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  • Diploma in Law (University of London International Programme)
  • 2013/2014 entry
  • Contact us
  • Assessment

    • Final assessment is through unseen examinations. However, throughout the year, you will have the opportunity to engage in a number of formative assessment methods, including timed essays, oral presentations and learning diaries.

  • Attendance
      • Three–four days a week.
      • October–June.
  • Duration
      • One-year full-time.
  • Entry requirements
      • Five GCSEs at grade C or above, including English language, or the equivalent in overseas qualifications. Admission is through interview (can be conducted by telephone for international applicants and written legal aptitude test.
      • In addition, we require demonstration of proficiency in the English language. Students with an IELTS score of 7.0 or above may enter the programme without any further requirements. Students with an IELTS score of between 6.5 and 7.0 will be required to complete an additional language course, either before or during their course of study, for which an extra charge will be levied. Further information about language requirements for international students can be found here.
  • Fees and funding
  • Location
      • Central London.
  • Teaching

    • Diploma students attend classes for a minimum of 15 hours a week  Teaching is in the daytime and the core legal subjects are taught by experienced tutors in small groups of no more than 20.

      The skills component of the course also includes elements offered by internationally recognised research academics and is designed to tutor students in the necessary skills to develop their academic, legal skills and professional skills. 

      In addition, students may attend supplementary courses in English language skills, as well as supported self-study sessions. 

      Find out more about what you can expect from classes and the help and support we offer students.



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Study at Birkbeck | Undergraduate study | Undergraduate courses, 2013/2014 entry: browse by course title - (A-Z) | Diploma in Law (University of London International Programme)

Diploma in Law (University of London International Programme) - 2013/2014 entry

This Diploma is a one-year course offered and examined by the University of London International Laws Programme and taught by the School of Law at Birkbeck. It comprises four core law courses, which are recognished as qualifying components within professional legal education in legal education and England and Wales, as well as an extensive legal skills component.  In addition, students are given wide-ranging support in the development of legal and academic skills, in order to prepare them for further academic and professional study.

It is a recognised equivalent to the first year of study of an LLB law degree in England and Wales and after successfully completing this course, you can enter automatically into the Year 2 of the LLB course at Birkbeck or other British universities. We are the only University of London College to offer this programme.

  • Course structure
  • Study resources

    • Birkbeck Library has an extensive teaching collection of books, journals and electronic resources in law and related disciplines such as economics, politics and sociology. For example, it provides access to over 17,000 electronic journals, which are available online 24 hours a day.

      Our study resources dedicated academic skills workshops run by our academic support officer, who can advise on academic matters, including advice on essay writing, time-management, efficient reading and note-making, giving presentations and participating in seminars.

      In addition, the University of London International Programme provides additinal support for Diploma students via their web-based learning system which hosts extensive collections of additional learning materials and study exercises.

      We also use technology such as electronic learning environments, film and podcasts to enhance teaching and learning.  Read more about our range of teaching and learning resources.  A range of extra-curricular activities are organised throughout the year. You will be able to hear guest speakers of international renown and can join our Student Law Society. An annual retreat takes place at Cumberland Lodge in Windsor Great Park, which allows students to explore a range of contemporary issues in law with specialist speakers. Students can participate in our successful mooting programme, where advocacy training is given by experienced practising barristers, as well as attend our careers evening and get information on career opportunities.

  • Further study opportunities

    • Successful completion qualifies you for entry  into Year 2 of the Birkbeck LLB programme. The qualification also entitles you to apply for entry into Year 2 of the University of London International LLB degree.

  • Careers information

    • Many graduates go on to vocational training and obtain solicitors training contracts or pupillages in barristers' chambers. Others use the degree to develop their existing career, to further their academic skills, or as preparation for postgraduate study.

      Find out more about the career advice and information we offer.

    • To speak to an independent careers advisor, booking onto one of our Future Focus — Careers Workshops
  • Apply now
    • Application deadlines and interviews
      • International students who need to apply for a student visa must apply by 1 August.
      • All other students must apply by 1 September.
    • Online application
      You can apply online from the link below.
    • Our Application Workshop will give you an overview of what Birkbeck looks for in an undergraduate degree application and includes practical writing exercises to help you write a more effective personal statement