What is Criminal Law?: Course Fees 2026, Subjects, Top Colleges, Admissions

Updated on Dec 31, 2025 06:29 IST
Diya Nihalani

Diya NihalaniContent Author

Criminal law refers to the study of various types of crimes, 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.

One can get admission to these courses either through an entrance like CLAT or simply by merit. You can opt for Criminal Law specialization 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.

After completing a course in Criminal Law, candidates look forward to passing the All India Bar Examination (AIBE), enrolling with the Bar Council, and gaining experience. One can start working in 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

 
Q:   What is criminal law all about?
A:

Criminal Law deals with offenses committed against society or the state. An individual pursuing this law specialisation 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.

Relevant Links for Criminal Law Course:

AskShikshaGPT on App
Q:   Which has a better scope and why: Criminal Law or Company Law?
A:
Hello everyone, Company/Corporate law and criminal law are both those branches of law which are highly preferred by lawyers today. You must been hearing of Mr. Ramjeth Malani who retired recently was a criminal lawyer and there are a no. of them. Also, corporate law is something which is an appealing branch of law. The corporate incorporation, winding up of a company, company tribunals is all ever growing. The recent amendments to the companies act has made the field more grievances arriving in future. Crime is something which is sometimes deemed as a necessary evil in society. Thus, the scope of criminal law is just extraordinary. The crime is increasing every day and invites more legal practitioners in this field. However, the corporate lawyers are those fetching more luxuries to themselves. Also, the no. of criminal lawyers is more than corporate lawyers. Thus, company law field is more advisable.
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Table of contents
  • Criminal Law Eligibility Criteria and Admission Process
  • 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
View More

Criminal Law Eligibility Criteria and Admission Process

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.
  • Class 12 or equivalent in any stream from a recognized board.
  • A minimum of 50-55% score.
  • Pass entrance exams accepted.
LLM
  • LLB degree with a minimum score.
  • A minimum of 50-55% aggregate score.
  • CUET-PG or university-specific exams for LLM programs.
Diploma/Certificate Courses
  • Class 12 or equivalent in any stream from a recognized board.
  • A minimum of 50-55% score.
  • May not require entrance exams.
PhD
  • A master's degree in LLM in any relevant specialization from a UGC-approved university.
  • A minimum of 50-55% score.
  • CLAT PG, UGC NET, AILET, etc.

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.

 

Q:   How can I become a criminal lawyer? Which course should I pursue?
A:
You are advised to do BA-LLB 5 years integrated law degree from National universities by appearing for CLAT examination. You can do 3 years of LLB from ANH University after graduation degree of your choice to become a criminal lawyer.
AskShikshaGPT on App
Q:   Is civil law better than criminal law?
A:
Every law has its own authenticity and credibility. Law isn't about mugging up sections or orders. It's about embracing the legal system of any country. To answer your question, since it is not precise that in which context, are you asking whether to pursue civil or criminal law in academics or practising? l will suggest you to study both and then analyse in which area interests you. It's isn't about scope because one can broaden the scope if he has interest in that area. So, analyze your strength and then make a move. Good luck.
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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 March - April 2026 (Tentative) CUET PG Exam Date 2026
CLAT 2026 07 Dec ' 25 (Conducted) CLAT Exam Date 2026
SLAT 2026 December 20-28 (Conducted) SLAT Exam Date 2026
AP PGLCET 2026 June 2026 (Tentative) AP PGLCET Exam Date 2026
TS PGLCET 2026 June 2026 (Tentative) TS PGLCET Exam Date 2026
AILET 2026 14 Dec ' 25 (Conducted) AILET 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

Doctorate-Level Criminal Law Entrance Exams

Here are some top Law entrance exams conducted for a doctorate-level Criminal Law program, i.e., PhD in Criminal Law in India, tabulated below:

Entrance Exams

Exam Dates

Exam Schedule

UGC NET 2026 June 2026 (Tentative) UGC NET Exam Date 2026
CSIR NET 2026 June 2026 (Tentative) CSIR NET Exam Date 2026

Source - Official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

Read more on criminal law:

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

DatesUpcoming Exam Dates
15 Dec ' 25 - 20 Jan ' 26

ULSAT 2026 Application for LLM

ONGOING
15 Dec ' 25 - 20 Jan ' 26

ULSAT 2026 Applications (5-year LLB) Last Date

ONGOING
20 Jan ' 26

ULSAT 2026 Applications (3-year LLB) Last Date

DatesPast Exam Dates
05 Mar ' 21 - 30 Apr ' 21

ANUCDE 2021 Application Process

To Be Notified:

AIBE 20 Result 2025

TENTATIVE

6 Jan ' 26

AIBE 20 Final Answer Key Date

7 Jan ' 26

CLAT 2026 First Merit List

17 Dec ' 25 - 27 Dec ' 25

CLAT 2026 Counselling Registration

To Be Notified:

TS LAWCET Notification 2026

TENTATIVE

To Be Notified:

TS LAWCET Registration 2026 (with a late fee of I...

TENTATIVE

8 Jan ' 26 - 23 Jan ' 26

MH CET Law 2026 Application (for 3-year LLB)

Jan '26 - Mar '26

MH CET Law 2026 Application (for 5-year LLB)

TENTATIVE
Q:   Which exam is accepted for admission to LLM in Criminal Law in India?
A:

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.

Q:   Which entrance exams are required for Criminal Law admission in India?
A:

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 NameNo. of CollegesPopular Colleges
CLAT30+NALSAR University of Law, GNLU, GGSIPU, Alliance University, NLIU Bhopal, etc.
CUET PG25+GGSIPU, LPU, K.R. Mangalam University, Galgotias University, IILM University, etc.
CUET10+Alliance University, Chanderprabhu Jain College, K.R. Mangalam University, UPES, etc.
AP PGLCET7DSNLU, Dr. Ambedkar Global Law Institute, Acharya Nagarjuna University, VLC Vishakhapatnam, Dr, Ambedkar Law College, etc. 
KLEE6Government Law College Ernakulam, Nehru Academy of Law, Government Law College Thiruvananthapuram, Bharata Mata School of Legal Studies, Al Azhar Law College, etc.
TS PGLCET3NALSAR University of Law, Post Graduate College of Law Osmania University, Vijetha Academy, etc.
SLAT3SLS, Saveetha School of Law, Sandip University, etc.

Hope this solved your query!

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:

Shiksha Poll Reveals Law Aspirants' Back-Up Career Choices in 2025 UPSC, MBA & Beyond

CLAT Vs SLAT: Differences, Accepting Colleges, and Difficulty Level

 

Q:   What is the difference between Criminal Law and Penal Law?
A:

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

Q:   What are some Diploma courses in Criminal law?

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 -

Best Books to Study for SLAT 2026

Difference Between a Juris Doctor (JD) and LLB

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 -

All about PG Diploma in Law Programs

50+ CLAT Logical Reasoning MCQs

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. 

 

Q:   Which are the best books for Criminal Law other than the syllabus?
A:

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.
Q:   Which are the core subjects of a Criminal Law course?
A:

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

Q:   What is the syllabus for Certificate and Diploma in Criminal Law courses?
A:

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.

Q:   Is criminal law offered as a certificate course?
A:

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

More than 150 Criminal Law colleges in India offer Criminal Law specialization through various course levels; however, the specialization is mainly offered at the master's level only. These colleges include both government and private entities. 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
NALSAR University of Law INR 30,000 - 70,000
GNLU Gandhinagar (NLU) INR 1.2 L
Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University INR 70,000 - 1.4 L
NLIU Bhopal - The National Law Institute University INR 1.45 L
Maharashtra National Law University, Nagpur INR 25,000
Tamil Nadu Dr Ambedkar Law University [TNDALU] INR 40,000
MSU - The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda INR 17,240
Faculty of Law, Jamia Millia Islamia INR 35,700 - 1.3 L
IGNOU - Indira Gandhi National Open University INR 1,600 - 10,800
NLU Patiala (RGNUL) INR 1.03 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
Symbiosis Law School INR 2.5 L
School of Law, UPES INR 13.36 L - 22.25 L
Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Science INR 1.25 L
LPU - Lovely Professional University INR 1.6 L
ICFAI Law School INR 1.2 L
Manipal University, Jaipur INR 75,000
Institute of Law, Nirma University INR 1.6 L
Galgotias University INR 65,000
School of Legal Studies, CMR University INR 1.2 L
Sharda School of Law INR 1.76 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.

30 K - 70 K
7 LPA

#3 NIRF

2 Courses
1.2 L
6 LPA

#5 NIRF

2.5 L

#7 NIRF

13.36 L - 22.25 L
3.4

#18 NIRF

Criminal Law Applications open till Jan 20, 2026. Apply Now

1.25 L
6.1 LPA

#19 NIRF

2 Courses
70 K - 1.4 L
5.15 - 6.75 LPA

#22 NIRF

Q:   What are the best government colleges for LLM in Criminal Law?
A:

Here are some of the best LLM in Criminal Law government colleges in India:

College

Tuition Fees

Nalsar University of Law

INR 65,000

GNLU Gandhinagar (NLU) - Gujarat National Law University

INR 1.2 L

Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University

INR 70,000 - 1.4 L

Nalsar3 Bhopal - The National Law Institute University

INR 1.1 L - 1.15 L

Faculty of Law, Jamia Millia Islamia

INR 17,400 - 1.25 L

Note- This information is sourced from the official website/ counselling body and may vary.

Q:   Are there any National Law Universities (NLUs) that are particularly known for Criminal Law?
A:

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

1.25 L
5.0

Criminal Law Applications open. Apply Now

3 Courses
14.5 L
3.73 LPA

Criminal Law Applications open. Apply Now

12.73 L - 21.19 L

Criminal Law Applications open till Jan 20, 2026. Apply Now

2 Courses
84 K - 5.75 L
3.9 - 5.18 LPA

#29 The Week

Criminal Law Applications open. Apply Now

1.6 L

#26 NIRF

Criminal Law Applications open till Jan 15, 2026. 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 7- 10 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 5- 8 LPA
Paralegals Paralegals assist criminal lawyers with activities such as legal research, drafting legal papers, and trial preparation. INR 4- 8 LPA

Source of salary data - Ambitionbox.com.

Also read:

How to Become a Supreme Court Judge

What After AILET 2026 Exam Result?

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Criminal Law Top Recruiters

Numerous other good law companies provide criminal law services. It is critical to evaluate your individual needs as well as the type of case you are involved in when selecting a firm. Different firms specialize in different areas. Some firms focus on white-collar crime, while others focus on violent crime. It is critical to select a firm that has handled situations similar to yours. Some of the top recruiters for Criminal Law include:

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

More relevant Links:

Career after Law Courses

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Jobs After CLAT PG 2026: Check Career Opportunities Here

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Q:   What is the scope for criminology and criminal law?
A:
Dear aspirant, Glad to meet you. There is a good job opportunity in the field of criminology. This field has various offers for the scientist, research assistant, criminologist, forensic scientist and an investigator. Once you have completed a course in this field, you can opt job in various areas such as Forensic Department, Police, Research area, Medical Hospitals, CBI, Court, FBI, Crime Laboratories, Private Hospitals, Colleges, Institutions, MNCs (legal matters), Prison Reforms Programs and many others. You may be the professor in a college or the university or you may be the professional in the legal study or the judiciary member. The job profiles in the field of criminology are as the following: Private detectives Crime investigators Crime scene analyst Crime laboratory analyst F. B. I. agents Forensic surgeon Forensic engineer Police officers Crime intelligence analyst Community corrections coordinator Law reform researcher Regional crime prevention coordinator Consumer advocate Drug policy advisory Environment protection analyst. Hope it helps.
Q:   Which industries hire LLM in Criminal Law candidates?
A:

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 UKUSA, CanadaAustralia, Germany, and New Zealand.

Know more from the table below:

Top Universities for Criminal Law in the USA

University of Pennsylvania

New York University

New York University

Top Universities for Criminal Law in the UK

University of Manchester

University of Cambridge

London School of Economics and Political Science

Top Universities for Criminal Law in Canada

University of Toronto

University of Ottawa

University of Alberta

Top Universities for Criminal Law in Ireland

University College Dublin

University College Cork

University of Galway

Top Universities for Criminal Law in Australia

The University of Sydney

Monash University

The University of Queensland

Source - Official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

Quick Links on Criminal Law:

Top Foreign Universities for Criminal Law Courses

Five famous lawyers in India

 

Q:   Which countries are best for studying Criminal Law if I want to work in international criminal courts or NGOs?
A:

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:

Q:   Is civil law better than criminal law?
A:
Every law has its own authenticity and credibility. Law isn't about mugging up sections or orders. It's about embracing the legal system of any country. To answer your question, since it is not precise that in which context, are you asking whether to pursue civil or criminal law in academics or practising? l will suggest you to study both and then analyse in which area interests you. It's isn't about scope because one can broaden the scope if he has interest in that area. So, analyze your strength and then make a move. Good luck.
Q:   What are some courses related to criminal psychology I can take after finishing a BA LLB degree?
A:

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.

Q:   Which subjects are covered in an LLM in Criminal Law, Criminal Justice Course and Administrative Law?
A:

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

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Note: The information is sourced from external websites and may vary.

Q:   What do we study in an LLM in Security and Criminal Law course?
A:

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

 

 

Note: The information is sourced from external websites and may vary.

Popular Criminal Law UG Courses

Following are the most popular Criminal Law UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular Criminal Law PG Courses

Following are the most popular Criminal Law PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

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Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 2 weeks ago

To prep for a career in criminal law 

  •  Get a law degree.
  •  Get practical experience.
  •  Take part in moot courts or legal debates.
  •  Networking with professionals.

Know more about -

Criminal Law Career

S

Shikha Arora

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 weeks ago

You can

  •  Follow legal news and blogs.
  •  Join associations that are related to criminal law.
  •  Participate in seminars to learn about new laws and practices. 

Know more about -

Criminal Law Career

M

Mohit Datta

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 weeks ago

Yes, it has. Criminal law field offers many specializations. See below

  •  Criminal Litigation
  •  White-Collar Crime
  •  Cybercrime
  •  Juvenile Justice
  •  Human Rights
  •  International Criminal Law

Know more about -

Criminal Law Career

G

Gunjan Dhawan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 weeks ago

It is a law field that deals with crimes and their legal consequences. It has the investigation, prosecution, and defense of people accused of criminal offenses.

Know more about -

Criminal Law Courses

I

Ishita Uniyal

Contributor-Level 9