Part-time law degree

Mar 04, 2019

Written By Billy Sexton

Just because you want to do a law degree doesn't mean you have to do it full time. If you've got other things going on, such as a day job, a part-time law degree could be for you...

“Law isn’t a degree for the part-timer.” Well, this couldn’t be further from the truth. For the aspiring solicitor who is looking for flexibility as they work towards obtaining a qualifying law degree and landing the coveted training contract, a part-time law degree is the ideal option.

But how does it all work? Can I learn and study from home? What about tuition fees? Why don’t you grab a nice cup of tea (or any other beverage of your choice), sit back, and read all about part time law degrees.

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What will I learn?

In order to obtain a qualifying law degree, all students, whether full-time or part-time, have to complete modules in core areas of law. These are contract law, tort law, EU law, criminal law, property law, equity and trusts, and public law.

You may also undertake compulsory modules on legal skills, reading statutes and cases and the law in action but it depends on your university.

How will I be assessed?

You will sit an exam after every module. Not immediately after, don’t worry. There will usually be a period of revision at the end of each term to allow you to prepare.

How much will it cost?

Around £4,500 a year, with some part-time courses being less expensive, others being more expensive. And yes, you can get a loan. If you’re a UK student and have been living in the country for three years, you’re eligible for a student loan. However, there is a tiny little catch. You can only get yourself a student loan if the part-time law degree you’re about to undertake is the first degree-level qualification you will have. Put simply, you will have to fund your part-time law degree if you already have a degree. So if you’re hoping you can work whilst getting yourself a law degree on a student loan, think again.

Of course, if you’re in a well-paid job and can afford to pay £4,500 a year in tuition fees, then a part-time law degree is still an option. However, if you still want a qualifying law degree but want to spend less money, the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) is an alternative option. This will set you back about £9,000, but it only takes one year to complete full-time.

The part-time law option is a great option for those who want flexible studying, but it may not make the most sense financially, particularly if you already have a degree and have to fund it yourself.

LLB