Graduate Diploma in Law GDL

at City University of London

Benefits of this course
 

You 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 for progression to professional legal training.

 

You are encouraged to consider your reasons for practising law, and how you will personally experience value in practise.

 

Our programme is designed to be accessible and focused on your experience. We welcome your questions and offer significant one-to-one support.
 

Award
 

You can select to apply for one of the available exit points for this course.

 

• Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL)
   

Who is this course for?
 

You will be best suited to our Diploma if you are focused on legal practice in the UK, either at the Bar or as solicitors. We encourage you to use your studies to make that choice.

 

Your undergraduate studies may have been taken anywhere in the world and in various disciplines.
 

Structure
 

Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL)
 

Duration:

• Full-time: 1 year
   

Modules:

 

Some modules may be subject to change depending on student numbers, tutor availability, or course updates. This may affect the overall number of modules.

 

Modules

 

Study the seven core foundation subjects that you would cover during a qualifying undergraduate law degree.

 

The academic programme and examinations are of first-degree level with some elements of Masters level study, and involve work that is normally covered by undergraduates over at least 18 months.

 

A strong emphasis is placed on developing your analytical and research skills to make sure you are fully prepared for practice.

 

You also have the option to convert the GDL to an LLB degree by taking further law modules.

 

The programme specification is valid for academic year 2021/22, but may be subject to change in future years.

• UK
   

  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.

  The rules governing admission to practise law vary from country to country.  Before applying, applicants wishing to take the GDL as a step towards becoming a lawyer outside England and Wales are strongly advised to check that these courses are accepted with the appropriate body in the country in which they wish to qualify/practise.
  
   

English language requirements

 

Applicants whose first language is not English should hold the following qualification:

• IELTS: 7.0 or above with a minimum of 6.5 in writing and 6.0 in all other components.

• TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition: 95 overall with no less than 24 in Writing and Reading, 22 in Listening and 25 in Speaking

• LanguageCert ESOL International online: C1 Expert Pass (combined written and oral test)

• PTE Academic: 65 or better

Fees for academic year 2022/23
 

Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL)

 

Full-time per year

• UK: £12,320
• Overseas/EU: £12,320

Career
 

By completing the Diploma you will be qualified to take the Legal Practice Course (LPC) for solicitors and the Bar Vocational Studies (BVS) for barristers.

 

You will be guaranteed a place on our LPC and strongly advised to apply for the BVS. All UK lawyers are currently required to take one of these.

 

From September 2021 a new solicitor qualification route is available, named Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE). More details can be viewed on the Solicitors Regulation Authority website.

 

We hold regular career events where you can network with professionals from leading firms and chambers.

 

Most of our graduates ultimately progress to become barristers and a select few have set a global benchmark for legal practice.
 

Gain experience
 

You are not formally required to secure a placement, but we encourage you to gain legal practice experience such as a mini pupillage.