Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL)- Course Structure
Full-time 36 week intensive course
Course Structure
The GDL is a full-time, 36-week, intensive course designed to facilitate the acquisition of sound legal knowledge in those areas of law which are known as the Foundations of Legal Knowledge, plus a legal research project in an additional area of law.
The course is structured as follows:
- The course is preceded by a two-week period of directed reading on the English Legal System and the principles of legal scholarship (no attendance required)
- Teaching commences with an induction period which includes a short block of lectures and seminars concentrating on the English Legal System, the acquisition of Legal Skills, including Research Skills and familiarisation with electronic legal resources, and European Union Law
- The foundation subjects of Contract, Tort, Public Law, Equity & Trusts, Land Law and Criminal Law are taught by means of a series of lectures and compulsory seminars spanning two teaching blocks;
- A further legal subject is also studied, by means of a supervised research project;
- Class contact averages 16 hours per week. Students should expect to spend a minimum of 40 hours per week, attending classes or undertaking private study.
Teaching and Learning
The study of law demands a methodical, inquisitive and enthusiastic approach, as you will be required to analyse diverse legal materials. You will however be supported by committed, experienced and friendly staff, who will challenge and inspire you, using a broad and balanced range of teaching methods. The basic structure of the course involves twice weekly lectures and fortnightly seminars in six of the foundation subjects, all of which are intended to enable students to see the broad framework of each subject and encourage general discussion under the direction of experienced tutors.
Assessment
The Swansea GDL employs a wide range of assessment methods, including multiple choice tests, assignments, mini-dissertations and 3-hour, unseen examinations. The pass mark for all assessed work is 40%.
