University of London - External Programme

The University

Renowned for excellence in legal education, the University of London is one of the largest and most respected institutions in the world. We've been offering the opportunity for students around the world to obtain the Master of Laws (LLM) of the University of London since 1925 by distance learning.
The Postgraduate Laws programme has been developed by academics within Queen Mary and UCL Law departments, both of which have outstanding reputations (both 5-star faculties). You're assessed to the same standard as students studying at the College.

The Program

The great benefit of this programme is its flexible structure. It's up to you whether you study the subjects of most interest to you and/or those that will be most useful to your career. There's a wide range of Courses to choose from and three awards to aim for: you decide the level you want to achieve and the areas you want to cover. And because you can study when you choose, you can plan your studying to fit in with your work and home commitments.

Choice
There are also 30 specialisations available for those who wish to become specialists in a particular field of law. You can either choose to study independently or seek additional educational support. You can pay fees as you go, or pay the total amount upfront.

Access
Access is a key principle - you do not need an LLB to apply; applicants with no degree can start on the Postgraduate Certificate in Laws and progress up. Whether you're a practising lawyer, LLB graduate or non-legal professional, if you're keen to develop your career, this programme has an option to suit you.

Flexible learning
The programme is self-taught with extensive study materials (print and web-based) to improve and aid your study experience, these include:
• Textbook(s) provided for each Course and Readers for most Sections to direct your reading.

• Extensive study guides available in print, on CD and on the web especially written and edited for distance learning purposes, usually by the author of the textbook which will be provided, with clear learning outcomes and key skills, and self-assessment questions throughout.

• Postgraduate Laws Handbook containing information about libraries and bookshops, useful World Wide Web sites and a photocopying service available to students.

• Regulations containing important information, such as details of the Courses and Specialisations available, syllabuses, and assessment matters.

Students also have access to an online eCampus containing:
• Extensive online library resources.
• Five legal databases including Lexis/Nexis® and Westlaw®.
• Dedicated discussion forums for each Section - you'll encounter all kinds of people with perspectives from many different areas of the globe, including the legal professions, discover new ways of studying and no doubt make new friends.

Entry Requirements

This programme has multiple entry points, for both lawyers and non-lawyers. Full details are available at http://www.londonexternal.ac.uk/prospective_students/postgraduate/laws/entrance.shtml

Application Procedure

There are two application deadlines each year (31 January / 31 July). To apply please go to: http://www.londonexternal.ac.uk/prospective_students/postgraduate/laws/apply.shtml

Tuition and Fees

In 2009 the total fees payable to the university are: Postgraduate Certificate £2,430, Postgraduate Diploma £4,230 and Master of Laws (LLM) £6,390. A breakdown of the fees are given at: http://www.londonexternal.ac.uk/prospective_students/postgraduate/laws/fees.shtml