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The Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) explained

The Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) is a law conversion course allowing non-law graduates from any discipline to fulfil the academic stage of legal training in preparation for further vocational study leading to qualification as barrister or solicitor.

By completing the Diploma you will be qualified to take The City Law School's Solicitors’ Practice Programme (SPP) to become a solicitor and the Bar Vocational Studies (BVS) to become a barrister.

This is a full-time course, taught on-campus

Hear from recent GDL graduates about their experience on the course

Why study the GDL with us

  • City campus building

    A nationally renowned Diploma that has rigorously trained legal professionals since 1977

  • Star

    Conversion course allowing to join a career as a solicitor or barrister

  • Books

    Introduction to the SQE exams

The GDL in practice

Essential law knowledge and skills

The GDL consists of one year’s full-time study of the seven foundations of legal knowledge: English Legal System; Public Law; Contract Law; Criminal Law; Equity & Trusts; European Union Law; Land Law; Tort Law.

In addition, you practice legal research ability and will be introduced to an eighth area of legal knowledge - currently Legal Ethics.

During your studies, you can take part in the Community Legal Advice Centre providing advice on areas of law unfunded by legal aid; support local not for profit organisations supporting access to justice in the community; or participate in a variety of extracurricular opportunities to including court visits and mock trials and mooting competitions.

Progressing towards your career in Law

The GDL qualification certifies that you have completed the academic stage of legal training as required by the Bar Standards Board and the Solicitors Regulation Authority as a pre-condition to qualifying as a lawyer in the UK.

You have the option to convert your GDL to an LLB (undergraduate Law degree) by taking further law modules after you have completed the GDL.

Supporting you during your GDL

You will have access to our extensive library and IT Facilities, accommodation (including three dedicated Postgraduate Halls of Residence), health care and counselling, sport and leisure facilities; you also have access to some of the facilities of the University of London. At City St George’s you will find you are part of a supportive community with dedicated pastoral care.

Applying to the course

Applications can be made via the Central Applications Board - LawCabs




Postgraduate Open Evenings at City St George's

Whether hosted in person or online, our Postgraduate Open Events are a great way to find out if City St George's is the right place for you. You will meet our academics, staff and students, explore our facilities and get advice on our courses and other important aspects of university life.