UNIVERSITY OF SUSSEX · UNITED KINGDOM
Law (replacing the GDL) MA
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
This MA in Law is designed for non-law graduates who want to build a strong foundation in legal principles and develop practical legal skills. It serves as a comprehensive conversion course, replacing the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL), and prepares students for further professional legal training in England and Wales. The program emphasizes small-group teaching, enabling in-depth discussions and engagement with legal concepts. Students will gain experience in vocational training approaches and develop skills such as mooting, client interviewing, and negotiation, preparing them for careers as solicitors or barristers, legal research, or further academic study.
Curriculum
The MA in Law is a one-year full-time program. Students can choose to complete a dissertation for the MA or finish with a Diploma qualification. Core modules provide a solid grounding in key legal areas, while optional modules allow for specialization. Module offerings are subject to change based on student feedback, research, and staff availability. Timetabling may affect the availability of certain module combinations.
- Year 1
- Advanced Legal Research and Writing
- English Legal System and Skills
- Equity and Trusts
- Public Law
- Contract Law
- Criminal Law
- Land Law
- Tort Law
- Dissertation
- Dispute Resolution Processes: Theory and Practice
- European Union Law
- Artificial Intelligence and the Law
- Business Law
- Law of Succession (Spr)
- Legal Ethics and Professional Conduct
- Legal Technology in Legal Practice
Careers
Graduates of the Law MA are well-prepared for a variety of legal careers. The course provides a pathway towards professional qualifications and can lead to diverse professional roles.
- Solicitor
- Barrister
- Legal Researcher
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Law (replacing the GDL) MA programme?
- You need a good undergraduate degree. If English is not your first language, you must demonstrate English fluency, typically with an IELTS score of 6.5 overall and at least 6.0 in each component.
- How long is the Law (replacing the GDL) MA programme and can I study part-time?
- The MA in Law is a one-year full-time program. Students can choose to complete a dissertation for the MA or finish with a Diploma qualification.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- Tuition fees are subject to change and specific amounts should be confirmed on the University of Sussex's fees pages. International students may be required to pay a tuition fee deposit.
- What career paths can I pursue after completing the Law MA?
- Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Solicitor, Barrister, or Legal Researcher. The course provides preparation for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) and bar training.
- How do I apply for the Law (replacing the GDL) MA programme?
- Apply through the University of Sussex admissions portal and submit required documents including academic transcripts, English language proficiency scores, a personal statement, and references.
- What is the application deadline for international students?
- The application deadline for international students is 1 August 2026 for the September 2026 intake.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA good undergraduate degree is required for admission to this course.
IELTS6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component
If your first language is not English, you must demonstrate English fluency. This can be done via an English proficiency test like IELTS, other accepted English qualifications, or exemptions. Offers are typically conditional on meeting the language requirement.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees are subject to change and specific amounts should be confirmed on the university's fees pages.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees are subject to change and specific amounts should be confirmed on the university's fees pages.
LivingEstimated living and accommodation costs are available on the university's fees and funding pages.
International students may be required to pay a tuition fee deposit. US citizens may be eligible for Federal Direct Loans. Further details on fees, funding, and loans can be found on the University of Sussex website.
How to apply
1. Submit ApplicationApply for the Masters course through the University of Sussex admissions portal.
2. Provide Supporting DocumentsSubmit all required academic transcripts, English language proficiency test results, and any other supporting documents as requested.
3. Receive OfferUpon successful review of your application, you will receive an offer. This may be unconditional or conditional, often on meeting English language requirements.
4. Accept Offer and Pay DepositIf you are an international student, you may be required to pay a tuition fee deposit to secure your place.
5. Prepare for ArrivalArrange accommodation, visa (if applicable), and prepare for the start of the academic year.
Scholarships
Masters scholarshipsVaries
Accreditation
This course satisfies the academic component/GDL requirements for Bar training (subject to minimum pass marks and number of attempts) and acts as a gateway for qualification as a solicitor or barrister. It satisfies the academic component for BSB and SRA purposes.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Law (replacing the GDL) MA programme?
+
You need a good undergraduate degree. If English is not your first language, you must demonstrate English fluency, typically with an IELTS score of 6.5 overall and at least 6.0 in each component.
How long is the Law (replacing the GDL) MA programme and can I study part-time?
+
The MA in Law is a one-year full-time program. Students can choose to complete a dissertation for the MA or finish with a Diploma qualification.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
Tuition fees are subject to change and specific amounts should be confirmed on the University of Sussex's fees pages. International students may be required to pay a tuition fee deposit.
What career paths can I pursue after completing the Law MA?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Solicitor, Barrister, or Legal Researcher. The course provides preparation for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) and bar training.
How do I apply for the Law (replacing the GDL) MA programme?
+
Apply through the University of Sussex admissions portal and submit required documents including academic transcripts, English language proficiency scores, a personal statement, and references.
What is the application deadline for international students?
+
The application deadline for international students is 1 August 2026 for the September 2026 intake.