Graduate Diploma in Law (Common Professional Examination)

Manchester Metropolitan University

Our Graduate Diploma in Law is a conversion course designed to give non-law graduates a route into the legal profession. As such, in just one year, you can achieve an academic legal qualification that will lay down the foundations for a career in law. Throughout the course, there is a strong focus on both the fundamental knowledge and the practical legal skills youll need to pursue a future in the sector. Above all, the course offers a well-rounded introduction to law and a great stepping-stone to further qualifications. From here, you can look ahead to the Bar Training Course to become a barrister, if thats the career path you want to follow. Fast-track legal qualification – convert your existing non-law undergraduate degree, or extensive work experience, into a legal qualification in one year. Moot Court Room – our state-of-the-art moot courtroom, opened in autumn 2021, supports the development of our students legal advocacy. Sitting in the heart of the law school building, its a major focal point in our law school community. Law school experience – study surrounded by other law students and supported by an expert teaching team. Join the Law Society for networking, guest lectures and social events. A legal hub – Manchester has a dynamic legal sector. We have close links with the Northern Circuit and our courses are well respected by national law firms. Pro bono work – put your legal skills and knowledge to the test by volunteering with our partners. Gain valuable experience before starting work. Mooting opportunities – we have a thriving mooting and advocacy community in the law school. Join the Mooting Society to participate in regular debates and competitions. Legal experts – learn from experienced professionals and get your legal education off to the best start. They know what it takes to succeed. Top legal facilities – make use of our 24-hour library, mock courtroom and dedicated careers and employability service. Ready for work – youll develop the professional skills you need to forge a career in law. Your previous education and experience will add an extra dimension to your CV.

Career prospects

This is a course with a practical focus. From day one, we will encourage you to think and behave like a legal professional, making sure youre equipped with both the practical skills and legal knowledge to take the next steps in the sector.

While you could look to start a career in areas like policing, criminology and the public sector, this qualification can also be the first step towards further training to become a barrister on the Bar Training Course. If youre interested in academic research in law, you could also explore options for masters-level study, such as the LLM.

The law school has close links to the Northern Circuit, ensuring that we can offer the opportunity to make professional connections or even gain some useful experience before you graduate.