University of East Anglia

What you'll study

The programme delivers the core foundations of undergraduate law in a concentrated format. Typical modules cover the pillars of English law including Contract Law, Tort Law, Criminal Law, Public (Constitutional and Administrative) Law, Land Law, and Equity and Trusts. Courses emphasise doctrinal understanding alongside professional skills: legal research and writing, case-analysis, problem-solving and advocacy skills. Assessment is usually by a combination of unseen written exams and assessed coursework, such as problem questions, essays and practical skills tasks.

Optional or complementary sessions commonly include introductions to commercial law topics, ethics and professional conduct, and workshops on legal practice skills to prepare students for postgraduate vocational courses (for example the Legal Practice Course) or other professional training pathways.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree in any discipline. The typical academic standard expected is a second-class honours degree (often a lower second or above), but exact requirements can vary and each application is considered on its own merits. Relevant work experience, a clear statement of purpose and academic references strengthen applications. International applicants must meet UEA's English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates use the qualification as a conversion route into the legal profession: it prepares students to progress to vocational training such as the Legal Practice Course (for solicitors), Bar training courses or equivalent apprenticeships and pupillage pathways. It is also valued by employers in related sectors where legal knowledge is important, including paralegal work, compliance and regulatory roles, in‑house legal teams, policy, public sector administration, and charity or NGO roles dealing with rights and governance. The programme also provides a foundation for further academic study at postgraduate level.

Why study at University of East Anglia

The Graduate Diploma in Legal Studies is taught by Norwich Law School, which combines research‑informed teaching with practical skills training. Students benefit from small‑group tutorials, moot courts and skills workshops, as well as access to an experienced academic staff body with subject expertise across core areas of law. UEA provides dedicated employability support, a law library with extensive legal databases, and opportunities to engage with local legal professionals through events and clinics in the Norwich region. The campus environment and student support services aim to help conversion students adapt quickly to the demands of intensive legal study.