What you learn on the PGDL

updated on 14 April 2026

Use the sub menu above to find out more about who is eligible, what you learn, where to study and more!

The Postgraduate Diploma in Law (PGDL) is equivalent to a law degree. It focuses on the key legal foundations to bring non-law students up to speed with law students. Key areas included are:

  • company;
  • contract law;
  • criminal law;
  • land law;
  • public law(also known as constitutional and administrative law);
  • tort law; and
  • trusts law.


The PGDL is set internally by the individual institution, meaning course structure and assessment methods can vary. Depending on the provider, assessment may include a combination of written exams, group or individual presentations, and coursework with progression and resit rules set by the institution’s academic regulations.

Find out more

Who is eligible

Where to study

Law school sponsorship

When and how to apply