Program Overview

Postgraduate Diploma in Law (PGDL)

Overview

Our Postgraduate Diploma in Law (PGDL) is an intensive law conversion course designed for:

• Graduates from non-law disciplines in the UK and internationally.
• International law graduates whose qualifications do not meet the academic requirements for legal practice in England and Wales.

The PGDL provides the essential foundation in English law and legal reasoning, enabling students to transition into the legal profession. It prepares candidates for further professional training such as the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) or the Bar Training Course (BTC).

The PGDL is aligned with the expectations of major legal employers and regulatory bodies, providing a recognised academic pathway to becoming a solicitor or barrister in the UK.

Entry Requirements

Applicants must:

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree (minimum 2:2 classification) in any discipline. Show a strong interest in pursuing a legal career. Be prepared for intensive, fast-paced academic study.

International qualifications equivalent to a UK degree are accepted.

Demonstrating Proficiency in English

All applicants must demonstrate a high standard of English suitable for academic legal writing and professional communication.

Minimum Test Scores Required

• IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in each component)
• TOEFL iBT: 88
• Pearson PTE Academic: 58
• Cambridge C1 Advanced: Grade C or higher

Applicants with a degree studied in English may be exempt.

Equivalences

We accept:

• Bachelor’s degrees from UK universities or recognised international institutions.

Equivalent qualifications assessed by UK ENIC.

Qualification Structure

The PGDL course is structured around key areas of legal knowledge:

• English Legal System and Constitutional Law
• Contract Law
• Criminal Law
• Tort Law
• Land Law
• Equity and Trusts
• Public Law
• EU Law (where relevant)

In addition, students develop:

• Legal research and writing skills
• Critical thinking and advocacy preparation
• Professional ethics understanding

Mandatory Units

• Foundations of Legal Knowledge
• Introduction to Legal Method and Reasoning
• Civil and Criminal Litigation Basics
• Legal Research and Academic Writing
• Professional Conduct and Ethics in Law

Progressions

Graduates of the PGDL can:

• Progress to the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE1) preparation and sit the professional solicitor exams.
• Progress to the Bar Training Course (BTC) and work towards becoming a barrister.

Pursue roles in compliance, legal operations, consultancy, or regulatory sectors.

Duration

• Full-Time Study: 9 months
• Part-Time Study: 18 months
• Accelerated Options: 6 months (intensive summer entry available)

Delivery Method

• On-Campus Learning: Face-to-face lectures, seminars, and tutorials.
• Online Learning: Live interactive classes, recorded lectures, and online library access.
• Blended Learning: Flexible mix of in-person and online study.

All students benefit from personalised tutor support and online academic resources.

Fee Structure

• Registration Fee: £250 (non-refundable)
• Tuition Fee:
  • Full-Time: £7,500
  • Part-Time: £7,900
• Course Materials Fee: £350 (includes textbooks, case law updates, exam preparation kits)

Flexible payment options and scholarships are available for eligible students.

Assessment

Assessment methods include:

• Written coursework and essays
• Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) exams
• Problem-based assignments
• Legal research projects
• Final exams in core subject areas

Students are assessed continually throughout the course to monitor progress and readiness for professional exams.

Accreditation

The PGDL course is recognised by major professional bodies and meets the academic stage requirements for entry into solicitor and barrister training routes in England and Wales. It is aligned with the standards set by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and the Bar Standards Board (BSB).

Why Choose Our College?

• Expert Tutors: Experienced legal academics and practitioners.
• Career Focused: Direct pathways to SQE and Bar courses.
• Flexible Study Options: Full-time, part-time, online, or blended.
• Student Support: Career services, mock interviews, and networking opportunities.