A full-time, two-year conversion programme for non-law graduates who want to build a strong foundation in Irish and international law. Delivered on campus at University College Dublin, it develops legal reasoning, legal writing, and practical understanding of how legal systems operate.
Duration: 2 years (full-time)
Credits: Research module (10 ECTS) included in the programme structure
Delivery: On-campus
Programme type: Graduate conversion (non-law entry)
Language of instruction: English
Tuition fees: Vary by fee category (international and EU/EEA rates apply)
English language tests: IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/other accepted tests may be required depending on your profile
Start dates: Check the University College Dublin intake dates for the current academic year
Application: Submit an application through the programme portal; deadlines vary by intake
Programme Structure
Core modules may include:
- Property Law
- Contract Law
- Tort Law
- Criminal Law
- Evidence
- Company Law
- Administrative Law
- Constitutional Law
- English Public Law
- Key Issues in Irish Public Law
- Law in the EU: Theory & Practice
- European Human Rights Law
- International Human Rights Law
- International Commercial Arbitration
- Environmental Law and Policy
- Planning Law
- Family and Child Law
- Matrimonial Law and Reliefs
- Role of Contract Law in the 21st Century
- Role of Tort Law in the 21st Century
- Issues and Perspectives in Criminal Law
- Research Module (10 ECTS)
Assessment and progression: The programme typically combines written assignments, seminar-based learning, and module examinations. A sustained research and writing component supports progression through the degree.
Academic requirements
You must have completed a non-law undergraduate degree (or be in your final year) at Level 8 on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications (NQAI) or an equivalent qualification.
English requirements
English language proficiency is required. Accepted tests may include IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and Duolingo English Test (minimum scores depend on the test and your academic background).
- IELTS: typically around 6.5 (overall)
- TOEFL iBT: typically around 100 (total)
- PTE Academic: typically around 65 (overall)
- Duolingo English Test: typically around 130 (overall)
Note: Exact minimums and whether an alternative proof of English is accepted can vary by applicant profile—confirm the requirements for your intake.
Other requirements
General requirements
- Full-time study is required.
- Domestic (EEA) applicants: Yes
- International (non-EEA) applicants: Yes
- Applicants should be prepared for intensive legal reading and writing in English.
Application documents (typical)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificate (or proof of final-year status)
- Passport/ID
- English language test results (if required)
- Curriculum vitae (CV) and/or personal statement (if requested by the programme)
- Any additional documents required by UCD for your applicant category
Deadlines and intake dates: Please check the University College Dublin programme page for the specific application deadline for your chosen intake.
Post-study work permission (Ireland)
After completing your degree in Ireland, you may be eligible to apply for a post-study work permission, subject to meeting the Irish immigration requirements at the time of application.
- Eligibility: You must have successfully completed an eligible programme of study in Ireland and hold the appropriate immigration permission to remain in the country for the purpose of study.
- Timing: Applications are typically made after graduation and within the permitted timeframe set by the Irish authorities.
- Duration: If granted, the permission is usually issued for a defined period (the exact duration depends on the current rules and your circumstances).
- Work conditions: You may be able to work without needing a separate employment permit in some cases, but this depends on the specific permission type and current policy.
Important: Immigration rules can change. Always verify the latest requirements on the official Irish immigration website or with UCD International Student Support before applying.