What the PGDL covers
The PGDL, the successor to the GDL, compresses the foundations of a law degree into a single demanding year, or two years part time. Courses differ between providers, and many are now designed to lead into the SQE or the Bar course, but most cover:
Contract and tort
Obligations: how agreements bind, and when civil liability arises without one.
Criminal law
The general principles of liability, key offences and defences.
Public law
Constitutional and administrative law, and human rights.
Land law
Ownership, registration and third-party rights in land.
Equity and trusts
Trusts, fiduciaries and equitable remedies.
EU law and legal skills
The legal system, research and writing, and EU law where it is taught.
Where conversion students struggle
Conversion students are often outstanding graduates who are new to the way lawyers read and reason. The volume of case law, the speed of the course and the technique of answering problem questions catch many by surprise. We help you see the structure of each subject early, read cases efficiently and apply the law with precision.
How we help
- Pre-course preparation, so you start with the language and method of law already familiar.
- Weekly sessions that keep pace with your timetable.
- Feedback on practice answers and coursework, explained so you can improve the next one.
- Focused revision and timed practice before exams.
From the PGDL to qualification
Aspiring solicitors usually move on to the SQE, and aspiring barristers to the Bar course. We can support every step: see our SQE tutors and Bar course tutors.
