ObjectivesThis course leads to the University's Graduate Diploma in Law, and satisfies the requirements of the CPE Board. The award 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) (open learning)
Course descriptionContent
The part-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.
Year 1
-English Legal System and Method
-Obligations I – Contract
-Obligations II – Tort
-Criminal Law
-European Union Law (studied during this block but not assessed until Year 2)
Year 2
-Equity and Trusts
-Property Law
-Public Law
-European Union Law
-Independent Research Project
Teaching and learning
In each of the two years there will be an introductory residential session of three days at the University in September, following on from the Preliminary Directed Study Course. There are then five residential sessions between October and May (these sessions are not held at weekends). Each of the five sessions will cover two days and require an overnight stay at a local conference centre. During these sessions there will be intensive seminars, lectures and workshops, and the opportunity to discuss individual problems with both personal and academic tutors.
Assessment
Assessment is a mixture of coursework (25%) and examinations (75%) (statutory materials being provided) in all the Foundation subjects. Legal Systems is assessed at the October residential in Year 1 of the course.