Graduate Diploma in Law GDL

The Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) is a rigorous academic programme which prepares non-law graduates for legal practice in one year. Gain essential knowledge of foundational legal subjects and develop critical analysis and research skills. Renowned for its academic excellence since 1977, this course equips you to excel in legal careers and adapt to evolving professional standards and technologies.Benefits of this courseYou will learn how to directly read case law and build skills in legal analysis, oral argument and writing.We cover the seven core foundation subjects that are required as part of the academic stage of training as a barrister in England and Wales and successful completion of the programme will qualify you for entry to the vocational stage of training.The course will also provide excellent training for non-law graduates planning to qualify as a solicitor (although it is not designed on its own to prepare you for the Solicitors’ Qualifying Examination).Our programme is designed to be accessible and build on the academic skills you gained from your first degree regardless of the discipline to provide a seamless transition into law. We offer significant careers support, and many opportunities to network and to gain the practical experience to support your first steps into the legal profession.Who is this course for?This programme is designed for non-law graduates or law graduates from outside the UK, who are focused on developing a professional legal career in the UK, either as a barrister or solicitor.It will provide you with the necessary academic legal training to prepare you for undertaking further vocational training to enter either of these professions.Career:For aspiring barristers: If you are an aspiring barrister, by completing the GDL you will have completed the academic stage of training required to qualify as a barrister in England and Wales and will be ready to progress to the vocational stage of training by taking a course such as our Bar Vocational Studies (BVS) programme.For aspiring solicitors: If you choose a pursue a career as a solicitor, by completing the GDL you will have covered all the areas of functional legal knowledge that are taught on an undergraduate law degree and will be well on the way toward preparing for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination 1.You can, at this stage, complete your preparation for SQE 1 & 2 by joining a dedicated preparation course such as our Solicitors’ Practice Programme (SPP).

A degree (in any subject), of at least an upper second-class honours standard, or, an approved degree conferred by an institution outside the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland, and a very good knowledge of the English language. Decisions are made on the basis of: Academic performance; Evidence of intellectual ability; Professional and legal work experience; Personal statement; Commitment to studying law; References. 

For candidates with below upper second-class honours or equivalent, we may exceptionally grant admission where there is strong evidence that they have substantial relevant experience and high levels of achievement in work or research that convinces us that they would be able to do this very demanding course.