Where to do GDL

[CupOfTea17]

Hey guys!

I am due to start my GDL soon, and I have a choice between Oxford Brookes and University of Law - I am just wondering, do firms value different GDL providers differently, or are they treated the same?
My preference would be to study at Oxford Brookes as it is easier to access, however, if studying the GDL at the University of Law is valued higher, I may consider taking up a place there instead.

 

[Trainee590]

Hi there,

From what I have seen, it does not really matter where you do the PGDL from a firm's perspective. Many firms will have preferred providers (i.e. providers that they have contracted with to send their future trainees), but if you are self-funding, a firm is unlikely to view your application differently based on where you chose to study the PGDL.

However, there are reasons why people might choose one provider over another. Providers vary in quality of teaching and approach, so it is worth researching the differences between the courses at Oxford Brookes and ULaw before making your decision. For example, ULaw places particular emphasis on helping students gain practical skills. In addition, some providers offer more opportunities to attend in-person events than others or to interact with future trainees at a firm you a targeting, which might be beneficial to you. Having said this, there are many virtual events on offer to gain these kinds of advantages.

Therefore, while the provider you choose is unlikely to make a difference to your law firm applications, I would advise you to consider how it will make a difference to your own experience and goals.

I hope this helps and best of luck with the PGDL!

 

[CupOfTea17]

Hi there,

From what I have seen, it does not really matter where you do the PGDL from a firm's perspective. Many firms will have preferred providers (i.e. providers that they have contracted with to send their future trainees), but if you are self-funding, a firm is unlikely to view your application differently based on where you chose to study the PGDL.

However, there are reasons why people might choose one provider over another. Providers vary in quality of teaching and approach, so it is worth researching the differences between the courses at Oxford Brookes and ULaw before making your decision. For example, ULaw places particular emphasis on helping students gain practical skills. In addition, some providers offer more opportunities to attend in-person events than others or to interact with future trainees at a firm you a targeting, which might be beneficial to you. Having said this, there are many virtual events on offer to gain these kinds of advantages.

Therefore, while the provider you choose is unlikely to make a difference to your law firm applications, I would advise you to consider how it will make a difference to your own experience and goals.

I hope this helps and best of luck with the PGDL!

Thank you so much! This is super helpful )