Difference Between LLB and LLB Hons: A Complete Guide for Law Aspirants

The LLB and LLB Hons are popular undergraduate law programmes in India. But they differ in subject depth and career focus. Understanding the differences between them can help aspirants make an informed choice.

Overview

LLB and LLB Hons programmes help aspirants establish a successful law career in India. The primary difference between LLB Honours and LLB lies in the depth of study. A general LLB offers a broad overview of foundational legal principles. LLB Honours programme, however, covers specialised topics.

Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for the LLB Hons programme are the completion ofa Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 45% marks. This percentage can vary from institute to institute. Integrated LLB and LLB Hons programmes can require 10+2 education with 45-50% marks. Both programmes also require qualifying for any one national, state or institutional-level entrance exams like CLAT, AILET, LSAT and more.

Hence, the eligibility criteria of LLB and LLB Hons mostly remain the same. Some colleges, however, might require a higher cut-off and performance for the Hons programme.

Key Programme Highlights

The table below presents the key highlights of both LLB and LLB Hons programmes.

LLB Hons vs LLB: Key Differences

Below are the key difference between LLB Hons vs LLB.

Curriculum Details

The LLB programme curriculum covers mandatory papers as guided by the Bar Council of India (BCI). It focuses on providing knowledge on the foundational topics more than the specialisations. The LLB Honours programme, however, has additional modules apart from the foundational topics. It includes subjects like IP, research methodology, dissertation, corporate law and human rights.

Career Prospects

Both LLB and LLB Honours degrees make graduates eligible to enrol with the State Bar Council to practice law. Standard LLB opens up roles in general legal practice, public service and corporate sectors. LLB (Hons) graduates find opportunities in specialised fields like corporate firms, international organisations, or academia. The programme offers in-depth knowledge and skills which are beneficial to students. It is also highly suitable for higher studies like an LLM or PhD (Law).

Salary Breakdown

Salary trends for both these degrees indicate high employability and good packages. Entry-level salaries can start anywhere from 3 - 6 lakhs per annum, depending on skills and expertise. LLB Hons graduates can, however, secure better packages because of their different specialisations.

Which Programme to Choose?

Standard LLB is a good choice for those who want to gain a good grasp of the core legal topics. For students with research, global or specialised career ambitions, they must pursue LLB Hons. The choice between LLB vs LLB Honours depends on individual goals and passions. To make a practical decision, students must research different college websites and also check with the college alumni.

Conclusion

Both LLB and LLB degrees help students qualify for the All India Bar Examination, thereby leading to rewarding careers. Choosing the right degree can help navigate the available career options more effectively. Therefore, understanding the eligibility criteria, curriculum, career prospects and key differences enables students to make an informed choice.

Check out the LLB Hons law programme at the JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) School of Law. Apply Today!

FAQs

Q1.What is the difference between LLB and LLB (Hons)?

A1.The LLB and LLB (Hons) programmes differ in their subject depth. Standard LLB provides a broad overview of core legal subjects. LLB (Hons), on the other hand, offers in-depth specialisation in modules like corporate law and international law.

Q2. Which is better: LLB Hons or general LLB?

A2. General LLB suits those aspirants who are seeking specialisation in research or judicial careers. LLB Hons offers entry into general practice, corporate law or legal consulting. The choice of LLB Hons or general LLB depends on individual interest and passion.

Q3. Is an LLB (Hons) degree superior to a general LLB?

A3. An LLB (Hons) provides deep specialisation that is beneficial for higher studies like LLM or abroad. However, a general LLB remains equally valid for bar eligibility and basic practice as per BCI norms. Hence, both programmes have their own strengths and benefits.

Q4. Which is more beneficial, LLB Hons or general LLB?

A4. LLB Hons is more beneficial in terms of competitive job markets and international recognition. While a standard LLB is more inclined towards legal practice and litigation benefitting students.

Q5. Which is the highest salary: LLB Hons or general LLB?

A5. Both LLB and LLB Hons can lead to higher salaries. LLB graduates can earn salaries starting from ₹3-6 LPA. While LLB Hons graduates can earn salaries of about ₹3-8 LPA with opportunities in corporate and specialised roles.