Want to become a lawyer? Join the largest community of postgraduate law conversion students*. If you have completed an undergraduate degree in a non-law field and want to study law at a postgraduate level, get a head start by completing one of our law conversion courses. We offer a number of law conversion courses, which offer you a pathway to progress onto becoming a solicitor or barrister. *Central Applications Board (LawCAB) 2024
On successful completion of one of our law conversion courses, you could progress on to study one of our Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) courses to become a solicitor or our Bar Practice Course (BPC) to become a barrister. Be taught by our expert lecturers, including subject matter specialists, former and current practitioners, and research and teaching focused academics.
The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is being phased in to become the new centralised way to qualify as a solicitor in England and Wales. It will eventually replace the Legal Practice Course (LPC) route to practice.
The SQE is part of a new, four-stage route to becoming a solicitor:
Unlike the LPC, the SQE is not a course of study but an examination. However, to pass SQE1 and SQE2, you may wish to undergo a course of professional training such as our LLM Legal Practice (SQE1&2), or you could do our SQE Preparation Courses.
A non-law graduate will need to acquire the foundational legal knowledge necessary to start these courses. Most will undertake a conversion course such as our Postgraduate Diploma in Law (PGDL), MA Law (Conversion) or MA Law (SQE1).
Alternatively, you can still continue with the LPC route if you completed, started, accepted an offer, or paid a non-refundable deposit for one of the following by 31 August 2021:
If you're unsure what route is right for you, download our guide An SQE Course for Everyone. We go through who is suitable for each type of course we offer, as well as information around the SQE exams, employability and funding.
Did you know:
According to Legal Cheek's 2024 survey of top UK law firms, 89% of firms require non-law graduates to undertake a conversion course before beginning their SQE preparation.
Please note: The final intake of the LPC will be in September 2026 (Part-time, Online only). There are no more face-to-face (full-time) intakes available.
To qualify as a barrister you will need to complete a Qualifying Law Degree (QLD), such as the LLB, or a law conversion course such as Postgraduate Diploma in Law (PGDL) or MA Law (Conversion), if you hold a non-law degree.
You will then need to complete the vocational component of training, such as the Bar Practice Course (BPC). Before you begin this vocational component, you will need to apply to join an Inn of Court.
Once you have completed your vocational training, you must undergo a period of work-based training under the supervision of an experienced barrister. This is known as pupillage.
On completion of your pupillage, you will qualify as a barrister and need to apply for tenancy in chambers.
Hear from our expert lecturers about what to expect when studying a law conversion course and the legal fundamentals you will learn.
Read about what inspired our alumni to pursue law, what support they received, what advice they have for future students and more.
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Deciding to embark on your journey to become a legal professional is both an exciting and challenging prospect. For those who hold a non-law degree and wish to transition into the legal field, we’ve put together a free, fully comprehensive guide to arm you with all the relevant advice and background information. You’ll discover our key courses, funding options and employability support as you begin your journey towards a fulfilling legal career, with us.
We understand that moving to a new country for your studies is a big decision, and we're here to support you every step of the way as you settle into life in the UK.
Learn more about how we can help with funding your law studies and guide you through the visa application process.
Join us at one of our Postgraduate Open Days held both on campus and virtually throughout the year. These events will provide you with the opportunity to find out more about the various academic and professional postgraduate qualifications we offer, which are designed to support your future career ambitions and set you up for success.
Tuesday 24 March 2026
Thinking about a career in law but coming from a non-law background? You’re not alone. Many aspiring lawyers start exactly where you are now – uncertain about the legal landscape, unsure whether their degree will translate, and questioning which route into the profession is right for them. Our Convert to Law live virtual event is designed specifically to give you clarity, confidence and a realistic pathway into legal practice.
You’ll gain practical guidance on how to position your non-law experience as a strength, understand the recruitment process, and make informed decisions about your next steps – all from professionals who have successfully made the transition themselves.
Boost your employability with The University of Law’s Certified Commercial Awareness webinar series. Delivered by ULaw experts and careers consultant Husnara Begum, along with guest speakers from leading law firms, this four part virtual series gives you the insight, confidence and practical skills to demonstrate strong Commercial Awareness in applications and interviews.
Attend all four sessions to earn your Certified Commercial Awareness status and receive an official certificate.
Wednesday 8 April 2026
The introduction of the SQE, or Solicitors Qualifying Examinations, has changed the route to qualification as a solicitor and this event aims to explain it all to you, to leave you feeling confident about this pathway. Join our SQE tutors to find out the information and benefits of the SQE and you'll also find out practical course information about our SQE courses to help you decide which pathway is best for you.
Episode 1: Future Criminal Pupil, Amy Weir speaks with Family Law Solicitor, Rachel Jones about their University of Law conversion courses. Amy and Rachel discuss their experiences undertaking the GDL (now PGDL) conversion course and the journey to where they are now.
Stream this episode now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Amazon Music.
Episode 2: Amy Weir is joined by fellow Bar Practice Course alumni, Sophie Stevens to discuss their law conversion course experiences. Amy and Sophie explore why law conversion courses are a great alternative for those who didn't study the LLB and share their journeys to the bar.
Stream this episode now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Amazon Music.
Our law course finder can help you understand the different law conversion courses available at The University of Law. Find the right course for you based on your background and aspirations.
If you’re thinking about converting to law, we know that funding your courses might be a key concern for you. As you can only apply for one Postgraduate Master's Loan, we offer both Master's and non-Master's conversion and vocational courses. See our guide showing the different routes to practise from conversion onwards, including which courses are eligible for a Postgraduate Master’s Loan.
This course will prepare you for the foundation subjects that will be assessed in SQE1. It offers a pathway onto one of our SQE courses to become a solicitor, or our BPC to become a barrister.
Find out moreThis master’s course will cover the foundation subjects required for SQE1. It offers a pathway onto one of our SQE courses to become a solicitor, or our BPC to become a barrister.
Find out moreWith this course you’ll gain a legal qualification at master’s level. It also includes our SQE1 Preparation Course to prepare you for the SRA’s centralised SQE1 assessments. You’ll also get the opportunity to complete four weeks Qualifying Work Experience within one of our Legal Advice Centres.
Find out moreThe first step for non-law graduates who plan to progress to our SQE1 Preparation Course. This short online course will give you an introduction to the essentials of legal knowledge required for SQE1.
Find out more
