ObjectivesThis course leads to the University's Graduate Diploma in Law, and satisfies the requirements of the JASB (Joint Academic Stage Board). The programme thus enables non-law graduates wishing to qualify as barristers or solicitors to complete the Academic Stage of Training for the purposes of the Bar and The Law Society. The course is primarily intended to prepare students for a successful transition either to the LPC or to the Bar Vocational Course, but it will also prove to be of value to those considering other careers where an understanding of the legal system and an appreciation of basic lawyerly skills would be valuable. The credits achieved may, with further study, qualify you to study for a Master's degree.
Entry requirementsApplicants should normally have -a non-law degree, or -a 'stale' law degree - generally where more than seven years have elapsed since graduation, or -academic or professional qualifications at a degree equivalent level.
Academic titleGraduate Diploma Law (CPE)
Course descriptionContent
The full-time course is preceded by a distance learning Preliminary Directed Study Course, concentrating on English Legal System and Method.
The course is structured into two teaching blocks to cover the seven Foundations of Legal Knowledge identified by the professional bodies: the 'other area of legal study' is an independently researched project.
Teaching block 1 (September – late January)
-English Legal System and Method
-Obligations I – Contract
-Obligations II – Tort
-Criminal Law
-European Union Law (studied during this block but not assessed until teaching block 2)
Teaching block 2 (late January – June)
-Equity and Trusts
-Property Law
-Public Law
-European Union Law
-Independent Research Project
Teaching and learning
Class contact is over four days a week and focuses on workshop activities which are highly interactive sessions designed to help develop an understanding of the foundation subjects and the acquisition of lawyerly skills.
Assessment
Assessment is a mixture of coursework (25%) and examinations (75%) (statutory materials being provided) in the seven Foundation subjects.
Legal System is assessed in the second week of the course.