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30% (Minor Tests, Assignments, Presentations), External: 70% (End Semester Examination)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 101 | Research Methodology and Legal Writing | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Techniques, Research Ethics, Legal Research & Writing Styles |
| 102 | Constitutional Law and Administrative Law | Core | 4 | Constitutionalism and Rule of Law, Separation of Powers, Fundamental Rights, Judicial Review, Administrative Discretion, Delegated Legislation and Control |
| 103 | Law of Crimes - I (Specialization Group A) | Specialization Core | 4 | Theories of Crime and Punishment, General Principles of Criminal Law, Elements of Mens Rea and Actus Reus, Stages of Crime, Group Liability and Common Intention, Jurisdiction in Criminal Matters |
| 104 | Juvenile Delinquency, Penology and Victimology (Specialization Group A) | Specialization Core | 4 | Juvenile Justice System, Theories of Punishment, Sentencing Policy, Prison Administration and Reforms, Probation and Parole, Rights and Compensation of Victims |
| 105 | Cyber Crimes and Law (Specialization Group A Elective) | Specialization Elective | 4 | Introduction to Cyber Crime, Types of Cyber Crimes, Cyber Terrorism and Warfare, Information Technology Act 2000/2008, Digital Evidence, Cyber Security and Legal Framework |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 201 | Law of Crimes - II (Specialization Group A) | Specialization Core | 4 | Offences Affecting Human Body (Homicide, Hurt), Sexual Offences (Rape, Harassment), Offences Against Property (Theft, Robbery, Dacoity), Cheating and Criminal Breach of Trust, Abduction and Kidnapping, Defamation and Criminal Intimidation |
| 202 | International Criminal Law (Specialization Group A) | Specialization Core | 4 | Evolution of International Criminal Law, Sources of International Criminal Law, War Crimes and Crimes Against Humanity, Genocide and Aggression, International Criminal Court (ICC), Extradition and Mutual Legal Assistance |
| 203 | Forensic Science and Law (Specialization Group A) | Specialization Core | 4 | Basics of Forensic Science, Fingerprint Analysis, DNA Profiling, Ballistics and Document Examination, Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Expert Evidence and Narco-Analysis |
| 204 | Criminal Justice Administration (Specialization Group A Elective) | Specialization Elective | 4 | Police System and Investigation, Arrest, Search and Seizure, First Information Report (FIR), Bail and Anticipatory Bail, Charge and Trial Procedures, Role of Prosecutor and Defence Counsel |
| 205 | Dissertation Part-I | Project | 8 | Identification of Research Problem, Extensive Literature Review, Formulation of Research Hypothesis, Designing Research Methodology, Data Collection Plan, Initial Chapter Writing |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 301 | Corporate Crimes and Corruption (Specialization Group A Elective) | Specialization Elective | 4 | Corporate Criminal Liability, White Collar Crimes, Bribery and Embezzlement, Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, Money Laundering and PMLA, Fraud and Insider Trading |
| 302 | Human Rights and Criminal Justice (Specialization Group A Elective) | Specialization Elective | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, UDHR and International Covenants, Human Rights in Indian Constitution, Rights of Accused and Prisoners, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Custodial Violence and Torture |
| 303 | Socio-Economic Crimes (Specialization Group A Elective) | Specialization Elective | 4 | Black Marketing and Hoarding, Food Adulteration Laws, Consumer Frauds, Environmental Offences, Drug Trafficking and NDPS Act, Wildlife Protection Act |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 401 | Women and Criminal Law (Specialization Group A Elective) | Specialization Elective | 4 | Gender-Based Violence, Dowry Prohibition Act, Sexual Harassment at Workplace (POSH Act), Domestic Violence Act, Trafficking of Women and Children, Acid Attack and related laws |
| 402 | Law Relating to Organized Crimes (Specialization Group A Elective) | Specialization Elective | 4 | Definition and Types of Organized Crime, Drug Cartels and Smuggling, Terrorism and UAPA, Maharashtra Control of Organized Crime Act (MCOCA), International Conventions against Organized Crime, Intelligence Gathering and Enforcement |
| 403 | Probation and Parole (Specialization Group A Elective) | Specialization Elective | 4 | Theories of Probation and Parole, Probation of Offenders Act, 1958, Role of Probation Officers, Parole Rules and Regulations, Open Prisons and Halfway Homes, Rehabilitation of Offenders |
| 404 | Dissertation and Viva-Voce | Project | 8 | Finalization of Research Thesis, Statistical Analysis of Data (if applicable), Drawing Conclusions and Recommendations, Thesis Presentation, Viva Voce Examination, Addressing Faculty Feedback |




