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Manchester Metropolitan University: Graduate Diploma in Law (Common Professional Examination)
| Institution | Manchester Metropolitan University View institution profile |
|---|---|
| Department | Manchester Law School |
| Web | www.mmu.ac.uk/international |
| courses@mmu.ac.uk | |
| Telephone | 0161 2476969 |
| Study type | Taught |
Graduate Diploma - Grad Dip
Summary
Course overview
The Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) gives non-law graduates a fast-track route into the legal profession. In just one year, you’ll gain an academic legal qualification that provides a solid foundation for your future career in law.
From day one, the course immerses you in both the essential knowledge and the practical skills you’ll need to succeed. You’ll develop a well-rounded understanding of the law to prepare you for further qualifications, such as the Bar Training Course to become a barrister or the SQE route to qualify as a solicitor.
You’ll study core areas such as contract law, criminal law and tort law, alongside a dedicated module that focuses on the practicalities of the legal profession. You’ll learn from our team of experienced lawyers and academics who bring real-world insight and expertise from practice into the classroom.
With plenty of face-to-face teaching, an open-door approach to academic advice and dedicated pastoral support, we’ll equip you with the knowledge, skills and confidence you need to move forward in your legal journey.
Features and benefits
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Fast-track qualification - Earn a respected legal qualification in just one year. Build the professional skills legal employers demand while adding the value of your previous degree or career experience to your CV.
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Moot courtroom - Practise your advocacy skills in our state-of-the-art moot courtroom, a central hub of law school life and a key space for developing confidence in real-world legal settings.
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Study in a key legal hub - Manchester is home to a dynamic legal sector. With strong links to the Northern Circuit and recognition from leading national law firms, our courses connect you directly to the profession.
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Pro bono work - Put your legal knowledge into action by volunteering with our pro bono partners. Work with real clients, gain hands-on experience and build your professional confidence as you make a real difference to the community.
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Mooting opportunities - Join our thriving Mooting and Advocacy Society to debate and sharpen your skills in front of judges and peers through regular events and competitions.
| Level | RQF Level 6 |
|---|---|
| Entry requirements | You should have an honours degree, at least a 2:2, from the UK or the Republic of Ireland. We may also consider your application if you do not have a degree, but have appropriate professional experience. |
| Location | Main Site Academic Division Oxford Road All Saints Manchester M15 6BH |
Summary
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 you’ll 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 that’s the career path you want to follow.
Building your legal knowledge
You will study a range of topics covering the core areas of law, from contract law and criminal law, to equities and trusts, while there’s also a module designed to prepare you for the practicalities of the legal profession. Across it all, you’ll learn from a team that includes experienced legal professionals who understand what you need to succeed in the field. And, with high levels of face-to-face teaching and an open-door policy for academic advice and pastoral guidance, you can count on the support of your tutors during your time with us.
Features and Benefits
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Fast-track legal qualification – convert your existing non-law undergraduate degree, or extensive work experience, into a legal qualification in one year.
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Moot Court Room – our state-of-the-art moot courtroom supports the development of our students’ legal advocacy. Sitting in the heart of the law school building, it’s a major focal point in our law school community.
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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.
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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.
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Pro bono work – put your legal skills and knowledge to the test by volunteering with our partners. Gain valuable experience before starting work.
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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.
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Legal experts – learn from experienced professionals and get your legal education off to the best start. They know what it takes to succeed.
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Top legal facilities – make use of our 24-hour library, mock courtroom and dedicated careers and employability service.
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Ready for work – you’ll 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.
| Level | RQF Level 6 |
|---|---|
| Entry requirements | Please see our website for information on entry requirements. |
| Location | Main Site Academic Division Oxford Road All Saints Manchester M15 6BH |
Manchester Metropolitan University (Manchester Met) is a historic and internationally recognised institution that dates back to 1824, known for the quality of its teaching and world leading research. The University has been named Modern University of the Year (The Times Good University Guide 2026).
Manchester is an exciting and vibrant city known worldwide for its music, sport, culture and creativity. Living and studying here means being part of a global city that opens doors to opportunity.
Manchester is home to a diverse community of more than 5,000 international students from over 120 countries. International students are offered comprehensive …
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