There are a range of reasons you might choose to convert to law, whether that’s because of the subject matter that fascinates you, the people you work with or the opportunity to make a real impact on society. Whatever your reason, PGDL will be an important step in your journey towards becoming a solicitor or barrister.
A PGDL is different to an undergraduate law degree in that it’s less about deep academic research and more about learning the essential points of law. You’ll study subjects like contracts, criminal law and property. In addition, you’ll learn about legal ethics and professional responsibility.
Many universities offer online PGDL courses alongside their in-person versions. These are useful for students who cannot take time off from their jobs or whose personal circumstances mean they can’t commit to in-person learning. Online PGDL courses tend to follow the same curriculum as their in-person counterparts. However, it’s worth bearing in mind that studying online can lead to a less close relationship with your peers and lecturers.
Many university providers, including the University of Law and BPP University, offer a payment plan that allows you to pay your PGDL fees in monthly instalments, which makes it easier to budget for the course. It’s also worth checking if you qualify for a student loan to help with your tuition costs. Some law firms also sponsor a number of PGDL and BPTC (Bar Training Course) students through their qualifying processes, covering the full cost of the PGDL, SQE preparation courses and providing a salary during your training contract. PGDL
