he Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) is a rigorous academic programme which prepares non-law graduates for legal practice in one year. Gain essential knowledge of foundational legal subjects and develop critical analysis and research skills. Renowned for its academic excellence since 1977, this course equips you to excel in legal careers and adapt to evolving professional standards and technologies.
You will learn how to directly read case law and build skills in legal analysis, oral argument and writing.
We cover the seven core foundation subjects that are required as part of the academic stage of training as a barrister in England and Wales and successful completion of the programme will qualify you for entry to the vocational stage of training.
The course will also provide excellent training for non-law graduates planning to qualify as a solicitor (although it is not designed on its own to prepare you for the Solicitors’ Qualifying Examination).
Our programme is designed to be accessible and build on the academic skills you gained from your first degree regardless of the discipline to provide a seamless transition into law. We offer significant careers support, and many opportunities to network and to gain the practical experience to support your first steps into the legal profession.
City, University of London was a public university from 1966 to 2024 in London, England. It merged with St George's, University of London to form City St George's, University of London in August 2024. The names "City, University of London" and "St George’s, University of London" will provisionally continue as trading names until March 2025
Originally founded in 1894 as the Northampton Institute, it officially became a university when The City University was created by royal charter in 1966. The Inns of Court School of Law, which merged with City in 2001, was established in 1852, making it the university's oldest constituent part.City joined the federal University of London on 1 September 2016, becoming part of the eighteen colleges and ten research institutes that then made up that university.