What to Expect During the Postgraduate Diploma in Law: A Student's Guide

Jun 18, 2023

Written By John Toher

Given the numerous (21!) providers offering the postgraduate diploma in law (PGDL), there is no simple course formula. That said, there are common threads running through each of them, generally speaking. Having recently completed the PGDL myself, I know first-hand the level of commitment, hard work and resilience it requires.

What is the PGDL?

The PGDL replaced the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) following the transition from the Legal Practice Course (LPC) route to qualification to the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE). Whilst not obligatory, the PGDL provides a solid foundation in the legal theory of the core subjects typically covered in an undergraduate law degree (LLB).

As you will have already attained a bachelor's degree in another discipline, skills such as research, analysis, argument, presentation skills etc. will be assumed, leaving just pure law.

Think of it as an eight month crash course in law, that covers the core content from a three year LLB.

What is expected of me?

A lot. It’s best to be honest from the get go about the workload involved. There are some courses where doing the bare minimum can see you through; this isn’t one of them.

Class time is a combination of lectures, tutorials and workshops. You are expected to spend several hours preparing for each class. Skimming over course material 20 mins before the class won’t cut it, unfortunately. Having tried that more than once I know this is to be true. Teachers are skilled at spotting people who do this pretty quickly and won’t hesitate to make an example of you.

Given the sheer scale of the legal theory covered in each class, consistent independent work is unavoidable.

What are the modules?

I took the PGDL full-time in one of the major providers in London (online with the rest of the country during Covid). This will vary according to your institution, but the modules I took were:

- Tort Law

- Land Law

- Criminal Law

- Trust Law

- Public Law I

- Public Law II

- Company Law

Some I found more difficult than others. Land law, for example, I found quite dull and convoluted. Conversely, I thoroughly enjoyed Criminal and Tort law, as they involved a lot of the more fascinating aspects of law, like suing people if you find a slug in your lemonade or learning the nuances of murder and manslaughter.

How is the PGDL assessed?

A combination of open and closed book exams, oral presentations, essays, and research projects.

You will take half of your modules in the first semester and the other half in the second. If you’re taking it part-time, half will be in your first year and the other half will be in your second year.

Given the scale of work assessed, cramming before exam time is an almost impossible feat so keeping on top of your work each week is wise. Don't be afraid to meet with lecturers during their office hours if you're struggling.

PGDL/CPE