The Student Room Group

PDGL - would I even get in?

Hi,
I'm looking into a career change (23) - I currently have a First in an 'art' degree (Costume for Performance) which I know isn't really an 'academic' degree like History or English Lit would be.
I am really interested in multiple careers completely different from my degree, and am looking into the PGDL (either with the Uni of Law or NTU) as an option.
What's the application process like and can you get onto the course with *any* degree? Do I *have* to then go on to study the SQE or Bar Course or can I do an Masters in a specific section of Law?
Two of my A Levels are in Geography and English Lit, but they're only Bs so aren't that impressive really. I'm fully aware it takes a lot of work and brain to get through a PDGL (so did my degree to be fair but not everyone sees it that way)
Feel free to be honest - if you think I would have no chance surviving the course / in a legal setting then pls tell me.
Original post by whocaresty
Hi,
I'm looking into a career change (23) - I currently have a First in an 'art' degree (Costume for Performance) which I know isn't really an 'academic' degree like History or English Lit would be.
I am really interested in multiple careers completely different from my degree, and am looking into the PGDL (either with the Uni of Law or NTU) as an option.
What's the application process like and can you get onto the course with *any* degree? Do I *have* to then go on to study the SQE or Bar Course or can I do an Masters in a specific section of Law?
Two of my A Levels are in Geography and English Lit, but they're only Bs so aren't that impressive really. I'm fully aware it takes a lot of work and brain to get through a PDGL (so did my degree to be fair but not everyone sees it that way)
Feel free to be honest - if you think I would have no chance surviving the course / in a legal setting then pls tell me.

Just one thought? How are you wishing to fun's your PGDL? Applied myself last week and Studebt Finance England won't fund it because it doesn't hold enough credits so have switched to an MA conversion which is funded by Student Finance England.
If you wish to practise as a solicitor or a barrister you have to do the SQE or the Bar course. A PGDL is required for the Bar course and is optional but recommended for the SQE.

Your degree meets the entrance criteria for a PGDL.
(edited 4 months ago)
Original post by whocaresty
Hi,
I'm looking into a career change (23) - I currently have a First in an 'art' degree (Costume for Performance) which I know isn't really an 'academic' degree like History or English Lit would be.
I am really interested in multiple careers completely different from my degree, and am looking into the PGDL (either with the Uni of Law or NTU) as an option.
What's the application process like and can you get onto the course with *any* degree? Do I *have* to then go on to study the SQE or Bar Course or can I do an Masters in a specific section of Law?
Two of my A Levels are in Geography and English Lit, but they're only Bs so aren't that impressive really. I'm fully aware it takes a lot of work and brain to get through a PDGL (so did my degree to be fair but not everyone sees it that way)
Feel free to be honest - if you think I would have no chance surviving the course / in a legal setting then pls tell me.

Hi there!

It’s great that you’re looking into a career change and considering the PGDL it sounds like an exciting new direction for you! As someone with a First in Costume for Performance, I can totally understand how you might feel that your degree isn’t the “typical” academic choice for law, but the truth is, the PGDL is designed for people just like you non-law graduates who want to make the switch to a legal career. Many students from all kinds of backgrounds, including arts and humanities, successfully complete the PGDL and go on to pursue rewarding careers in law.

The entry requirements for the University of Law are fairly straightforward you need a 2:2 or above in any undergraduate degree, so your First in Costume for Performance should absolutely be fine, provided you meet the grade requirement. It’s not about having a specific academic background like History or English Lit; what matters more is your motivation, drive, and willingness to take on new challenges which I can tell from your inquiry you already have in abundance!

The PGDL is all about helping you build a strong foundation in law. You’ll be learning to think like a lawyer and develop practical skills through workshops and problem-based learning. At the University of Law, there’s even a Skills & Behaviours module that’s tailored to developing the key professional traits that lawyers need, such as attention to detail, communication skills, and critical thinking. Given that you’ve already demonstrated the ability to think creatively and problem-solve in your current degree, I’m confident that you’ll find these modules engaging and rewarding. Also, there is Law of Organisations module, which focuses on company and partnership law, could be particularly useful if you’re interested in business law or want to have a broad legal practice.

One of the great things about the PGDL is the flexibility it offers once you’ve completed it. If you want to become a solicitor, you can move on to the SQE1 Preparation Course or the LLM Legal Practice (SQE1&2) at the University of Law. Alternatively, if you’re leaning more towards the Bar, you could pursue the Bar Practice Course (BPC). But it’s also worth noting that you don’t have to follow the traditional routes you could explore a specialised Master’s in law if that aligns more with your interests. The PGDL opens up a range of possibilities depending on the path you want to take.

Overall, while the PGDL is a challenge, it’s completely doable with the right mindset, and your previous degree and life experience will definitely help you approach the course with a unique perspective. From what I’ve gathered, it sounds like you’ve got the dedication and resilience to thrive in this field. You’ve already proven you can succeed in a challenging environment, and law will be no different.
I hope this helps! If you have any other questions or want more details, feel free to ask. Best of luck on your exciting journey into law!

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