What is Criminal Law?: Course Fees 2026, Subjects, Top Colleges, Admissions
Diya NihalaniContent Author
Criminal law course focuses on the study of various types of crimes, legal practices, investigative methods, trial preparation, and the operations of the criminal justice system. Criminal Law subjects encompass laws related to crimes, criminal behavior, and the legal processes for addressing these cases. It serves as a foundation of the Indian Judiciary System.
One can formally pursue this Law domain through various criminal law course levels like PG, PhD, Diploma and Certification. The duration varies, depending on whether you're aiming for a master's or a doctorate. Admission to these courses is based on Law entrance exams like CLAT or on merit.
You can opt for this specialization via LLB Criminal Law (Hons.), LLM, or Diploma. NLUs, Symbiosis Law School, NALSAR University of Law, GNLU Gandhinagar, GGSIPU, Alliance School of Law, etc are some of the top colleges offering courses in Criminal Law.
To become a Criminal Lawyer in India, candidates can pass the All India Bar Examination (AIBE), enroll with the Bar Council, and gain relevant experience. After a course in Criminal Law, you can also look forward to profiles like Legal Manager, Contract Attorney, Legal Advisor, Legal Researcher, Legal Assistant, etc.
Read the article for more Criminal Law Course Details.
Criminal Law Course Details: Highlights
Criminal Law courses equip students with the right knowledge and skills required to navigate the legal system. Criminal Law covers a wide range of topics, including criminal procedure, evidence law, substantive criminal law, and allied areas like criminology and forensic science.
The key highlights of Criminal Law courses in India are tabulated below:
| Particulars | Course Details |
|---|---|
| Criminal Law Course Level | PG, PhD, Diploma, and Certification. |
| Criminal Law Course Duration | PG: 2 Years PhD: 3 - 5 Years |
| Criminal Law Admission Criteria | Merit and Entrance Exam-Based |
| Criminal Law Eligibility Criteria | PG: LLB or BA LLB from a recognized university. PhD: A master's degree in Criminology or any relevant discipline. |
| Criminal Law Entrance Exams | CLAT, CUET-PG, CUET, AP PGLCET, TS PGLCET, etc. |
| Course Fees | PG: INR 1,000 - INR 4.9 Lakh PhD: INR 1 Lakh - 4 Lakh |
| Top Colleges | NALSAR University of Law, Symbiosis Law School, GNLU Gandhinagar (NLU), School of Law, UPES, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, LPU - Lovely Professional University. |
| Average Salary | INR 3 - 8 LPA |
| Top Recruiters | Trilegal India, Khaitan & Co., Ahlawat & Associates, Sagar Associates, etc. |
| Job Positions | Legal Manager, Contract Attorney, Legal Advisor, Legal Researcher, Legal Assistant, etc. |
Source - Multiple external/official sites, data may vary.
Relevant Links -
How to Get Admission in Central Universities Through CUET UG 2026
Criminal law refers to the laws protecting society against crime. It ensures a fair justice system. Criminal law courses revolve around legal practices, investigative methods, trial preparation, and the operation of the criminal justice system. Criminal Law subjects encompass laws related to crimes, criminal behavior, and the legal processes for addressing these cases. It serves as a foundation of the Indian Judiciary System.
One can formally pursue Criminal Law through various course levels like PG, PhD, Diploma and Certification. A course in Criminal Law generally has a duration of 2 to 5 years, depending on whether you're aiming for a master's or a doctorate.
- Criminal Law Eligibility Criteria and Admission 2026
- Top Criminal Law Entrance Exams 2026
- Types of Criminal Law Courses
- Criminal Law Course Syllabus
- Online Criminal Law Courses
- Best Criminal Law Colleges in India
- Popular Private Criminal Law Colleges in India
- Criminal Law Salary, Jobs, Career Scope, and Top Recruiters
- Criminal Law Abroad for Indian Students
- Criminal Law Course FAQs
- Popular Criminal Law UG Courses
- Popular Criminal Law PG Courses
Criminal Law Eligibility Criteria and Admission 2026
Since the eligibility criteria may slightly vary across different colleges, you are advised to look into the respective college guidelines on official websites to be certain. Some basic requirements are mentioned below:
| Course Level | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| LLB Hons. |
|
| LLM |
|
| Diploma/Certificate Courses |
|
| PhD |
|
Source - Multiple external/official sites, data may vary.
Criminal Law Admission Process 2026
For candidates' reference, here's the LLM in Criminal Law course admission process followed in India.
| Steps | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Check and fulfill the eligibility requirements. |
| Register | Register on the official college/exam website. |
| Application | Fill out the application form and pay the application fee. |
| Entrance Exams | Appear for the entrance exams. |
| Results | Once the results are out, check the score/rank and choose the college. |
| Counselling | Attend the counselling session. |
| PI | Many LLM colleges may conduct a personal interview round as well. |
Source - Multiple external/official sites, data may vary.
One can formally pursue Criminal Law through various course levels like PG, PhD, Diploma and Certification. A course in Criminal Law generally has a duration of 2 to 5 years, depending on whether you're aiming for a master's or a doctorate.
You can get admission to these courses either through an entrance like CLAT or simply by merit. You can opt for Criminal Law specialisation via your LLB Hons., LLM, or Diploma. NLUs, Symbiosis Law School, NALSAR University of Law, GNLU Gandhinagar, GGSIPU, Alliance School of Law, etc. are some of the top colleges offering courses in Criminal Law.
Top Criminal Law Entrance Exams 2026
Though a few colleges might accept admission simply through merit, others require applicants to appear for university-specific entrance exams. Candidates seeking admission in Criminal Law degree courses offered at different universities/colleges can consider appearing in the following Top Law entrance exams:
Criminal Law Entrance Exams
Here are some of the top entrance exams that can serve as a gateway for you to get admission to top criminal law courses at the UG and PG levels:
|
Entrance Exams |
Exam Dates |
Exam Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| CUET PG 2026 | 6 - 27 March 2026 | CUET PG Exam Date 2026 |
| CLAT 2027 | Dec 2026 (Tentative) | CLAT Exam Date 2026 |
| SLAT 2027 | Dec 2026 (Tentative) | SLAT Exam Date 2026 |
| AP PGLCET 2026 | 04 May 2026 | AP PGLCET Exam Date 2026 |
| TS PGLCET 2026 | 18 May 2026 | TS PGLCET Exam Date 2026 |
| AILET 2027 | Dec 2026 (Tentative) | AILET Exam Date 2026 |
| UGC NET 2026 | June 2026 (Tentative) | UGC NET Exam Date 2026 |
Source - Official/counselling body of the institute/exam.
Relevant criminal law links:
Exam Day Checklist for SLAT 2026 - Do's and Don'ts
How to Prepare for CLAT 2026 without Coaching - Important Books, Strategy & Tips
SLAT Eligibility Criteria 2026 - Academic Qualification, Age Limit, Minimum Marks
Important Exam Dates
| Dates | Past Exam Dates |
|---|---|
| 25 Feb ' 26 | LL.B. (5-yr) Admissions | ULSAT Last Date to Apply |
| 20 Jan ' 26 | ULSAT 2026 Applications (3-year LLB) Last Date |
| 15 Dec ' 25 - 20 Jan ' 26 | ULSAT 2026 Application for LLM |
1 Apr ' 26 - 2 Apr ' 26 | MH CET Law 2026 Exam Date (3-Year LLB) |
Apr '26 | MH CET Law 2026 Admit Card (5-Year LLB) TENTATIVE |
11 Feb ' 26 - 30 Apr ' 26 | AIBE 21 Registration Date 2026 |
1 May ' 26 - 3 May ' 26 | AIBE 21 Application Correction Window 2026 |
To Be Notified: | CLAT 2027 online registrations TENTATIVE |
To Be Notified: | CLAT 2027 Application Correction Window TENTATIVE |
17 Apr ' 26 | Last date to apply for May Attempt |
2 May ' 26 | SAT India exam (May attempt) |
Candidates who want to pursue the LLM course have to appear for the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) or the admission test accepted by law schools. Another one is AILET LLM, which is conducted by National Law University, Delhi for admissions into LLM courses.
Hi, the best Criminal Law colleges in India accept various entrance exams like CLAT, CUET, CUET PG, Andhra Pradesh PGLCET, KLEE, TS PGLCET, SLAT, etc. You can refer below for more details:
| Exam Name | No. of Colleges | Popular Colleges |
|---|---|---|
| CLAT | 30+ | NALSAR University of Law, GNLU, GGSIPU, Alliance University, NLIU Bhopal, etc. |
| CUET PG | 25+ | GGSIPU, LPU, K.R. Mangalam University, Galgotias University, IILM University, etc. |
| CUET | 10+ | Alliance University, Chanderprabhu Jain College, K.R. Mangalam University, UPES, etc. |
| AP PGLCET | 7 | DSNLU, Dr. Ambedkar Global Law Institute, Acharya Nagarjuna University, VLC Vishakhapatnam, Dr, Ambedkar Law College, etc. |
| KLEE | 6 | Government Law College Ernakulam, Nehru Academy of Law, Government Law College Thiruvananthapuram, Bharata Mata School of Legal Studies, Al Azhar Law College, etc. |
| TS PGLCET | 3 | NALSAR University of Law, Post Graduate College of Law Osmania University, Vijetha Academy, etc. |
| SLAT | 3 | SLS, Saveetha School of Law, Sandip University, etc. |
Hope this solved your query!
AILET or All India Law Entrance Test is an entrance exam conducted at the national level. The conducting body is NLU Delhi. Students aim for this course for getting admissions to LLM courses in NLU Delhi. This exam is seperate than CLAT.
Types of Criminal Law Courses
Criminal Law courses are offered at various levels, including PG, PhD, Diploma, and Certification. The fee structure, curriculum, and career prospects for every course level can differ. Hence, for candidates' reference, here are some top Criminal Law course levels, along with their top colleges and their fee details:
| Criminal Law Course Level | Top Criminal Law Colleges | Criminal Law Course Fees |
|---|---|---|
| LLM in Criminal Law | NALSAR University of Law | INR 65,000 |
| Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University | INR 70,000 - INR 1.4 Lakh | |
| Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences | INR 1.25 Lakh | |
| NLIU Bhopal | INR 1.45 Lakh | |
| Symbiosis Law School | INR 2.5 Lakh | |
| PhD in Criminal Law | Woxsen University | INR 1 Lakh |
| KIIT School of Law | INR 3 Lakh | |
| Alliance University, Bangalore | INR 3.5 Lakh | |
| KR Mangalam University | INR 3.6 Lakh | |
| Apex University | INR 3.6 Lakh | |
| PG Diploma in Criminal Law | IGNOU - Indira Gandhi National Open University | INR 10,800 |
| Maharashtra National Law University, Nagpur | INR 25,000 | |
| Nalsar University of Law | INR 30,000 |
Source - Multiple external/official sites on the web, data may vary.
More about Law specializations:
Best Law Specialisations in Demand - Criminal Law, Environmental Law, Taxation Law, Civil Law
Criminal Law Course Comparison
Candidates sometimes get confused between similar Law specializations. Although they sound similar, their curriculum, course type, and career prospects differ. Hence, the following table compares Civil Law and Corporate Law specializations similar to Criminal Law:
| Parameters | Criminal Law | Civil Law | Corporate Law |
|---|---|---|---|
| Course Intent | The criminal law curriculum revolves around the legal principles, processes, and practices related to criminal offenses. | The Civil Law syllabus equips students with knowledge of the legal principles, processes, and practices governing disputes between people or organizations, excluding criminal offenses. | Corporate Law is all about the legal framework governing companies, including their formation, management, and dissolution. |
| Course Levels | PG, PhD, Diploma, and Certification. | PG, PhD, and Diploma. | PG, PhD, Diploma, and Certification. |
| Skills Acquired | Strategic thinking, criminal investigation, trial advocacy, interviewing & negotiation, etc. | Legal research, analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, legal writing, and communication. | Contract drafting, research skills, attention to detail, and effective communication. |
| Course Fee | INR 1,000 - INR 15 Lakh | INR 1 Lakh - 4 Lakh | INR 1,000 - INR 3.6 Lakh |
| Top Colleges | Symbiosis Law School, NALSAR University of Law, GNLU Gandhinagar, SIMTS, GGSIPU, Alliance School of Law, etc. | K.R. Mangalam University, SAGE University, Kalinga University, Aryavart University, etc. | Symbiosis Law School, GNLU Gandhinagar, SOA University, IIT Kharagpur, GGSIPU, Aligarh Muslim University, etc. |
| Career Paths |
Legal Manager, Contract Attorney, Legal Advisor, Legal Researcher, Legal Assistant, etc. |
Lawyer, Advocate, Transactional Lawyer, Family Lawyer, Assistant Professor, etc. |
Advocate, Legal Advisor, Solicitor, Legal Manager, Law Officer, etc. |
| Employment Areas | Advocacy, Judiciary, Law Enforcement, Legal Consultancy, Education, NGO, etc. |
Colleges, Universities, Law Firms, Public Sector Undertakings, etc. |
Bar Council of India, Law Firms, Multinational Companies, Banks, Government Departments, Legal Process Outsourcing, etc. |
| Top Recruiters | Trilegal India, Khaitan & Co., Ahlawat & Associates, Sagar Associates, etc. | Aditya Birla Group, Tata Group, Infosys, Wipro, Mahindra and Mahindra, Bajaj Auto | Sagar Associates, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co, DSK Legal, Vaish Associates, Trilegal India, Anand and Anand, etc. |
| Average Salary | INR 3 - 8 LPA | INR 3 - 7 LPA | INR 3 - 6 LPA |
Source - Multiple external sites, data may vary.
Also read:
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Popular Courses
- B.A. LL.B. (Hons.)School of Law, UPES
- BBA LL.B. (Hons.)School of Law, UPES
- B.Com. LL.B (Hons.)School of Law, UPES
- B.A. LL.B. (Hons.)IMS Unison University
- B.A. LL.B. (Hons.)Alliance University, Bangalore
- BBA LL.B. (Hons.)Alliance University, Bangalore
- BBA LL.B. (Hons.)K.R. Mangalam University
- B.A. LL.B. (Hons.)K.R. Mangalam University
- B.A.LL.B.(Hons.)SRM University, Delhi-NCR, Sonepat, Haryana (SRMUH)
- BBA LL.B. (Hons.)UWSL, Karnavati University
This table provides a simplified overview of the differences between criminal and penal law. The actual systems and legal interpretations can vary depending on the jurisdiction.
Feature | Criminal Law | Penal Law |
|---|---|---|
Focus | Punishing or reforming those who commit crimes against the state or individuals | Justifying the imposition of penalties |
Nature of wrongdoing | Focused on harmful acts and mens rea (guilty mind) | Focused on forfeiture of rights or privileges, not necessarily requiring mens rea |
Standard of proof | Beyond a reasonable doubt | Lower standards like preponderance of evidence or clear and convincing evidence may be used |
Initiation of proceedings | Typically initiated by the government (prosecution) | Can be initiated by the government or in some cases by private individuals |
Goals | To deter crime, protect the public, and rehabilitate offenders | To impose fair consequences for wrongdoing and potentially generate revenue for the state |
Penalties | Primarily focuses on imprisonment, fines, probation, and parole | Can include a wider range of penalties like asset forfeiture, loss of licenses, community service, and restorative justice measures |
Relationship to criminal law | Complements criminal law by providing justification for its penalties and potentially filling in gaps where mens rea is difficult to prove | Can stand alone without necessarily relying on criminal law, but often overlaps with it |
Listed below are some Criminal law Diploma courses:
There are some major differences between the courses in Criminal Law and Civil Law.
Refer to the table given below
| Criminal Law | Civil Law |
|---|---|
| The criminal law curriculum revolves around the legal principles, processes, and practices related to criminal offenses. | The Civil Law syllabus equips students with knowledge of the legal principles, processes, and practices governing disputes between people or organizations, excluding criminal offenses. |
| PG, PhD, Diploma, and Certification. | PG, PhD, and Diploma. |
| Strategic thinking, criminal investigation, trial advocacy, interviewing & negotiation, etc. | Legal research, analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, legal writing, and communication. |
| INR 1,000 - INR 15 Lakh | INR 1 Lacs - 4 Lakh |
| Symbiosis Law School, NALSAR University of Law, GNLU Gandhinagar, SIMTS, GGSIPU, Alliance School of Law, etc. | K.R. Mangalam University, SAGE University, Kalinga University, Aryavart University, etc. |
Legal Manager, Contract Attorney, Legal Advisor, Legal Researcher, Legal Assistant, etc. | Lawyer, Advocate, Transactional Lawyer, Family Lawyer, Assistant Professor, etc. |
| Advocacy, Judiciary, Law Enforcement, Legal Consultancy, Education, NGO, etc. | Colleges, Universities, Law Firms, Public Sector Undertakings, etc. |
| Trilegal India, Khaitan & Co., Ahlawat & Associates, Sagar Associates, etc. | Aditya Birla Group, Tata Group, Infosys, Wipro, Mahindra and Mahindra, Bajaj Auto |
| INR 3 - 8 LPA | INR 3 - 7 LPA |
Source - Multiple external/ official sites on the web and data may vary.
Hope this helps!
Criminal Law Course Syllabus
Criminal Law as a specialization is mainly covered at the LLM level. Though many students manage to opt for this specialization during their integrated LLB Hons degree as well. More often than that, students pursue an LLM in Criminal Law after the LLB-level course. For candidates' reference, here's the LLM level syllabus for Criminal Law.
LLM Criminal Law Syllabus
LLM in Criminal Law is a 2-year-long postgraduate degree program designed for a detailed study of criminal laws, legal procedures, and the justice system in India. Here's an overview of LLM in Criminal Law syllabus followed in India:
| LLM Criminal Law Subjects Semester I | |
|---|---|
| Research Methodology | Globalization, Law, and Justice |
| Comparative Public Law | Law of Social Transformation in India |
| Legal Theory and Judicial Process | - |
| LLM Criminal Law Subjects Semester II | |
| History and Principles of Criminal Law | Juvenile Justice System in India |
| Criminology, Penology, Victimology | Workshop on Contemporary Issues |
| LLM Criminal Law Subjects Semester III | |
| White Collar Crime and Social Deviance | Comparative Criminal Procedure |
| International Criminal Law | Globalization of Terrorism |
| LLM Criminal Law Subjects Semester IV | |
| Teaching Practice | Dissertation and Viva Voce |
Source - Multiple external/official sites, data may vary.
Read more -
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PhD in Criminal Law Syllabus
A PhD in Criminal Law is a doctoral-level program with a duration of approximately 3 - 6 years. It includes the general coursework, research methodology training, and in-depth research leading to a dissertation. Here are some subjects included in the PhD in Criminal Law program:
| PhD in Criminal Law Subjects | |
|---|---|
| Principles of Criminology & Criminal Justice Administration | Police Administration |
| Penology and Corrections | Indian Penal Code, Criminal Procedure, and Evidence |
| Theoretical Criminology | Victimology and Victim Assistance |
| Fundamentals of Research Methods and Statistical Applications | Psychology of Crime and Criminal Behavior |
| Forensic Science and Forensic Medicine | Project or Dissertation |
Source - Multiple external/official sites, data may vary.
Read more -
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PG Diploma in Criminal Law Syllabus
A PG Diploma in Criminal Law is a short-term program after graduation, with a duration of 1 - 1.5 years. Here's an overview of subjects included in the PG Diploma in Criminal Law program:
| PG Diploma in Criminal Law Subjects | |
|---|---|
| General Principles of Criminal Law | Criminology |
| Penology | Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation |
| Forensic Medicine and Toxicology | Elements of criminal procedure and proof in criminal trials |
Source - Multiple external/official sites, data may vary.
Some of the top recommendations on Criminal Law books are mentioned below -
- "Understanding Criminal Law" by Joshua Dressler.
- "The Indian Penal Code" by K.D. Gaur (Commentary).
- "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander.
- "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson.
- "The Code of Criminal Procedure" by Ratanlal and Dhirajlal.
- "Winning Arguments" by Jay Heinrichs.
- "The Indian Evidence Act" by Cottrell.
The core subjects studied at almost every level of the Criminal Law course are Foundations of Criminal Law, Indian Penal Code (IPC), Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), Criminology & Penology, Legal Research Methodology, etc.
Core subjects are the mandatory subjects that every student in a programme needs to study and pass.
Online Criminal Law Courses
Criminal Law, as well as more relevant courses, are offered by many platforms/ colleges through an online and distance learning option in India. Though an online law degree is not enough to practice in india, people who need the knowledge for non-practice and closely related roles opt for such courses. Here are some top Online Criminal Law course options with college and fee details:
| Online Criminal Law Colleges | Online Criminal Law Courses | Course Fees |
|---|---|---|
| IGNOU | Post Graduate Diploma in Criminal Justice | INR 10,800 |
| Centre for Distance and Virtual Learning, University of Hyderabad | Diploma in Criminal Justice and Forensic Science (DCJ & FS) | INR 18,000 |
| MNLU Nagpur | PG Diploma in Criminology, Penology and Victimology | INR 25,000 |
| NALSAR | Advanced Diploma in Criminal Law and Forensic Science | INR 30,000 |
| NALSAR | M.A. in Criminal Law and Forensic Science | INR 70,000 |
| ICFAI Law School Hyderabad | LL.M. Professional Program (Hybrid Model) in Criminal Law | INR 1.2 Lakh |
Source - Official/counselling body of the institute/exam.
Read more relevant articles:
Colleges Offering Online Law Courses 2025: Fees, Admission, Review
Apart from the above-mentioned courses on Criminal Law, candidates can also view the syllabus of Diploma in Criminal Law courses as well as Certificate courses in Criminal Law below:
Certificate in Criminal Litigation and Trial Advocacy | ||
Career Opp. & Emerging Area in Criminal Litigation | Working of the Criminal Justice System | Criminal Drafting, Case Management and Building your Practice |
Post Graduate Diploma in Criminal Justice | ||
Criminal Justice System | Indian Penal Code | Criminal Justice Processes |
Criminal Justice Administration | Challenges to Criminal Justice System | Criminal Justice Research And Advocacy |
Note: The information is sourced from external websites and may vary.
Yes, there are few certificate courses available for Criminal Law. The course fee for Criminal Law is anywhere between INR 9,000 and INR 18,000 for Diploma and short-term certificate courses in Criminal Law, and between INR 60, 000 and INR 5 lakh for degree-level courses. The subject can be studied as a certificate course -
Best Criminal Law Colleges in India
For candidates' reference, here are some top Criminal Law college options, along with course and fee details:
Best Government Criminal Law Colleges
Around 36 government Law colleges in India offer Criminal Law courses at various levels, including PG, PhD, and Diploma. Here are some top government college options for Criminal Law courses, along with fee details:
| Best Criminal Law Government Colleges | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| IGNOU - Indira Gandhi National Open University | INR 1,600 - 10,800 |
| MSU - The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda | INR 17,240 |
| Maharashtra National Law University, Nagpur | INR 25,000 |
| NALSAR University of Law | INR 30,000 - 70,000 |
| Faculty of Law, Jamia Millia Islamia | INR 35,700 - 1.3 L |
| Tamil Nadu Dr Ambedkar Law University [TNDALU] | INR 40,000 |
| Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University | INR 70,000 - 1.4 L |
| NLU Patiala (RGNUL) | INR 1.03 L |
| GNLU Gandhinagar (NLU) | INR 1.2 L |
| NLIU Bhopal - The National Law Institute University | INR 1.45 L |
Source - Official/counselling body of the institute/exam.
Also read -
Top 10 Law Schools in India Based on NIRF Law Ranking 2025
Top 10 NLUs in India: Previous Year & Expected Cut-offs
Best Private Criminal Law Colleges
Around 160 private Law colleges in India offer Criminal Law courses at various levels, including PG, PhD, and Diploma. Here are some top private college options for Criminal Law courses, along with fee details:
| Best Private Colleges | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| Galgotias University | INR 65,000 |
| Manipal University, Jaipur | INR 75,000 |
| School of Legal Studies, CMR University | INR 1.2 L |
| ICFAI Law School | INR 1.2 L |
| Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Science | INR 1.25 L |
| LPU - Lovely Professional University | INR 1.6 L |
| Institute of Law, Nirma University | INR 1.6 L |
| Sharda School of Law | INR 1.76 L |
| Symbiosis Law School | INR 2.5 L |
| School of Law, UPES | INR 13.36 L - 22.25 L |
Source - Official/counselling body of the institute/exam.
Read more -
Top 10 Private Law Colleges in India 2025
List of NLUs in India (Updated List)
Best Part-Time Criminal Law Colleges
Here are some top part-time college options in India for various Criminal Law course levels.
| Best Part-Time Colleges | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| St. Xavier's College, Mumbai | INR 27,500 |
| Apex Professional University | INR 30,000 - 70,000 |
| DGIM Law College | INR 1.2 Lakh |
| Faculty of Law, Jamia Millia Islamia | INR 1.3 Lakh |
| GGSIPU | INR 1.4 Lakh |
Source - Official/counselling body of the institute/exam.
Criminal Law Applications open. Apply Now
Here are some of the best LLM in Criminal Law government colleges in India:
College | Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
INR 65,000 | |
INR 1.2 L | |
INR 70,000 - 1.4 L | |
INR 1.1 L - 1.15 L | |
INR 17,400 - 1.25 L |
Note- This information is sourced from the official website/ counselling body and may vary.
Hi, though many top NLUs like GNLU Gandhinagar, NLU Patiala, NLU Visakhapatnam, etc., offer Criminal Law specialization. The National Law University Delhi (NLU Delhi) is specifically famous for Criminal Law and its allied fields. They even have a dedicated Centre for Criminology and Victimology where they conduct research, training, and policy analysis in criminology and victimology.
Popular Private Criminal Law Colleges in India
Criminal Law Applications open till Mar 31, 2026. Apply Now
Criminal Law Applications open. Apply Now
Criminal Law Applications open. Apply Now
Criminal Law Applications open. Apply Now
Criminal Law Salary, Jobs, Career Scope, and Top Recruiters
Criminal Law is one of the oldest and most popular law specializations. After completing an integrated UG-level course with Criminal Law as a specialization, aspirants can consider pursuing a PG-level course in the same or even opt to join a job. Law graduates must qualify AIBE exam to practice in a court of law in India.
Read more: Highest Paid Lawyers in India: Know the Per Appearance Fees of Top Lawyers
The career scope for Criminal Law students in India is vast, with popular job profiles given below:
| Job Profiles | Job Description | Average Annual CTC |
|---|---|---|
| Magistrates | Magistrates are court officials who judge minor criminal cases and impose bail on more serious crimes. | INR 6 LPA |
| Judges | Judges preside over criminal trials and make legal and evidential determinations. They are in charge of ensuring that fair trials are held and that justice is rendered. | INR 10- 14 LPA |
| Prosecutors | Represent the government in criminal proceedings. They are in charge of presenting evidence to the court and arguing for the defendant's conviction. | INR 6.9 LPA |
| Criminal Lawyers | Represent clients who have been charged with a crime. They counsel and represent their clients in court, as well as educate them on their legal rights and options. Criminal attorneys can work for either the prosecution or the defense. | INR 4 LPA |
| Paralegals | Paralegals assist criminal lawyers with activities such as legal research, drafting legal papers, and trial preparation. | INR 5.5 LPA |
Source of salary data - Ambitionbox.com.
Also read:
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Criminal Law Top Recruiters
Refer to the table below
Criminal Law Top Recruiters |
|
|---|---|
|
Aegis Legal LLP |
Trilegal |
|
Amicus Legal |
JSB and Partners |
|
Daksh Associates |
CMB Legal |
|
Office of the Public Prosecutor |
Dhir and Dhir Associates |
Source - Multiple external/official sites, data may vary
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Law firms that are specialising in criminal defence, prosecution, or white-collar crime, seek hiring for LLM in Criminal Law candidates. Another options are courts and judiciary, government leagl departments, police departments, investigative agencies, universities and Law schools and many more where Criminal Lawyers are in-demand.
Criminal Law Abroad for Indian Students
To pursue Criminal Law abroad via an LLM abroad, ensure to have language proficiency like Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Academic qualification for Criminal Law abroad is the same as that of domestic programmes, i.e., 50 percent aggregate in graduation or equivalent from a recognised university.
Pursuing Criminal Law abroad can be costly. The total cost of pursuing Criminal Law from foreign universities can cost somewhere around INR 20 lakh to 40 lakh. The most popular countries for Criminal Law abroad are the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Germany, and New Zealand.
Know more from the table below:
|
Top Universities for Criminal Law in the USA |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Top Universities for Criminal Law in the UK |
||
|
Top Universities for Criminal Law in Canada |
||
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Top Universities for Criminal Law in Ireland |
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Top Universities for Criminal Law in Australia |
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Source - Official/counselling body of the institute/exam.
Quick Links on Criminal Law:
Top Foreign Universities for Criminal Law Courses
Hello, if you want to work for international criminal courts or NGOs abroad, the USA, the UK, and the Netherlands are some of the best options.
You'll find some of the best law schools with strong networks to international legal institutions, including the International Criminal Court.
Some of the top law schools there are -
The University of Oxford, UCL, Harvard, Yale etc.
Criminal Law Course FAQs
Find out some commonly asked questions for Criminal Law courses:
You can do courses related to criminal psychology .You can do LL.M and specialize in Human Rights law / constitution.
In addition to LL.M, you can explore about -
- PG Diploma in corporate law
- Diploma in criminology
- Diploma in forensic science
- M.A History
- MSW
What I suggest you that I you want to be a phenomenal criminal lawyer, just escape law study for sometime ( if you have ample financial resources ) .For 1-2 years do some job involving field or community work like NGO job / work involving travel.You exposure yourself to a some life experience .After that switch again to law.After that you would feel the super lawyer in you.
Here are some subjects offered in an LLM in Criminal Law, Criminal Justice Course and Administrative Law course in India:
Criminal Justice System In India | Juvenile Justice –Law And Policy | Narcotic Drugs- Law And Policy |
Cyber Crimes | Comparative Criminal Procedure | Collective Violence And Criminal Justice System |
Medical Jurisprudence And Forensic Science | - | - |
Note: The information is sourced from external websites and may vary.
An LLM in Security and Criminal Law Subjects include:
LLM in Security and Criminal Law Subjects | ||
|---|---|---|
Comparative Public Law | Law and Justice in a Globalized World | Electives, Research Methods and Legal Writing |
Principles of Criminal Law | Comparative Criminal Procedure | Human Rights and the Criminal Justice System |
Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation |
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Note: The information is sourced from external websites and may vary.
Popular Criminal Law UG Courses
UG Courses
- B.A. LL.B. (Hons)
5 Colleges
- BBA LL.B.
5 Colleges
- LL.B.
5 Colleges
- B.A. LL.B.
3 Colleges
- BBA LL.B. (Hons)
3 Colleges
Popular Criminal Law PG Courses
PG Courses
- LL.M.
166 Colleges
- PG Diploma
12 Colleges
- M.A.
5 Colleges
News & Updates
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 3 weeks ago
Criminal law is the part of the legal system that deals with crimes and punishment. It comes into play when a person does something that the law considers wrong not just against one individual, but against society as a whole — like theft, assault, cheating, or murder.
In simple terms, criminal law se
Contributor-Level 8
Answered 2 months ago
There are some major differences between the courses in Criminal Law and Civil Law.
Refer to the table given below
| Criminal Law | Civil Law |
|---|---|
| The criminal law curriculum revolves around the legal principles, processes, and practices related to criminal offenses. | The Civil Law syllabus equips students with knowledge of the legal principles, processes, and practices governing disputes between people or organizations, excluding criminal offenses. |
| PG, PhD, Diploma, and Certification. | PG, PhD, and Diploma. |
| Strategic thinking, criminal investigation, trial advocacy, interviewing & negotiation, etc. | Legal research, analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, legal writing, and communication. |
| INR 1,000 - INR 15 Lakh | INR 1 Lacs - 4 Lakh |
| Symbiosis Law School, NALSAR University of Law, GNLU Gandhinagar, SIMTS, GGSIPU, Alliance School of Law, etc. | K.R. Mangalam University, SAGE University, Kalinga University, Aryavart University, etc. |
Legal Manager, Contract Attorney, Legal Advisor, Legal Researcher, Legal Assistant, etc. | Lawyer, Advocate, Transactional Lawyer, Family Lawyer, Assistant Professor, etc. |
| Advocacy, Judiciary, Law Enforcement, Legal Consultancy, Education, NGO, etc. | Colleges, Universities, Law Firms, Public Sector Undertakings, etc. |
| Trilegal India, Khaitan & Co., Ahlawat & Associates, Sagar Associates, etc. | Aditya Birla Group, Tata Group, Infosys, Wipro, Mahindra and Mahindra, Bajaj Auto |
| INR 3 - 8 LPA | INR 3 - 7 LPA |
Source - Multiple external/ official sites on the web and data may vary.
Hope this helps!
D
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
One can formally pursue Criminal Law through various course levels like PG, PhD, Diploma and Certification. A course in Criminal Law generally has a duration of 2 to 5 years, depending on whether you're aiming for a master's or a doctorate.
You can get admission to these courses either through an en
D
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Criminal law refers to the laws protecting society against crime. It ensures a fair justice system. Criminal law courses revolve around legal practices, investigative methods, trial preparation, and the operation of the criminal justice system. Criminal Law subjects encompass laws related to crimes,
D
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
The seat intake for the BA LLB (Hons) in Criminal Law at Unitedworld School of Law, Karnavati University is yet to be revealed for 2026 admissions. In the previous year, the seat intake for the aforementioned course was 180 seats. Thus, candidates can expect the seat intake to be reletively similar
S
Contributor-Level 10
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Criminal Law deals with all kinds of offenses. These offenses are committed against society or the state. A criminal lawyer interviews clients, interrogates witnesses, conducts trials, correlates proof/ findings, prepares a case for defending his/ her client, and also examines as well as cross-examines witnesses in court.
Criminal Law is a very popular law specialization and it is known to be one of the oldest branches of law. Criminal Law includes the rules, statutes, and regulations that define conduct that is prohibited by the law because it threatens as well as harms public safety and welfare. Criminal Law also lays down a punishment that can be imposed on an individual or group of people for breaking any law.
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