Law - GDL
Entry requirements
You will normally have a second class degree or above and your application should also demonstrate a commitment to the legal profession.
All applications are considered on their merits and we'll consider applicants who do not have an upper second class honours degree who can demonstrate a commitment to pursuing a legal profession and have other strengths or evidence of achievement such as awards, scholarships and work experience - paid or unpaid.
A Certificate of Academic Standing is required for applicants whose intention it is to become a barrister and who do not hold a UK first Degree. Applicants are strongly advised to apply to the Bar Standards Board (BSB) https://www.barstandardsboard.org.uk/ as soon as possible for a Certificate of Academic Standing for the GDL as these can take some time to obtain.
You can also join the GDL on a training contract or with qualifying work experience. And every year some of our students join us having secured positions with legal firms.
Please also see the University's general entry requirements.
Months of entry
September
Course content
Join a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) course where you’ll build effective legal knowledge and develop practical legal skills.
You’ll be part of a supportive, acclaimed and successful course. You’ll learn from qualified legal practitioners and key international law researchers; with a deep understanding of the subject area and close links to the profession.
You'll develop an awareness of how to apply the law in professional practice. You will also advance your research and professional legal skills. You'll study in small groups and receive expert tuition. You can also join our award winning mooting and client interviewing teams, to build your advocacy skills.
There's also access to employability and pro bono opportunities - including:
- Solicitor and barrister mentoring scheme
- A court-based family law pro bono project
- Training to work with the death row charity Amicus ALJ.
You’ll gain expert legal knowledge and skills to equip you for the Bar Training Course (BTC) or to start the preparation courses for the new Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE).
Information for international students
Pathways courses for international and EU students
We offer a range of courses to help you meet the entry requirements for your postgraduate course and also familiarise you with university life in the UK.
Take a Pre-Master's course to develop your subject knowledge, study skills and academic language level in preparation for your master's course.
If you need to improve your English language, we offer pre-sessional English language courses to help you meet the English language requirements of your chosen master’s course.
Fees and funding
Financial support and scholarships
For general sources of financial support, see our Fees and funding pages.
Qualification, course duration and attendance options
- GDL
- full time12 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
- part time24 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
Course contact details
- Name
- Enquiries
- query@brookes.ac.uk
- Phone
- +44 (0) 1865 484848