The Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) offers intensive, graduate-level legal studies to students who already possess a degree in a non-law subject and wish to qualify as solicitors or barristers. As the course is recognised by the Bar Standards Board and Solicitors Regulation Authority as satisfying the academic stage of legal training, the GDL allows a full-time student to complete this stage in one year (or two years part-time) instead of the two or three years normally required for a qualifying law degree. After successful completion of the GDL, you may progress to the professional stage of legal training, either the Bar Professional Training Course or the Legal Practice Course, either of which may be studied at the School of Law and Politics. To become fully qualified, completion of the BPTC or LPC will need to be followed by a period of work-based learning, either pupillage in a barristers’ chambers or a training contract with a solicitors’ firm. Alternatively, the GDL or one of the professional courses may be directly followed by legal work in some other capacity, with the option of seeking full qualification at a later date. Distinctive features The GDL is a very intensive course, but our model lets you combine your studies with other commitments. Apart from the first two weeks, you will only need to attend the School on Thursdays and Fridays (full time). The remainder of your time will be used for independent study, including listening to lectures, reading and preparing for tutorials. All our tutorials are on site where you will have access to learning and pastoral support from your tutors. Most lectures are delivered electronically, so you can listen when most convenient for you but you will also have ample opportunities to see and speak to your tutors – this is not a distance learning course. You will also benefit from pro bono opportunities, excellent career prospects and a full programme of talks and sessions to help you plan the next stage of your legal career. After completing the GDL you can stay with us to carry out the LPC or BPTC course.