University of Dundee

The new PEAT 1 conforming Diploma in Professional Legal Practice builds on Dundee’s long standing approach to the Diploma in Legal Practice which is to engage with learning and teaching through small group activity wherever possible. Many of the local practitioners who work to deliver the Diploma have been associated with The School of Law for many years and are experts in their fields, often being recognised by the Law Society as accredited specialists. In addition to local practitioner input there are regular contributions from senior members of the Scottish Bar and experts in related professional fields. Dundee Diploma students work with actors playing the part of  clients with legal problems  in their mock interviews to create as realistic a simulation of practice environment as possible.

The Diploma is taught full – time over two semesters and requires a total credit accumulation of 120 SCOTCAT credits. Semester One focuses on the mandatory subjects required by The Law Society of Scotland. These comprise 60 Credits in total. In Semester Two , students make a choice of three electives from a number of subject choices (these are shown below along with their credit ratings) comprising a total of 60 credits. Business and Financial Services as a core subject is delivered in semester two.

Details of compulsory subjects - Semester One comprise 10 credits each.

1 Conveyancing (Three teaching sessions for which currently extend into semester two)
2 Criminal Court Practice
3 Civil Court Practice
4 Private Client
5 Professional Practice  
6 Business & Financial Services – NB This compulsory subject is taught in semester two.

Details of Elective Options

• Family Law
• Employment Law
• Advanced Advocacy
• Dispute Resolution
• Personal Injury
• Advanced Private Client
• Company Commercial
• Digital Evidence (online only)

Full-time fees: £8,240

Part-time fees are full-time fees, split 50:50 between the two years of study.

Students interested in exploring the possibility of spreading the cost should contact the University Finance Office for further information.

There is a bursary of £250 available from the Ken Scott Bursary – details are on university website. This is open to Dundee undergraduates who are undertaking the Diploma at Dundee only. Details of how to apply can be found on the Diploma section of the Law School website.

We would also encourage students to look at the Law Society of Scotland’s website for more information about grants and trusts available to students. Read more.

International students must satisfy entry requirements and ensure that they have taken advice on and are fully aware of the position regarding Tier 2 visa requirements if they intend to seek employment as a trainee solicitor.

Find out more information here.

Visit the University of Dundee’s website for more specific information about the course, including testimonials from past students.