Flexible study modes for career changers
All of the courses available at The College of Law are available through a range of part-time study modes. These allow you to combine study with full-time work so you can earn while you learn, and manage your time to meet other commitments. If you study part-time, there are still plenty of opportunities to meet and work with fellow students and develop your skills through our practice-related activities. And as we have eight centres for you to choose from, we can offer the flexibility of time and place to suit you.
Part-time study for flexibility
Many people wanting to change to a career in law find that part-time study is the answer. It allows you to build the legal skills required while continuing to meet existing work or other commitments. It’s also a great opportunity to meet and share experiences with fellow aspiring lawyers juggling work and study.
Part-time courses tend to cover the same material as the equivalent full-time course, but spread over a longer time period. The final qualifications are exactly equal to the full-time versions.
At The College of Law, the part-time Graduate Diploma in Law is studied over two years, with the option to choose evening, day or weekend study to suit your availability.
Alternatively, you can study through our 18 month blended learning programme, GDL S-mode. This programme combines minimal attendance with online learning fully supported by personal tutors.
We also offer a part-time Legal Practice Course (for aspiring solicitors) and Bar Professional Training Course (for aspiring barristers).
Important issues to consider
However, there are some important issues to consider before opting for part-time legal study. It will take you longer to complete your legal training – four years to complete both the GDL and the LPC or BPTC, compared to two years of full-time study. And if you’re planning to combine part-time study with full-time or part-time work, this will inevitably impact on your free time.
If you want to become a solicitor, it may be possible to combine part-time study with part-time work towards your training contract. This is known as a part-time study training contract.
Find out more about the College by coming to an open day.